day trip date ideas near me

50 Daytime Date Ideas That Are All Sorts of Romantic

Just because the mood for romance has struck, that doesn't mean it has to happen at night. In fact, who died and made it law that all romantic rendezvous must be in the evening? Don't sell dating short by not mixing it up from time to time. Daytime dates are an awesome go-to option for new lovebirds, as well as for those with time in the game. Not only can it help save money, but it also gives a couple the chance to try new things that they might not think about doing at night.

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Whether starting something new or reviving the flame in a marriage, day dates are a fun alternative to the typical dinner and a movie. But what activities can be done that are fun, but still feel romantic? There are plenty that we've found! From picnics, a couples massage, to a romantic trail ride -- these date ideas will make any day date feel intimate.

The key to picking a good day date is to find something that feels fun -- love traveling? Why not tour the closest city? Love to feel the burn? A workout date might just be in the cards. Just keep things fun and casual ... or try each of these ideas and decide which one was the most fun!

Ready to add a few curveballs to the social calendar? Here are some daytime date ideas that a couple should really consider to keep things interesting.

1. (Early) Romantic breakfast

Even if it's not a weekend, breakfast in bed can be an enjoyable way to start the day. Just set the alarm clock for a little earlier and get ready to snuggle up!

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2. Casual Picnic

With the warmth of the sun kissing our faces, finding a local park to enjoy a relaxing picnic can be a great day-date option. (The backyard is also a nice destination, too.) Feel free to get fancy with it, or pack a bunch of leftovers. It's the thought that counts.

3. Hotel Quickie

Feeling frisky? Want to live on the wild side -- or reenact a scene from Sex and the City (the one where Carrie and Big meet up in a seedy hotel)? Consider renting a hotel room for the day. It can be a love chamber for a little "lunch booty."

4. Matinee Performance

My, how things are cheaper during the day. No one is saying to play hooky from work ... we're just saying that matinee prices are very friendly on our wallet. 

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5. Classic Lunch Date

There's nothing wrong with sticking to a working formula. Lunch dates are a popular choice among couples -- so why try to reinvent the wheel? Enjoy!

6. Couple's Massage

Ahh, we can't think of anything more tempting than a day or an hour at the spa. All worries will melt away as a masseuse massages from head to toe. Book an appointment during lunch, or a full day of events!  

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7. Workout Session

Is there anything hotter than two glistening bodies working side by side to sculpt their muscles? Anyone else need to reach for the towel right now? Elevate heart rates with a hard-hitting workout session.

8. Winery Getaway

Pack up the car for the day, leave the top down (assuming there's that option), and head to a nearby winery for some romantic wine tasting. If none are nearby, see if a local wine store offers tastings.

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9. Hit the Trails

Feel like getting physical? If so, consider biking or hiking as a possibility for a daytime date, and soak in the great outdoors.

10. Enjoy a (Day) Cruise

Those who are lucky enough to live near a cruise port are also at the helm of a great daytime date. Many cruise companies offer same-day excursions that travel to local and nearby cities. Should this option not be available, consider enjoying lunch on the harbor -- or renting a boat for half the day.

11. Work on the Back Swing

Four!! Let's perfect our birdie by spending time on the green. Golfing is an addictive pastime many people take up to relax and unwind. Plus, it also happens to be a good chance to snuggle up close to really "feel" the motion of things.

12. Cooking Class

Forget going to a restaurant, take a cooking class to learn a new recipe or dive into a new cuisine in the most hands-on approach possible! 

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13. Kayaking

If the weather permits, why not hop into a kayak? It's a fun and adventurous activity to bond over, and imagine the humorous memories made if one person falls into the water.

14. Beach Day

Soak up some fun in the sun by spending the day at the beach, if the weather allows, of course. Lie on the sand, frolic in the water, and sip on some tropical cocktails with little umbrellas in them!

15. Flea Market Shopping

Hit a flea or antique market and scout for fun and unusual items! Maybe flip through some records and try on some vintage clothes. Even if nothing ends up being purchased, it's a fun way to spend the day.

16. Ice Skating

Wintertime means ice skating dates! Lace up some skates and prepare to hold hands without trying to fall all over each other, although we've got to say that it's romantic comedy–level cute to do so anyway. 

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17. Art Class

An art class is a fun way to tap into our creativity. Maybe our partner can become our muse!

18. Visit a Carnival

Remember how fun carnivals and fairs were when we were little kids? They're still fun now, thanks to a serious nostalgia factor! We can ride all our favorite rides and maybe play a game to win our partner the biggest stuffed animal at the booth?

19. Visit an Aquarium

Aquariums are the perfect place to stroll around in and stare in awe at the wonders of nature, while still spending some quality time with boo. It's the perfect date idea for those going on a second or third outing and wanting to switch it up from drinks and dinner.

20. ... or a Zoo

On the flip side, stopping by a zoo is just as fun. Pack a lunch and spend the whole day surrounded by good company, i.e., interesting animals and our partner!

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21. Farmers' Market

Stop by the local farmers' market to pick up some of the freshest and most delicious food in the area! Look at the array of colorful produce, taste the ripe berries, and smell freshly baked bread, and maybe be inspired to pack a picnic. It's a fun trip for all the senses.

22. Volunteer

Pay it forward by signing up for a volunteering project for the day. Do good and feel good!

23. Fly a Kite

Windy day outside? Take advantage by grabbing a kite (and maybe a bottle of wine) and having some fun outside.

24. Gallery Hop

For an edgier date, check out the local art scene. Do a gallery crawl! Typically, entry to art galleries is free, but who knows what we'll end up buying! 

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25. Mini-Golf

For a more playful version of golf, head over to the mini-golf course! To up the ante, maybe even make a bet for whoever loses?

26. Explore a Museum

Museums are always there, but how often do we actually find the time to stop by them? Visit one for a cute -- and educational -- day date, especially if there's a fun new exhibit out!

27. Go on a Run

Go on a long run through a new part of the town, city, or neighborhood and take in all the sights while getting in some exercise. Even non-runners can jog at a slow pace and enjoy what their town has to offer.

28. Coffee Date

Ah, the coffee date. It's a tried-and-true first date to test the waters of compatibility with someone -- and sip some yummy java at the same time. 

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29. Apple-Picking

What's more perfect for the fall than going on an apple-picking date? If the date goes well, then we would definitely bring them back home ... to bake some apple pie, that is.

30. Horseback Riding

What's both relaxing and adventurous at the same time? A horseback riding date!

31. Hit the Slopes

Hitting the slopes for skiing or snowboarding is a super fun date, even if we're only at the bunny slopes level! Plus, there's always the après-ski to be enjoyed afterwards.

32. Play a Game of Tennis

They don't call it "love" in tennis for nothing. 

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33. Hang Out at a Brewery

Sip a few beers at the local brewery for a chill daytime date.

34. Bowling

Bowling has been the date activity of choice dating all the way back to the '50s, so why break the tradition now?

35. Baseball Game

Take me out to the ballgame! Order some hot dogs and beers and have some good old-fashioned fun at a local baseball game.

36. Explore a Botanical Garden

Stop and smell the roses, seriously! Visit a botanical garden for lovely stroll through some stunning foliage.

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37. See a Palm Reader

Even those who don't read horoscopes religiously will find visiting a palm reader or tarot card reader to at least be somewhat amusing. Who knows what the future will hold?

38. Sign Up for a Dance Class

We're down to get our groove on by taking a dance class with our beloved. Even if we don't have the best rhythm and can't remember all the moves, it's sure to be a fun time!

39. Go to a Music Festival

Music festivals are the epitome of summer, and are a fun daytime getaway to see some live music and hang out in the sun. Even just grabbing a day pass can provide a nice sound-filled break.

40. Rock-Climbing Excursion

For a fun activity-filled date, hit up a rock-climbing gym or head to the great outdoors (but only if someone is experienced in rock climbing). Rock climbing is one of those exercises where we don't even notice we're exercising because it's so much fun.

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41. Helicopter Ride

Channel Fifty Shades   of Grey and book a helicopter ride around town.

42. Watch Some Whales

For those who live by the coast, spend a day whale-watching. Talk about relaxing.

43. Bird-Watching Expedition

Okay, so maybe bird-watching isn't in our usual schedule of activities, but it can be fun with the right partner! Scouting for local birds is like a scavenger hunt to bond over, even if no actual birds are spotted.

44. Bakery-Hop

Who doesn't like eating some sweet treats with our sweet thang? Hop around to some favorite and beloved bakeries and try out some new ones! The best thing about this idea is that a sweet treat isn't as filling as a meal, so we can try multiple pastries.

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45. Roadtrip

Pick a scenic route, like the Pacific Coast Highway, and then take a long and scenic drive. Don't forget to come up with a fun playlist!

46. Record Shop

Record shopping is one of the best ways to find out more about our partner's music tastes, which says a lot about them. Hit up vintage shops or ones with new vinyls, and maybe we'll find our couple "song."

47. Hit the Arcade

It's all fun and games until ... well, it's always fun and games at an arcade date! Find out who the sore loser is by playing some old-school arcade games.

48. Take a Stroll

Take a daytime staycation and visit the historical or more touristy part of town! Even though this area is always here, we hardly ever visit it when we're always so busy.

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49. Photo Shoot!

We'd love to have a throwback day date by running around town snapping memorable pics with our boo. The best part is that the photos don't just stay on our camera -- we can have them printed out and hang them somewhere!

50. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Hot air balloons are gestures reserved for the category "grand romantic," but we think a beautiful day is the perfect time to whip this date out!

The 12 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Arkansas

J.B. VanDyke

J.B. Weisenfels has lived in rural Arkansas for three decades. She is a writer, a mom, and a graduate student. She is also an avid collector of tacky fish whatnots, slightly chipped teapots, and other old things. In her spare time she enjoys driving to the nearest creek to sit a while. If you were to visit her, she'd try to feed you cornbread.

More by this Author

In the Natural State, you’ll find some truly wonderful outdoor places to explore, all of which make for some picture-perfect day trips in Arkansas . Below, you’ll find 12 of the best day trips you can only take in Arkansas, as every single one is unique and totally worth visiting. Let’s go on a little Arkansas day trip adventure, shall we?

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So, if you’ve ever searched for “day trips near me” in Arkansas, now you have a list of fun ideas perfect for the entire family. Do you have more fun day trip ideas? Tell us in the comments!

For even more cool day trips in Arkansas, be sure to check out these 11 amazing Arkansas hidden gems .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Day trips near me in arkansas.

What are some fun places to visit in Arkansas?

The above list of day trips in Arkansas is really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fun places to visit in Arkansas .

• How about eagle watching at Lake DeGray in the winter?
• Check out some Arkansas waterfalls in the spring.
• Float down the mighty Buffalo River in the summer!
• Or enjoy one of the state's many harvest festivals in the fall.

Are there any other fun things to do in Arkansas?

There sure are more fun things to do in Arkansas ! The Natural State is criminally underrated; it's home to immense natural beauty, world-class attractions, and some of the friendliest towns and people you'll find in the country.

• Explore the historic Oark General Store .
• Wander the small towns of Jasper and Brinkley.
• Check out the Van Buren to Winslow train.
• Head to the Little Golden Gate Bridge !

What are some day trips in Arkansas that I might not know about?

Take a look at some other day trips in Arkansas .

• The Natural State is a place of rugged, unfiltered natural beauty, and no place epitomizes this more than the Ozarks. And located in the northernmost part of the state, in the wilds of the Arkansas Ozarks, you'll find a place that is truly, wonderfully wild. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a United States Department of Agriculture licensed, non-profit certified facility that is dedicated to the rescue and care of unwanted, neglected, and abused exotic and native wildlife, with a focus on big cats and bears. It's an amazing place to visit with big cats, bears, lions, and tigers all roaming free and wild.

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• The Most Charming College Town In Arkansas Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More
• The Largest Pumpkin Patch In Arkansas Is A Must-Visit Day Trip This Fall
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• This Stunning European-Inspired District In Arkansas Is The Perfect Place For A Day Trip
• 10 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Arkansas
• These Awesome Places In Arkansas Are A Must For The Whole Family This Summer
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• Straddling The Missouri-Arkansas Border, Table Rock Lake In Beaver, Arkansas Is One Of The Most Unique Places You'll Ever Visit

Explore Arkansas

Date Ideas in Tacoma, WA

• TripBuzz discovered 97 different types of activities for couples in the Tacoma area, including Parks (like Point Defiance Park), Bowling (like Tower Lanes Entertainment Center), Movie Theaters (like The Grand Cinema) and Art Museum (like Museum of Glass), and much more.
• We discovered a total of 245 date ideas in or near Tacoma, Washington, including 223 fun or romantic activities in nearby cities within 25 miles like Gig Harbor , Federal Way , Lacey and Puyallup .

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The grand cinema, pantages theater, w.w. seymour botanical conservatory, the blue mouse theatre, tacoma comedy club, point defiance park, point defiance zoo & aquarium, museum of glass, cheney stadium.

100 Fun Date Ideas to Really Up the Romance

Couples can step out of the box with these easy, cool and affordable options.

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Sometimes, coming up with a date activity that's as exciting and unique as your relationship can be just as difficult as finding the right person to take out on that date in the first place. Whether you're driving the carpool, commuting for work or you've got just 20 steps between your bed and your desk and back again, most of us just don't have a lot of creative juices left for planning at the end of a long day. And let's face it, dinner-and-a-movie gets a little stale after awhile, especially if you've been in the dating game for some time.

Whatever your dating personality, there's bound to be something to fit the bill on this master list of create date night ideas . Whether you're looking for indoor date night ideas for inclement weather, long-distance dates for when you and your main squeeze are apart or even first date ideas to break the ice, there's something for every type of couple, activity preference, level of DIY skills and budget. We've got enough to last you a few year's worth of weekends.

