Articles Tagged "Date Ideas"

Love is in the air! Whether you're embarking on a first or second date, or you've been going on dates with your significant other for years, there are so many excellent date ideas in Boca Raton. Take a look at some of our favorite date activities, from food- and wine-centric experiences to adventurous activities in the water. These fun and unique date activities will ensure your date goes off without a hitch!  

Visit the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

Photo Courtesy of Ben Hicks via the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

Situated within Red Reef Park between the ocean and the Intracoastal, the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is a 20-acre nature preserve teeming with wildlife. Take a stroll along the boardwalk leading to a scenic lookout, relax in the butterfly garden, or observe sea turtles in the rehabilitation facility. With water views, lush landscaping and interesting wildlife, the preserve is a picturesque and laid-back date destination.  

Savor a Five-Course Meal at Six Tables

Six Tables is truly a unique and interactive dining experience. Situated at Mizner Park, this romantic eatery only offers a chef's prix fixe five-course menu at a single seating at 7 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Plus, as the name implies, the restaurant only has six tables, which enhances the intimate and personalized experience. The $99 prix fixe menu includes hors d'oeuvres, a soup, salad, a main plate, a dessert and a variety of beverages, starting with a welcoming sparkling aperitif and ending with a glass of port digestif. Reserve one of the six tables by calling 561-347-6260.  

Stroll Through Mizner Park

Photo Courtesy of Mizner Park

A visit to Mizner Park is a laid-back option for the indecisive couple. This expansive lifestyle center serves as the heart of activity in Boca, and there is no shortage of things to do here. Pop in and out of upscale boutiques and designer stores, stop for a bite to eat or a drink, admire artwork at a local gallery, and people watch all the while.  

Go to Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

While technically just up the road in Delray Beach, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a popular destination for Boca residents. This stunning cultural center embraces the century-old connection between Japan and South Florida. Since opening in 1977, the Morikami Museum has welcomed thousands of visitors, all eager to explore the rotating exhibitions, tea ceremonies, and traditional gardens. Within these halls, you will find more than 7,000 Japanese art objects and artifacts, including a 500-piece collection of tea ceremony items. A visit to the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens makes for a serene and beauty-filled date activity.    

Embark on a Brewery Tour at Barrel of Monks Brewing

Photo Courtesy of Barrel of Monks Brewing

Barrel of Monks proudly brews Belgian-inspired beers to bring the taste of the Old World a little closer to home. Visit and tour their state-of-the-art brewery in Boca to see the process up close and personal — and sample a few brews all the while. Barrel of Monks offers brewery tours on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., except during special events. There is no reservation necessary for the tours and Groupon tickets may be purchased here.  

Laugh at Mizner Park Comedy Club

Sit back, relax and let out a few laughs at Mizner Park Comedy Club. This popular comedy club hosts a variety of comedians, both well-known and up-and-coming, in an intimate space. Take a look at their upcoming shows to get tickets, all of which benefit local non-profit organizations. Beer, wine, soft drinks, snacks, and candy are available for purchase at each show, and there are no purchase minimums. Attendees are encouraged to dine prior to or after the show at any number of restaurants in Mizner Park and the Downtown Boca area.  

Go Stand Up Paddleboarding With Salty Dog Paddle

Take your date off dry land with an adventurous paddleboarding trip at Lake Boca. Salty Dog Paddle offers this peaceful paddleboarding tour perfect for trying SUP yoga poses and for first-time paddleboarders. The seawalls on either side of the Intracoastal help to break up most of the waves caused by wind. Plus, there is not much boat traffic in this calm area and sometimes the water is still enough that you can see the bottom of the sea floor! Make your reservation for this active and fun date idea.  

Dine Al Fresco on an Outdoor Patio

With the gorgeous scenery and water access we enjoy in Boca, it's only right to witness it all atop an outdoor patio while you dine. There is an array of restaurants with outdoor patios in Boca Raton, offering Intracoastal views, fresh air, and a serene atmosphere. Some of our favorites include City Fish Market, Boca Landing, Waterstone Rum Bar & Grill, and Farmer's Table.  

