30 Unique Date Ideas in Austin:
Discover Romantic and Fun Things to Do This Weekend
Tired of the predictable dinner-and-a-movie routine? Austin is brimming with exciting and unique date ideas that go beyond the usual. Whether you’re a local looking to rekindle the spark or a visitor seeking fresh experiences, the capital city has something to offer every couple. We’ve meticulously curated a list of 30 distinctive activities that promise to make your date night memorable in 2024.
Austin’s vibrant scene offers countless opportunities for couples to connect and have fun together. Start by diving into the city’s rich cultural tapestry with activities like pottery classes at Broad Studios, where you can channel your inner artist and create beautiful pieces side by side. If you’re in the mood for something more dynamic, try side-by-side ziplining at Zip Lost Pines. The exhilarating experience of soaring over towering trees, especially during a romantic sunset tour, provides a thrilling backdrop for bonding.
For a more relaxed but equally engaging activity, consider a pizza-making class at DeSano Pizzeria Napoletana. Roll up your sleeves, knead the dough, and add your favorite toppings before savoring the delicious result of your teamwork. If sweet treats are more your style, Hill Country Chocolate in Fredericksburg offers a delightful wine and chocolate pairing experience that will tantalize your taste buds and bring you closer together.
Austin’s culinary scene is not to be missed, with options ranging from the creative boozy history lessons at The Roosevelt Room to wine tastings at The Meteor. Whether you’re sipping handcrafted whiskey at Still Austin or learning about brandies and gin, these experiences offer a flavorful way to deepen your connection.
If you’re seeking something with a bit more excitement, challenge each other at Urban Axes, where you can test your aim and compete for bull’s-eye bragging rights. For a touch of nostalgia, head to the retro Playland Skate Center for an adults-only skate night under the disco lights. Or, if you prefer a serene evening, take a leisurely stroll through Zilker Botanical Garden, where the lush scenery and monthly events create a picturesque and peaceful setting.
Art enthusiasts can explore the Blanton Museum of Art’s stunning new features or indulge in a painting session at Painting with a Twist, where you can create and take home a piece of art that reflects your shared creativity. For a more interactive experience, the Museum of Illusions offers a playful environment with mind-bending visuals perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Austin’s playful side comes alive with activities like retro boat rentals on Lady Bird Lake or visiting the new Austin Pickle Ranch to try your hand at pickleball on rooftop courts with city views. If you’re in the mood for a unique challenge, Escape Hour Austin provides immersive storytelling experiences that require teamwork to solve puzzles and escape themed rooms.
Pamper yourselves with a relaxing day at Lake Austin Spa Resort, where the My Guy and I Spa Package includes massages and facials in a tranquil lakeside setting. Alternatively, unwind at Viva Day Spa with their Delicious Duet Couples Spa Package, featuring Swedish massages and other luxurious treatments.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or something uniquely Austin, this list of 30 date ideas ensures that you’ll find the perfect way to spend quality time together. Each activity is designed to offer a memorable experience and help you create lasting memories, proving that there’s always something exciting to do in Austin. So why settle for the ordinary when you can explore these extraordinary options and elevate your date nights to new heights?
1. Roll Out at Playland Skate Center
Address: 8822 McCann Dr, Austin, TX 78757
Website: Playland Skate Center
Instagram: @playlandskatecenter
Description: Relive the nostalgic charm of the 1970s at Playland Skate Center, where you can skate under the disco lights. Enjoy adults-only nights with rollerblading and quad skating on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and grab snacks or drinks from Pete’s Eats. It’s a fun and retro way to enjoy a date night in Austin.
2. Get Your Cards Read at Irene’s
Address: 506 West 15th St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: Irene’s
Instagram: @irenesaustin
Description: Explore the mystical side of romance at Irene’s during Tarot Thursdays. Enjoy mini tarot card readings from 7 to 9 p.m. while sipping tequila cocktails. It’s a unique way to connect with your partner and delve into relationship insights.
3. Hide Away at Visitant Social Club
Address: 1301 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
Website: Visitant Social Club
Instagram: @visitantsocialclub
Description: Cozy up at this mobile speakeasy hidden behind Project Disco. The intimate setting of Visitant Social Club offers craft cocktails and a retro vibe. Perfect for a romantic evening in Austin with reservations recommended due to its small size.
