Date nights may not come as often as you’d like, so we’re taking the legwork out of planning for you and your honey.
Finding time for romance can be tricky for parents constantly on the move, packing lunches, scheduling playdates, and always putting the kids’ needs first. It’s important to make that time for your spouse, though. So pick a night — or a plan a day date, find a babysitter or nanny, and make plans to explore all that this great city has to offer with your special someone by your side.
Whether you’re looking for a low-key evening of dinner and dessert, a jam-packed day of adventure, or you’re not completely sure where to start, we’ve taken out the tough decisions and put together a list of our favorite date activities. From exploring the world of arts to catching a sunset over the rockies or even a nightcap on one of the best rooftops in town, there’s sure to be something that catches you and your loved one’s eyes.
Address: 3200 N. Pecos St., Denver, CO 80211
Hours: Sunday – Wednesday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. | Thursday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.
Phone: 720-269-4778
Starting off our list with what may appear to be a somewhat redundant idea is actually one of the better options in this city — and we’ll tell you exactly why! Denver, like most cities, is filled with a plethora of dining experiences. Yelp actually ranked us one of the top food cities in the U.S. So what better way to spend your time kid-free than at a delicious restaurant with equally delicious company?
We can’t speak our praises of this cafeteria-style establishment enough. It’s easily one of the better date night dining choices just for the sheer fact that there’s so many food options to choose from, which means no one has to compromise what they’re craving. Not only are they fit with several dining choices to dive into but they also have one of the better skyline views and plenty of upstairs and outdoor seating. Enjoy each other’s’ company while sipping on a glass of house red and noshing on an arepa, wood fired pizza, or poke bowl.
LEÑA
Address: 24 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
Hours: Monday & Tuesday, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Wednesday & Thursday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Friday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Saturday, 4 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Phone: 720-550-7267
There’s something almost magical about the food served at this Latin-American inspired restaurant owned by James Callahan. Here’s what makes this South Broadway gem a must-try date night spot: the carefully and thoughtfully prepared food, the romantic and cozy ambience and the close proximity to Sweet Action Ice Cream. (Dessert is always a must!) Situate yourselves at a small booth and order the camarones y sémola (shrimp and grits) to start and two house margaritas.
You’ll find yourself pleasantly surprised with how at comfortable you’ll feel. You may even find yourself wanting to try everything on the menu and never wanting to leave. The overall feeling you and your loved one will feel while dining here is enchanted.
Beatrice & Woodsley
Address: 38 S. Broadway, Denver, CO 80209
Hours: Brunch Saturday & Sunday, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Phone: 303-777-3505
It’s not always convenient to take the evening off on the weekend, but luckily there’s always brunch. Beatrice & Woodsley knows a thing or two about crafting the perfect ambience and bites for a romantic morning out. The open and airy interior sets the scene for a light-hearted breakfast with a loved one. Enjoy intimate conversation over apple pie pancakes and asparagus benedict.
Denver Botanic Gardens
Address: 1007 York St., Denver, CO 80206
Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Hours vary for special events.
Phone: 720-865-3500
It is Colorado after all, so what better way to explore with your person then on a date that includes a bit of the outdoors. There’s endless options for outdoor fun, whether in the city or on a mountain closeby.
What could possibly be more romantic than endless flowers? And not only is the Denver Botanic Garden know very much for their flowers, but if you’re looking for a great “winter” date idea, head to the gardens between the end of November and beginning of January for the Blossom of Lights. It’s an annual event that turns the gardens on York Street into what some may say is a whimsical winter wonderland. We recommend bundling up and grabbing a hot beverage at the Offshoots Cafe located inside the gardens, and then wandering around to take in all the twinkling wonder that the time of year brings.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Address: 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465
Hours: Amphitheatre opens 1 hour before sunrise – closes 1 hours after sunset
Phone: 720-865-2494
You really can’t go wrong with spending some time at Red Rocks, whether you’re embarking on a fitness date, watching a summer flick, hiking or catching sunrise or sunset, this outdoor amphitheatre sets the stage for one unforgettable date. One of our favorite ways to spend time with our special someones at Red Rocks is by packing some fancy snacks, a blanket, and a thermos of adult hot cider and then heading to the amphitheatre stairs to catch a sunset over the city together.
16th Street Mall
Address: 1001 16th St., Denver, CO 80265
Hours: Open 24/7
Phone: 303-534-6161
We know, you’re probably wondering how the 16th Street Mall could possibly be a great outdoor date idea. Well, you’d be quite surprised to find out that beyond the touristy riff-raff this well-known site is actually home to lots of romantic fun. During the winter, the year-round strands of lights tend to twinkle just a bit brighter during a snowy evening. The rink at Skyline Park makes way for another fun activity to enjoy with your loved one after a quick stop at the holiday outdoor shop: Christkindl Market. Not only is this strip great for snacking and people-watching, but there are several restaurants, bars, and shops along the way.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Address: 1485 Delgany St., Denver, CO 80202
Hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Friday, 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Phone: 303-298-7554
Let’s be honest, Colorado weather isn’t always predictable. So if you’re banking on the weather staying moce enough for an outdoor endeavor with your loved one, fret not. Living in the Denver metro opens up several possibilities for a great date indoors.
You could enjoy any art museum in Denver and have an incredible time, but there’s something to be said for a museum like MCA, dedicated to exploring the art of our time through rotating exhibits of regional, national, and international artists. Spend a few hours wandering through each current exhibit with your loved one. After your fill of art, head to the rooftop bar/cafe for a light bite and cocktails while taking in views of downtown Denver.
Landmark Theatres Denver
Address & Hours: Click here for various locations.
Phone: 888-724-6362
One thing that seems to radiate among all parents is finding the time to watch a film without child interruption. Luckily, there are several Landmark-owned theatres all over the Denver Metro showcasing a variety of film genres, ranging from independent and foreign films to smart films from Hollywood and 3D viewings. Enjoy an order of popcorn and the latest documentary you’ve been dying to see in an sophisticated and adult-oriented atmosphere.
Bluebird Theater
Address: 3317 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80206
Hours: Vary by showtimes
Phone: 303-377-1666
How often do you get the chance to enjoy an evening of live music and a little bit of dancing? Probably not very often at all, which is why we love the Bluebird Theatre for date night. Sometimes after a long week with the kids, all you want to do is unwind with your loved one, a cold brew, and some great music. From the old-school interior to the rotating genres of live local, national, and international bands, there’s really nothing that could beat this Denver city venue.
Comedy Works
Address & Phone:
-
1226 15th St., Denver, CO 80202 | P: 303-595-3637
-
5345 Landmark Place, Greenwood Village, CO 80111 | P: 720-274-6800
Hours: Vary by location and showtimes
All you really need is a good laugh and a loved one to make this date night a success. Comedy Works has two locations in Denver, and both bring in some incredible comedic talent. Date night doesn’t have to just be on the weekend. During the week, they host local talent nights, happy hour comedy hours, and much more. So whether you have a sitter for the entire day or just a few hours in the evening, there’s no reason you can’t get in a drink and a few laughs with your special someone.
