Winter Romance: Cool Date Nights in Dayton

By Betsy Shober

When the days grow shorter and the final leaf drops from the tree, many of us struggle to find creative date night activities that work in the winter weather. Maybe you’re in a relationship and looking for a new activity to enjoy together, or maybe you’re searching for an impressive first date idea with that special new someone. Well, good news! You don’t have to look any farther than our own Gem City. There are plenty of options around the Miami Valley where the winter weather won’t stop you from heating up the romance.  

Ice Skating at Riverscape:

RiverscapeMetroPark in Downtown Dayton hosts the area’s largest outdoor skating rink, and the winter season runs from late November through the last day of February. This is a great date night activity, as you & your special someone can skate side by side to the music underneath the tent of twinkling lights, holding hands to keep steady of course. Take a break underneath their outdoor heating areas and share some delicious treats, like hot cocoa from the concession stand. This is also a date night idea that’s easy on the wallet, too, with admission prices at $5/skater and a nominal cost for skate rentals and concession choices. Our judges give this skate date a perfect 10!  

Couples Soldering Night at Proto BuildBar:

If you’re looking for something truly unique, Proto BuildBar’s date night idea hits the mark. With their welcoming atmosphere, delicious coffee bar, and 3D printing machines whirring in the background, sparks are sure to fly during your Couples Soldering Night experience. The package includes a bottle of wine for the two of you to share, a complete kit for soldering a Flashing LED Heart, and one hour of workbench time and guided instruction from one of the Proto Experts. After you complete your masterpiece, check out some of their 3D printed designs, shock each other in a round of the arcade style game “Tesla vs. Edison”, or take turns trying for a prize from The World’s Largest Claw Machine!  A night at Proto Buildbar is sure to be one you won’t soon forget.

ImprovShow at Black Box Theater

Dayton has some great local talent, and the fun and relaxing atmosphere make for a great date night full of laughter. The comedy shows at Black Box Theater range in style from traditional to courtroom comedy to musical improv, and the price is right for this date, as tickets range between $5 and $12 each. While they don’t have concessions in house, it is BYOB, which makes it a great place to bring in some local craft beers. Who knows, maybe the shows will inspire you to sign up for Improv Lessons together – they offer those, too!

Dancing Date at the YMCA

Finally, if you’re looking for ways to have fun in a group setting, you might want to check out one of the Zumba classes offered at your local YMCA. You’re bound to have a good time together as you work away that stress, get a little sweaty, and feel the music. There are a variety of classes and levels, and you can even find unique offerings such as Bollywood Dancing and Line Dancing at a few of the Greater Dayton YMCA locations. 

As you can see, there are plenty of local activities that would make for a fun and creative date nights. Hopefully, these ideas inspire you to find some winter romance with your special someone. You might even develop a new talent, like becoming an amateur ice skater, Improv comedian, or even a Bollywood Dancer!