Are you tired of the same old date night routine? It’s time to think out of the box with interesting date night plans that keep you and your partner on your toes. The good news? The South Shore has endless options, so you’ll always have something exciting to try!
Romantic Restaurants
Once date night comes around, it’s time to impress with a romantic restaurant that fits the bill in atmosphere and food. Set in a historic waterfront Victorian home in downtown Hobart, Bon Vie has the makings of an intimate, cozy evening with your date. Enjoy farm-to-table dishes that feature local ingredients whenever possible.
Cedar Lake is home to Lighthouse Restaurant, which offers stunning views of woods and water. During the summer months, an outdoor patio offers live entertainment and lakeside dining tables. For something a bit different, enjoy fine dining in the Zen-like atmosphere of Asparagus in Merrillville while savoring dishes inspired by Thailand, Vietnam, the Americas, and classic French culinary techniques. Pair your meal with carefully chosen wines or indulge in their signature drinks. If you need more ideas, check out our blog on the perfect restaurants for Valentine’s Day.
Day Date Ideas
Enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan by walking along the shoreline or hiking one of the scenic trails at Indiana Dunes National Park. During the warmer months, cap off your adventure with a romantic beachside picnic—pack favorites like fresh fruit, artisanal cheeses, crusty baguettes, and charcuterie for an extra romantic touch!
Wine and beer lovers have plenty of spots to enjoy a daytime crawl and drink some of the best pours on the South Shore, no matter the season. Head to a wine tasting at Shady Creek Winery in Michigan City to sample wines proudly made in Indiana. For craft pours, breweries are aplenty, from Shoreline Brewery to Fuzzyline Brewing Co. Check our handy Brewery Trail Map and plan your date!
Of course, nothing beats a weekend date to a local farmer’s market (or farm stand) to enjoy local produce and artisan goods. Some even have live music! We recommend visiting these markets from springtime through late fall.
Unique Date Experiences
Looking to take your date beyond the ordinary? The South Shore offers a treasure trove of unique experiences perfect for couples who crave adventure, creativity, and a touch of local charm.
Embrace your inner child with simulators loaded with games, AR darts, ping pong and duckpin bowling at Public Bar and Rec in Crown Point while enjoying some apps and drinks from the bar. Interested in something more hands-on? Take your pick from the area’s best art classes and workshops so you and your date can get creative with ceramics, painting, and more.
Take date night to the next level with a staycation at Brewery Lodge and Supper Club in Michigan City. Unwind at their 12-suite boutique hotel on 42 acres of woods, streams and ponds. Indulge in a massage or facial at their day spa then dine at their restaurant that takes fresh, local ingredients and creates an unforgettable meal.
Outdoor Date Ideas
Get lost exploring the gardens, wetlands, and miles of hiking trails at Purdue University’s Gabis Arboretum. Itching to see animals up close? Washington Park Zoo is home to 250 species and is conveniently located near Michigan City’s waterfront, where you can stroll and dine after a day of animal discovery. Or, if you want to spend a day on the water, take your date on a kayaking or canoeing excursion along the Little Calumet River, Lake Michigan, or Cedar Lake.
Cold Weather Date Ideas
The winter season doesn’t have to mean staying indoors for a typical movie night with your date. There’s nothing like a visit to a local café or coffee shop to warm up with a cup of locally roasted joe. Afterward, partner up for a fun trivia night or break the ice with karaoke at one of the South Shores many bars, pubs, and breweries. You can also take advantage of the chillier months by skating hand-in-hand at Bulldog Park or Central Park Plaza from mid-November through early March.
Looking for more date ideas along the South Shore? Check out our complete listings for things to do in the area, and stay tuned to our events calendar for the latest buzz around town!