• Restaurant hop. If you've got your favorite spot's menu just about memorized, check out a few new places instead. Visit a food hall if you've got one nearby or head to an area with a few different restaurants and try one place for appetizers, another for dinner and a third for dessert.
• Play tourist in your hometown. When was the last time you took advantage of the things everyone asks to see when they visit? Probably the last time you had out-of-town guests, that's when. Take an afternoon or an evening and hit up your local landmarks or must-see attractions like you're seeing them with fresh eyes.
• Make a fun new recipe. Even if you're not much of a cook, trying out a new dish can result in lots of laughs. And when you're done, you get to eat the results.
• Go on a picnic. If it's nice outside, there's nothing more romantic than packing up some al fresco food and favorite beverages, spreading it on a blanket and enjoying the great outdoors. If the weather outside is frightful, move the party to your living room.
• Take a hike. Something about exploring nature with your main squeeze really gets the heart going in other ways, if you know what we mean.
• Hit the beach. Sun, sand, surf and lots of skin. Come up with a better afternoon. We dare you.
• Go skiing. Not beach weather? Hit the slopes instead. If you don't get hot cocoa afterward, it didn't count.
• Play a board game. Drag out the classics or try a brand new one, for a healthy dose of competition. Toss in a friendly wager to spice things up a little.
• Throw a casino night . If they call you Lady Luck, see if your partner can roll snake eyes and win your heart. That, or play cards with that week's chore list on the line.
• Build a campfire. Ignite the flames of passion in a Smokey-approved way by gathering around a campfire in your backyard. If your municipality doesn't allow fires, huddle by the fireplace instead or even make s'mores in the microwave.
• Have a spa night. Hit up the drugstore for face masks , mani-pedi supplies and massage oil for a DIY pampering sesh that will improve your bond and your skin.
• Take a day trip. Hop in your car and see where a tank of gas can take you. Even checking out the next town over can feel like an adventure, especially when you're doing it with your favorite person.
• Go grocery shopping together. Need eggs and bread? Turn a boring chore into a fun couple activity. Split your list in half and race to see who can finish it first, or just wander the aisles hand-in-hand.
• Learn a new skill. You don't need to invest in a lot of fancy equipment to try something new. Give origami, drawing or even card tricks a shot. You'll have a blast laughing over how bad you both are, at first.
• Play hide 'n seek. It's not just for kids anymore.
• Look through old photos. Pull out the albums and get ready for an awwww-fest. Share stories of your childhoods and your awkward teen years to learn something new about your sweetheart and grow to love them even more.
• Go antique hunting. You'll be amazed what kinds of gems you can find at an antique store, not to mention the creepy AF tchotchkes you'll run into.
• Take a dance class. Even (or especially!) if you have two left feet, taking a dance class can make a unique date. You'll be the talk of the dance floor at the next wedding or party when you bust a move.
• Volunteer together. Sign up to serve at a soup kitchen, a clothing drive or other local initiative to make a difference in your community and see how hot your honey looks when helping others.
• Visit the zoo or aquarium. Come on, even fish are cute. Show your sensitive side and squee over some new fuzzy or finned friends.
• Read to each other. Grab some steamy reading from your local library or used book store and take turns reading to each other. You'll be in the mood before you can say "once upon a time."
• Explore a museum. If you haven't been to your nearest museum since your class field trip, it's time to make a trip. Learning is sexy, don't you think?
• Go out for dessert. I don't know about you, but I'm always too full to get dessert after a nice dinner. Skip right to the sweets, and see what you've been missing.
• Commandeer the jukebox at a bar. Ensure you've got danceable tunes all night long by taking control of the jukebox at a local watering hole. Don't forget to sing along.
• Make a craft together. Creativity feels even more satisfying when you do a project with your sweetheart. Don't worry if you're not a pro artist; there's beauty in imperfection.
• See a comedy show. Laughing gets endorphins flowing, and comedy often comes cheaper than other forms of live entertainment. Even really bad standup can be fun, in its own way.
• Go to an open house or estate sale. Even if you have zero plans to buy a home, looking inside someone else's is the best (and least creepy) kind of voyeurism.
• Tackle a home improvement project. If you've been meaning to hang some shelves or finally cleaning out your closet, enlist the help of your main squeeze. Doing it together will make the task go by faster.
• Go berry or apple-picking. Depending on the time of year, there's probably something edible growing out there. Pick apples, berries, pumpkins, whatever. It's a seasonal, Insta-friendly outing that ends with yummy snacks.
• Hold a baking competition. Make like Paul Hollywood and challenge your beau to a baking contest . Once you're chowing down on the spoils, everyone wins.
• Wander a new neighborhood. Drive or walk to a new locale and see what's around, for a free and unique date. Pick out your favorite houses and make up tall tales about who lives inside, or choose the one you'd want to live in.
• Go horseback riding. It's a better workout than you expect, not to mention an offbeat way to get a good dose of nature.
• Try rock-climbing . Thanks to its newfound trendiness, many cities have at least one climbing gym. Don't belay , chalk up those hands (sorry, not sorry).
• Take a cooking class. Level up your kitchen know-how and get to enjoy a delicious meal, all in one.
• Try a new fancy coffee or tea. If you usually take it black or with just sugar or cream, branch out! Hit up a local coffeeshop and try the most offbeat offering they've got.
• Fly a kite. This is one instance in which "go fly a kite" isn't an insult. Really, try it.
• Stay in a bed and breakfast. Whether you go old-school or rent an AirBnB for the night, bed and breakfasts feel like sneaking into someone else's house, except you're totally allowed to be there.
• Go to a water park. Make like a kid again and splish splash to your heart's content. Water slides really are worth the hype.
• Go to a farmer's market. Supporting local merchants, eating delicious healthy foods and enjoying a stroll in the sunshine – yup, that's definitely date material.
• Try a new workout. If you're a Spin person, drop in on a kickboxing class. If you're usually a free weights fan, step it up with some Zumba. Giving a new class a shot is less intimidating with a pal, and you can even use an app if you don't want to shell out for a live one.
• Tour a brewery or winery. You'll learn what goes into making your favorite beverage, and there are usually samples. Win-win!
• Stargaze together. There's just something inherently romantic about staring up at the night sky. Bring a blanket to the backyard or a local park and see how many constellations you can find.
• Do karaoke. Everyone's a star at karaoke, especially if you can find the kind with private rooms. The sappier ballads you belt out, the better.
• Go ax-throwing. As soon as you let the first one fly, you'll understand why ax-throwing is so popular. It's also a great way to unload some stress.
• Put together a puzzle. There's something so satisfying about finally clicking that last piece into place, plus it's good for the ol' noodle.
• Go bowling. This is one instance in which you actually want to strike out.
• See a drive-in movie. Many drive-ins still play double features, so you get twice the films for your buck. Besides, it's delightfully retro.
• Go skating. Whether you go the ice or roller route, skating is just as perfect a date night as it was when you were 12.
• Take a wine tour. If you live near wine country, enlist a designated driver and get your grape on. If not, buy a few bottles of varietals you've never tried, print out some deets from the Internet and DIY it at home. Don't forget the cheese.
• See a concert. Even terrible cover bands make a fun night out, especially if you dance like fools the whole time.
• Cowork together. This is for the busy bees: If you and your sweetie work remotely, try out a cozy new coworking space together. Don't forget to build in breaks to grab snacks and lunch together.
• Try a dinner cruise. A candlelit dinner on the water? I'm sorry, did somebody say "most romantic night ever?"
• Rent a kayak or canoe. Your arms may get tired and your lap will definitely get soaked, but steering a double kayak or a canoe will give you new insight into your cooperation skills.
• Make your own pizza. Yes, including the dough . Top it with all of the classics, or go with personal pies and challenge each other to come up with the tastiest new combo.
• Take a dollar menu date. Go to a fast food restaurant and order everything on the dollar menu for a fresh take on the traditional dinner outing.
• Visit your hometown. Showing your main squeeze where you grew up (or went to college if you're from the same town) is surprisingly romantic and it's sure to elicit some mushy feelings. Go ahead, share those embarrassing childhood stories.
• Challenge them at an arcade. Go a few rounds at Ms Pacman and Big Deer Hunter for a unique night out that will bring out your competitive side.
• Plan a future date. If your wallet's a little light right now, crack open a bottle of wine and spend a cozy night in planning an extravagant future date. Romantic, whether you actually go through with it or not.
• Throw a dinner party together. Invite a few other couples over and go all out making an apps-to-dessert meal. Place cards and centerpieces optional, but if you're gonna do the thing, you might as well do it right.
• Choose library books for each other. For a free and quirky date, head to your local library and choose books for the other to read. Hand your sweetheart your most awww-worthy childhood favorite, or introduce them to a current literary obsession .
• Thrift new outfits. Visit a secondhand store and dress each other in the zaniest clothes you can find. Goofy photos mandatory.
• Have a themed movie night. But make it a theme. Choose a flick and add snacks to match. Think The Godfather and cannoli or Ratatouille and, well, you know.
• Make a romantic playlist. Remember when you used to exchange mix tapes with your crush back in the day? Thanks to streaming services, it's easier than ever to create a musical journey through your relationship, no sitting by the radio for hours required.
• "Shop" for adoptable pets online. Cooing over cute puppies and kitties will bring out your softer side, even if you can't have a pet where you live.
• Paint and sip. If you've got a paint nite program nearby, it's a fun and easy date. If not, get some canvasses (or coloring books), pour some bevvies and throw your own.
• Try tie-dye. You may have noticed that all kinds of things are tie-dyed lately. Get in on the trend by making your own. Even if it doesn't come out perfectly, you'll have a fun memory.
• Watch a sports game. Even high school sports can get your adrenaline going if you get really, really into it. And you definitely should.
• Taste some cheese. Some cheese shops hold tasting events but if you don't have any near you, buy a few new-to-you varieties and DIY it.
• Play laser tag. Recreate your 10th birthday party, except now you can have a beer with your pizza afterward.
• Go skydiving. Yes, it's a little pricey and not for the faint of heart. But this is one of those special occasion dates you'll never forget. Try it for an anniversary or other big event.
• Drive go-karts. Mario Kart experts and those who drive anything other than the carpool minivan can both rock a go-kart arena.
• Train for a 5k. Having something to work toward will motivate you both, and you can keep each other accountable as you lay down those miles.
• Go to a burlesque or drag show. Raucous, rowdy and a little bit risque, both drag and burlesque shows make super-fun dates.
• Swap houses with a friend. Enjoy a staycation for free by exchanging houses with a nearby pal. Living in someone else's shoes for the night or weekend feels like stepping into someone else's life, even if you just bunk down next door.
• Build a snowman (or a sand sculpture) . Make the most of the weather by creating a new friend.
• Shop for charity. Food pantries, homeless shelters and community organizations need supplies all year round. Spread the love while spending quality time with your partner.
• Watch the sunset. There's a reason so many romantic movies end this way.
• Take public transit somewhere new. Ride the subway to the end of the line or take the bus to a different part of town for an adventure that's easy on the wallet.
• Order each other's meal. See how well you know your loved one's tastes by ordering for the other at dinner. No swapping back when the food arrives!
• Listen to podcasts. For a twist on the usual movie night, cuddle up and turn on a podcast instead.
• Do couples' yoga. Getting bendy together can really heat things up, plus you're doing something good for your body and mind.
• Play "never have I ever." Asking each other to get deep can reveal some new things about your loved one.
• Make a video together. The only thing more fun than watching reality TV is making your own. Use your phone to shoot a cooking video, do a tutorial or even give each other makeovers.
• Go low-tech. Pretend the power went out and have a no-tech evening. Yes, that includes your phones.
• Relive a past vacation. Put on your swimsuits, shake up some margaritas and look at photos of your last beach getaway. You'll almost feel the sand between your toes.
• Play a role-playing game. Former theater kids, this is your moment. Try a classic like Dungeons and Dragons or an online game to step outside yourselves for awhile.
• Write each other love letters. Getting your feelings down on paper can ignite some real sparks, plus create a keepsake for years to come.
• Climb your family tree. Sit down with Ancestry.com and learn about your backgrounds. Or even better, interview an elderly family member to get personal stories about where you came from.
• Go for ice cream. Nothing tastes as good as a cone on a hot day, but we scream for ice cream on chilly afternoons, too. Set up a sundae bar for a real treat.
• Stroll a street fair. Chow down on some fried dough, bask in the midway lights and win each other a stuffed toy – if you've got the skills.
• Have a photo shoot. Make like influencers and take photos of each other around town. You may even come up with your next holiday card.
• Listen to a lecture. Many local colleges, libraries and community centers have evening events that are open to the public. Plus, you'll get all sorts of tidbits for future cocktail party conversation.
• Take an improv class. Embracing the concept of saying "yes, and" is a lesson that also works well in your offstage life.
• Cultivate a garden. Even if you live in an apartment, try your hand at growing a window garden . Plants make any dwelling feel like a home.
• Build a bucket list. Sit down together and think big: No item is too out-there or mundane to plan ahead for the rest of your life as a couple.

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Seven energizing SoCal day trips you can take, even during coronavirus

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One day you will be ready to roam again — really roam across borders, oceans and continents. But for now, let’s start small.

Here, as a mostly homebound school year resumes and we enter our seventh month of pandemic-altered existence, are seven day-trip ideas within a several-hour drive of Los Angeles, some with overnight options, a few with beaches.

Just because they’re open now doesn’t mean you have to visit today. In fact, state officials still urge Californians to avoid nonessential trips. But when you’re ready, these places are too.

No matter where you go, health experts urge you to wear a mask unless you’re eating or in the water. And keep a distance from strangers.

At Torrey Pines State Beach, swim, fish, walk the sand or sunbathe. The beach is 4½ miles long, between northern La Jolla and southern Del Mar, and lined by red-dirt cliffs and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (still closed). For a memorable overview of nearby beach, cliffs and sea, park at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, watch paragliders take off, get a sandwich at the Cliffhanger Cafe and sit at one of the outdoor picnic tables.

Plenty of art and architecture await just east of the glider port on the 1,200-acre UC San Diego campus. You can take a self-guided tour among the works of art at the Stuart Collection and and check out the striking academic architecture, including the otherworldly Geisel Library (interior closed) and the crooked little house atop the engineering building.

In La Jolla, you can stroll past the shops, galleries and restaurants on Prospect Street and Girard Avenue. Or go tide-pooling or picnicking along Coast Boulevard near Children’s Pool Beach. There’s also pleasant strolling along the Coast Walk Trail near Cave Street.

Or you could kayak around La Jolla Shores or the cliffs and caves near La Jolla Cove. Co-owner Michael Luscomb said La Jolla Kayak ([858] 459-1114, lajollakayak.com ) resumed rentals in late May, tours in early June. “We’re very strong on weekends,” he said.

For coffee or a snack, head to Pannikin (outdoor seating) at 7467 Girard Avenue. For a fancy dinner, you might try George’s at the Cove, a longtime Prospect Street mainstay whose Level 2 and Ocean Terrace dining areas are open.

Info: sandiego.org

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach, with its gorgeous stretch of sand, cliffs and rockscapes, once was an artists colony. Now it’s more of a gallerists colony but undeniably pleasant to visit.

Beyond Main Beach (and its landmark blue-and-white lifeguard tower) in downtown Laguna, a path leads from Treasure Island Park (just south of the Montage Laguna Beach resort) to Treasure Island Beach (good for families, tide-pooling and snorkeling). You might not be ready to spend $1,000 for a night at the Montage, but you might consider breakfast, lunch or dinner on the patio at the resort’s Mosaic Bar & Grill . Downtown, there’s plenty of window-shopping among the galleries and shops. And there are three state parks in the area.

Crystal Cove State Park, which stretches from Laguna Beach to Newport Beach, has 3.2 miles of beach, a campground, the Beachcomber Cafe (where you’re invited to order by phone rather than touching a menu) and the Crystal Cove Shake Shack at 7703 East Coast Highway (which, believe it or not, has no website). Before visiting, check the beach website at crystalcovestatepark.org for updates.

Info: VisitLagunaBeach.com

South Bay beaches

Wake up early, bring your bike or rent one and ride the Strand, a paved 22-mile beachfront route that spans Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach.

Officially, it’s the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, 14 feet wide and shared by cyclists, skaters, pedestrians and wheelchair users. It can take you far north of the South Bay, through Venice Beach and Santa Monica to Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades. The southern endpoint is Torrance County Beach. It’s always busy, so it’s best to try this early in the day, preferably a weekday.

Bike-rental options include Hermosa Cyclery ([310] 374-7816, hermosacyclery.com ) in Hermosa Beach and Marina Bike Rentals ([310] 318-2453, marinabikerentals.com ) in Redondo Beach.

An alternative is to pick one or two piers — Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo each have one — and build a walk. If you’re new to the South Bay, Manhattan Beach is the priciest of these places, Hermosa is more casual and rowdy, and the Redondo Pier and King Harbor Marina are often more diverse.

Need a cool snack? The Manhattan Beach Creamery at 1120 Manhattan Beach Avenue has been a favorite for years.

Info: DowntownManhattanBeach.com , HermosaBeach.gov , Redondo.org

Palos Verdes Peninsula

Start in Redondo Beach and follow Palos Verdes Drive as it loops around the dramatic peninsula to San Pedro. Stop at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Its interior was closed as of Sept. 15, but the grounds are accessible and you can walk along the bluffs. About 2½ miles east, past Terranea Resort (which reopened in June) and across the street from Wayfarers Chapel (visitor center closed), you can walk the pebbly shores and bluffs of Abalone Cove Park in Rancho Palos Verdes (parts of the beach are closed).

End in San Pedro, where you can walk to the Korean Friendship Bell in Angels Gate Park, with wraparound views on a clear day. Or walk the coastal side of the road ( Point Fermin Park ) to see the vintage lighthouse and rocky cliffs. Keep a lookout for brown pelicans, which often fly at eye level. There are pullouts throughout the drive where you can pause to enjoy the view.

For a bite, try Nelson’s, the scenic patio restaurant, at Terranea (walk-in customers are OK).

Info: rpvca.gov , pvestates.org , spcvb.com

Malibu and Topanga

Head up Pacific Coast Highway, enjoy some beach time, then head back through Topanga Canyon. Or vice versa. On this itinerary, you’ll see all sorts of beach scenery and canyon greenery. You might want to linger on the Malibu Pier, where the Malibu Farm restaurant and cafe serve breakfast, lunch and dinner alfresco. The restaurant takes reservations and also serves early dinner; the cafe is first come, first served. You might hike in Malibu Creek State Park (parking is limited; Rock Pool and Century Lake are closed). Or you could enjoy a lazy lunch and swim at Paradise Cove, a selfie-ready nook on the sand that humbly calls itself “the best beach in the world.”

In Topanga Canyon, follow winding two-lane Topanga Canyon Boulevard through country scenes, passing quirky homes, businesses and landmarks with hippie overtones. About 4 miles up Old Topanga Road from the boulevard you’ll find the Los Angeles Horseback Riding ranch ( losangeleshorsebackriding.com ; $100 for an hour).

Info: visitcalifornia.com/experience/malibu

Santa Barbara and Carpinteria

Start at Santa Barbara’s Stearns Wharf and get some sea breeze in your hair. Then peruse lower State Street’s shops and restaurants, especially the stretch from Haley to Sola streets, where local leaders recently banned cars to create an eight-block promenade.

Old Mission Santa Barbara tours and museum are still closed, but the nearby Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The Santa Barbara Zoo is open; advance reservations are required.

South of town, take lovely, two-lane Foothill Road (California 192) between Santa Barbara and Carpinteria. There you can stop and meander Linden Avenue, which ends at a beach with lots of sand and gentle waves. Get breakfast or lunch on the patio at Esau’s Café (507 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-1070, esauscafe.com ; call to check days and hours), where the surfer vibes are thick. Or grab a burger at the Spot (389 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-6311), which has a rustic patio and food to go.

Info: santabarbaraca.com

Coachella Valley

It will be about a thousand degrees here, which explains why you’ll find lots of room. At dawn or dusk, hike in one of the Indian Canyons — Palm Canyon is the most popular — or dawdle in the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert, with admission by timed ticket. Prowl Palm Canyon Drive, the main drag through Palm Springs, and consider a meal at festive Las Casuelas Terraza (222 S. Palm Canyon Drive; [760] 325-2794), which dates to 1958.

To get the flavor of the valley, you might need a date shake. If so, consider Hadley Fruit Orchards in Cabazon or Shields Date Garden in Indio, which is surrounded by date palms. The Shields shop and restaurant are open (patio dining only). The bad news is that its theater, which has been screening “The Romance & Sex Life of the Date” since 1953, is now closed. The good news is that the film, all 17 minutes of it, is now viewable on the Shields website and YouTube .

Info: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

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Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990.

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Date Ideas Dayton Ohio: 50+ Romantic Things to do for Couples

By: Author coupletraveltheworld

Posted on Last updated: July 27, 2023

Categories Date Ideas , Romantic Things to Do

Looking for date ideas in Dayton Ohio?

No more at home date ideas with these fun and unique Dayton dates.

Whether you are looking the net for a list of the most romantic places in Ohio or just looking for something new and interesting to do this weekend, we have you covered with the best things to do at night and during the day.

The best date spots in Dayton Ohio (and even some quarantine date ideas!) here.

Food and Drink Ideas: Date Night Ideas in Ohio

Dayton Bar Hunt

One of the best activities for couples in the city. Take a scavenger hunt through the cities best landmarks and hidden gems, answering trivia questions and solving challenges. 

Salar Restaurant and Lounge

Located in Dayton’s Historic Oregon District, Salar offers a unique and delicious menu! Chef Margot Blondet draws inspiration from her home country of Peru in each dish she prepares. The entire menu feels homemade ranging from vegetarian cuisines to rich desserts!

Coco’s Bistro

This Dayton restaurant offers a vast and tasteful menu with a comforting and airy atmosphere. With a large array of seating and huge patio, this is the perfect dinner spot for you and your date, no matter what your palette! One of the best rainy day date ideas .

Cocktail Nite

A fun spin on a simple night of dinner and drinks! Get cocktail lessons from a professional and make your own drinks. Perfect for cocktail lovers and food lovers alike!

Spaghetti Warehouse

If you’re looking for a fantastic Italian dinner, spaghetti warehouse is the place for you! Their menu seems endless and the inside is absolutely unique, with a train car on the inside with seating available. And on top of that, the food is delicious!

Dewey’s Pizza

Looking for a more casual Italian option? This Midwestern pizza chain might be just the fit for you and your date! With a view of the chefs preparing the dough and other ingredients for your pizza, this restaurant offers everything you could ask for on a dinner night. Just enjoy a simple and handmade pizza with amazing, fresh ingredients!

Jimmie’s Ladder 11

Located inside a restored 1892 firehouse, this restaurant boasts many charming features that will help make your night absolutely wonderful! With a folksy-chic tavern vibe, it serves endless classes American menu items along with an extensive beer list.

Second Street Market

Located in a former freight station, the second street market is bustling with merchants selling a variety of goods! Make a whole day of it and explore all the food, produce, and crafts that the market has to offer! In addition to great food and beverages, you’ll enjoy the company of a lovely crowd and unique scenery.

The Little City Cooking School

Looking for a creative date night idea that lets you learn a new skill? The little City Cooking School is a hidden gem in Oakwood, Ohio near Dayton. Housed in a beautiful, historical 1926 home, the small business gives off a friendly and comfortable feel where you and your date can learn to cook new dishes together!

Warped Wing Brewing Company

A microbrewery located in a historic, industrial building in downtown Dayton. You’ll get a unique experience at this brewery, as it offers a great tasting room with creative beers along with tours!

The Village Wine Cellars

The Village Wine Cellars is a great dinner option! With a fully stocked bar and a delicious menu! You and your date will have a great time tasting their amazing wine selection as you eat a delicious dinner! One of the most romantic places in Dayton.

A great modern restaurant option with a vast and differentiated Thai menu. You’ll love their upscale Thai dishes sushi, along with their wine and craft beer selection! Located in Dayton’s historic Oregon District, you and your date will find yourself in the middle of everything Dayton has to offer!

A bar and restaurant chain founded in 1990 located in Dayton. They offer delicious food along with beer and cocktails, making a great location for a lovely dinner option during date night!

The Trolley Stop

The Trolley Stop offers a delightfully unique eatery option for you and your date! Dating back all the way to 1839, this tavern offers flavorsome American eats, craft beers, and cocktails. Along with amazing food, they also provide live music and even a pool!

• See more: Romantic Getaways in Ohio

Entertainment Date Night Ideas

Go on a private flight 

A super cool and exhilarating date! Fly a WWII Aircraft that was used to train pilots during WWII with your SO. Enjoy the views from above the earth!