Get the Huna Treatment at the Maui Spa & Wellness Center

This exquisite, tri-level sanctuary is a favorite amongst South Florida residents, most likely because it makes them feel like they have stepped onto the Hawaiian islands. Indeed, the spa is the brainchild of Gayle Wentworth, who lived in Maui for 10 years before opening her business in 2007, bringing that aloha spirit to Florida! From massages to wraps, all of the spa's services are wholesome and invigorating, and all based in Polynesian tradition. Take for instance the Huna Treatment, which begins with a gentle warm oil treatment on the "third eye" to quiet the mind and restore inner calm. Then enjoy a scalp and deep-tissue massage (Lomi Lomi) designed to heal the body and reduce stress. It is one of the most popular treatments for a reason! Looking for more luxurious spas in the area? Check out these unique and lavish spa treatments in South Florida.  

Try Scuba Diving with Force-E Scuba Centers

Even if you've never tried scuba diving, Force-E Scuba Centers offers a chance to try it out before committing to the real deal. The Force-E Try Scuba Diving program allows you to get a sample of diving — either in a pool, off a beach or from a dive boat. Consider this exciting and informative option for your next date adventure! Who knows? If you enjoy it, you can even take the plunge into a certification course in the future.  

Sip on Exceptional Wines at Vino Wine Bar

Photo Courtesy of Vino Wine Bar

Wine tasting always makes for a romantic date night activity — especially if it's in a cozy and elegant atmosphere like Vino Wine Bar. Visit this intimate, centrally located wine bar to sample from their collection of over 250 wines by the glass. Their wine list includes a variety of regions, vintages, and varietals to keep your visit interesting. Enhance the experience with a bite to eat, live entertainment, and an overall sophisticated atmosphere. Vino Wine Bar is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight.  

Enjoy Dinner AND a Show at iPic Theaters

Bring the best of both worlds — dinner and a movie — into one luxe setting at iPic Theaters at Mizner Park. This upscale movie theater features plush seating, modern technology, and in-theater service for chef-driven dishes and an excellent selection of drinks. iPic is a pioneer of the dine-in theater concept. While you watch a movie, you can enjoy high-quality, chef-driven fare from award-winning Chef Sherry Yard, complemented by farm-to-glass cocktails and a variety of drink options. Choose from iPic's signature seating options, Premium leather seats or Premium Plus leather recliners, to enjoy your movie experience in exceptional comfort. Take a look at upcoming showtimes to book your next date night at this all-inclusive luxury movie theater.  

Admire Artwork at the Boca Raton Museum of Art

Photo Courtesy of Boca Raton Museum of Art

Experience the vibrant arts culture of the city with a visit to the Boca Raton Museum of Art. This beautiful museum in Mizner Park hosts a wide range of art in a myriad of styles and mediums, held in both permanent collections and rotating exhibits. Share your favorite pieces with your date as you stroll through the exhibits hand in hand. Keep in mind that the museum is closed on Mondays, and is open from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. on Thursdays, and from 12–5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors 65 and over, and free for members and children under 12.  

Explore Boca by Water With Boca Boat Adventures

If you don't have your own boat or yacht to explore the city by water, don't fret! Boca Boat Adventures offers the only private speed boat tours and excursions in and around Boca Raton. They specialize in private and personal small group tours for up to six guests, which allows for a much more intimate touring experience. Cruise through the Intracoastal to take in views of the famous Boca Club & Resort, the many stunning waterfront estates in Boca, sparkling Lake Boca, and a number of waterfront parks.  

Love is in the Air!

What are your favorite date activities in Boca Raton? Share your ideas in the comments below.

Whether you are going on your first or second date with someone or have been with your significant other for decades, deciding on a date activity can be difficult. You may be unaware of the many things to do in Fort Lauderdale or you might find yourself stuck in a rut of visiting the same neighborhood restaurant time and time again. Spice things up with one of these fun and creative date ideas in the city! Solve a mystery at an escape room or sample wines overlooking the sparkling river. Wherever you go and whatever you do, you are sure to enjoy your time at one of these renowned destinations in Fort Lauderdale.  

