More
From immersive art exhibits to live performances, these date experiences go beyond the ordinary.
It’s date night in Texas! Whether you’re a local or a tourist trying to avoid the tourist-y things, we’ve got a few ideas for unique, romantic excursions that’ll make the Lone Star State feel far from lonely. We’ve put together a few unexpected combos, so you can choose your own date night adventure in Houston or the Dallas-Fort-Worth area.
It’s a date night go-to for a reason, so we couldn’t leave it out. But, we found some fresh takes on the old favorite!
When it comes to date night ideas in Houston, a picnic might not have topped your list. Unless… it was the Rooftop Cinema Club, which has spectacular views and a great atmosphere. Stop by the Whole Foods (located in the same building) to pack a delicious picnic for your date. Then, take the elevator up to the fifth floor where you’ll find an adorable Adirondack loveseat waiting for you. The theater is open to outside food, but you’ll need to grab your drinks inside, as outside bevvies are not allowed. You’ll enjoy the city views from the outdoor cinema and enjoy a romantic film together.
Alamo is an all-in-one experience – so you can see your movie, eat your dinner, and be home by nine if that’s your jam. Here, you’ll find the latest hit films and delicious meals delivered right to your seats. The Drafthouse is known for its cheeseburgers, pizzas, chocolate chip cookies and 30+ beers on tap.
Explore the Montrose neighborhood in Houston where you’ll start with The Menil Collection — a group of art buildings and green spaces full of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso and Cy Twombly. Then, check out Rothko Chapel’s collection of Rothko murals just a few steps away. Finish out the night at 13 Celsius, where you can enjoy a glass of wine and graze on some charcuterie while you talk about your favorite pieces from the evening.
Explore the Dallas Arts District, starting with the well-known Dallas Museum of Art, where you’ll see everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary works of art (for free!). Then, step into the Crow Museum of Asian Art to enjoy pieces that celebrate the arts and culture of Asia. Cap off the night at Sixty Vines, a modern wine bar with dozens of carefully curated wines on tap to debrief after your artistic date night.
Nothing beats a concert followed by a quick bite on the way home – check out some of our favorite venues and late-night eateries for a live music date night.
If underground venues are your vibe, you’ll like this place. The Secret Group hosts everything from Emo Night to comedy shows – and no matter what time your show ends, close out the night at Katz’s (Never Kloses), a late-night staple that stays open 24 hours, as the name suggests. You’ll find just what you want after a late show: deli and diner classes, plus scrumptious desserts.
From blues king Tab Benoit to indie outfit Murder by Death and everything in between, the Kessler hosts every genre. It’s also a historic venue, originally built in 1941. Reviewers rave about the sound quality and the staff. After your show, keep the music flowing at Revelers Hall, where you can enjoy indulgent snacks, like duck fat popcorn and a tinned fish charcuterie board. Admission is easy, too – only a $6 music fee added to your tab.
If the other unique date night ideas aren’t cutting it, let’s get to the good stuff. Leave the ordinary behind and step into a shared experience you’ll never forget. The immersive worlds of Meow Wolf will give you an out-of-this-world date night.
Step into Radio Tave, Meow Wolf Houston’s interdimensional radio station. Meander through glowing caverns and hidden doorways and when you need a break, take a seat at the best western bar in Houston: Cowboix Hevvven. At our favorite honky tonk, you’ll sip on rodeo-inspired cocktails and enjoy simple eats (including vegan options.)
Wander hand-in-hand through the luminous portals of The Real Unreal for the best interactive art near DFW (in our opinion). You’ll enjoy a psychedelic multiverse where you can choose your own adventure through every room. Find hidden messages and glowing surprises around every turn while you work to solve the mystery of the Fuqua family. When you’re done (or just need a break from exploring), check out the Meow Wolf Grapevine Café for your favorite combo and a cosmic milkshake.
From rooftop picnics to immersive art and wine-filled gallery crawls, Texas has no shortage of creative ways to spend time together. However you choose to do date night, we hope it’s full of laughs, good vibes, and a little bit of magic. Happy date night!