Dixie Drive-In Movie Theater

Jump back in time at the Dixie Drive-In Movie Theater! Holding up to 900 vehicles, enjoy your movie on one of two huge screens, with beautiful tree enclosed grounds.

Dayton Funny Bone Comedy Club

Located at The Greene in Beavercreek, this club offers a fun night of laughs and drinks for your and your date!

Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway

One of the most popular entertainment choices in the Dayton Area, this location offers several ways to have fun! Gaming, racing, food, and drinks are all available in a friendly and relaxed environment with stellar customer service.

A different kind of cinema experience offering a variety of films! Enjoy foreign and indie films not offered at other theaters while sipping on coffee and beer of your choice!

Scene 75 Entertainment Center

The largest indoor entertainment center in the country with endless ways to have fun! Have dinner and drinks, play a round of mini golf, race go-karts all in the same place!

The Black Box Improv Theater

Located in downtown Dayton, get ready for a night of drinks and laughter. It is a long form improv theater and they offer classes for both kids and adults!

Schuster Center

Built in 2003, the Schuster center is home to a wide variety of entertainment. It’s available to rent for parties and celebrations of all kinds and it’s home to performances such as plays, operas, and orchestral arrangements.

Rose Music Center

Looking for a fun night with great live music? The Rose music center is perfect for you! An outdoor pavilion with room for 4,200 and fully covered, this amphitheatre houses great music of all genres almost every night!

Fraze Pavilion

Another perfect option if you’re looking for live music! This pavilion is also outdoors, fully covered, and can seat about 4,300. The theater hosts many different American and international artists!

Dayton Opera

An American Opera company which releases three operas each year at the Schuster center located in downtown Dayton. The perfect night of gorgeous music and beautiful storytelling is awaiting you!

Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra

A professional music group formed in 1933 and located in Dayton, they regularly perform at the Schuster center as well. If you’re a fan of classical music, then you’ll love a night listening to this long loved orchestra!

Dayton Ballet

Founded in 1937, this Dayton based ballet company is the second oldest in the United States. Performing regularly at the Schuster Center, a night spent enjoying the talent of this company is a great date idea!

Victoria Theater

A historic landmark founded in Dayton in 1866, this theater boasts performances of popular plays and musicals, such as The Phantom of the Opera. This is the perfect date idea for any musical or history lover!

La comedia dinner theatre

With shows playing regularly throughout the year, this theater is a perfect date idea! They offer dinner and an amazing show, ranging from a Christmas theme during the holidays with shows such as Elf and other popular musicals such as the Sound of Music. They offer different shows each year so you’ll always find something new!

Dayton Playhouse

Running since 1959, the Dayton Playhouse is a community theater that provides theatrical productions of all kinds to all ages in the Dayton area. You’ll have a blast enjoying a performance from the talented theater group!

Little Art Theatre

The Little Art Theater is a great small business option for movie lovers! The nonprofit cinema offers both modern and classic movies, along with a great concessions spot! You’ll love the small, old school feel of the theater, offering a fresh perspective from your usual modern movie theater!

Wiley’s Comedy Club

Another great comedy club option for a fun, laugh filled date night idea! Wiley’s comedy club is the first and oldest comedy club in Ohio, so you’ll love the old timey aesthetic that transports you back in time while enjoying the entertainment!

See more: Best all inclusive resorts in Ohio

Ideas for Nature Lovers

Harmony Farms

A great day date idea to support a great local farm! They offer in store shopping so you can get some great locally made products, all in the peaceful, beautiful atmosphere of the family owned farm.

Five River MetroParks

Looking for a more adventurous date? The Dayton Five River Metroparks boasts nearly 16,000 acres across the area and offers hiking trails, bird watching, and a large variety of activities for a wide range of ages and interests!

Carillon Historical Park

Carillon historical park is a 65 acre museum and park with an array of historic buildings and exhibits showcasing the history of Dayton since 1796. With a combination of exploration and education, you will have a blast uncovering the history of the area while enjoying the beauty of the park.

Riverscape Metropark

A great outdoorsy date night option for nature lovers! Enjoy this park along the Great Miami River! And explore the different events they offer such as ice skating, floral paintings, and the different community events they offer!

Carriage Hill Metropark and Farm

Another wonderful option for nature lovers, this MetroPark lets you jump back in time and enjoy the beauty of the forests and wildlife around you! History lovers will also enjoy seeing a glimpse of 1880s farm life. Also, don’t forget to check out the riding center so you can enjoy all the amenities on horseback as well!

Walnut Hills Park

Walnut Hills park is a lovely small park for a date night on a budget! The park is small but pretty and would be a great place to have a picnic with your significant other! This date option is both super friendly to your wallet and offers a unique date idea that you and your partner surely won’t forget any time soon!

Wegerzyn Gardens Metropark

Another budget friendly option, this vast and beautiful park is another perfect option for a picnic date and romantic walk! In addition, they offer many classes and workshops to choose from. Or you can choose to keep it simple and just enjoy their 10 formal gardens, a nature trail, and the Swamp Forest boardwalk!

Eastwood Metropark

Once again, a great picnic spot that won’t break the bank! The scenery of this park is absolutely stunning, with a lake, river, picnic shelters for large groups, a hiking trail, and a playground. Known for its water activities as well, perhaps bring your fishing pole or boat to enjoy the gorgeous waters throughout the park.

Possum Creek Metropark

Nature lovers will have the best day exploring this absolutely stunning park and its many amenities! Walk along the Argonne Forest Trail and walk through history, followed by a visit to the farm to learn about the animals there, and finally even spend the night on the camping grounds there to make a whole weekend out of the trip!

Fun and Educational Date Night Ideas

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is a children’s museum in the Dayton area but it’s honestly great for any age and offers tons of fun! Focused on science and natural history, the museum offers an array of exhibits. That of which includes an extensive natural history collection and many live animals native to Ohio and also abroad.

Wright Cycle Company Shop

The Wright Cycle Company Shop celebrates the life of the famous Ohioans, the Wright Brothers. Orville and Wilbur Wright began their bicycle repair, rental, and sales business in 1892. They also ran a print shop at the same time. History lovers will have a blast walking through the business and learning of the history of the famous Wright Brothers.

Patterson Homestead

Located at 1815 Brown Street in Dayton, Ohio, this historic museum home was originally built in 1816. It was built by American Revolutionary war veteran Colonel Robert Paterson using federal architecture in several sections over forty years.

Open for event rental year round and located within the Carillon Historical Park, the homestead is a positively beautiful location option for you and your date on your special night!

The Funk Music Hall of Fame and Exhibition Center

The mission of this center is to establish a home for the legacy of funk music by celebrating the artists that brought it to life. Take part in this celebration by visiting here and learning about the genre through the many bits of memorabilia in the hall of fame.

Along with this, grab some merchandise from the shop that is located there as well! You and your date will have a blast picking out your own funky attire and accessories!

The Dayton Visual Arts Center

Looking for a unique artistic experience in Dayton? The Dayton Visual Arts Center is perfect for you! It is composed of a group of artists and art lovers who wish to bring attention to the importance of visual arts in the Dayton area.

There are a variety of events available to attend here such as art gallery talks, art exhibitions, professional development art workshops, and endless other programs that promote the contemporary visual art scene in the area.

Sunwatch Indian Village

The Sunwatch Indian Village is an archaeological site that provides an important history to its visitors. Open all year round, the site offers many different events and activities fitting for all ages and also offers a membership to its services to Dayton residents.

Along with this, there are a plethora of exhibits to view and absorb that will truly educate you while you’re there. A great and unique date night option that’s perfect for anyone wishing to educate themselves on Dayton history!

Dayton Art Institute

A museum of fine arts in Dayton and ranked in the top 10 best art museums in the United States for children. Perfect for a peaceful, educational, and fun experience!

National Museum of U.S. Air Force

Being the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world, it houses 360 aircraft and missiles. You and your date will have a wonderful time learning the history and knowledge which is available at this museum!

America’s Packard Museum

Great for car lovers, this automotive museum located in Dayton is a fun and educational date night idea! If you love museums and/or cars, America’s Packard Museum is perfect for you!

Dayton International Peace Museum

Another great option for museum lovers, the Dayton International Peace Museum offers a unique educational experience. It is a non-profit whose goal is to promote a more equitable, civil, and peaceful world.

Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad

Located in historic downtown Lebanon near Dayton, offering train rides throughout the town. You’ll get the chance to ride in vintage passenger cars and don’t forget to explore the different themed events that are offered throughout the year as well!

Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park

Another great option for history lovers! The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park offers an in-depth look at the lives of important figures in Dayton Aviation such as Paul Laurence Dunbar and the Wright Brothers. You’ll have a blast exploring this historical park!

Creative Ideas for an Adventurous Date Night!

Breakout Dayton

If you’re looking for adventure, Breakout Dayton delivers. Solve a series of clues and riddles in order to break out of a room with a theme of your choosing before time runs out!

Adventure Golf

Mini golf is always a fun option! Adventure golf boasts 18 holes and beautiful scenery. Boasting ponds, waterfalls, and canals.

Always Ballroom Dance Studio

Being a huge part of the Dayton community for 19 years, they offer classes for all kinds of students! If you’re looking for a unique date idea, this is perfect for anyone looking to learn how to dance!

Oregon District

One of the oldest and most historic neighborhoods in Dayton, containing buildings and architecture ranging from the year 1820 to 1915. You’ll find the neighborhood the perfect place to find endless food and fun!

Dayton Dragons Baseball

The Dayton Dragons Baseball team plays regularly throughout the summer and into fall at their home stadium in downtown Dayton. For any baseball fans, this is a great date night idea!

Urban Krag Climbing Center

The perfect date night for the adventurous couple! The climbing center features 10,000 square feet of textured and sculpted vertical climbs, ranging in height. It’s great for both experts and beginners so you don’t have to be an experienced climber to give it a try!

The Magic Castle

Another great option for mini golf lovers! But in addition to mini golf. The Magic Castle also offers a huge arcade, batting cages, an indoor playground, and a snack bar. You will find lots to do at this fun spot on your date night!

Laser Web Dayton

A different kind of date night option can be found at Laser Web Dayton! Experience a fun, competitive time perfect for anyone looking for a date night with a little adventure!

Land of Illusion

For any haunted house lovers, Land of Illusion is a great date night option! Opening in fall, around Halloween time, it boasts a large array of haunted houses that offer a frightfully fun time for anyone looking for a spooky evening!

Bella Balloons Hot Air Balloon Co

A unique, adventurous option for date night! The Bella Balloons Hot Air Balloon Co offers a great way to check off an item on your bucket list with your significant other!

Great Escape Game

Another escape room option for the adventurous couple! You get to choose from several different escape room options such as bank vault, Area D, and Outbreak! Going through a series of clues and riddles, you’ll race with your date to get out of the room before your hour is up!

Wild Axe Throwing

A great unique date night option for anyone wanting to learn a new and different skill! Wild Axe Throwing in Dayton provides an unforgettable experience that lets you escape reality momentarily!

Southern Ohio Diving Academy

Another option for learning a new skill on your date night! The Southern Ohio Diving Academy offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for diving newbies and has lots of locations for diving lessons throughout the Dayton Area.

Raise Your Brush

A wonderful option for a night of fun memories spent painting! Whether you’re artistic or not, Raise Your Brush offers a different kind of date night! Even with a covid safe option of taking courses from the comfort of your own home!

More Ohio Fun:

Date Ideas in Columbus Ohio

Date Ideas in Cleveland Ohio

Cincinnatti Date Ideas

Jacuzzi Suites in Ohio

Click here to learn more about Couple Travel the World.

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100 Fun Romantic Date Ideas Near Me

Switch up your usual date night routine with something new and exciting near you.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Are you getting ready for Valentine's Day and want to tuck away a few ideas for the big day? Take a look at our 30 Romantic Things to Do on Valentine's Day That You'll Never Forget and browse 24 Romantic and Fun Winter Date Ideas too!

Romantic Date Ideas for the Outdoorsy Lovers

1. Pack a Picnic Load the car with a basket that includes an outdoor blanket, a few cushions for lounging, cooler filled with tasty beverages (whether it's premixed cocktails, wine, or sparkling water), and an insulated carryall bag with your favorite sandwiches to savor at your favorite local park on a clear and sunny day. 2. Visit a Local Farm Take a weekend to get outside at one of your favorite community farms together. Whether you both want to attend a general grounds tour or visit for a pick-you-own produce event, it will strengthen your bond.

3. Take a Hike Put on your comfy shoes or better yet all-terrain boots with your beloved and grab a backpack filled with the essentials (water, snacks, compass, jacket, etc.) to explore a well worn path at a nearby trail. 4. Take a Boat Out If you have a fishable lake or seaside enclave in your area, consider taking your boat for a spin or renting a private boat with captain if you don't have boating license. Kick back and spend a few hours on the water sipping a classic craft beer and catching tonight's dinner.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Adventurous Couple

5. Get Carried Away on a Zipline Literally get hooked on a line with this daring activity. Whether you op for an indoor version or an outdoor adventure course. Ziplining your way through familiar or unfamiliar terrain is sure to bind you together by the end of the afternoon!

6. Jump Out of the Sky This date isn't for the faint of heart. If you both have a strong tummies and are ready to push personal boundaries, add skydiving to your list.

7. Hit a Target Axe-throwing is definitely for couples with excellent hand eye coordination. Take on your love and get throwing in a safe but challenging environment!

8. Take on a Scavenger Hunt Do you both love games that pull you outside? If so, add an afternoon hunt to your list of fun things to tackle together. Check out Pinterest for inspiration.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Art Lovers

9. Visit a Museum + Dinner Pull out your nicest cocktail attire and head out with your love to visit a new exhibit at a nearby art museum. After swooning over your favorite artworks, go to an upscale eatery for drinks and an opulent meal.

10. Take a Crafting Class Regardless of your creative skill level, book a fun introductory class to learn the basics of pottery, painting, iron pouring, glass blowing, or any other artistic medium to learn a new thing or two together.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Wordsmiths

11. Go Book Shopping + Lunch Make an afternoon of perusing literary selections. Play a little game of picking out the perfect book for each other to exchange at the end of lunch at a nearby cafe.

12. Attend a Poetry Slam + Coffee Date If you're both fond of poetry, browse local events to find an upcoming event at a coffee shop to savor a cup of joe while listening to the captivating tones of writers with the power of the spoken word. 13. Sit for a Book Reading and Enjoy Dinner Afterwards Keep your eyes open for any events featuring beloved and new authors visiting your city. Attend a book reading and signing together and go to dinner at a favorite restaurant to end the evening. 14. Compete at Trivia Night and Sample the Menu This one is for the competitive bunch! Make plans to spend a night out at a local bar or eatery to compete with or against each other at a trivia game event while sampling the drink flight and appetizer menu.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Musicheads

15. Go to a Concert or Festival Step outside for a serenade by your favorite local artist or even consider packing your bags and walking shoes for some time away at a multi-day music festival.

16. Tour a Beloved Music Site Check out the offerings in your town to explore the storied history of a music icon or get on the road for a trip to a close music museum or experience like Graceland , Sun Studio , or the Johnny Cash Museum .

Romantic Date Ideas for the Classic Romantics

17. Have Dinner by Moonlight Set the table in your backyard or deck at dusk, light the candelabra, and open a bottle or two of "the good wine" to sip while watching the sunset before having dinner (get delivery from a fave upscale restaurant) by moonlight together.

18. Go to a Drive-In Movie Take a short drive back in time at a local drive-in movie theater or catch a flick under stars at local park that plays favorite movies during the spring, summer, and fall.

19. Re-create Your First Date Night Consider going back to the place you met up for your first date to feel all the nostalgia that made you fall for each other all over again.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Spirited Lovers

18. Hop on a Brewery Bus Tour If you're both fond of pints, book a fun outing with City Brew Tours to safely sample your way around the best breweries in your community with transportation and good eats along the way.

19. Visit a Distillery Bourbon and whiskey lovers, add a weekend trip to your travel plans for a date outing to visit some of America's best spirit tours with your beloved.

20. Attend a Wine Tasting Class Add an afternoon or evening of wine sampling to your date plans. Browse local events to find a guided class or create a tasting experience with a heart charcuterie board and a spread of new bottles (even sparkling and boxed options) to try at home.

21. Go to a Beer Making Class Are you both beer enthusiasts curious about creating your very own home brew? Consider buying a self-guided kit or purchase an online beer making course to learn the basics together.

22. Have Tapas and Go Bar Hopping Sample your way around town with a fun night out of eating small bites and sipping crafty cocktails with your partner—regardless of your age.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Luxe Couple

23. Retreat to the Spa Couples with an affinity for the "finer things" will definitely want to add this idea to their list of dates. Reserve a time together at a outstanding spa or surprise your love with a trip to unwind and relax together at one of the country's best retreats .

24. Enjoy a Private Shopping Experience Retail addicted lovers can design a one-of-a-kind date with a one-on-one shopping excursion. Many local shops offer private shopping sessions and well-known brands like Macy's , Bloomingdale's , and Nordstrom offer free private styling/shopping services.

25. Have a Staycation at a Luxury Hotel Plan a night together at a nearby five-star hotel where you can order room service and spend the evening relaxing with each other.

26. Rent an Entire Movie Theater Picture a private party of two at the cinema. Book a whole movie theater to watch the latest new release with your beau. Theaters like AMC , Cinemark , Regal , and others offer personal rentals with concierge food and drinks.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Foodies

27. Attend a Cooking Class Whether you're fond of pasta, sushi, or anything in between, put an interactive cooking class on your to do list. Check local class listings or find an online options like Sur la Table to develop a new skill with you loved one.

28. Enjoy Dinner + an Online Cocktail Class Order takeout and sign-on to a beginner's course or an advanced mixology class to learn a new bar trick or two.

29. Go to a Pop-Up Dinner Night Step outside of your usual dinner plans and get tickets for a unique pop-up dinner experience. Check out community boards and discover exclusive themed dining nights with great chefs, food, and drinks like Small Batch and Blockbuster Pop-Up .

30. Make Your Lover's Favorite Dinner Before your partner arrives, turn on the stereo to play their favorite album, and get cooking to surprise them with their favorite dinner!

Romantic Date Ideas for the Animal Admirers

31. Visit an Aquarium or Zoo + Lunch Spend the afternoon seeing some of nature's most beautiful creations at an aquarium or zoo before grabbing lunch at a casual diner.

32. Volunteer at a Farmstead Bond over your mutual admiration of adorable animals and organic produce by volunteering some of your time to assist a community farm in need of helping hands. Call in advance to find a volunteer slot.

Romantic Date Ideas for the DIYers/Crafty Types

33. Go to an Architectural Salvage Show Are you in the middle of renovating or redecorating your home. Get on the road with your truck (or rent one) to attend a salvage show with your partner pick up cool finds (like antique doors and more) together!

34. Eat Brunch + Go Thrift Shopping Gather for brunch to fill up on delicious food before heading to a couple of consignment shops where you're sure to find a bespoke treasures.

35. Attend a Woodworking Class Hand-ons learners will appreciate a class with a loved one to create a unique piece of art. Check your community board for upcoming classes to get chopping and sawing with each other.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Homebodies

36. Plan a Picnic with a Bonfire Head to your backyard to lit the magical fire and snack on tasty treats with your love under the stars. Don't forget to add scrumptious s'mores to the menu too!

