Looking for the perfect place to take your significant other on a romantic date? Whether a first date, a steadily-blossoming romance or you're a happily married couple, there's always a variety of fun, romantic and exciting date options to choose from in Athens, Georgia!
The First Date
First dates can be nerve-wracking! But fear not. Here are a few date night activities that are sure to break the ice between you and your date during the early stages of the relationship.
LumberJaxe
Athens' one and only axe-throwing venue, LumberJaxe, is an unforgettable date night experience that is guaranteed to excite both you and your date. This unique spot offers 6 axe-throwing lanes with 12 individual targets, as well as a spacious lounge serving craft beer, wine, and other drinks.
Rook & Pawn
Nothing brings people together like a little friendly competition, making Rook & Pawn the perfect choice for a first date spot. This board game cafe offers over 400 tabletop board and card games to play while you eat and drink, giving you and your date a fun, light-hearted way to interact and get to know one another!
Wuxtry Records and Bizarro Wuxtry Comics
Introduce yourself to your date’s taste in music at Wuxtry Records, a downtown music shop that specializes in records, alternative comics, and vintage memorabilia. This wacky storefront -- voted “Top 25 Record Stores in the U.S.” by Rolling Stone in 2010 -- is the perfect place to learn more about your date while surrounding yourself in the rich history of music that Athens has to offer.
The Steadily-Blossoming Couple
After dating for a while, it can be easy to feel like you’ve run out of fresh, exciting date night options. Here are a few ideas to help you spice up your next date night in the Classic City!
Live Jazz at the Porterhouse Grill
Take advantage of the remarkable Athens music scene and enjoy a romantic night of live jazz music at the Porterhouse Grill, occurring every Wednesday night beginning at 6:30 p.m. Otherwise known for its great steaks and fine dining experience, this restaurant is an amazing place to bring someone special for a romantic evening of wining and dining.
Visit One of Athens' Many Craft Breweries
Spend a day -- or evening -- at one of Athens’ many amazing craft breweries! Stop by Creature Comforts if you’re looking for a brew in the downtown area, or head to Terrapin Beer Company if you’re in the mood for a guided beer tour and tasting. Southern Brewing Company is another popular spot that offers pints starting at just $5, and Akademia Brewing Company, despite being the newest on the Athens craft beer scene, also serves up an excellent selection of beers alongside a flavorful lunch and dinner menu. Loving the breweries? Follow the Athens Beer Trail!
Last Resort Grill - Cheesecake Dessert
Is there any better way to say “I love you,” than with cake? The Last Resort Grill is widely-known as one of the best places to eat in Athens, Georgia, particularly popular for its delicious selection of cheesecakes. Order a slice at the end of a romantic dinner, or pop in and purchase a slice to enjoy together on-the-go, this mouth-watering dessert is bound to satisfy the stomach of both you and your loved one.
Attend Live Music
The Classic City is notorious for its lively music scene, which birthed classic favorites like R.E.M. and The B-52's. Athens is home to a number of amazing spots to listen to live music of all types, including The Georgia Theatre, which pulls impressive artists to both their stage and rooftop venues. The Classic Center Theatre is another large music venue in Athens, bringing an impressive variety of concerts, comedy, and even Broadway events into the area. You can't go wrong bringing a date to either of these spots!
The Happily-Married Couple
For couples who've been together for years or even decades, don't worry! There are still tons of amazing, "hidden gem" date night activities to attend in Athens.
Cheese Class at Half-Shepherd Market and Cheese Shop
Spend an evening enjoying a beautiful pairing of cheeses and wines in a cheesemonger-led tasting at the Half-Shepherd Market and Cheese Shop! Book your tickets online to take part in this delectable and informative experience!
Spa Day at Urban Sanctuary
Voted Athens' Best Day Spa, Urban Sanctuary provides massages, facials, nail services and waxing 7 days a week, making it the perfect place to bring your longtime love to unwind for a much-needed spa day together. The spot even offers couples massages, perfect for a spa date!
Browse Avid Bookshop, and Attend a Monthly Poetry Series or Book Club
Spend some time with your significant other at Avid Bookshop! This independent bookseller carries new and used books and offers poetry nights, book clubs, local author readings, national author book signings, and more -- all for you and your date to choose from.
Valentine's Day Dates
Looking for a special way to spend Valentine's Day this year? Athens has you covered! With tons of Valentine's Day dinners and events planned around the city, there's a variety of great options for you and your date to choose from. Hungry? Various venues and restaurants will be hosting Valentine's Day dinners, like Butcher & Vine, Heirloom Cafe and the State Botanical Garden. Looking for something unexpected? You're sure to find it on our Valentine's Day blog.
Check out our Valentine's Day page to see all that Athens has to offer this Valentine's Day!
This story was written by Eilis Sullivan in 2020 and updated by Shannon Dominy for 2022.