4. Sample Whiskey at Still Austin
Address: 440 E St Elmo Rd #D, Austin, TX 78745
Website: Still Austin
Instagram: @stillaustin
Description: Tour Still Austin’s distillery and learn about whiskey production from grain to glass. The tour concludes with a whiskey tasting, making it an engaging and flavorful date idea in Austin.
5. Learn Boozy History at The Roosevelt Room
Address: 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: The Roosevelt Room
Instagram: @rooseveltaustin
Description: Dive into the rich history of spirits with The Roosevelt Room’s bartending master classes. From brandies to vodkas, each class offers an educational and enjoyable way to spend time together.
6. Swirl, Sniff, and Sip at The Meteor
Address: 1800 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Website: The Meteor
Instagram: @themeteor.austin
Description: Sample natural wines at The Meteor on Tuesday evenings. With rotating selections and knowledgeable staff, it’s a perfect spot for wine lovers looking for a relaxed and informative date.
7. Drink Liquid Gold at West China Tea
Address: 911 W 12th St, Austin, TX 78703
Website: West China Tea
Instagram: @westchinatea
Description: Enjoy a tea tasting at West China Tea, featuring farm-direct Chinese teas. Participate in unique events like sober dance parties and dream tea circles, making it a distinctive date idea in Austin.
8. Make Sweet Treats at Thai Fresh
Address: 1601 W 38th St, Austin, TX 78731
Website: Thai Fresh
Instagram: @thaifresh
Description: Learn to cook classic Thai dishes with Chef Jam Sanitchat at Thai Fresh. Classes include making spicy curries and mango sticky rice, offering a deliciously interactive date night.
9. Roll Sushi at Uroko
Address: 10400 Anderson Mill Rd, Austin, TX 78750
Website: Uroko
Instagram: @urokosushi
Description: Join a sushi-making class at Uroko and master the art of Japanese rolls and hand rolls. It’s a fun and hands-on way to enjoy a date, with fresh ingredients and expert guidance.
10. Roll Dough at Barton Springs Mill
Address: 2025 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Barton Springs Mill
Instagram: @bartonspringsmill
Description: Get your hands on fresh dough at Barton Springs Mill with classes on making pizzas and doughnuts. Learn from experts and enjoy delicious results with your partner.
11. Create Sweet Treats at La Pâtisserie
Address: 1500 W 34th St, Austin, TX 78703
Website: La Pâtisserie
Instagram: @lapatisserieaustin
Description: Discover the art of cake decorating and crêpe making at La Pâtisserie. These classes are perfect for couples who love sweet treats and want to enhance their culinary skills.
12. Make Pizzas at DeSano
Address: 4814 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756
Website: DeSano Pizzeria
Instagram: @desanopizzeria
Description: Join DeSano’s “pizza school” and create your own Neapolitan pizzas. Enjoy hands-on instruction and savor the delicious results together at this fun date night activity.
13. Pair Wine and Chocolate at Hill Country Chocolate
Address: 1007 S State Hwy 16, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Website: Hill Country Chocolate
Instagram: @hillcountrychocolate
Description: Indulge in a wine and chocolate pairing at Hill Country Chocolate. This tasting experience features Italian wines paired with gourmet chocolates, making for a sweet and sophisticated date.
14. Enjoy Cheese at Antonelli’s Cheese Shop
Address: 4220 W Anderson Ln, Austin, TX 78759
Website: Antonelli’s Cheese Shop
Instagram: @antonellischeese
Description: Delight in curated cheese tastings at Antonelli’s Late Night Date Nights. Enjoy a variety of cheeses and charcuterie boards in an intimate setting, perfect for cheese lovers.
15. Catch a Flick at Blue Starlite Urban Drive-In
Address: 2103 E M Franklin Ave, Austin, TX 78723
Website: Blue Starlite
Instagram: @bluestarliteurban
Description: Enjoy a nostalgic movie night at Blue Starlite Urban Drive-In. With classic and new films screened from the comfort of your car, it’s a charming and cozy date night option in Austin.
16. Sing at Ego’s
Address: 501 W 15th St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: Ego’s
Instagram: @egosaustin
Description: Show off your vocal chops at Ego’s karaoke nights. With a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of songs, it’s a fun and entertaining way to spend an evening with your partner.