37. Have an Indoor Picnic Even if the weather is cold and wet, plan a thoughtful date with an indoor picnic. Lay out a cozy blanket, soft pillows, and a picnic basket filled with your favorite foods and drinks.

38. Have Game Night In and Order Takeout Queue up your favorite tunes, schedule a dinner delivery, and dust off that truck of classic games like Clue and Monopoly for a lighthearted night inside.

39. Enjoy a Private Catered Dinner Hire a professional chef to provide a curated wine and dine experience in the comfort of your home.

40. Make a Home-Cooked Dinner Together Pull together a fun and easy to make dinner to prepare with your sweetheart! Browse our fabulous dinner for two ideas to find the perfect meal. Divide and conquer by splitting tasks to make the prep engaging before enjoying the finished product.

Romantic Date Ideas for Travel Enthusiasts

41. Tour Your City Like a Tourist Plan a weekend date to explore your city for new spots, excursions, and restaurants like a newbie.

42. Hop on a Train to a Nearby City Add a day trip date or extended vacation on the great American rail to your list of new things to experience with your sweetheart.

43. Take a Weekend Trip to a Nearby City Surprise your significant other! Take advantage of last minute hotel and local deals on sites like Livingsocial , Groupon , Hotels.com , or Hotel Tonight to book an impromptu trip .

Romantic Date Ideas for the Sports Super Fans

44. Attend a Local Team Game Night Put on your favorite game day gear and head out to a local event for camaraderie, brews, and lots of loud cheering! 45. Plan an Afternoon at a Sports Museum Put a smile on the face of your sports enthusiast with tickets to a museum!

46. Secure Tickets to a Professional Sports Game Whether it's the NFL , NBA , or NHL , get a pair of tickets to enjoy the "big game" together!

47. Plan a Cosmic Bowling Outing Hit up your neighborhood alley for a date evening filled with low lights, flashing lasers, music, comfort food, and lots of bowling!

Romantic Date Ideas for the Retro Lovers

48. Enjoy a Retro Game Night at Home with Pizza Dust off your old Atari or Playstation console for a night of gaming and snacking on comfort food.

49. Savor Sweets at an Ice Cream Shop Split a sundae, share a malt milkshake, and maybe even a kiss with your partner.

50. Visit a Candy Factory Whether you love Jellybelly Beans, Hershey 's Kisses, or another regional fave, plan an outing to visit an iconic spot.

Fifty More Date Night Ideas!

51. Try a New Cuisine Together 52. Visit a Karaoke Bar 53. Take a Dance Class 54. Go Biking Together 55. Attend a Candle-Making Class 56. Test Drive a Luxury Car 57. Solve a Mystery at an Escape Room 58. Go Line Dancing 59. Head to a Comedy Show 60. Attend a Paint and Wine Event 61. Have Lunch at Buc-ee's 62. Go Skinny Dipping (if you dare!) 63. Put a Pizza in Oven and Tackle a Jigsaw Puzzle 64. Take a Sailing Lesson 65. Go Horseback Riding 66. Visit a Pop-Up Immersive Experience (like the Van Gogh Expo and The Stranger Things Experience ) 67. Plan a Day of Geocaching 68. Go Stargazing 69. Rideshare to a Bottomless Brunch 70. Get a Couples Massage 71. Visit a Food Truck Park 72. Explore a Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, or Apple Orchard (in the fall) 73. Head to a Pick-Your-Own-Berries Farm (in the summer) 74. Plan a Camping (or Glamping) Weekend 75. Eat Breakfast at the Farmer’s Market 76. Plant a Garden Together 77. Bar Hop Your Way Around Town 78. Book a Vintage Couples Photo Session 79. Go Dream House Shopping Browsing 80. Go Hang Gliding (if you dare!) 81. Compete at a Food Challenge (like taking on scorching hot wings or a massive burger) 82. Visit a Rage Room Experience (don't be afraid to get Office Space close) 83. Head to the Track for Go-Carting 84. Write a Song Together (if you're both musically inclined) 85. Go Fishing 86. Take a Carriage Ride Around the Park 88. Go Paddle Boating 89. Book a Dinner Cruise 90. Meet Up for Happy Hour and Small Bites 91. Order Takeout and Plan a Couples Vacation 92. Warm Up with Hot Chocolate and Go Ice Skating 93. Visit an Adult-Friendly Arcade 94. Hit Up the Mini-Golf Course 95. Go Shopping at an International Market 96. Attend a Snorkeling Lesson 97. Hit Up the Ski Slopes (during the winter) 98. Book a Prix Fixe Dinner 99. Play Laser Tag 100. Plan a Surprise Trip for Your Partner

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• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips in Illinois

Quad city botanical center, illinois, grosse point lighthouse, fabyan forest preserve, bishop hill.

• Complete List & Map

2525 4th Avenue, Rock Island, IL 61201, Phone: 309 794 0991, Map

The tours do not allow young children inside the lighthouse and there is a twelve-person limit. When weather permits, tour-goers can climb the 141 steps to the light tower. Visitors should verify in advance whether the climb will be a part of the tour on the day they wish to visit. Grosse Point Lighthouse Map

The estate had a model farm, numerous greenhouses, a windmill, several ornamental gardens and more. The owners had many ornamental stone and concrete features sculpted and placed on the property, many of which still remain in the park today. Fabyan Forest Preserve Map

Bishop Hill , 304 Bishop Hill Rd, Bishop Hill IL 61419, Phone: 309-927-3345

Cahokia Mounds

Cahokia Mounds , 30 Ramey St, Collinsville, IL 62234, Phone: 618-346-5160

Cave in Rock State Park

Cave in Rock State Park , 1 New State Park Rd, Cave-in-Rock IL 62919, Phone: 618-289-4325

Shawnee National Forest

The Burden Falls Wilderness is a section of the national forest that offers hiking trails and a very scenic, albeit small waterfall at the southern edge. Primitive camping is allowed in the national forest year round and free of charge and there are seven developed campgrounds with sites available for a fee. Shawnee National Forest Map

Elmhurst , IL 60126

Fulton , IL 61252

Galena , IL 61036

Galesburg , IL 61401

Naperville Riverwalk

The Naperville Riverwalk is a beautiful and tranquil path along the West Branch of the DuPage River. The walk has 1.75 miles of paths, fountains and bridges for walking or jogging along the riverfront. The riverwalk is decorated with outdoor sculptures, memorials and artwork. Several meeting and event spaces as well as recreational facilities exist along its length. On the east end, the riverwalk connects to Fredenhagen Park which features fountains, a clock tower, and bell tower. Further west is Centennial Beach and Centennial Park which are popular destinations for family recreation. Many annual events are held on the Riverwalk each year and include holiday activities, triathlons, flower sales and more. Naperville Riverwalk Map

Greenville , IL 62246

Arcola , IL 61910

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore , 1215 N. Indiana 49, Porter, IN 46304, Phone: 219-395-1882

Kettle Moraine State Forest

Kettle Moraine State Forest , S59 W36530 County ZZ, Dousman, WI 53118, Phone: 262-594-6220

Arthur , IL 61911

Metropolis , IL 62960

Alto Pass , IL 62905

Mississippi Palisades State Park

Mississippi Palisades State Park , 16327A IL Rte. 84, Savanna IL 61074, Phone: 815-273-2731

Mount Carroll

Mount Carroll , IL 61053

More ideas: Things to do in Champaign, IL

Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens

Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens , 1354 N 2nd St, Rockford, IL 61107, Phone: 815-987-61107

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park , 2678 E. 873rd Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348, Phone: 815-667-4726

Woodstock , IL 60098

Quincy Quincy is located on the Mississippi River in the westernmost area of Illinois. The city is known for having some of the most impressive historical architecture in the state. There are four major historic districts in the town where visitors can see virtually every architectural form from the about 1830-present. Some highlights include the Villa Kathrine which is a Moorish-style castle on the bluffs of the Mississippi river, the Governor John Wood Mansion which is an 1835 Greek Revival mansion, and the Dr. Richard Eells House which was a station on the Underground Railroad. Other attractions include the Granite Bank Gallery, the Quincy Museum and the Woodland Cemetery.

• 1. Quad City Botanical Center, Illinois
• 2. Grosse Point Lighthouse
• 3. Fabyan Forest Preserve
• 4. Bishop Hill
• 5. Cahokia Mounds
• 6. Cave in Rock State Park
• 7. Shawnee National Forest
• 8. Elmhurst
• 11. Galesburg
• 12. Naperville Riverwalk
• 13. Greenville
• 15. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
• 16. Kettle Moraine State Forest
• 18. Metropolis
• 19. Alto Pass
• 20. Mississippi Palisades State Park
• 21. Mount Carroll
• 23. Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens
• 24. Starved Rock State Park
• 25. Woodstock

Last Updated By VI on April 8, 2024 in Things to Do in Illinois & Places to Visit

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Day trip ideas in Upstate NY: 40 fun places to visit

• Published: May. 04, 2017, 12:00 p.m.
• Alaina Potrikus | [email protected]

Photo: Sylvan Beach Amusement Park at dusk. Scott Schild | [email protected]

By Alaina Potrikus | Contributing writer

» Check out our updated list, now with 59 day trips

A day trip in Upstate New York  can lead to all kinds of adventures. Take a selfie with statues of women's rights legends Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. Chase waterfalls from Niagara to the gorges of Ithaca to Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks. Get wet at water parks in Canandaigua or Old Forge, and catch sunsets on Million Dollar Beach in Lake George or atop Mount Defiance at Fort Ticonderoga. Check out these ideas when planning your next day trip in Upstate New York.

Photo: Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

Animal Adventure Park

Spend the day with  Upstate New York's most famous giraffe, April, and her new offspring. The  private zoo in Harpursville opens for the season on May 13, with daily hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is cash-only (with an ATM on site), and visitors can purchase food for various animal encounters (carrots for the camels and giraffes are $3, grapes for the monkeys and lemurs are $2). The park's other inhabitants include zebras, black bears, buffalo, pot-bellied pigs and hedgehogs, a mountain lion and Tibetan yak. The park is about a 15-minute drive from Binghamton; grab lunch at the  Main Street Grill and Bakery in nearby Afton, designed to mimic the pace and menus of eateries in New York City.

View this post on Instagram Recognize this kitchen?! Maybe if I posted it in B&W... It's the kitchen from I ❤️ Lucy! #tourlife #ilovelucy #jamestown A post shared by Rachel Brown (@rachelbrownmusic) on Sep 18, 2016 at 2:10pm PDT

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Hit the road for Jamestown, hometown of famed comedienne Lucille Ball. The Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum is home to reproductions of the sets from the television show, "I Love Lucy," Ball's Emmy awards, props, costumes and rare memorabilia from the legendary 1950s comedy television show.  Look for the multi-story mural of the iconic Vitameatavegamin advertisement, as well as a depiction of the conveyor belt scene in the chocolate factory. In the nearby village of Celeron, visitors can take a selfie with a bronze statue of Ball made headlines in recent years. The original  "Scary Lucy" statue was replaced last summer with a more flattering sculpture, which shows Ball in a polka-dot dress. Also nearby: Southern Tier Brewing Company , which offers tours and tastings throughout the week (check their website for hours, which change seasonally).

Photo: Main Street in Beacon. Dominick Fiorille for NYup.com

For art, antiques and culinary delights, spend a day in Beacon, located on the Hudson River in Dutchess County. The  DIA art museum is located in the former Nabisco box factory and houses an impressive collection of large-scale contemporary exhibits. More galleries are scattered throughout downtown Beacon, along with antique and jewelry stores and farm-to-table restaurants and brewpubs. Grab lunch at the Dr. Who-themed restaurant,  The Pandorica , or bring home baked good from the Beacon Bread Company . For unique souveniers, visit Dream in Plastic, a quirky toy shop, or  Hudson Beach Glass, which features glass-blowing demonstrations and a sculpture gallery.

Photo: Scott Schild | [email protected]

Strong National Museum of Play

For a family-friendly day trip, head to the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester. Little kids will love the reproduction of  Sesame Street, where Big Bird overlooks the famous stoop at 123 Sesame Street. Kids of all ages — and adults too — will enjoy the Wegmans Super Kids Mart , with child-sized grocery carts, shelves filled with lifelike products and a working checkout station where pint-sized cashiers can scan their own bar-coded items. Parents will enjoy a stop at the Toy Halls of Fame , which includes classic toys from the past, from Etch-a-Sketch and G.I. Joe to Atari and Easy Bake Oven. Don't forget to stop by the  Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden, the only year-round indoor butterfly garden in Upstate New York, and take a ride on the restored 1918 carousel  and the Strong Express, an indoor locomotive. Have lunch at the Strong's cafeteria , with a la carte options including Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Subway, or have a sit-down meal at Bill Gray's Restaurant or at the vintage Skyliner Diner located in the museum's atrium.

Letchworth State Park

Heralded as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park boasts nearly 600-foot cliff walls and three major waterfalls along the Genesee River. More than 66 miles of hiking trails wind through the park, as well as amenities for whitewater rafting and kayaking ,  seasonal hot balloon rides, horseback riding and biking. Be sure to check out Inspiration Falls, the state's tallest plunging waterfall with a total drop of over 350 feet. In the evening, visit the Charcoal Corral and Silver Lake Twin Drive-In Theater in nearby Perry, with an 18-hole mini-golf course, giant inflatables, weekly car cruise-ins, live music and outdoor double features on the weekend.

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

The 9,800-acre site outside of Seneca Falls  is home to six active bald eagles nests, with observations of nearly 60 eagles in recent years. Take a one-mile hike along the Seneca Trail from the Visitor Center, or stay in your car for the 3.5-mile Wildlife Drive through the preserve. Binoculars are available for loan to help visitors see waterfowl, herons and other marsh birds, Canada geese, bald eagle, osprey, harriers and other birds of prey, and shorebirds. Other wildlife sightings include muskrat, white-tailed deer, mink, fox and coyote. Cap your visit with a trip to Montezuma Winery  in Seneca Falls, known for dry to sweet wines including riesling, blueberry, rhubarb and the most popular, Cranberry Bog. The winery is also home to Hidden Marsh Distillery , which produces brandy, whiskey and liqueurs from locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure to check out the flagship Bee Vodka, handmade in small batches from New York honey.

Photo: Gary Walts | [email protected]

Sackets Harbor

Take a step back in history at the  Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site , where two crucial battles of the War of 1812 took place overlooking Lake Ontario. The site hosts numerous activities throughout the year, with living history reenactments, cannon and artillery demonstrations and other educational opportunities. Families will enjoy a side excursion to Old McDonald's Farm , where visitors can hand-feed beef cows and dairy goats, ride a pony and take a tour of the farm via tractor. For meals, head into the village for brick oven pizza at  Goodfellos or dinner or brunch in the courtyard of Tin Pan Galley . Try the 1812 Amber Ale or Thousand Islands Pale Ale at Sackets Harbor Brewing Company , and end your visit with a scoop from Saturdays, Sundaes & More , the village ice cream shop.

Lake Placid

The two-time home of the Olympic Games isn't just a winter destination. The  Lake Placid Olympic Center is open year-round; the complex houses the rink where the U.S. Hockey Team's Miracle on Ice took place in 1980. For an active visit, check out High Peaks Cyclery , which offers mountain bike, kayak, canoe and hiking gear rentals to explore the Adirondack Mountains year-round.  SUP Lake Placid rents stand-up paddle boards and kayaks on Mirror Lake, and hosts outdoor yoga classes. For an easy day hike, head to nearby Cascade Mountain , one of the easiest High Peaks to climb with a spectacular panoramic vista at the summit (4,098 feet). Take a break with a drink at Big Slide Brewery ,  Lake Placid Pub and Brewery or the Great Adirondack Brewing Company .

Photo: Stephen D. Cannerelli | [email protected]

Sterling Renaissance Festival

Spend a day in an authentic English Renaissance village, where a cast of royals, townspeople, thieves, beggars, artisans and craftspeople transport visitors to the realm of Warwick, England, in 1585. Daily activities at the 35-acre park include parades, jousts and duels, archery demonstrations, period music and dancing, and performances on 12 stages, including a "Wench auction." The  menu is fit for a royal feast, with turkey legs, steak-on-a-stake, mile high cakes and adult beverages including ale, wine and mead. Rent a period costume near the main entrance or purchase apparel, jewelry, headpieces, armor and weaponry at the Royal Marketplace.  Themed weekend celebrations include an Ale Fest, Highland Fling, Pirate Invasion and Fantasy, Fairies and the Future. Admission is $24.95 for adults, $12.95 for children; tickets can be purchased in advance online .

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

The Finger Lakes  community of Corning offers a ton of activities for visitors of all ages. No trip to Corning is complete without a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass ; sign up ahead of time to make your own glass project with the help of experts, or stop into one of the group glassmaking demonstrations held throughout the day. Spend the rest of your day exploring the "Crystal City," starting at the Rockwell Museum , a Smithsonian-affiliated museum featuring American artists. For lunch or dinner, head over to the Gaffer District , which has been  recognized by Bon Appetit as a notable destination for food along the Appalachian Trail. The area has grown to include over 45 restaurants and over 50 places to shop for unique items; end your day with a treat at the  Old World Cafe and Ice Cream shop, featuring a Victorian ice cream counter and old-fashioned homemade candies.

Photo: Joed Viera for NYup.com

Salamanca and the Enchanted Mountains

Known as the Enchanted Mountain  region for its picturesque scenery,  Allegany State Park offers sandy beaches, 18 different hiking trails and 5.6 miles of bike trails for outdoor adventures. Head to the Red House area of the park, where a Tudor-style administration building overlooks the lake and offers a restaurant with a full menu and patio seating . Step into the past at the Salamanca Rail Museum , a fully restored passenger depot that dates to the early 1900s. Try horseback riding at Crosspatch stables , which offers guided trail rides and Chuckwagon dinners. Before heading home, try your luck at  Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, with slot machines, table games, restaurants and other activities.

Photo: Robert Mescavage | Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain welcomes visitors year-round for outdoor activities and draws big crowds for music festivals, like the Taste of Country Music Festival  and Mountain Jam Fest . Take a scenic skyride to the 3,200-foot summit of Hunter Mountain, where you can see the high peaks of the northern Catskills, the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts and the Green Mountains of Vermont. For a more adventurous ride, check out New York Zipline Adventure Tours , the longest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America featuring over five miles of ziplines, some reaching heights of nearly 600 feet above the ground. The Hunter Mountain resort also offers fly fishing , 4-by-4 off road adventures , hiking ,  golf and disc golf . Try a local brew at  Hunter Mountain Brewery, which offers a full lunch and dinner menu, outdoor dining and live music.

Photo: NYup.com archive

The home of the world-famous Boilermaker Road Race , the city of Utica has been growing its offerings for visitors in recent years. The Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute  is home to a permanent collection of 300 years of American painting, 19th-century decorative arts, European Modernism and Japanese prints. Tour the  Saranac brewing facility on Varick Street and try pints or flights in the 1888 Tavern tasting room. Kids will love the  Utica Zoo or the Utica Children's Museum , both small facilities that serve up big fun for all ages. For a culinary tour, be sure to try Utica's signature  chicken riggies (at the Chesterfield Restaurant ), Utica greens (a la Georgio's Village Cafe ) and  tomato pie (try Roma Sausage & Deli ) and halfmoon cookies for dessert (check out Holland Farms Bakery ).