Fort Lauderdale Date Night Ideas Include:

Sip on Local Coffee

Keep things light with a casual coffee date at a local shop in Fort Lauderdale. Plus, you can start your day together at a coffee shop then venture to do any of the other date activities on this list! You'll need the caffeine if you're going to make a full day out of it. We love Warsaw Coffee for its hip, industrial atmosphere. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a small bite to eat on their airy patio shaded from the sun. Another favorite is Brew Urban Cafe, a bookstore-meets-coffee shop. This funky cafe is filled with a sprawling book collection, and of course, all the coffee and pastries your heart desires. It's clear that this creative shop values and supports the arts.  

Enjoy Dinner AND a Movie — All at Once

Why split up dinner and a movie when you can enjoy both at the same time? AMC Dine-In Theatre at Coral Ridge is a movie theatre and a restaurant rolled into one. Pick from a full menu of fresh, handcrafted dishes — from appetizers to desserts — and pair your meal with your favorite drink from the bar. With the dine-in full service option, you can reserve your seat, choose from the full menu and bar, and order from your seat with the push of a button. Take a look at the upcoming movies at the Coral Ridge location and book your next date night!  

Taste Exceptional Wines

  Wine tasting is one of the most romantic activities you can do as a couple — whether you're a seasoned wine aficionado or you are just learning about the different varietals. Visit Versare Wine at the River or Wine Watch Inc. for a special wine tasting with your significant other. Versare Wine at the River is a boutique wine and select craft beer store located along the river near Sunrise Boulevard. Patrons enjoy the waterfront deck while tasting from a curated list of wines produced by small ethical vintners. Versare has a refreshing sustainable, biodynamic and organic approach to wine. Wine Watch Inc. has a series of wine events happening on a regular basis that you don't want to miss. They host their spectacular wine tasting dinners in Wine Watch's new wine bar in addition to Café Maxx and The Fontainebleau Hotel. Take a look at the schedule to plan your next adventure in wine!  

Admire Beautiful Gardens

Photo Courtesy of Flamingo Gardens

While technically located in Davie, Flamingo Gardens is a popular destination for those living in and visiting Fort Lauderdale and surrounding cities. Established in 1927, Flamingo Gardens is a 60-acre botanical garden and everglade wildlife sanctuary. In fact, it is one of the oldest botanical gardens and attractions in South Florida! The gardens feature over 3,000 species of rare and exotic, tropical, subtropical, and native plants and trees. And the wildlife sanctuary is home to the largest collection of Florida native wildlife, including alligators, bobcats, eagles, otters, panthers, peacock, and of course, flamingos. If you haven't yet visited Flamingo Gardens, this is a must-do for a leisurely yet awe-inspiring date activity.  

Get Tickets to a Show

PHOTO © Anton Grassl/ESTO, Courtesy of Broward Center for the Performing Arts

See an inspiring performance at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, ranked among the top ten most-visited theaters in the world. The center presents more than 700 performances each year to more than 700,000 patrons. This premier performing arts venue hosts Broadway musicals, operas, ballets, concerts, plays, multicultural performances, lectures, workshops, and educational events. So no matter your style, there's something for everyone at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Take a look at their calendar to get two tickets to an upcoming show!  

Explore History Together

Photo Courtesy of the Stranahan House, Inc.

You're never too "local" for a historic tour of the city! The Historic Stranahan House Museum allows you to take a journey through time. The Stranahan House was built in 1901 by Frank Stranahan, who is considered the founding father of Fort Lauderdale, along with his wife, Ivy Cromartie Stranahan, the area's first school teacher. It is the oldest surviving structure in the county and has previously served in many capacities, including a trading post, a post office, a town hall, and home to the Stranahan family. Go on a guided tour through the museum, where you will learn about the birth of our beloved community. Tours are provided daily at 1, 2 and 3 p.m., lasting approximately 45–60 minutes.  

