Valley lovebirds looking for the perfect declaration of adoration this Valentine’s Day may discover the greatest gift they can give their loved one isn’t a “thing” at all. There’s magic in the memories and moments you share when you make plans to spend quality time together.
Somewhere out there in the land between Farmer and College lies the perfect date night, just waiting for lovers of all ages this Valentine’s Day. From fancy-like to low-key, Downtown Tempe is the place to celebrate your own unique love story.
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1. The “Fancy-Schmancy” Date Night
Get all gussied up and indulge in the Harrisa Spiced Mussels and Balsamic Glazed Bacon-Bison Meatloaf at House of Tricks. After dinner (and possibly a Bourbon-Apricot Sour?), head over to Gammage to feast your eyes and ears on “The Band’s Visit.”
2. The Active & Early Riser Date Day
Start your Sunday Funday with an invigorating hike on “A” Mountain. Refuel, then swing over to check out Second Sundays on Mill, where you can take part in a free yoga class, then explore local art, handmade goods, live music and other special activities in honor of the Big Game this weekend.
3. Super Low-Key Date Night
When you’re ready for more than coffee, but not quite ready for the commitment of dinner, enjoy a couple of Friday-night cocktails over free live music at Skysill Rooftop Lounge. Between the beautiful rooftop venue, tasty cocktails and great music, you’ll have plenty talk about if an awkward silence makes an appearance.
4. Lovey Dovey Date Night
If a slow-paced evening with your honey is more your speed, enjoy a romantic walk across the ped bridge at sunset. After taking in those cotton candy-colored skies over Tempe Town Lake, treat yourselves to an ice cream sandwich at Slickables for one seriously sweet date night.
5. The Date Night of Laughter
Want to laugh until it hurts while testing your mate’s mystery-solving skills? At Escape Rooms Tempe, your virtual vacation gets cut short when you find yourself behind bars. If you’re sly enough to escape, run to Low Key Piano Bar to celebrate your jailbreak with a cocktail and some dueling piano action!
6. The Classic Date Night
If you’re in the mood for a good old dinner-and-movie date night, your options are endless. With AMC Theater smack dab in the middle of Downtown Tempe, a delicious meal is never far away. Next door, Pedal Haus Brewery is a great place to grab an IPA and some pub-style wings before your flick.
Love is in the air across Downtown Tempe! Let me know if you’d like to explore these fun date-night ideas in greater detail, or even visit some of these hot spots to showcase romantic ideas for a Valentine’s Day to remember. We can arrange an interview with Kate Borders, Executive Director with Downtown Tempe Authority, and/or bring you on location for some great visuals. Let me know what you think!