View this post on Instagram It may not feel like spring yet, but the flowers are always blooming at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. #ILoveNY 📷: @markdanielharley A post shared by I LOVE NEW YORK (@iloveny) on Apr 2, 2017 at 9:47pm PDT

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Built in 1900, the nearly  12-acre conservatory and surrounding formal gardens offers visitors a chance to experience the flora of the Florida Everglades, the Panama cloud forest, the American desert and the Asian rainforest. The centerpiece is the glass conservatory, modeled after the famous Crystal Palace in England. Be sure to visit the Palm Dome, a 67-foot-tall room filled with palms and tropical fruit trees. A new exhibit highlights aquatic gardens and the Asian rainforest, with a peaceful pond (and a family of koi fish), waterfall, moon gate and collection of orchids and bonsai. Kids will love the Wegmans Family Garden, where they can plant seeds, build sand castles, water the garden and take part in other activities. The outdoor gardens include a Peace Garden and Healing Garden.

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

Start your day in the historic downtown business district, where flag-lined sidewalks connect visitors to the shops, restaurants and events that keep the community bustling with activity. Pack a picnic and head to Lakeland Park, located across from the Brae Loch Inn  at the intersection of Forman and Albany streets. The picturesque park includes a dock and diving board and sandy beach. Lifeguards are on duty from June to August; a public bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Take a drive to nearby Chittenango Falls State Park , home to a 167-foot waterfall that dates back more than 10,000 years. A trail winds through the 194-acre park, which offers picnic areas and fishing. Or head to Stone Quarry Hill Art Park , a 104-acre property filled with outdoor sculptures nestled along four miles of trails. Kids will love Critz Farms , a year-round agritourism destination that offers U-pick fruit crops, a giant playground and barnyard petting area (Be sure to check out the gift shop for local treasures and  Harvest Moon Cidery and Winery for adult beverages). For dinner and drinks, wine lovers can head north of the village to  Owera Vineyards, with a tasting room overlooking Cazenovia Lake and brick oven serving up tasty flatbreads. For a local brew, head south of the village to Empire Farmstead Brewery , a new stop on the local brewery trail that features an outdoor dining space to enjoy flights and pints.

Windmill tours

Since the early 2000s, wind turbines have been popping up across Upstate New York. The  giant towers have drawn onlookers since the beginning, and several of the wind farms have installed visitors centers to allow interested tourists to get a closer look at the clean energy giants. At the FREE Center in Fenner , informational kiosks that outline the renewable energy efforts in Madison County are set up off of Bellinger Road. Visitors can picnic beside one of the towers, which weighs more than 187 tons and stands 212 feet from the ground to the center hub, and 329 feet from the ground to the tip of a blade at its full height.  Check out the full-size turbine blade on the ground to get a sense of the size and weight of the structures.  Maple Ridge Wind Farm , New York State's largest wind farm, is located in Lowville in Lewis County, with 195 turbines that produce enough electricity to power approximately 136,000 homes, about 2 percent of New York State's residential electricity need. Pull over at the  visitor's center kiosk on Eagle Factory Road off Route 177 for a panoramic view of the 21,000 acre site on the Tug Hill Plateau, about 75 miles northeast of Syracuse.

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Culinary Institute of America

For a taste of the Hudson Valley , head to Hyde Park, where a group of restaurants  run in conjunction with the Culinary Institute of America are serving up unique cuisine. There's  Ristorante Caterina deMedici for Italian lovers, the  Bocuse Restaurant for a French fine dining experience, and American Bounty Restaurant and Tavern , focusing on regional and seasonal products. Bring home a sweet treat from the Apple Pie Bakery Cafe, with baked goods and desserts like red velvet, carrot cake and pineapple upside down cake macarons, Nutella doughnut holes, lemon elderflower eclairs and classic apple pie. The restaurants are part of the educational experience for students at CIA, who spend time in both the front and back of the house to learn and master the full scope of restaurant operations under the guidance of expert chef-instructors.

Photo: Teri Weaver | syracuse.com

Skaneateles

The  Finger Lakes community draws visitors each year for the crystal clear waters of Skaneateles Lake and the quaint culture of the picturesque downtown. Take a cruise of the 16-mile-long lake with Mid-Lakes Navigation , which offers lunch cruises featuring Dinosaur BBQ, romantic dinner cruises and more family-friendly sightseeing cruises aboard a the Judge Ben Wiles, a replica steamship. Explore the downtown shops, restaurants and galleries at your leisure, and be sure to walk out on the pier for a beautiful view of the water and the surrounding landscape. Landmark restaurants include the Sherwood Inn , Doug's Fish Fry ,  The Krebs and Blue Water Grill . Enjoy an afternoon tasting at Anyela's Vineyard , which overlooks the village, or head to  Mirbeau Inn and Spa for a day of relaxation at the estate built to mimic the French landscapes of Claude Monet.

Photo: Kate Collins | [email protected]

Women's Rights National Historic Park

Step back in time in Seneca Falls  to learn about the efforts of women's rights leaders and other reformers in the 19th century. Start your day at visitor center to pick up maps and daily schedules — be sure to check out the life-size bronze statues of the women and men who organized the first Women's Rights Convention, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Frederick Douglass. Head to the adjacent Wesleyan Chapel , where the convention was held in 1848, and follow the tour to the home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton , which the famous suffragette called the "Center of the Rebellion." Be sure to stop by the National Women's Hall of Fame , which honors more than 250 women from Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton to Rep. Nancy Pelosi, the first female speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. (Note: a new home for the hall and the Center for Great Women is under construction at the 1844 Seneca Knitting Mill ; for now, it remains at a historic bank building on Falls Street in the heart of downtown.)

Photo: Jeff Goulding for NYup.com

Mohonk Mountain House

Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley , the Victorian castle resort built in 1869  has served as a getaway for the Rockefellers, Andrew Carnegie and five U.S. presidents: Chester A. Arthur, Rutherford B. Hayes, William Howard Taft, Theodore Roosevelt and Bill Clinton.  Day guest packages  allow visitors to enjoy the amenities of the resort without spending the night.  Spa packages  include access to the eucalyptus steam room, sauna and outdoor heated mineral pool; reservations at any of the  award-winning restaurants comes with access to the resort and grounds for the day.  Day passes for hiking include access to 85 miles of trails, ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. Take the three-mile hike to the Sky Top Tower, a 100-foot-tall stone building at the peak of the preserve with panoramic views of the Catskills, or enjoy the woodlands on horseback or by horse-drawn carriage . Tennis packages are available, along with tours of the historic house , greenhouse and Victorian gardens and afternoon tea and cookies. The other recreational activities at the resort include disc golf, rock climbing, boating, golf, mounting biking, archery and tomahawk throwing.

Photo: The Associated Press

Watkins Glen

For a fast-paced adventure, head to Watkins Glen International , where racing weekends feature sports car, endurance and stock car events. Visitors can experience the iconic racetrack themselves  by driving their own vehicle around the 3.4-mile Grand Prix circuit behind a pace car . After two laps, cars will have their photos taken the start/finish line. The Finger Lakes Wine Festival  also draws crowds to the site. Other Watkins Glen excursions: Farm Sanctuary , a 175-acre refuge for more than 500 rescue animals; Watkins Glen State Park , known for its gorge trail and 19 waterfalls; and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail , with more than three dozen wineries and vineyards, plus a growing number of  breweries and distilleries .

Tupper Lake

Advertised as the "High Line of the Forest," the  Wild Walk  gives visitors a chance to walk among the trees on a trail of bridges at the  81-acre Adirondack campus . The park includes a four-story twig tree house, a spider's web-like net for climbing, and a nest that visitors can climb into to see the view from 42 feet in the air. While in Tupper Lake, stop by  Little Wolf Beach , one of the largest public beaches in the Adirondacks, with lifeguards watching over a floating dock with trampoline and rope swing. Or take in a movie at  Adirondack State Theater , which opened its doors in 1914.

Photo: Mike Lynch for NYup.com

Santa's Workshop

Guaranteed to delight young audiences year-round,  Santa's Workshop  near  Whiteface Mountain  has been an Adirondack tradition since 1949. The storybook village includes Santa's House, the reindeer barn, a bakery, candy shop, blacksmith and toy shop. Rides include a sleigh coaster, bobsled ride, Candy Cane Express train, ferris wheel and Christmas carousel. Summer hours at the park are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, from June 27 to Sept. 3. Autumn and winter hours vary.

Ausable Chasm

Billed as the  Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks , the sandstone gorge south of Plattsburgh offers spectacular views of primeval rock formations including Elephant's Head, Column Rock Hyde's Cave and Jacob's Well. The adventure center offers a variety of activities, from low-intensity hiking to more adventurous rock climbing, rappelling and cliff walks. Visitors can tube or raft down the Ausable River (bring water shoes), experiencing the towering cliffs, rapids and whirlpool basin. Fifteen miles of mountain biking trails for beginner and advanced riders wind through the Adirondack terrain.

Michael Franklin | UpstateAerialPhotography.com

Thousand Islands

Explore the  Thousand Islands  with a  boat tour , where seasoned guides share the stories of the more than 1,800 islands that cover 50 miles of the St. Lawrence River between New York and Canada. Set aside time to explore Heart Island, home of the six-story, 120-room  Boldt Castle  with an indoor pool, stunning grounds and panoramic views of the St. Lawrence. Weekend festivities take over downtown  Alexandria Bay  throughout the summer, with live entertainment for the whole family.

Photo courtesy of Fort Ticonderoga

Fort Ticonderoga

Located at the southern end of Lake Champlain, the  Fort Ticonderoga  facility recreates life in the mid-1700s with musket firing demonstrations each day at 11 a.m. and cannon firing demonstrations at 2 p.m. In addition to military history, have a picnic atop  Mount Defiance , where panoramic vistas include Lake Champlain and the High Peaks; reach the picnic pavilion by car or hike up the mountain trails once traversed by troops.  Rent a canoe  to explore the fort by water, or take a  boat tour  of the Ticonderoga Peninsula aboard the 49-passenger tour boat Carillon.

Photo courtesy of Enchanted Forest Water Safari

The fun never stops at  Enchanted Forest , the state's largest water theme park with more than 50 rides and attractions. The water park includes relaxing tube rides to high speed slides, including the newest double-tube ride "The Silverback," a 100 foot drop into a large 40-foot-diameter bowl. Need a  break from the water park?   Take a six-mile paddling tour of the Moose River and return via the  Adirondack Scenic Railroad . For an aerial view of the High Peaks,  ride the scenic chairlift to the top of McCauley Mountain.

Photo: raddiec via flickr

Lake George

Nicknamed "Queen of the American Lakes,"  the resort town north of Albany  has been a favorite since the late 19th century, when John D. Rockefeller was a regular visitor. Spend the afternoon at  Million Dollar Beach at Lake George Beach State Park , named one of the best beaches for families for its cleanliness, public facilities and panoramic views of the lake and Adirondacks. Hop aboard the  Minnie-ha-ha , one of the last steam paddlewheel boats in America, for an hour-long cruise of the lake at sunset (or catch fireworks on Thursdays during the summer).

Saratoga Springs

Place a bet on the thoroughbreds at  Saratoga Race Course , the third oldest race course in America.  Races run six days a week,  and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drink for a picnic.  Walk through the downtown business district to  Congress Park , where you can take a ride on the  historic wooden carousel . Drive down the Avenue of the Pines to enter  Saratoga Spa State Park , where you can walk past the marble colonnades and reflecting pool of the spa complex. Grab tickets for a nighttime concert at the  Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary

The shelter  cares for farm animals that were victims of cruelty and neglect, rescued from stockyards, auctions and slaughterhouses. Each of the sanctuary's animals has a name and a story, including Clyde, a chicken found on the streets of New York City; Harper and Atticus, a pair of goats whose mother was rescued from a downstate farm; and Elvis, rescued while awaiting sale to at a veal auction.  Expect to interact with the animals - some of the pigs enjoy belly rubs, and sheep are likely to nuzzle you as you walk through the pasture. Tours are given on weekends, and a cafe offers vegan food options.

Howe Caverns

The  underground limestone cavern  is the largest cave open to the public in the Northeast and the second most visited natural attraction in New York State (after  Niagara Falls ). A 90-minute walking tour and boat ride takes visitors 156 feet below the ground to stalactites, stalagmites and an underground lake millions of years in the making. Above ground, the  High Adventure Park  includes a zip line, ropes course, rock wall and the H20-GO Ball, a 12-foot inflatable ball that takes riders down a 1,000-foot hill.

Photo: Kathe Harrington for NYup.com

Chittenango

Get up close and personal with a variety of exotic and domestic animals that were hand-raised at  The Wild Animal Park . The stars of the park are a pair of giraffes — Jase and Jasmine — which visitors can hand feed from a new deck.  While you're in Chittenango , take a walk down the Yellow Brick sidewalk to the  All Things Oz museum , a tribute to the village's native son L. Frank Baum, author of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Adults can stop at the  Yellow Brick Road Casino , which opened in May 2015. Or head up to  Chittenango Falls State Park , home to a 167-foot waterfall.

Sylvan Beach

The vacation community on the eastern shore of Oneida Lake is perfectly sized for a day trip. Spend the afternoon at  Sylvan Beach Amusement Park , a throwback to the town's early resort days with a vintage Kiddieland with 10 rides for smaller guests, classic arcade games like Skeeball, the Galaxi steel roller coaster and bumper boats.There are plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating and fishing. Be sure to grab an ice cream cone and stroll through the downtown district after catching the sunset on the beach.

Photo: Dennis Nett | [email protected]

Cooperstown

You can start at the  National Baseball Hall of Fame , but there is a lot more to do in this lakeside community.  Plan a side trip to the  Farmer's Museum  and ride the Empire State Carousel. Or walk the grounds of  Hyde Hall,  a 50-room mansion overlooking  Otsego Lake , and take a walk on the beach at  Glimmerglass State Park.  Enjoy a tasting at one of the six stops on the  Cooperstown Beverage Trail ;  Brewery Ommegang  offers a cafe menu of Belgian favorites (try the frites — handcut fries that are twice fried and served with dipping sauces).

Niagara Falls

Cross this one off your  bucket list : A trip to see one of the natural wonders of the world. Board the  Maid of the Mist boat tour  to get within soaking distance of Horseshoe Falls; for an even wetter experience, take the  Cave of the Winds  tour, where a poncho is required for the Hurricane Deck that brings visitors beneath Bridal Veil Falls.  End your day with fireworks,  which go off at 10 p.m. every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday from May 1 to Oct. 31.

Ellicottville

Start your visit at Holiday Valley's  Aerial Park , a series of platforms, bridges and zip lines that create 13 different courses (the largest in New York State). Check out the climbing forest — a three-dimensional version of a climbing wall that is one of only three in the United States. Take a ride on the Mountain Coaster, a roller coaster ride down the terrain that includes curves, jumps and spirals. After an adventurous day, enjoy the  small-town charm of Ellicottville  and take home a sweet treat from  Watson's Chocolates , known for its sponge candy.

The 15.5-acre  Seneca Park Zoo  is the perfect size for children and adults alike. African lions prowl a savannah-like enclosure in the "A Step Into Africa" exhibit, which also is home to elephants and olive baboons. While in Rochester, try the city's signature dish at Nick Tahou Hots, home of the  "Garbage Plate,"  — where customers choose two selections of eggs, grilled cheese, fried ham, fried haddock, a cheeseburger, hamburger, red hot, white hot, Italian Sausage or chicken tender and two sides. And if you're on a budget, there are several  free things to do in Rochester .

Provided photo

Roseland Park

The 56-acre  Roseland Water Park  offers attractions for the entire family, from a splash pad for little kids, a lazy river for adults, a family raft ride that mimics whitewater rafting, a wave pool and high-intensity slides like the Cliff, which drops riders 65 feet at speeds of 30 mph. For a bigger rush, head over to the new  Roseland Wake Park,  the first full-sized cable wakeboarding park in the Northeast that pulls riders through a 2,100-foot continuous loop course on the lake that includes ramps and rails for tricks and stunts.

Photo: Lauren Long | [email protected]

Finger Lakes

Visit the  Women's Rights National Historical Park  and the  National Women's Hall of Fame  and take a selfie with statues of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Frederick Douglass and Lucretia Mott. Take a stroll through  Seneca Falls , the quaint community that is widely believed to be the inspiration for Frank Capra's holiday classic, " It's A Wonderful Life ." Plan to visit several of the wineries on the  Seneca Lake Wine Trail,  including Belhurst Castle in Geneva, where you can dine at outdoor tables overlooking the lake. Not up for a wine tour? Make time to shop at  Waterloo Premium Outlets  or spend several serene hours birdwatching at  Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

With more than  150 waterfalls within 10 miles  of Ithaca, you don't have to go far for a spectacular view. Check out  Taughannock Falls State Park,  home to a 215-foot waterfall (three stories higher than Niagara Falls) and walk the gorge and rim trails.  Robert H. Treman State Park  offers public swimming at the stream-fed pool beneath Enfield Falls; nine miles of trails follow the gorge past 12 waterfalls, including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls. After a day of hiking, enjoy the atmosphere at the newly renovated  Ithaca Commons,  a four-block pedestrian area with more than 100 shops, restaurants, street vendors and street entertainers.

Read more: Summer bucket list for Upstate NY

Have the best summer ever:  45 fun things you must do before fall .

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30 Awesome Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

We share our best day trips from Cincinnati to help inspire your next adventure.

Whether you are looking for a quick family getaway or a couples retreat, we have come up with various day trips from Cincinnati that are only two hours away or less.  From going on safari to unique ways to cool off during the summer, we have the perfect adventure to put on your bucket list.

These great destinations make great day trips or even weekend getaways from Cincinnati. It’s time to get off the bucket list because you will be adding a few of these immediately. This page contains affiliate links.

30 Top Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

Get behind the wheel of a race car during the rusty wallace racing experience.

If you are hunting for an exhilarating adrenaline-pumping experience, sign up for the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience at the Lucas Oil Raceway in Hendricks County, Indiana.  This is one of the few experiences that let you drive in a racecar unattended.

That is correct, after taking an hour course on safety and driving, you suit up and get behind the wheel of an actual racecar without an instructor.  This once-in-a-lifetime experience will have you white-knuckled as your approach upwards of 155 MPH.

For those not quite ready to take on the track along, they do offer a ride-along where you get zipped along the track by a professional driver.

Go On A Safari At The Wilds

It is quite bizarre to think one can go on an actual safari in Ohio. On the contrary, The Wilds , located in Columbus, offers guests a truly unique safari experience. See giraffes, rhinos, and other rare and endangered animals from your open-air vehicle as you make your way through the vast savannah.

Great lodging options are available, from a family-friendly lodge to adults-only yurts overlooking the wildlife. This is one of the coolest things you can do within two hours of Cincinnati.

Relax In Croctail Creek At The Columbus Zoo

After your Wild’s experience hop over to the Columbus Zoo for even more fun.  One of the great things about the Columbus Zoo is that it is home to an aquarium and a waterpark called Zoombezi Bay.

Zoombezi Bay is home to the adults-only Croctail Creek. This adult-only lazy river lets you sit back, soak up the sun, and float around with your favorite beverage.  This little sanctuary is a great place for adults looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of a busy waterpark.