Go to an Art Museum

  The appreciation and acquisition of art is something we hold in high regard. A visit to the NSU Art Museum is an excellent date activity, whether you have never been to the museum or you've been a dozen times before. With an ever-changing rotation of exhibitions, there is always something new and enthralling to see at the NSU Art Museum. Whether you prefer modern sculpture or Renaissance paintings, you will have a wonderful time exploring the wide selection of styles and art forms at the museum.  

Go to the Beach

With so many exceptional beaches in our backyard, a beach day is an obvious choice for a date in Fort Lauderdale. Opt for a secluded and peaceful getaway at nearby beaches like John U. Lloyd Beach State Park or Hillsboro Beach. Or experience the buzz and excitement of the ever-popular Fort Lauderdale Beach. Take a look at the variety of options for dazzling beaches lining the coast — whether you're looking for scenic views of nature or an upbeat environment with nearby shops, eateries and other attractions at your disposal.  

Travel Through Time

Photo Courtesy of Larry Singer Via Bonnet House Museum & Gardens

Experience a taste of history, art and stunning garden landscapes all at once with a visit to the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens nestled along the river. As a luxury real estate brokerage, we find this to be a particularly enchanting destination. The Bonnet House was built in 1920 by Chicago-born artist Frederic Clay Bartlett on oceanfront land given to him and his wife, Helen Louise Birch, by her father as a wedding gift. Helen died from breast cancer in 1931 and Frederic married Evelyn Fortune Lilly in 1931. Today, the estate serves as a preeminent house museum dedicated to historic and environmental preservation in addition to displaying the stunning artwork by Frederic Clay Bartlett and Evelyn Fortune Lilly. Plan your visit to this inspiring, historic mansion to be transported to the days of gracious living, charm and whimsy.  

Try Stand Up Paddleboarding

Photo Courtesy of Sunrise Paddleboards

If staying fit was part of your New Year's resolutions, an active date experience may be your answer. Sunrise Paddleboards invites people of all fitness levels to enjoy this unique and exciting exercise that works your abdominals, arms and legs while enhancing your balance and core strength. Their two-hour class is the perfect way to be introduced to the sport of stand up paddleboarding if you haven't already, work on your personal fitness, and laugh alongside your significant other as you both complete this challenging, fun and effective activity. Beachgoers rejoice! There are plenty of ways to workout on the beach in and around Fort Lauderdale.  

Go Shopping Along Las Olas Boulevard

It only makes sense to visit the very heart of Fort Lauderdale with a shopping day along Las Olas Boulevard. This renowned street provides a primary connection to the beach and has become a dining and shopping hub for locals and visitors alike. The boulevard hosts over 30 bistros, clubs and restaurants, many of which provide both indoor and outdoor dining. Visit over 120 specialty retail shops, world-class art galleries, museums, beauty salons, spas, jewelry stores, unique boutiques, and more. Taking a stroll along this renowned boulevard is a pleasant and laid-back way to spend the day in Fort Lauderdale with your significant other.  

Glide Through the Canals — Venetian Style

Photo Courtesy of Gondolas West

Explore the "Venice of America" atop a modern-day gondola with Gondolas West, inspired by the renowned gondola rides in Venice, Italy. This boutique company emphasizes nature over noise, as each nearly silent boat holds a maximum of six people and travels through small and intimate canalways that larger boats cannot maneuver. Book your tour, varying in length and time of day, from a two-hour canal tour in the morning to a 1.5-hour sunset tour. Or opt for a private tour so you have the entire boat to yourselves! With Gondolas West, you will get an unprecedented picture of the Fort Lauderdale area, learn about where our city came from, where it is now, and get a glimpse of the future for the "Venice of America."  