17. Play Mini-Golf at Peter Pan Mini-Golf
Address: 1207 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Peter Pan Mini-Golf
Instagram: @peterpanminigolf
Description: Enjoy a playful date at Peter Pan Mini-Golf, featuring quirky courses with unique obstacles. It’s a local favorite for fun and friendly competition.
18. Dance at Broken Spoke
Address: 3201 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Broken Spoke
Instagram: @brokenspokebar
Description: Experience true Texas honky-tonk at Broken Spoke. Enjoy live country music and dance the night away with your partner at this iconic Austin venue. It’s a lively and authentic way to embrace local culture.
19. Explore the Blanton Museum of Art
Address: 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78712
Website: Blanton Museum
Instagram: @blantonmuseum
Description: Discover world-class art exhibits at the Blanton Museum of Art. Stroll through galleries and enjoy thought-provoking pieces together. The museum’s beautiful setting makes it a perfect cultural date idea in Austin.
20. Enjoy a Scenic Picnic at Zilker Park
Address: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Zilker Park
Instagram: @zilkerpark
Description: Pack a picnic and head to Zilker Park for a relaxing day outdoors. With plenty of green space and beautiful views of downtown Austin, it’s a lovely spot for a casual and romantic date.
21. Go for a Stroll at Lady Bird Lake
Address: 100 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Lady Bird Lake
Instagram: @ladybirdlake
Description: Enjoy a serene walk or bike ride along the scenic Lady Bird Lake trail. The picturesque views and tranquil setting make it a perfect spot for a peaceful date in Austin.
22. Catch a Performance at The Paramount Theatre
Address: 713 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Website: The Paramount Theatre
Instagram: @paramounttheatre
Description: Enjoy classic films, live performances, and more at The Paramount Theatre. This historic venue offers a charming atmosphere and a variety of events, perfect for a cultured date night.
23. Indulge in Tacos at Torchy’s Tacos
Address: 2801 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
Website: Torchy’s Tacos
Instagram: @torchystacos
Description: Treat yourselves to inventive and delicious tacos at Torchy’s Tacos. With a fun and casual vibe, it’s a great spot for a relaxed and tasty date night in Austin.
24. Relax with a Spa Day at Lake Austin Spa Resort
Address: 1705 S Quinlan Park Rd, Austin, TX 78732
Website: Lake Austin Spa Resort
Instagram: @lakeaustinspa
Description: Enjoy a day of pampering at Lake Austin Spa Resort. With luxurious treatments and stunning lake views, it’s an ideal spot for a romantic and relaxing date.
25. Enjoy a Unique Dining Experience at The Peached Tortilla
Address: 5520 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756
Website: The Peached Tortilla
Instagram: @thepeachedtortilla
Description: Delight in Asian-American fusion dishes at The Peached Tortilla. Their creative menu and trendy atmosphere make it a great choice for a memorable date night in Austin.
26. Explore Austin’s Music Scene at Mohawk Austin
Address: 912 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: Mohawk Austin
Instagram: @mohawkaustin
Description: Catch live music performances at Mohawk Austin. This venue features a variety of artists and genres, offering a dynamic and energetic setting for a date night.
27. Discover Craft Beers at Austin Beerworks
Address: 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX 78758
Website: Austin Beerworks
Instagram: @austinbeerworks
Description: Sample a range of craft beers at Austin Beerworks. Their brewery tours and tasting room provide a casual and enjoyable experience for beer enthusiasts.
28. Go Stargazing at McKinney Falls State Park
Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744
Website: McKinney Falls State Park
Instagram: @mckinneyfalls
Description: Enjoy a night under the stars at McKinney Falls State Park. With its dark skies and beautiful scenery, it’s a perfect spot for a romantic and quiet evening.
29. Take a Scenic Drive on the Hill Country Wine Trail
Address: Various locations in the Hill Country
Website: Hill Country Wine Trail
Instagram: @hillcountrywinetrail
Description: Explore the picturesque Hill Country Wine Trail and visit local wineries for tastings and scenic views. It’s a great way to enjoy a leisurely and romantic day together.
30. Visit the Austin Nature & Science Center
Address: 2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746
Website: Austin Nature & Science Center
Instagram: @austinnatureandsciencecenter
Description: Engage with interactive exhibits and explore nature trails at the Austin Nature & Science Center. It’s a fun and educational date idea for nature lovers.