With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, many are trying to think of fun, unique date ideas
for their loved ones. Do not fret; the Champaign-Urbana community has a wide selection of fresh
and fun options. Below are ten of the best date ideas you and your special date can try out!
1. Go all out on desserts
One way to celebrate your love for one another is to indulge in sweet treats! Go to a local bakery
and try baked goods you have never experienced before. You can even take some for the road.
Local Options:
Suzu’s Japanese Bakery
114 N Walnut St, Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 355-5400
https://suzusbakery.com
Ricks Bakery
124 W Main St, Urbana, IL 61801
217) 344-9383
http://ricksbakeryurbana.com
2. Get a good laugh
Support your local comedians by attending a live comedy show. This is a great way to brighten
your mood or day from the current gloomy weather. You could even enjoy a couple of drinks
while doing so.
Local Option:
C-U Comedy Club
The C-U Comedy Club holds events at several different venues. You can visit their page linked
below to see upcoming shows in the area.
(217) 202-6023
https://www.cucomedy.com
3. Ice skating
This old classic never disappoints. Have fun trying to figure out how to ice skate together, or if
you are feeling confident, impress your partner by showing off your athletic abilities. Just be sure
to stick the landing!
Local Option:
UIUC Ice Arena
406 E Armory Ave, Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 333-2212
Ice Arena Calendar (illinois.edu)
4. Paint pottery
Have fun indulging in a unique date experience by unleashing your creativity together. After you
two are done painting the piece of pottery you chose, you and your partner can place it
somewhere you see it every day. That way, it will serve as a constant reminder of the shared love
between you and your partner.
Local Option:
The Pottery Place
1808 Round Barn Rd, Champaign, IL 61821
(217) 355-7654
https://potteryplacechampaign.com
5. Stargaze at Parklands Planetarium
Parkland College has a popular planetarium that is open to the public and hosts shows every
weekend in February! Have fun stargazing with your loved one without the bitter cold.
Local Option:
2400 W Bradley Ave, Champaign, IL 61821
(217) 351-2568
https://www.parkland.edu/Audience/Community-Business/ParklandPresents/Planetarium
6. Visit a museum
Exploring art with your significant other can inspire you both. Going to a museum allows you to
learn something new and appreciate the history of art.
Local Option:
Krannert Art Museum
500 E Peabody Dr, Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 333-1861
https://kam.illinois.edu
7. Buy tickets to an event
Go to a show, game, or upcoming event that is happening in your area. This is a good idea for
couples who go on dates frequently since it will be a new experience for both of you.
Local Option:
The Canopy Club
708 S Goodwin Ave, Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 344-2263
https://canopyclub.com
8. Make your own candle
There is something so romantic about a candlelit dinner using candles that you and your partner
made together. If you are in a long-distance relationship, the aroma of burning the candle may
make you feel close to your partner.
Local Option:
Fire doll Studio
110 S Neil St, Champaign, Il 61820
(217) 689-0045
https://www.firedollstudio.com/candle-happy-hour?
fbclid=IwAR0tVZo10lLCqFtszWn8iHi82Yj_-bTr1O9Bj6b8wAEwQ2g28m96XYAsJ3w
9. Make reservations for a classy dinner date
Getting dressed up for one another and eating a delicious meal is always an enjoyable time.
Gentlemen, remember to get flowers for your love and open every door to make the night feel
extra special. Another romantic tip to having a successful night is to order dessert even if it is
to-go!
Local Options:
Saturday wine tasting at Sunsinger
1115 Windsor Rd, Champaign, IL 61821
(217) 351-1115
https://www.sunsingerwines.com/saturday-tastings
Silvercreek
402 N Race St, Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 328-3402
https://www.silvercreekrestaurant.com
10. Get a couples massage
Decompressing with one another will put you both in a relaxed state and allow you to bond with
one another in a unique way.
Local Option:
Zen River Spa
206 N Randolph St Ste 100, Champaign, IL 61820
(765) 505-7114
Relax and Rejuvenate with our Massage Therapy Services (zenrivercu.com)
These ideas above can even be combined with one another to make your special day even more
exciting! Remember, the best way to spend a Valentine’s weekend is to do whatever feels special
for you and your partner.