Solve a Mystery

Photo Courtesy of Think Escape Games

Stretch your imagination to solve a mystery together at Think Escape Games, an innovative escape room in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Live escape games are a relatively new concept that has been sweeping the nation as a popular activity for corporate team building, date nights, or simply an outing with family and friends. You will be locked in a room with other participants and will have to use elements within the room to solve a series of puzzles, find clues, and escape the room within a set time limit from different scenarios. Think Escape Games has three separate games to choose from — an experiment gone wrong in Laboratory 51, a murder mystery in The Study, and a billiards challenge in The Shady Tavern. Work together and compete against the clock to escape before time runs out!  

What date ideas do you have?

We would love to know your go-to date night spot in Fort Lauderdale. Share your idea in the comments below!

In a setting as enchanting as Delray Beach, it's no surprise to find a myriad of romantic eateries in the city. You may have a tried-and-true date night tradition at the same handful of restaurants, but you might consider branching out to experience something new! The following restaurants in Delray Beach provide an intimate and romantic environment, sophisticated menus, expert service, and carefully curated wine lists and handcrafted cocktails. They each offer the perfect setting and pristine menus to make for an unforgettable evening with the one you love.  

32 East

New American | 32 East Atlantic Avenue Make a Reservation

Photo Courtesy of 32 East

For over 20 years, 32 East has been a popular date night destination along the vibrant Atlantic Avenue. Chef John Thomas creates an innovative menu that changes daily, featuring only the freshest seasonal ingredients from around the country. A full-service bar, award-winning wine list and the overall enchanting atmosphere of 32 East completes the dining experience.  

Olio

Italian | 42 Southeast 2nd Avenue Make a Reservation Just take one look at the gorgeous interior of Olio and you'll feel both inspired and welcomed. This combination restaurant, wine cellar and boutique serves an elevated, eclectic menu and an array of drink offerings, including fine wines, spirits and specialty cocktails. Their menus focus on Italian cuisine, but there is something to please every palate at Olio.  

Dada Restaurant

American | 52 North Swinton Avenue Make a Reservation Feel at home at Dada, located in an offbeat house built in the 1920s. The eclectic interior and revolving artwork complement the creative cuisine, which is always sustainably sourced. Their menu is as unique and exciting as the beautiful atmosphere the restaurant has worked hard to create since they opened their doors in 2000.  

50 Ocean

American | 50 South Ocean Boulevard Make a Reservation

Photo Courtesy of 50 Ocean

Enjoy a romantic lunch overlooking the ocean or a cozy night in the inviting space of 50 Ocean, located along the beach in Delray. The restaurant's panoramic second-level floor-to-ceiling windows provide an unmatched dining experience for guests. In addition to the remarkable views, 50 Ocean has an exceptional contemporary menu featuring fresh local seafood, tropical salads, and uniquely crafted desserts presented by a knowledgeable four-star staff.  

Fifth Avenue Grill

American Steakhouse | 821 Southeast 5th Avenue Make a Reservation Fifth Avenue Grill provides a classic, American steakhouse experience in a romantic and inviting atmosphere. This polished eatery offers select seafood and steak dishes in addition to a wonderful curated wine list with wines from all over the world, from Napa Valley to Spain. The interior of Fifth Avenue Grill is warm and inviting, creating the perfect setting to enjoy the company of your loved one.  

Tramonti

Italian | 119 East Atlantic Avenue Make a Reservation Tramonti provides the finest in luxury and sophistication, exceeding even the highest of expectations. The fine dining experts and professionals at Tramonti achieve this through carefully selecting sources and ingredients, creating culinary masterpieces, providing unparalleled service, and maintaining a gorgeous atmosphere in which to enjoy it all. Explore their Italian-focused menu to see what's in store at this renowned Delray eatery.  

Caffe Martier

Mediterranean | 411 East Atlantic Avenue Make a Reservation

Photo Courtesy of Caffe Martier

Caffe Martier is where classic meets eclectic. With European flair, Caffe Martier combines blends of traditional Mediterranean styles with New Age tastes. Their new dinner menu by award-winning chef Jovito Robledo was crafted to complement their award-winning cocktails. And of course, top the evening with coffee and desserts — something Caffe Martier is known for. Try their Tiramisu with a white mocha at the end of your romantic evening.  