Sip And Shop Your Way Through Little Nashville

Known to many as “Little Nashville”, the town of Nashville, Indiana, boasts trendy boutiques, charming restaurants, and local wineries.  Imagine the most darling county store with a garden of beautiful wildflowers and turn it into a town; that is “Little Nashville”.

Quaint shops full of rustic charm line the bloom-filled streets. Every nook and cranny is home to a specialty shop that can’t be overlooked.  Whether you want to glam up your wardrobe, take home that perfect antique or find an original piece of art in one of the galleries, you can find it here in Nashville.

Brown County, Indiana is also known for scenic Brown County State Park, which comes alive with color during the fall months. The best is that this great getaway is two hours from Cincinnati.

Indulge In A Piece Of Chocolate Cake From The Cake Bake Shop

If you happen to be passing through Hamilton County, Indiana, it would be a sin to not stop by The Cake Bake Shop for a slice of their famous Chocolate Cake.  The experience of going to this exquisite cake shop is one that you will not forget.

The restaurant’s elegance, beauty, and interior are straight out of a fairytale. It is easy to see why this was one of Oprah’s favorite things.  I recommend trying a few of their tasty temptations and then taking a few things home as a souvenir.

Bike The Monon Trail

The Monon Trail is an abandoned railway that has been paved and welcomes bikers, runners, and those seeking a stroll.  Running from Indianapolis to Sheridan, Indiana, the Monon Trail is roughly 27 miles long, with plenty of great stops to explore along the way.

The trail cuts through Hamilton County, Indiana, home to a gorgeous art district, breweries, and plenty of family-friendly activities.  Bring a bike or rent one there but start planning this fun experience today!

Go Snorkeling In A Crystal Clear Lake

A quick getaway roughly 90 minutes from Cincinnati is  Natural Springs Resort, located in New Paris, Ohio . Snorkel in the crystal clear lake, snag the perfect fishing spot, then end the day with a marshmallow roast over a campfire. Natural Springs is one place that the family will want to come back to year after year with so much to do. 

The crown gem of Natural Springs Resort is the sparkling freshwater lake with a stunning rock quarry backdrop. This spring-fed lake offers many family fun activities, such as snorkeling in the clear waters and relaxing on the beach to rent a boat.

Explore the Old Athens Lunatic Asylum

The eerie mysteries that shroud the Athens Lunatic Asylum have intrigued and peaked curiosities for years. Now known as The Ridges, the Athens Lunatic Asylum operated from 1874 to 1993. The Asylum saw various patients, including civil war veterans, children, and those deemed mentally unwell.

It was meant to only house 550 patients when it opened; the Athens Lunatic Asylum surpassed nearly 2,000 patients by the 1950s. Later, small housing units were built to create small communities for patients to live in.

The hospital became known for its infamous lobotomy procedures along with electroshock therapy, hydrotherapy, and the use of psychotropic drugs.  I would recommend  pairing this with a progressive brewery making this a great couple or friends weekend getaway from Cincinnati

Learn more about the Ridges and start planning your visit to Athens with our Guide of Things To Do In Athens, Ohio .

Discover The Historic Side Of Lexington

A great day trip from Cincinnati is Lexington, KY. Lexington is home to plenty of fascinating history. With several of the historic homes and places, visitors to the area can go on a self-guided walk through downtown Lexington to scout out these historic landmarks.

Brochures featuring The Lexington Walk can be found online or at the Lexington Visitors Center.  While it is highly encouraged to walk the route, it is also drivable.  Discover the home of Mary Todd Lincoln, historic churches, the Hunt-Morgan House, and more. Hop in the car to see even more great historic homes, such as Ashland and the Waveland State Historic Site.  For a fun stop, be sure to swing into the Parkette Drive-In for a great meal.

Stay In A Historic Shaker Village

While you are in Lexington, be sure to check out Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.  The Shaker village has over 34 historic structures and 3000 acres from the early 1800s.

Opportunities are endless as you discover Kentucky’s Largest National Historic Landmark and learn about Shaker culture through demonstrations and programs. A truly unique aspect of Shaker village is that they offer 72 guest rooms located within 13 of the historic buildings.

This allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in history while experiencing top-notch hospitality.  Each room hosts a countryside view and is furnished in the traditional Shaker style.

They offer many unique and fun events throughout the year, including Trick-Or-Treat and Holiday Festivities. Since it is less than 2 hours from Cincinnati, you can return for all the special occasions.

Catch An Outdoor Drama In Chillicothe

Located in Chillicothe, The Tecumseh Outdoor Drama drew visitors for decades. The drama tells the life story of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh, who struggles to defend his sacred homelands in Ohio country during the late 1700s.  

VIP experiences and behind-the-scenes tours are also available. While in Chillicothe, explore the Hopewell earthworks throughout the area.

Check out our complete list of the best things to do in Chillicothe .

Create Your Own Unique Bourbon Trail Experience

Are you are bourbon enthusiast?  Whether you enjoy bourbon or not, this is a bucket list experience you don’t want to miss. Kentucky is home to Bourbon Trail, which is full of great distilleries, craft distilleries, and even bourbon fudge made by monks.

Working your way through the entire Bourbon Trail could take days or even weeks. One perk of living so close is that you can customize your experience. Selecting a few distilleries each trip, is one getaway that can be a different experience each time you go.  After hitting the trail a few times, we have developed a list of favorite Bourbon Trail Stops.

Drive Through A Cave In Louisville

Another great experience less than 2 hours from Cincinnati is the Louisville Mega Cavern. This cavern is full of adventure, including zip lines, an aerial ropes course, bike tours, and more. This cavern has more than 4,000,000 square feet of space, which they utilize year-round.

During the holidays, the Mega Cavern offers Lights Under Louisville, in which visitors do a self-guided drive through a specular light display all underground!

Another popular reason to venture down to Louisville is for the Kentucky Derby!

Hike The Trails Of Red River Gorge

A great outdoor adventure awaits at a breathtaking Red River Gorge. This two-hour drive from Cincinnati is well worth it for those seeking to exchange the sounds of the city for those of nature. The gorge is known for its natural bridge, jaw-dropping view, and beautiful trails.

The Daniel Boone National Forest is also home to rafting, canoeing, ziplining, and more. Be sure to explore the gorge underground as you kayak through the cavern. Cabins, campgrounds, and nearby hotels are available for those looking to overnight.

Explore all of Dayton’s 5 River’s Great MetroParks

Dayton is home to an extraordinary park system. The  Five Rivers MetroParks offers nearly 16,000 acres of green space across 25 facilities. This includes 18 parks, conservation areas, and the 2nd Street Market. Each park offers great outdoor experiences and its unique activities for guests to enjoy.

From kayaking and hiking to horseback riding, there is something for everyone. Did I mention that there is no cost to enter any of the MetroParks?!  A few of our favorites include Carillon Historical Park and the Weygerzyn Gardens. Exploring the various parks makes for many different day trips from Cincinnati.

Discover Preble County’s Historic Bridges

A well-kept secret of Preble County, Ohio, has been preserving eight historic covered bridges. Many of which are still in use today.  Each covered bridge has a story to tell, or should I say each person in Preble County has a story about a covered bridge.

Many bridges have overcome fires, tornados, and oversized trucks, but the more romantic side of the covered bridges captures visitors’ attention. Take a day to explore all of the covered bridges in Preble County .  Nearby Hueston Woods is a great spot to stay the night or do a little hiking.

Embrace The Irish Culture In Dublin, OH

Whether you have a little Irish in you, or wish you did, Dublin is full of Irish charm for you to take in and savor.  It’s easy to get into the Irish spirit, as Dublin is home to the country’s largest three-day Irish Festival and The Celtic Cocktail Trail. There are plenty of things to do in Dublin Ohio that will surprise you. One of the most unique things to see in Dublin is the Corn Henge, a field of concert corn!

A tour of their famous public art, go zipling, venture a fairy trail, and more. May multiple day trips from Cincinnati to check off all the public art!

Peer Inside Old Man’s Cave

A little over two hours from Cincinnati is one of Ohio’s most scenic parks, Hocking Hills State Park.  There are many great hiking options here, but one of the most popular is Old Man’s Cave.  Many hikers choose to start at the Upper Falls because the Grandma Gatewood Trail begins its six-mile course connecting three of the park’s areas: Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls to Ash Cave.

However, for those seeking a quick peek, a short hike from the designated parking area will leave you with a beautiful view of the cave.  This natural wonder is fun to visit anytime; however, try going in the winter months for a less crowded and more serene visit. The frozen waterfalls genuinely make it a spectacular sight.

Get our complete list of the ten best hikes in Hocking Hills .

Walkthrough The Vibrant And Eclectic Town Of Yellow Springs

From a lively downtown scene to sipping on ice-cold brews from Yellow Springs Brewery, this is one of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati to make with or without kids. Yellow Springs, OH, has laid-back coffee shops, unusual boutiques, and plenty of delicious food.

Nature lovers come prepared to hike, as on of the top things in Yellow Springs is to get out and enjoy their parks. The John Bryan State Park offers many hiking trails, while Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve has stunning limestone gorges.

Don’t miss out on a visit to the Glen Helen Nature Preserve to see the famous yellow springs and beautiful waterfalls.  After a good hike, head over to Young’s Dairy for a scoop of their delicious homemade ice cream!

Get Hand’s On At One of Indianapolis’ Famous Museums

Indianapolis is known as the perfect day trip for families because of its award-winning Children’s Museum. While the Children’s Museum is always a great stop, Indy is full of other great museums to explore. Consider visiting a museum full of percussion instruments that you can play at The Rythmn Discover Center or learn about the history of racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

Stroll through galleries of stunning at Newfields or swing into the Eiteljorg Museum to view their collection of American Indian and Western Art. Indianapolis has something for everything from its vibrant food scene, deep history, and the Indianapolis Zoo!

Add A Layer Of Paint To The Worlds Largest Ball Of Paint

Tucked away in Alexandria, Indiana, hanging from an industrial size hook, is the World’s Largest Ball of Paint. What once started as a humble baseball now has over 26,000 layers of paint and counting.

Visitors to this Guinness Book of World Records Holding attraction can add a layer to the ever-growing ball. The attraction is free to the public; however, you must call ahead and schedule a time.

The World’s Largest Ball of Paint is at the Carmicheal home and is open by appointment only. A quick google search will yield the current phone number to contact to set up your tour.

Go Swimming at an Old Quarry in La Grange, KY

Another great day trip within two hours from Cincinnati is La Grange, KY.  Adults can cool off at Falling Rock Park .  It is an old rock quarry that is maintained solely through rainwater! Anyone over 18 can bring a pool raft, noodle, kayak, or paddleboard and relax.

While you are visiting, be sure to visit Mainstreet La Grange, one of the few places in the country where the train runs right down the middle of the road.

Hartman Rock Garden

Venture off the beaten path with a visit to the Hartman Rock Garden a spectacular collection of art made by self-taught artist Ben Hartman. One man’s legacy has become a unique Ohio roadside attraction drawing thousands of visitors annually. The garden is free to visit and is open year-round.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

One of the best day trips from Cincinnati is a visit to the Wright-Patterson Airforce Base, known as the National Museum of the United States Air Force. This historic treasure is the world’s largest  Military Aviation Museum. The Museum is FREE to the public and is open daily, except holidays.

The Air Force Museum has an impressive collection of iconic planes that will leave your inner child wanting to climb inside each one. The history and artifacts found throughout the museum are second to none.  Learn about the history of the Wright Brothers, see the plane that dropped the bomb on Hiroshima, and then check out the rockets in the space exhibit.

Tip: Be sure to check their special events to see when they will having their annual Airshows!

Explore Downtown Hamilton Ohio

One of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati is to Hamiton, Ohio. This small town is the perfect shopping retreat as chic boutiques, trendy restaurants, along with new experiences are popping up all over. Take a stroll along the Greater Miami River, visit Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, and learn about the fascinating history of Fort Hamilton. Start planning your trip to Downtown Hamilton Ohio .

Big Bone Lick State Park

Big Bone Lick State Park in Union, Kentucky, gives visitors the unique opportunity to view bison completely free! Remains of ancient mammoths and Pleistocene megafauna have been found in the area, making it known as the Big Bone Lick State Historic Site.

With plenty of hiking trails, a family-friendly campground, educational exhibits, a visitor center, and a museum, Big Bone Lick is the perfect Kentucky day trip or weekend getaway.

Tip : Big Bone Lick is near the Rabbit Hash General Store.

Explore Columbus

Columbus provides a mecca of entertainment options, from the bizarre art at Otherworld to the acclaimed LEGOLAND and everything in between! It is easy to spend a day or a week exploring all that this capital city has to offer.

Whether you are venturing up for an overnight at the Brewdog Hotel or planning a visit to COSI, Columbus makes the perfect day trip from Cincinnati.

See The Portsmouth Flood Wall Murals

Where the Scioto River meets the Ohio River lays the sleepy small town of Portsmouth, Ohio. Stroll the magnificent floodwall murals, hunt for antiques, or take a peaceful hike through Shawnee State Park.

The Portsmouth  Ohio Floodwall Murals  are an iconic Ohio landmark that portrays the local history through exquisitely painted murals. Over 55 murals adorn the floodwalls, each depicting a moment in time.

While you are there, discover these Great Things To Do In Portsmouth, Ohio.

Catch The View From Rising Park

Soak in breathtaking views of Lancaster, Ohio, by climbing to the top of Rising Park’s Mount Pleasant. Arguably one of Ohio’s most spectacular views, Mount Pleasant overlooks the city of Lancaster with the surrounding foothills in the distance.

To get to the top of Mount Pleasant, visitors enter through Rising Park. A parking lot is adjacent to the trailhead, directly past the tennis courts. The climb is moderate; however, remember that you will gain 206ft in elevation in about .7 miles. It took us roughly 45 minutes round trip, but you can stay up and enjoy the view for hours.

Visit Serpent Mound

Unknown to many, Ohio is home to the world’s largest effigy mound. The Great Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio, is surrounded by mystery, wonder, and tradition. It is a National Historic Landmark that should be on every Ohio Bucket List. Here are five fun things to do during a visit to Serpent Mound.

Ohio is full of remarkable earthworks, so much so that there is an Ancient Trail to help you discover them all.

Explore The Charming Small Town Of Troy, Ohio

The charming area of downtown Troy is one of the best-hidden gems in Ohio. Right in the heart of Miami County, Troy offers visitors unique adventures, family-friendly parks, and tons of midwest hospitality. Discover the history, taste the flavors, and join in on incredible local events.

Feeling adventurous? Troy offers one of the few places guests can stay overnight in Floating Tents .

Fun Day Trips Without Leaving Cincinnati

You don’t have to hit the open road to plan a great day trip from Cincinnati. Cincinnati is a huge city full of activities. Here is a list of the best day trips without leaving the city.

• Explore the riverwalks along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati.
• Spend the day riding roller coasters at Kings Island.
• Stroll the galleries at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
• Get a day pass to Great Wolf Lodge in Mason.
• Sign-up for a behind-the-scenes opportunity at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
• Tour the American Sign Museum.
• Catch a Red’s Game at the Great American Ball Park.
• Create your own Streetcar Tour.
• Eat your way through Findlay Market.

Looking For A Weekend Getaway From Cincinnati? 

On the hunt for a relaxing lake getaway a little over four hours from Cincinnati? Consider a visit to Put-In-Bay .  Known as the “Key West” of the North, many guests come to enjoy the beautiful lake views, entertainment, and history.  Hop on the ferry to the island,  rent a golf cart, and spend the day exploring this unique Ohio destination.

Get our complete guide to one of Ohio’s beautiful islands; Middle Bass Island!

More Day Trips From Cincinnati

Looking for more great day trips within two hours from Cincinnati?

A Girlfriend Getaway To Springfield, Ohio 

17 things to do in santa claus, indiana , 11 outdoor activities to do in richmond indiana , 30 day trips within two hours from cincinnati.

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50 At-Home Date Night Ideas So You Can Stay In & Chill

Relax and enjoy each other's company.

Whenever you’re at home with your partner on a Friday night, there’s often a moment when you have to decide if you want to go out or stay in. While it sounds fun, in theory, to get dressed up and hit the town, the thought of staying home is undeniably appealing.

It’s tough to ignore the call of the couch, especially when you’re tired after a long week. Sometimes a chill night in is exactly what you need to relax, recover, and revel in a little quality time as a couple. That said, there are plenty of other reasons to have a cozy date night at home.

For one, it’s a good way to save some money . It can be pricy to pay for dinners, drinks, and movie tickets, not to mention Ubers or a parking spot — and sometimes being low-key is a refreshing alternative. If your goal is to do something fun yet affordable, entertaining yourselves is often the best bet.

It’s also kind of adorable to have a date night at home . While you might forget about a movie or a restaurant, you’ll always remember the Saturday you spent baking cookies from scratch , singing karaoke, or designing your own signature mocktails.

Keep reading below for 50 at-home date night ideas that range from funny and active to chill and relaxing.

Cooking & Baking

1. Bake & Decorate A Cake

Applying fondant could be the ultimate relationship test.

2. Eat Dinner By Candlelight

Even pizza night feels romantic when you light a few candles.

3. Try Fondue

Melt some cheeses and some chocolates and start dipping.

4. Recreate A Family Recipe

Bond over funny stories and family lore.

5. Surprise Them With A Five-Course Meal

Or prepare it together and serve it on your best dishes.

6. Order Takeout From A New Place

Not in the mood to turn on the oven? Pick a restaurant you’ve never tried and order something unique.

7. DIY Sundaes

Get all the fixings like cherries, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream.

8. Bake Sourdough Bread

Treat your starter like a pet.

9. Take An Online Cooking Class

If you aren’t sure how to navigate the kitchen, learn together with an online class.

10. Have An Indoor Picnic

If it’s rainy — or if you’re just too tired to venture to the park — pack a picnic, roll out a blanket, and eat lunch on the living room floor.

Drinking Games

11. Play Sommelier

Pick up wines from different regions and have a taste test. Take it very seriously.

12. Concoct A Couples Cocktail

Mix the flavors and liquors you like to create a signature drink.

13. Create The Best Mocktails

For a booze-free evening, consider shaking up a few mocktails .

14. Coffee Taste Test

Brew coffee beans from various countries and see if you can taste the difference.

15. Take A Class

Track down mixology lessons or wine courses and sign up together.

16. Play “Never Have I Ever”

Grab a beer and play a few rounds of “Never Have I Ever” or Truth or Dare .

17. Flip Cup Tournament

Relive your college days by playing Flip Cup in the kitchen. If that doesn’t work, try beer pong.

18. Tea For Two

Brew some tea, set out fancy teacups, and make mini cucumber sandwiches. Live out your Bridgerton fantasies.

19. Movies & Mixers

Watch a movie while you sip its signature drink. Have a sweet vermouth on the rocks with a twist as you view Groundhog Day , a Cosmopolitan while you rewatch Sex and the City , or pair a French 75 with Casablanca .

20. Drinks By The States

Try the most popular brews from your home state or ones you’d like to visit.

21. Play Boardgames

Try a new game or replay one of your faves.

