Life gets busy as a parent. Days fly by while you meet deadlines and get the kids to all of their sports practices -- then before you know it, you realize you haven't been able to set aside much quality time for your significant other.
This Valentine's Day, don't skip out on date night. Take the opportunity to make new memories and celebrate connection with the person you love. Remember, date nights don't always have to include a super romantic activity! If you're looking to do something outside of your typical go-to night out, take a look at this list of 18 fun and creative spots around Athens that you can enjoy together.
📧 Do you have a favorite date night spot that isn't listed below? Feel free to send it my way and I can get it added! jessicasweeney@macaronikid.com
 Photo credit: Lumberjaxe |
Try Something New
When is the last time you tried something "out of the box"? You know, something exciting and a bit adventurous, or extra relaxing? Now's your chance! Here's a few ideas:
- Haunted History Tour: Learn about Athens' spookiest haunted history secrets on a guided tour hosted by Athens Haunted History Walking Tours in Downtown Athens.
- Trapeze Classes: Sign-up for a professional trapeze or slings class or workshop at Canopy Studio. Don't feel like being in a group setting? They offer private lessons, too!
- Ax Throwing: Test your strength and skills by learning how to safely throw an ax at Lumberjaxe Ax Throwing Bar.
- Staycation in Athens: Book an overnight "staycation" at Hotel Abacus (formerly known as Graduate Athens) or Hotel Indigo Athens for some much needed R&R that's not too far away from home.
 Image credit: ARTini's Art Lounge |
Get Creative Together
Creative date nights can be both relaxing AND fun! Try your hand at a pottery making workshop or adult crafting class at one of Athens' wonderful family-owned art studios.
- ARTini's Art Lounge: No prior experience is needed at one of ARTinis Art Lounge's paint workshops. See what they have scheduled for this season on their calendar. If you're looking for some creative freedom, every Tuesday is designated as "pick your own painting or pottery" night where you get to pick your own project!
- Board and Brush Athens: Interested in a hands-on woodworking project? Board and Brush Athens offers DIY workshops that include all of the supplies and guidance you need to assemble your own unique wooden creation. See what's upcoming on their registration page.
- Good Dirt Clay Studio: If you are interested in a one-time pottery class to try, Good Dirt Clay Studio offers an opportunity for guests to learn and try their Wheel Class every Friday night. Learn more about what all is included and how you can reserve your spot on their website.
- Twisted Moon Studios: Twisted Moon Studios offers several Valentine's Day-themed paint and pottery workshops designed for a Galentine's celebration, date nights, or group dates! Their in-house kiln can give your keepsake creations a nice finished touch.
 Image Credit: Escape the Space |
Have Fun with Games
Adults can play games, too! The options below are for teams of just two people or make it a double-date and include friends.
- Escape Room: Race against the clock while solving puzzles and cracking codes at Escape the Space Athens' Escape Room. They offer shared room or private room experiences - both guarantee for an adrenaline-filled night.
- Scavenger Hunt of Downtown Athens: Grab your coat and complete an outdoor Scavenger Hunt Tour of Athens with Let's Roam. Participants will explore the town while making stops at some of Athens' most popular shops, landmarks, and more. Be sure to check out their "sweet date scavenger hunt" option!
- Board Game Cafe: Prefer board games?? The Rook and Pawn in downtown Athens offers a selection of over 800 tabletop and card games to choose from, along with delicious food, coffee, tea, and spirits to enjoy while you play.
 Image Credit: Ciné Athens |
Catch a Movie
Can't remember the last time you watched something that didn't include an animated character? Been there. Check out our local movie theaters and catch an action thriller or crime drama.
- B&B Theaters Athens 12: B&B Theaters Athens 12 is more than just a movie theater. Guests can also enjoy bowling and an arcade, along with a marquee bar and grille which can make for a complete date night evening.
- Ciné Athens: The historic Ciné Athens theater offers a unique movie-going experience. Where else can you go to enjoy art exhibits showcasing local artists, sip on drinks, AND watch indie flicks (and sometimes special screenings)? See what's playing, and what's coming soon on their website.
- GTC University 16 Cinemas: This Traditional 16-Screen Theater offers updated, reclined seating and showings of today's most popular blockbuster films. Learn more about their Bargain Tuesdays on their website for a mid-week date night.
 Image Credit: Georgia Theater |
Enjoy Live Entertainment
Athens is home to several stages that host talented performers. Take a look at what improv shows, sports games, and other productions are taking place at some of these historical theaters.
- 40 Watt Club: Rock out at 40 Watt Club, Athens' best-known indie and alternative night club, which offers an intimate setting and full-service bar. See what live performances are currently scheduled to take the stage.
- Akins Ford Arena: Recently opened as a new addition to The Classic Center on N Thomas Street, the Akins Ford Arena offers premier entertainment showcasing ice hockey games, concerts, broadway performances and more. Browse the season's upcoming events. Don't forget about the Athens on Ice public ice skating rink at the outdoor 440 Foundry Pavilion!
- Flying Squid Comedy: Belly laugh with local comedians who take the stage at these weekly improv comedy shows strictly designed for ages 18 and up. Double-check show locations when purchasing tickets -- some performances are located at Flying Squid Comedy's home location, and some are hosted by Buvez coffee shop. View their schedule to help you plan ahead.
- Georgia Theater: Looking to attend a live artist performances? The Georgia Theater is part of Athens' Downtown Local Historic District and is a concert hall for many new and well-known artists that features rooftop entertainment and casual dining. Grab your tickets ahead of time online via their calendar.
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