13 Unique Summer Spots for Romance and Adventure in Austin

Whether you’re looking to mix up your typical date night routine with your long-term partner or getting to know a new special someone, Austin holds a number of interesting and summer-friendly date night destinations full or romance for you to discover.

Taste All the Wine at Wanderlust Wine Co.

Drink to your heart’s desire at Wanderlust Wine Co., where patrons pour their own glasses of vino from a number of taps. Because of the unique pouring experience, the wine is as fresh as possible, served sustainably from innovative kegs to give guests the chance to taste varieties from around the world. The standard tasting experience makes for a wonderful date, but Wanderlust also hosts painting classes, trivia nights and other special events at their three locales around the city.

Play a Round at Spare Birdie

Located in Cedar Park, Spare Birdie is a modern entertainment venue boasting bowling, live music, virtual golf, food, drinks and more, making it a wonderful choose-your-own-adventure for any pair! The glass box open kitchen and full bar will satisfy all tastebuds as guests game their way through the impressive space. And yes, it’s a bit of a drive, but this destination is worth the effort!

Catch a Free Show at the Long Center’s Drop-In Summer Concert Series

Held every Thursday through August 10, The Long Center’s Drop-In Summer Concert Series is back with more music than ever before. Featured artists include THEBROSFRESH, Urban Heat and Aubrey Hays, with many more in the 2023 lineup. Artists are announced on Fridays, with RSVPs opening on Mondays. Grab a blanket or a lawn chair and check out the free performances at the Long Center’s recently unveiled 3D-printed performance pavilion.

Take a Class at Ghost Pepper Glass

Activity-based dates are perfect for couples looking to mix up their typical date night routine or new companions getting to know each other. Ghost Pepper Glass is an amazing glassblowing studio that offers classes and workshops for all skill levels. Take the “Taste of Glassblowing” class for a crash course in glassblowing from an experienced instructor. Plus, you’ll get to take home your very own
creation to commemorate the experience.

Grab a Drink Eden Cocktail Room

Tucked away in an alley off of Sixth Street, Eden Cocktail Room is an intimate speakeasy elevating the average “let’s grab a drink!” date. The bar brings an adventurous and creative twist to high-quality craft cocktails by master bartender Chris Crow, formerly of Here Nor There. Your date will be impressed as you take them through a bright purple door to discover this romantic hidden gem.

Participate in Red River Cultural District’s Hot Summer Nights Festival

Held from July 20 to 23, Hot Summer Nights is a three-day weekend of free concerts at many iconic venues located in the Red River Cultural District. Many of the participating artists are local, and even though the events are free to attend, the musicians are still financially supported through sponsors and donors. Take advantage of this incredible fest by visiting venues such as Cheer Up Charlie’s, Stubb’s Bar-B-Q and Mohawk with your favorite date.

Eat a Sunset Picnic at Mount Bonnell

A picnic at sunset is a tried-and-true date idea. Level up the experience with an incredible 360-degree view of Austin at Mount Bonnell. Pick up charcuterie from Antonelli’s Cheese Shop and take in the gorgeous skyline and lakeside nature. Note that there’s a steep set of stairs that could work up a quick sweat, but the view is worth every step.

Enjoy Happy Hour at Honey Moon Spirit Lounge

A happy hour date may seem low key for a night out, but make the date at Honey Moon and you’ll swoon at the eatery’s romantic atmosphere and stunning food and drinks. Happy hour is held from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. We recommend the flaky and delicious Honey Moon biscuits, which are only $4 during happy hour, and a half-price glass of Wavy Wines LS Gris Orange Wine.

Throw Axes at Urban Axes

If you’re trying to ease those first date nerves, get busy throwing axes at Urban Axes. This exciting activity begins with instruction from a fully trained coach who teaches visitors how to hit a bullseye. Get competitive with your partner and move out of your comfort zone with an exhilarating visit to Urban Axes!

Watch Live Jazz Music at Elephant Room

A night at Elephant Room is an iconic Austin experience that every local should experience, so why not make it your next late night date night? Cap off an evening out with a drink at this funky basement bar that’s been the performance home to many talented jazz musicians for more than 30 years.

Splurge on a Staycation at Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Instead of a one-night date, make it a full getaway with a weekend at Sage Hill Inn & Spa in the
Texas Hill Country. Every stay at this 88-acre retreat includes daily breakfast and a three-course dinner. Travelers can get active at the inn’s pickleball courts and hiking trails, or fully unwind with a trip to the spa, pool or hot tub. With a focus on romance and luxury, this is an ideal locale for an anniversary celebration or first weekend trip as a couple.

See a Comedian at Cap City Comedy Club

Break that first date tension with a mountain of laughs at Cap City Comedy Club. Local talents and world-renowned comics flock to this comedy hub, which was established in 1986. Comedians scheduled for the summer include David Koechner, Kim Congdon and Bruce Bruce. For a more personal experience, catch a show at The Red Room, an intimate space at Cap City that presents up-and-coming talents.

Explore Hamilton Pool Preserve

We love a weekend outdoor date, and the Hamilton Pool Preserve is an ideal destination for just that with its hiking trails and natural swimming area. The Dripping Springs nature preserve is home to beautiful plants and a variety of wildlife, but the real highlight is the 50-foot waterfall that flows into the head of a canyon. Reservations are required, so plan ahead!