22. Camp Indoors

Pull out your sleeping bags, lanterns, and camping chairs and spend the night in your backyard — or the living room. Tell each other scary stories.

23. Throw A Dance Party

Turn the lights down and blast an early 2000s playlist.

24. The Floor Is Lava

Step on cushions, blankets, and furniture. See if you can move through your entire house without touching the floor.

25. Serenade Each Other

Find karaoke tracks on YouTube and take turns singing.

26. Learn A Party Trick

Spend the evening learning a new and totally useless skill, like how to moonwalk or whistle really loud.

27. Plant An Herb Garden

Get your hands dirty while you plant basil, rosemary, and oregano in a pot.

28. Practice A TikTok Dance

Don’t rest until you nail all the moves — even if you don’t plan to post it.

29. Do A Workout Video

For a serious sweat, do a 30-minute HIIT. For laughs, try an ‘80s Jane Fonda video.

30. Paint Each Other

This TikTok trend is so chaotic .

Low-Key & Relaxing

31. Start A Book Club

Read on your own and meet up to discuss or be extra sweet and read aloud to each other.

32. Assemble A Puzzle

Listen to lo-fi or jazz music while you fit the pieces together.

33. Movie Marathon

Turn your couch into an oasis of blankets, snacks, and drinks, then put on back-to-back-to-back movies. Choose a genre, like horror or comedy, or pick a director and go through their entire work.

34. Have A Spa Day

Turn on a rain soundtrack as you apply face masks, lip treatments, and foot scrubs, then finish with a massage.

35. Read Tarot Cards

Spread out your best crystals, burn some incense, and do a few tarot spreads . Try one for love .

36. Stargaze On The Roof

Look for constellations and meteors.

37. Go Off The Grid

Put your phones on silent, stay off social media, and bond in the peace and quiet.

38. Take A Bubblebath

Or a steamy shower. Wink wink.

39. Rewatch Old Movies

Show each other the movies or cartoons you loved most as a kid. It can reveal a lot.

Chronically Online

40. Stay In Bed & Laugh At TikTok

Who needs to go out when your algorithm is algorithming?

41. Replay Old Games

Play Sims, Animal Crossing, or a fave online game.

42. Plan Your Next Vacation

Spending the evening looking up exotic destinations, flights, and hotels.

43. Phone A Friend

Get on FaceTime or Zoom with your besties or be sweet and call your parents.

44. Play GeoGuessr

See who’s the best at geography.

45. Deep Dive Into Wikipedia

See what you can learn.

46. Build A Photo Album

Organize all your best pics into an album and have it printed.

47. Try Your Hand At Trivia

Answer online trivia questions or study up for your next trip to the bar.

48. Go Online Antiquing

Peruse Ebay, Etsy, and beyond and look for good deals on paintings, decor, and more.

49. Buy Tickets

Cuddle up and get yourselves some tickets to movies, comedy shows, and games so you have things to look forward to.

50. Go House Shopping

Scroll through Zillow and find your dream home.

The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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35 fun things to do with friends this weekend

Spending time with friends is good for the soul.

But, as with any relationship, it takes effort to maintain and nurture friendships. One good way to enhance your bond? Doing an activity together.

“By spending time together on a friends’ date, you all have the opportunity to show up as your authentic selves, learn more about each other, and create new memories together,” Dr. Traci Williams, PsyD, ABPP, CFT-I, tells TODAY.com. “Getting together regularly draws you closer, strengthens your emotional bond, and creates trust and security in your friendship.”

Sarah F. O’Brien , LCSW, LCSW-C, CCATP, CTMH, agrees with this idea, commenting that spending time, pursuing activities, and participating in hobbies together builds closeness and safety in relationships. “If you want to feel connected to your friends, then spending time doing things together face-to-face is important,” she says. “It’s hard to build, grow, or maintain a relationship, if you never do anything together, or if you do the same old thing and never stretch yourselves with new experiences and new conversations.”

Along those lines, Williams says that friendships that move from being surface-level to being deep and meaningful are intentional. “That means you each put the effort into staying in contact and seeing each other regularly,” she says. To plan and pull off successful friends’ dates, Williams urges people to keep the following guidelines in mind.

• Schedule time with your friends into your calendar
• At the end of a friends’ date, agree upon another day to meet up
• Be mindful of each other’s budgets when planning a friend date
• While out with friends, try to stay in the moment
• Minimize any distractions and silence notifications on your phone and smartwatch

Now, let’s get to the good stuff. Keep reading for 35 fun things to do with friends.

Fun Things to Do with Friends

Volunteer together.

Helping others helps yourself — and strengthen your friendship, too. “Spend time with your friends giving back to others,” Williams says. “Whether building a home or serving food to the unhoused, you will find meaning and connection by volunteering in your community.” Who knows, you may even make more friends while you're at it.

Swap clothes

“Given you and your pals are close to the same size, having a clothing swap at someone’s house is like going on a shopping spree, for free,” Sarah F. O’Brien , LCSW, LCSW-C, CCATP, CTMH, tells TODAY.com. Another spin on this: “You could also swap household items as well."

Plan an at-home spa day  

Invite a friend over, put on soothing music and let the spa day commence. “This is a great way to bond with a friend and also to engage in some helpful relaxation and self-care amidst the stress that you may be experiencing in your day-to-day lives,"  Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LCSW-C, psychotherapist at The Eating Disorder Center , tells TODAY.com.  says. Not to mention store-bought face masks and nail polish are much more affordable than what you'd find at an actual spa.

Host a room painting party

Kill two birds with one stone. “Not only do you finally get that spare room primed and painted quickly, but you can also spend quality time with your friends,” GinaMarie Guarino, LMHC, licensed therapist and founder of PsychPoint , tells TODAY.com. Be sure to have drinks, snacks, and all the necessary supplies ready for when your friend's arrive.

Go on a coffee date

Trade booze for caffeine. "So often happy hour is the go-to for social gathering, but sometimes we’re not in the mood to drink or we or our friends aren’t alcohol drinkers,” Kate Nichols , LCSW, tells TODAY.com.

Test out a new spot or go to your favorite local coffeeshop. Stay until your fresh out of coffee — or linger for hours, if you have a lot to catch up on. "This is also an opportunity to get out as much or as little as you like," Nichols adds.

Take a yoga class

“Relax, unwind, and do something good for your bodies, and your mind — together,” O’Brien says. “With all the negative messages we get about image, body sizes, and what’s ‘right,’ it’s healthy for us to engage in activities with others that counteract those messages,” she continues, adding that quality time can also do the mind and soul some good.

If you don’t want to get bendy, get artsy. “This sort of date allows you to have something to focus on other than just the conversation between you," Danica Harris, Ph.D . says. “By allowing ourselves to access our emotional selves through art we may find that we learn more about ourselves and our friend than we do if we are simply trying to get to know each other through talking.”

Visit a new restaurant

Or venture to an old favorite. “The feel-good hormones from a tasty meal, fun conversation and shared laughs are guaranteed to give your friendship a boost," Williams says.

Take a class together

Think about something you've always wanted to learn, then find a class and sign up. But since everything's better with a buddy, invite your friend to tag along. Working together and trying something new with inevitably bring you closer, according to Williams.

Picnic in the park

“Hit up the grocery store with your friend for some yummy picnic food options. Bring a blanket to sit on and maybe even some fancy drinks and glasses,” Rollin says. Pack a set of cards, lawn games or books — or let your imagination roam free as you take in your surroundings. Just be sure to check the weather ahead of time.

Get outside for a hike

“Aside from getting fresh air and spending time in nature, a hike with friends can increase your trust and ability to communicate with each other,” says Williams. You can also combine this idea with picnicking and end your hike with a meal together. Just make sure you coordinate who brings what in advance. 

Make your own candles

“You can do this out and about at a place that has all the items needed for you ready to go. Or get all the supplies online and do this at home with your friends,” O’Brien suggests. “Curate your own scent, get your friends’ ideas and input, come up with fun names for your scents and enjoy an afternoon with your ladies.”

Take a long walk

Hit the trails or the streets of your neighborhood. “ A walk is a great outdoor activity for a friend date because it involves some low level physical activity and can be a good vehicle for deeper conversations that don’t necessarily have room during a movie date or something too activity focused,” Nichols says.

Sing karaoke

“Get out of your comfort zone, be silly together, and create new memories,” says Williams, who points out that research has shown that shared laughter strengthens our bonds. If you don’t live near a karaoke bar, consider going in on a portable karaoke machine with a few friends.

Press play on a new show

Go on an adventure together without even leaving your couch. “You might find that taking turns picking the show allows both of you to feel invested in the activity, and this is a great way to learn about your friend’s interests,” Harris says.

While you can watch the entire show in one shot, space things out by planning "a day of the week where you and your friend can come together and share in the watching of one episode together. This ensures future friend dates and gives ample time to discuss the show between viewing sessions.

Pretend to be tourists

Afternoon tea at The Palm Court at The Plaza? Don’t mind if we do. Or how about visiting Fishermen’s Wharf in San Francisco? Now's the time to be a tourist in your own city or town. “Check out some of the top restaurants, sightseeing and other attractions that you may have forgotten about,” Rollin suggests. Pick a bunch of free activities or splurge on something lavish — the choice is yours.

Tackle a closet clean-up project

O’Brien says cleaning out or re-organizing your closet or crafting space can be a great project to do with a pal. “Grab your label maker, head over to your buddy’s house and work together to accomplish a multi-step task,” says O’Brien, adding that this would be especially helpful for strengthening a friendship if one or the other friend has difficulty staying on task or completing something in full, perhaps due to neurodivergence or other brain-based disorders that cause difficulty in focus, sequential task completion or getting started. “Showing up as our authentic self with others increases confidence in who we are. The activities done with friends don’t just have to be fun or exciting, they can be everyday things that are done together,” O’Brien further comments.

Map out a movie marathon

“Movies are a great way to connect when you aren’t feeling up for having a long talk,” Rollin says. Ahead of time, come up with an assortment of favorites and old classics you haven't seen, then check them off your list one by one. Need some inspiration? Check out the greatest movies right now on Netflix .

Host a potluck

For an affordable, at-home option, consider hosting a potluck with a group of your closest pals. “You may also try creating a theme, like plates that start with the letter of your first name, your favorite cheat meal, or a recipe that is too big for just one person," Guarino says. Or, peg it to a celebration like Burns s upper or the Kentucky Derby.

Go to dinner and a show

This is a classic combo for a reason. “Who says getting dressed up, having a nice meal out, and going to the theater has to be a romantic date? Do this with your girlfriends! Take photos together," O’Brien says. “Great conversations are always had over good food with good friends.”

Take in a TED Talk

Here's a friend date that engages your mind, allows you to hear a new perspective and facilitates a fresh dialogue. “This helps us to understand the values of our friends and helps us to share about our own,” Harris says. “Expanding our worldview with a trusted friend helps us to feel safe to be curious, ask questions, and explore different factors on topics we might be less familiar with."

Stare up at the stars

It’s time to embark on a stargazing session, made all the better with a friend by your side. If one of you has a telescope, bring that along on your adventure, but you can also visit an observatory. Either way, Williams adds that “spending time looking up at the night sky is a unique shared experience."

“Netflix and Chill”

“OK, I mean really just watching Netflix in your pajamas and chilling with your tribe,” O’Brien says. Load up on snacks and drinks, bust out the fuzzy blankets and watch a few hours of TV. "I bet your soul will feel full as a result!"

Visit a museum

Got an exhibit you’ve been meaning to check out? Grab a buddy. “You can seek out a specific exhibit that meets yours or your friend’s interest, or pick something at random that you get to experience together,” Nichols says, noting that this kind of friend date also gives you the option to explore on your own and then return to each other. “Museum exhibits can also often foster interesting talking points, as they expose us to things outside of our usual day to day.”

Go to a religious service together

“Consider attending a faith community service or event together,” for your next friends’ date, suggests O’Brien. “Sharing spiritual beliefs or practices can solidify a safe bond between friends, and deepen the connection,” she says. You don’t need to be of the same religious background, of course, to do this. In fact, learning about other backgrounds and religious beliefs may open you up to new perspectives and ways of seeing the world. 

Attend a support group

O’Brien says friends may want to consider attending a recovery peer support meeting together if there’s a similar life struggle such as dieting or co-dependency that brings you together. “Being real with others increases self-esteem and life satisfaction,” she says. 

Walk your dogs together

Pet parents, this is a fun way to spice up your daily walks. Get outside and catch up with your friend (furry friend too!) while helping your pups get some much-needed excercise. "We all need vitamin D, a little exercise and fresh air — pups too," O'Brien says.

Go grocery shopping

Hey, you’ve got to do it anyway. “What better way to knock out a chore and spend time connecting with your crew,” O’Brien says. “You can even share meal ideas or recipes.” If you have time after your supermarket spree, cook a meal together while you’re already on a roll.

Move your bodies

Exercising with a friend always makes it more enjoyable. “This friend date idea may be doubly beneficial, as you might find that moving with others allows you to support your mental health and well-being while also building connection with your friend," Harris says.

Find a workout that suits your needs and fitness levels, whether it's heart-pumping dance cardio, meditative yoga or group runs. “All of these options will improve your own mind/body connection and you’ll find that the added connection may help you to create a routine around movement and have something tangible you can do with a friend."

Take a staycation

Pack your bags! "This will give your friendship quality time while away from the busyness of your lives," Williams says. If you don’t want to stay at a hotel overnight, consider booking a day pass to a local spa.The key here is just to spend time disconnecting from regular life together. 

Plan a day trip

Rather get out of town than stay in it? “Planning a day trip is especially fun for city dwellers. Getting out of your normal surroundings and exploring a new place is not only great for bonding, but it can help with boosting your mood and managing stress,” says Guarino. “Try visiting a new place, like a small town nearby, that you would not normally consider visiting to add some adventure to the friendship.”

Play some board games

Because a little friendly competition never hurts. Have each person bring their favorite board game, then choose them at random for a fun-filled game night. Feel free to throw a few rounds of trivia into the mix. 

Plan a thrift store outing

Refresh your friend's wardrobe without breaking the bank (and vice versa). “Thrift stores are great places to get a good bargain and to experiment with your personal style in terms of both clothing and interior décor,” Rollin says, adding that you might want to snap photos together with all of your finds.

Cook brunch together

Who's going to turn down brunch? Exactly. “Pull out the pots and pans. Collaborate with your pal to enjoy the best meal of the day,” Williams says. Keep it simple or pull out all the stops with eggs , pancakes and other morning staples.

Get comfortable and check in

Talk about simple, but effective.“ Taking the time to check in about how each of you are doing and about the health of the relationship allows everyone time to be seen, heard and understood,” Harris says.

"What’s important about dedicated check-in time is that both people (and their nervous systems) come to count on routine check-ins. This allows there to be predictability in the connection which helps us trust that we can share our authentic and real selves in this friendship.” 

Since you're in the planning mood ...

• At-home date night ideas for when you want to stay in with your sweetheart
• Double date ideas for when you want to switch things up

Perri is a New York City-born-and-based writer. She holds a B.A. in psychology from Columbia University and is also a culinary school graduate of the Natural Gourmet Institute. She's probably seen Dave Matthews Band in your hometown, and she'll never turn down a bloody mary. Follow her on Twitter  @66PerriStreet  or learn more at  VeganWhenSober.com

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Mother’s Day brunch and dinner specials at Milwaukee-area restaurants in 2024

M other’s Day is May 12, and area restaurants will set the table with their best to impress the mom in your life. Special hours and menus for brunch and dinner are available at these nearby restaurants and resorts for the day.

ARIA at Saint Kate

The Arts Hotel offers a Mother’s Day brunch from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Select from a three-course menu or the plated brunch menu. A few of the featured entrees are pastrami and egg hash ($40), pan roasted North Road salmon ($42) and a char-grilled hangar steak ($65). The plated menu includes a classic Big Boy burger ($18), shrimp & grits ($18), eggs & hash ($16) and more. Libations include an endless mimosa ($25), a mimosa flight ($21), a grasshopper martini ($12), a morning mule ($12), a beermosa ($10) and more. Zero proof beverages, a kids menu for children under age 8, and additional sides are available. Reservations required.  ariaatsaintkate.com , 139 E. Kilbourn Ave.

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The Bartolotta Restaurants

The restaurant group will offer a brunch buffet, a three-course brunch and dinner menus at select locations. Guests may view full menus and make reservations online for all locations at  bartolottas.com .

Bartolotta Catering & Events will host a brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the  Italian Community Center,  priced at $79 per adult and $25 per child. Stations include a champagne fountain, a seafood tower, appetizers such as snow crab claws and country pork pate, made-to-order omelets, breakfast meats, carved leg of lamb, roasted strip loin, a hot buffet station with chicken piccata and cheesy orecchiette pasta, chicken tenders, pigs in a blanket and a dessert station.

Bacchus  will serve a three-course menu from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $65 per person. Entrees include berry french toast, crab Benedict, filet medallions, sauteed salmon, Wagyu steak and eggs, and Duroc pork chop. Mimosa service is available with a trio of fresh juices for $58 per package, and caviar service is also available including a half bottle of NV Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée Brut Champagne for $142.

Lake Park Bistro  will serve a three-course brunch menu from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for $55 per person. Menu items include a fresh goat cheese tart, eggs Benedict with Berkshire ham, quiche Lorraine, and a traditional French butter cake.

Mr. B’s Steakhouse in Brookfield  and  Mr. B’s Steakhouse in Mequon will offer a three-course brunch served from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the price determined by main entree selection. Menu items at the Brookfield location include a BLT Wedge, a seafood and asparagus omelet, and an espresso creme brulee for dessert. The Mequon location menu includes a Maryland-style blue crab cake, chicken and waffles, and a key lime tart.

Harbor House  will serve a three-course brunch menu from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for $65 per person, and a three-course dinner menu from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. for $100 per person. The brunch menu includes steamed mussels with Italian sausage, or lobster eggs Benedict with breakfast potatoes. The dinner menu features oysters & caviar, South African lobster tails, and a carrot cake with candied pecans and cream cheese frosting.

Joey Gerard’s  will offer a brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. priced at $70 per person, and its regular dinner menu from 3:30 to 8 p.m. The buffet menu includes smoked salmon, a carving station with prime rib and honey-glazed ham, chef-made omelets, a breakfast station with hot foods, chicken tenders, BBQ ribs, and a dessert station.

Ristorante Bartolotta dal 1993  will serve a three-course brunch menu from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for $55 per person, and a four-course dinner menu from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. for $75 per person. Entrees include penne pasta with sauteed shrimp, pan-roasted chicken breast, a seared filet of beef with scrambled eggs, and hand-twisted pasta with classic Ligurian pesto.

The Capital Grille

Enjoy chef-prepared brunch specials from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. served with freshly baked blueberry bread. The menu includes lobster frittata with butter poached lobster tails ($50), a 14-ounce bone-in, dry-aged NY strip and eggs ($50), and an 8-ounce center cut filet mignon with white cheddar hash browns ($47). New this year is crab cake Benedict with truffle hollandaise ($47). Add a glass of mimosa or champagne, or select a bottle from the full wine list. A children’s brunch ($17) and a la carte dinner options are available all day. For reservations and the full menu, visit  thecapitalgrille.com .  310 W. Wisconsin Ave.

