4. See the animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo
It’s always a safe bet to have a first date somewhere that generates easy conversation. Looking at the wide variety of wildlife at the Lincoln Park Zoo is an easy way to break the ice in a safe, public environment. They are always hosting events, so check out one of the adults-only nights for one of the most reliable date ideas in Chicago!
5. Paddle a swan boat at Humboldt Park
The swan paddle boat ride is an iconic image of romance that has been enjoyed by couples for decades in Humboldt Park. Get to know your date as you take in the sights with Wheel Fun Rentals, the only place in the park to get your hands on one of their swan boats. If dry land is more your thing, they also offer four-wheel bikes that you can explore the park on.
6. Snap some pics in a curated creative space
If you know where to look, there are dozens of spaces curated for the perfect couples’ photoshoot. Peerspace is the best place to find hidden gems, like this amazing video and photo studio in Garfield Park!
They have brightly lit neon walls and 10 distinct that will give you plenty of opportunities for ‘grammable pics. We love the grass wall set with a lit-up LOVE sign. Perfect for date night, especially if you two are an established couple! Through Peerspace you can find some truly great spaces all around the city that are available to rent by the hour, so you don’t have to worry about booking something for the entire night.
“A very cool place,” shares a Peerspace reviewer who took snaps here. “Larry has a lot of fascinating stuff here and you could use this for many different projects. He was very helpful and he’s a very cool dude!”
7. Escape to a hidden oasis at Garfield Park Conservatory
Some days, living in the city will make you ache to see some greenery. Chicagoans are lucky to have Garfield Park Conservatory as a date option to get all the plant life you need. One of the largest in the country, this is one of the most spectacular date ideas in Chicago that will impress your date without costing an arm and a leg.
8. Get your blood pumping with an exercise date on the North Shore Channel Trail
Stretch your legs by taking your date on a stroll along the Chicago River at the North Shore Channel Trail. Or, if you’d like to see more, take your bikes down the long and scenic bike path. The trail extends for only about seven miles, so it wouldn’t be too hard to see the whole thing in one day on a bike.
9. Play some Pac-Man alongside a cat at the Catcade
By now, you’ve probably heard of the concept or been to a cat cafe. In a unique twist, the geekier daters and cat lovers can play some arcade classics at the Catcade on Belmont Avenue. Be careful, you might just end up falling in love with one of the furry residents and want to take them home. Reservations are required, so be sure to plan this one in advance.
Our great places to find photoshoot inspiration in Chicago may also provide some date spot inspo. Check them out!