Sundy House

American | 106 South Swinton Avenue Make a Reservation Step back in time with a visit to Sundy House, a historic Queen Anne-style home built in 1902 with a bed and breakfast, renowned restaurant, and lush gardens. The restaurant serves an amazing menu featuring a diverse yet simple collection of classic American dishes. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails in the Atrium Bar, dine in the unique Fresco or Mediterranean rooms, and have dessert under a canopy of twinkling lights in the Taru Garden. Plus, you can make it a staycation by staying at the Sundy House bed and breakfast!  

Prime

American Steakhouse | 29 Southeast 2nd Avenue Make a Reservation Prime provides the ultimate environment for a swanky and romantic evening. The elegant interior features chandeliers, marble flooring, dazzling hand-painted murals, and upscale decor. This steakhouse prepares the best of land and sea, serving certified USDA prime beef, sushi and seafood of the highest quality. Relax in the luxe bar, dining room, an intimate indoor or outdoor private dining area, the tropical garden, or the lounge area with nightly live entertainment.  

Cut432

American Steakhouse | 432 East Atlantic Avenue Make a Reservation

Photo Courtesy of Cut432

For over five years in downtown Delray, Cut432 has put a modern twist on the beloved American steakhouse. In a contemporary and lively setting, cut into the perfect steak sourced from the country's top ranchers and artisanal producers. While Cut432 is known for their exceptional steaks, they also offer a raw bar, seafood specialties, and American classics, including chicken, pork chops, ribs and lamb. Whatever dish you choose, complement it with one of their small-production craft spirits, a glass of wine, or a craft beer.  

The Grove

American | 187 Northeast 2nd Avenue Make a Reservation The Grove is an intimate eatery combining a refined yet soulful menu with a modern atmosphere and approach. You will discover a selection of creative and innovative dishes on their menus, which change almost entirely every two weeks, as evolution keeps them inspired and keeps locals excited to try new offerings. The wines represented are meant to complement the food at The Grove, which selects mostly small producers from around the world.  

Joseph's Wine Bar and Cafe

Mediterranean | 200 Northeast 2nd Avenue #107 Make a Reservation Wine aficionados will love going to Joseph's Wine Bar and Cafe, an elegant bistro in Pineapple Grove with a focus on wine. Their love for wine is especially obvious when you see the stunning walls lined with bottles sourced from all around the globe. Their collection features over 2,000 bottles you can choose from, in addition to an extensive wine selection by the glass. Complement your wine choice (or vice versa) with a bite to eat. Joseph's serves delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, from shareable bites like hummus to marinated chicken kebabs to enjoy as a full meal.  

Max's Harvest

New American | 169 Northeast 2nd Avenue Make a Reservation

Photo Courtesy of Max's Harvest

Nestled in the artistic Pineapple Grove district, Max's Harvest employs a creative approach to dining, seen plainly in their thoughtfully crafted drinks, globally inspired cuisine, and beautiful atmosphere. Max's Harvest uses seasonal, locally grown ingredients from trusted farmers, ranchers, producers and purveyors. Their local focus, relaxing atmosphere and attention to detail makes them a wonderful date night spot.  

Scuola Vecchia Pizza

Italian | 522 East Atlantic Avenue Make a Reservation This bright and trendy pizzeria is a perfect option for a laid-back yet sophisticated date night experience. Scuola Vecchia, which means "old school" in Italian, is living up to its name by upholding timeless, age-old traditions. It is the only restaurant in South Florida certified by the Associazone Pizzaiuoli Napoletani, which oversees and maintains the highest standards in the art of making authentic Neapolitan pizza. Their delicious pizzas are cooked directly in a wood-burning oven on volcanic stone, giving them a distinct taste.  

Bon Appétit!

Select one of these enchanting eateries for your next date night experience. Your significant other will be delighted!