The Fox & Hounds

Serving an “all you care to eat” menu from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. In addition to a full selection of breakfast items, entree choices are carved prime rib, country style bourbon barbeque ribs, baked haddock with lobster cream sauce, chicken cordon bleu, Virginia baked ham, burgundy beef tips, or rotisserie chicken. A fresh steamed vegetable medley, salad, fresh fruit, breads and assorted desserts will complement the meal. $34.99 for adults, $22.99 for children ages 7-11, $14.99 for children ages 4-6, children age 3 and under eat free. Reservation required; call (262) 628-1111.  1298 Friess Lake Road, Hubertus

Foxtown Station

A brunch buffet is offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Food stations feature omelets, carved ham, sirloin, sausages, fried chicken or shrimp, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, cold dishes and yogurt parfaits. Breakfast items include assorted eggs, French toast, sticky buns, bacon and Southern-style biscuits and gravy. In addition to the brewery’s stone-fired pizzas and beverages, wines and mimosas are available to order. $48 for adults, $22 for children ages 4 to 11. Reservation required; call (262) 292-5650. 6209 W. Mequon Road, Mequon.

Grand Geneva Resort

The resort is offering dining with complimentary champagne and mimosas at the  Geneva ChopHouse  from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and  Ristoranté Brissago  from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both restaurants offer a buffet menu with stations featuring breakfast items, seafood, carved meats, soups, sides, salads, fruits and sweets. Holiday specialties include chicken breast wrapped in cheese and prosciutto, salmon in citrus cream sauce, braised short rib in port wine, and a garden vegetables pasta primavera. $85 for adults, $40 for children ages 6-12, $15 for children ages 2-5, under age 2 is free. For reservations:  grandgeneva.com/mothers-day-brunch .  7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva.

Lake Lawn Resort

1878 on the Lake  offers a Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The buffet menu features salads, cold food displays, fresh fruit, seafood, omelets, waffles and a carving station with pepper crusted prime rib. Featured entrees include crusted cod with lemon and caper cream sauce, garlic and herb pork loin, a mushroom and asparagus quiche, and traditional breakfast items. The children’s buffet offers chicken tenders, mac and cheese, french fries and mini corn dogs. Desserts include cream puffs, eclairs, petit fours, tiramisu, a strawberry trifle martini, and apple or pecan pie. Champagne, coffee, juice, tea, soft drinks and milk are included. Buffet pricing is $64.95 for adults, $27.95 for children ages 8 to 12, and $14.95 for ages 4 to 7. Reservations:  lakelawnresort.com/events . 2400 Geneva St., Delavan.

Lowlands Group

Brunch specials are available May 11 and 12 at all Lowlands restaurant locations, with one free Mom-osa or beer for mom. The Buckatabon Tavern & Supper Club  special is lemon poppyseed pancakes topped with blueberries. Centraal Grand Cafe & Tappery  will feature a veggie quiche and romaine herb salad.  Cafe Benelux  will be serving a crab and avocado omelette with breakfast potatoes. And  Cafe Hollander  locations will be offering a brie tomato bacon Benedict, served with breakfast potatoes. Hours for dining are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Buckatabon, and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cafe Benelux, Centraal Grand Café & Tappery, and Cafe Hollander locations. Reservations can be made by calling each restaurant directly, or booking online at  lowlandsgroup.com .

Lupi & Iris

The downtown restaurant will offer a three-course prix fixe menu for brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for dinner from 4 to 8 p.m. Appetizer choices include soups and salads, seafood or pasta. Some of the brunch entrees include lamb chops, roasted flank steak, chicken breast, pasta, French toast, eggs, and quiche Lorraine. Dinner main course options include Dover sole, lobster tail with spaghetti pasta, veal rib chop, duck breast, and rack of lamb. The dessert course features cakes, cheesecake, sorbets and French coffee pastries. Brunch starts at $60 for adults and $30 for children, plus tax and service charge. Dinner starts at $75 for adults and $37 for children, plus tax and service charge. Some menu items have an upcharge. Reservations:  lupiandiris.com/special-events . 777 N. Van Buren St.

The Mineshaft

The family restaurant in downtown Hartford features a 25-foot-long dessert table, with an all-you-care-to-eat brunch from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a full dinner menu from 3 to 8 p.m. The brunch menu features breakfast items and entrees, fresh fruits, salads and assorted desserts, priced at $24.99 for adults, $16.99 for children ages 7 to 10, $9.99 for children 4 to 6 and free for children 3 and under. The full dinner menu features baked chicken marsala, pineapple glazed ham, beef pot roast, beef stroganoff, country style BBQ ribs, baked cod, and a large selection of vegetables, fruits, salads, breads and dessert. Call for reservations: (262) 673-5416.  25 N. Main St., Hartford.

MOTOR Bar & Restaurant

Moms get in free to the Harley-Davidson Museum on Mother’s Day, and the Rumble event space, on the second floor of MOTOR, will host a special brunch buffet beginning at 10 a.m. The buffet includes a carving station, seafood station, made-to-order omelets, dessert station, kid's station, fresh pastries, fresh fruit, salad, roasted veggies and a full beverage bar featuring the MOTOR mom-mosa. Reservations include coffee, tea and juice. $54.95 adult; $24.95 child. For reservations, call (414) 287-2778 or visit  motorrestaurant.com/happenings .  400 W. Canal St.

Old Town Serbian Gourmet Restaurant

The full menu and brunch sides are available all day from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Chef specials include a savory cupcake Benedict with chive and cheddar, then topped with a poached egg, hollandaise sauce and maple glazed bacon; a crab cake Benedict; roast salmon stuffed with spinach, and served with a champagne cream sauce; and Serbian-style beef tenderloin with spring mushrooms in a Burgundy sauce. Call for reservations: (414) 672-0206. 522 W. Lincoln Ave.

The Packing House

The holiday dinner menu is available from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. featuring appetizers and entrees. Choose from steak specialties, veal, pork, poultry, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Children’s menu available. Call for reservations: (414) 483-5054.  900 E. Layton Ave.

The Pfister Hotel

The hotel offers a Mother’s Day buffet from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom. The menu includes artisanal breads; starters such as fresh fruit, imported and domestic cheeses, a cucumber and tomato salad, chicken salad, and antipasto; a seafood display with oysters, tiger prawns, salmon, and avocado tuna poke; and brunch entrees including eggs Benedict, baked halibut, chicken marsala, and maple-glazed pork tenderloin. Additional stations feature breakfast griddle items, omelets, carved prime rib, and Virginia ham. A dessert display includes sliced cake, berries and brie, cookies, tarts, cone pops and gluten-free options such as black current panna cotta and bon bons. Cost is $89 for adults and $29 for children ages 3 to 11, plus tax and a 24% gratuity. Visit  thepfisterhotel.com/events . 424 E. Wisconsin Ave.

Potawatomi Casino Hotel

The  Canal Street Cafe  offers an all-you-can-eat Mother’s Day brunch buffet from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a complimentary mimosa included. Turkey breast, prime rib and ham are featured, with chicken and waffles, omelets, French toast, shrimp cocktail, salads and sides. Cost is $32 per person. The Dream Dance Steakhouse  will feature a three-course menu from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a complimentary peach Bellini sparkling wine cocktail. Entrees include a choice of Maine lobster roll, Nueske’s pork belly Benedict, berry French toast, braised short rib hash, or a grilled vegetable frittata. Cost is $55 per person. Reservations recommended: (800) 729-7244.  1721 W. Canal St.

Saz’s State House

Bring the whole family to dine from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for breakfast, lunch or dinner, with a menu for all ages. Breakfast dishes include the All American Breakfast of scrambled eggs, potatoes and bacon ($18); a chicken fried steak and scrambled eggs ($18); and a Denver omelet ($12). Sandwiches include a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich ($14) and a signature BBQ pulled pork sandwich ($14), served with breakfast potatoes, coleslaw and fries; or try the mac-n-cheese entree ($13) and add fried chicken or BBQ pulled pork for a $5 upcharge. Specialty champagne cocktails include a berry mimosa made with blackberry puree and orange juice, and a passion fruit pineapple mimosa. The kids menu features a waffle, a scrambled eggs breakfast, mac-n-cheese, or chicken tenders. Call to reserve a table: (414) 453-2410.  5539 W. State St.

The Mother's Day brunch features a buffet with an assortment of pastries, deviled eggs, a smoked salmon board, and quiche, followed by breakfast entrees of brioche French toast bread pudding, eggs Benedict, and waffles. Executive Chef Brian Cripps will also offer lunch fare such as rigatoni bolognese, honey ham with golden raisin mostarda, and roasted leg of lamb with mint chutney. House-made desserts and cookies complete the meal. $65 per person and $35 for kids under age 12. Reservations can be made on  Open Table .  200 N. Broadway

Twisted Fisherman

This riverside eatery offers a Mother's Day brunch buffet from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The menu features seafood such as oysters and Alaskan snow crab served tableside, and a seafood station with shrimp, tilapia, and Prince Edward Island mussels. The buffet station includes French toast bake, fruit, cheeses, pasta, vegetables, roasted red potatoes and fresh spring mix salad with dressings. Additional food stations offer omelets, carved turkey or pork loin, and dessert. Cost is $39.95 for adults and $16.95 for children 12 and under. Reservations: (414) 273-8300.  1200 W. Canal St.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Mother’s Day brunch and dinner specials at Milwaukee-area restaurants in 2024

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Day trip to Suzdal from Moscow: transport, sights, maps and tips

 DAY TRIP TO SUZDAL

  Suzdal is one of the most popular destinations on the Golden Ring and the whole city is often described as an open-air museum.  The city has no railway station and practically no heavy industry, meaning that is has preserved its provincial charm and a great deal of architectural monuments.

  From Moscow, Suzdal is not as easy to get to as Sergiev Posad (the closest Golden Ring city to the capital) but it is worth going the extra distance as Suzdal provides more of a contrast from Moscow.  If you make use of high-speed trains it is possible and not too demanding to visit for even just a day, but of course spending the night there is recommended to soak in the atmosphere or to combine it with a visit to neighbouring Vladimir.  As the city is a very popular tourist destination you will have no problem finding a cafe or guesthouse there.  There is practically no public transport in the city, but the city is small and most sights are located relatively close to each other.

Getting There and Back

Via Vladimir

Direct to Suzdal

  Buses directly to Suzdal leave from Moscow’s Schyolkovsky Bus Station.  There are about 9 buses a day and it takes around 4½ hours depending on traffic.  The buses stop at Vladimir too.  Using this option will mean a rather exhausting day trip.

Orientation and Main Sights

  Suzdal is a relatively small city and it is not difficult to walk around the city to see most of the sights.  

  The main road in the city is Ulitsa Lenina which runs north across the whole city.  

  The main sights of Suzdal are located either on or just off this road, including the two main sights: the Suzdal Kremlin in the south and the Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in the north.

  More information about Suzdal can be found on our Suzdal  pages.

  Suzdal is famous for its medovukha (mead) which is an alcoholic drink made out of honey.  It can be drunk either hot or cold, meaning it perfect in both summer and winter, and you will find it on practically every menu in the city.  There are various flavours of the drink available and even a non-alcoholic version.  In addition to medovukha, you can find all traditional Russian souvenirs in the city and there is a big souvenir market on Torgovaya Ploschad.

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Local election results: Relief for Sunak as Tory mayor to cling on amid historic election losses

The Tories have suffered some historic losses in Thursday's local elections, while Labour also claimed a big victory in the Blackpool South by-election. But in a relief for the prime minister, the Tory mayor of Tees Valley will keep his job.

Friday 3 May 2024 12:22, UK

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• Vote 2024: Catch up on key results from overnight
• Check result where you live  | What's still to come?
• Sunak says local elections results 'disappointing'
• But relief for PM as Tory mayor clings on in pivotal race
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• Sam Coates: Tories losing coalition that drove Johnson's success
• Live reporting by Ben Bloch   and Andy Hayes

One of the most hotly-contested races in this set of local elections has been the Tees Valley mayoralty.

Incumbent Tory mayor Lord Ben Houchen won in 2021 with a vast majority, taking 72.8% of the vote.

Labour had been hoping to win the seat, with a victory there a huge prize for the party and a sign of progress.

But in a hint of sunshine for Rishi Sunak amid a terrible set of election results, a Labour source has conceded defeat.

Labour sources more broadly are saying they never really expected to win, given the personal popularity of Lord Houchen.

They are saying he had been effectively running as an independent candidate, rather than a Tory, and that if Labour achieves a swing of 12.5%, it would be enough to win every parliamentary seat in the region.

We are expecting the formal declaration of the results shortly - watch live on Sky News, in the stream above, and follow updates here in the Politics Hub.

Lord Ben Houchen, the incumbent mayor of Tees Valley, has denied Rishi Sunak was a problem on the doorsteps during the election campaign.

Sky News correspondent Shingi Mararike asked him: "Your [campaign] literature very rarely mentioned Rishi Sunak or the Conservative Party. 

"Is Rishi Sunak a hindrance - a problem?"

Lord Houchen said he did not "shy away from that at all", adding that Mr Sunak had been a "close friend of mine since he was first elected in 2015".

He continued: "He's been up during the campaign and I've always said Rishi's been a great friend to the people of Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool."

The mayor continued: "He helped me secure the Treasury for Darlington. 

"He's helped me set up the UK's first and largest free port in Redcar. 

"He's actually been a huge champion for this area and there's a lot of things that we wouldn't have been able to achieve without his support."

As we report below, Labour has conceded in the Tees Valley mayoral race.

Mr Houchen claimed Labour had run an "extremely negative campaign" and had "nothing positive to offer local people".

He also said he had a "record of delivery over the last seven years" on jobs and investment, increasing the employment rate by 5.4%.

We've just heard from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who is at a military base in North Yorkshire.

Asked for his reaction to the apparently disastrous local election results so far, the PM said: "Obviously it's disappointing to lose good, hard-working Conservative councillors, and I'm grateful to them for all their service in local government."

He went on to say that there are still "lots of results to come", and pointed to the Tories retaining Harlow as an example of somewhere Labour needed to win to show it was on course to win the next general election, and described the Tees Valley mayoralty as a "very important test".

Asked if he needs to convince his party that he needs to do better in order to win the general election, Mr Sunak again pointed to the Tories retaining Harlow.

He went on: "I'm focused completely on the job at hand - that's delivering for people across the country."

He hit out at Labour for, for example, saying it would scrap the Rwanda deportation scheme, and claimed the opposition would "offer amnesty to illegal migrants".

Our political editor Beth Rigby has been giving her take on the local elections results we've had so far.

She reckons the Tories could end up losing half their council seats, with plenty more declarations to come today and tomorrow.

We're expecting a flurry of results to start arriving later this hour.

You can watch Beth's full analysis below:

As counts are continuing across the country, we are beginning to get indications of results.

Sky News can confirm that Labour will hold Swindon council in this set of elections.

Not all seats have been declared yet, so we cannot bring you the full results, but it is now mathematically certain that Labour will hold the council.

We are expecting the formal declaration in the mid-afternoon.

Our political correspondent Serena Barker-Singh is in Bradford, one of the councils still to declare today.

She says the result could show "where the weaknesses lie within the Labour Party", both in these local elections and in the general to come.

And that's the divisions in the party over the Israel-Gaza conflict.

"It's no secret it has been a divisive issue within the party nationally," explains Serena.

"But in Bradford there have been two motions supported by the council on an immediate ceasefire - and much earlier than the party nationally.

"There was some sentiment within some communities that Labour had moved to a humanitarian ceasefire - their current position - too slowly."

The leadership's stance saw Naz Shah, Labour's MP for Bradford West, resign her front bench position earlier this year.

"It's (still) a live issue here," says Serena, and while Labour is likely to hold the council, there could be independents that eat into the vote share.

We've just been speaking with health minister Dame Andrea Leadsom, and we started by asking for her reaction to what appears to have been a pretty terrible night for the Conservative Party.

She admitted it had been a "tough night", with results that are "devastating" for both candidates and communities.

But she added: "It is absolutely understandable that in the wake of this once in a hundred years global pandemic and Putin's aggression in Ukraine, that we have now seen the devastation, the cost of living crisis, has resulted from that."

Challenged by Sophy Ridge , she said the Tories "completely accept responsibility" for the results, and said the public has "not yet seen the turnaround that is on its way".

Dame Andrea said removing Rishi Sunak as PM in a last-ditch effort to turn things around before the general election would be "a very big mistake", insisting that the "seeds of recovery" are visible.

'We need to keep doing what we're doing'

But the minister continued to blame "the hangover from the COVID pandemic and from the energy crisis and the cost of living crisis" for the party's fortunes.

"What we need to do is to keep on with what we're doing," she said.

She pointed to the result in Harlow as evidence not all is lost for the Tory party yet, and said low turnout of the party's voters is a "wake-up call".

The Tories hung on to the council there, despite several visits by the Labour leader during the campaign.

It'll be around lunchtime that we start getting more results from the elections that took place across England and Wales yesterday.

One of the most eye-catching will be the Tees Valley mayoral contest, which should be declared at 12.30pm.

Tory Ben Houchen is defending the seat, having won more than 70% of the vote last time.

He's up against Chris McEwan from Labour and Lib Dem Simon Thorley.

Mr Houchen's campaign was notable for distancing itself from the Conservative government and Rishi Sunak.

The race on a knife-edge between the two main parties, and should the Tories lose the seat, it would be a devastating blow.

The count is under way - and our North of England correspondent  Shingi Mararike says polling suggests it won't be a "shoo-in" for Mr Houchen.

Expect "a tightly-fought race", he says, though defeat for the Tories "would signal disaster for Rishi Sunak".

Mr Houchen has been "a poster child of the levelling-up agenda", whose previous wins "represented the high watermark" of Boris Johnson's success during his time as Tory leader.

We'll bring you the result when we get it.

Away from the local elections for a moment - the government's plan to meet climate targets and green the economy has been ruled unlawful by the High Court.

The campaigning groups that brought the challenge had argued it relied too much on risky technologies and glossed over the risk of missing targets.

But the government said it had met all of its three previous "carbon budget" targets to cut emissions and was on track to meet future targets - though other assessments warn otherwise.

This is the second time the three groups - Friends of the Earth, ClientEarth and the Good Law Project - have taken the government to court over its climate plans.

In July 2022 the High Court ruled in their favour that the government's last climate plan - the Net Zero Strategy - was ​​ unlawful because it didn't explain how targets would be met .

That case forced officials to draw up a second version - the Carbon Budget Delivery Plan (CBDP) - which campaigners argued was still "a complete pipe dream".

It was published in March 2023, before the government began to tinker with some climate targets, saying it was taking a more "pragmatic" approach.

Read more from our climate reporter Victoria Seabrook here:

One of the key questions of these local elections has been how the war in the Middle East has affected Labour's vote.

The party's position has been controversial among many Muslim voters, who have wanted Sir Keir Starmer to be much more forceful in his condemnation of Israel's conduct of the war with Hamas, and to have been calling for a ceasefire far earlier.

Results from the overnight by-election results show that Labour's vote share has fallen in areas with larger Muslim populations since the last set of elections in 2023.

Sir Keir Starmer conceded this morning that his party's stance did cost them votes.

The Labour leader told Sky News: "There are some places where that's a very strong factor, and I understand that and respect that."

But he said that where they have lost votes, they will "earn them back".

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