Posted 7 years ago in Loop List by Ammanuel M. Ayalew
Summer in Chicago is that evanescent, magical season when the city is full of energy and love is in the air. Grabbing a drink might be fine for the first time you go out with someone; but second, third and fourth dates call for something special. And we’ve got you covered! We have rounded up some unique date night ideas in the Loop.
Watch the Stars Under the Stars
Summer is a great time to watch a movie al fresco in the Loop. Every Tuesday now through August 21 starting 6:30 p.m., the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) will be hosting the Millennium Park Summer Film Series. The screening is free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chair or blankets, and enjoy the movies. If you don't have these outdoor items, take advantage of Macy's Picnic Basket promotion. Whatever your style is, you will find a wide variety of outdoor picnic sets perfect for a movie at the park.
To make your fun outing even better, grab The Berghoff's Movie Night Date Bags for two via Caviar! Choose two items from a variety of our picnic-friendly foods
Sip on Literary Cocktails at American Writers Museum
Visit the American Writers Museum on June 28 at 6 p.m. for an evening of Literary Cocktails! Spark intellectually-stimulating conversations by exploring the museum with literary libations inspired by its fascinating exhibits. Sip on The Imagination beverage while running down memory lane in the Children’s Gallery or try The Agitator, a special cocktail in honor of the museum's new Frederick Douglass exhibit.
Learn MoreTake a Cooking Class at Latinicity
Diversify your culinary skills at Latinicity’s Cooking Classes with Executive Chef Marcos Flores. Chef Marcos Flores shares his secrets to bringing cross culture flavors together and is known for maximizing teamwork within the kitchen. Spice up your date night with his cooking class on Saturday, June 30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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Take a Dance Class at Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
Show off your moves at Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, one of the original forces in contemporary dance. You and your partner can find the perfect class that would fit your interest as well as skill level.
Learn MoreGet Lovey-Dovey on the Riverwalk
Take a romantic stroll down the Chicago Riverwalk and enjoy the best view of Chicago’s breathtaking architecture. While you're at it, grab an al fresco dinner at City Winery, or get a taste of the islands at Island Party Hut while enjoying bocce ball, bag games, Jenga, Bimini Island Ring game and live music on weekends.
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Catch a Broadway Show
Broadway In Chicago shows make for an unforgettable date night you’ll be talking about long after leaving the theatre. “Believe” at the Oriental Theatre with “The Cher Show,” the new Pre-Broadway musical about the entertainment icon’s six decades of stardom using her chart-topping songs through July 15. Celebrate the magic of a well-made pie at the Cadillac Palace with “Waitress,” featuring music by Sara Bareilles, from July 3-22. Experience the story of a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the musical adaptation of “The Color Purple,” playing July 17-29 at the Auditorium Theatre. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com for more info. Also, be sure to check out these must-see shows.
Learn MoreReach New Heights with Bae
Take your dating game to a whole new level (literally) at one of Chicago Loop’s swankiest rooftops. These skyscraping patios boast perfectly crafted cocktails, award-winning dining and some of the best views of the city that is sure to thrill your partner. Make a reservation when possible and skip the line. After all, who wants to wait in line on a date?
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Wine and Dine at Formento's
Experience the West Loop’s Restaurant Row up close and personal on Formento's 65-seat patio. Lush with flowers and dog-friendly, this restaurant is perfect for an al fresco Italian dining experience. With one of the best wine lists in the city, Formento’s has been named "Best Medium-Sized Wine List in the World" by The World of Fine Wine magazine. Plus, the famous chocolate cake with hazelnut praline is the perfect way to cap off a date night!
Learn MoreGlide Along the Chicago River with Shoreline Sightseeing
Capture Chicago’s nighttime magic on a Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour from the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Named by TripAdvisor as the most popular tour in America for 2017, this architecture tour along Chicago’s beautiful river is perfect for a romantic evening. Shoreline also offers Architecture Fireworks Tours on Wednesdays and Saturdays where you can enjoy magnificent views of the fireworks displays from Navy Pier.
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Caffeinate Your Love at Hero Coffee Bar
Sandwiched between two towering buildings on East Jackson Boulevard (22 E. Jackson Blvd.), it takes a watchful eye to notice this humble coffee shop deep in the alley. Hero Coffee Bar, located in the Pickwick Alley, is compact space washed in warm lighting with exposed brick wall offers a delightful ambiance for an Instagram-worthy photo of you and your date.
Once you work your way through these with your boo or boo-to-be (you devil!), check out the Loop essentials for more date night inspirations. If you don’t have a boo, consider this the perfect excuse to ask that special someone out.