Let’s Keep the Love Alive in Houston with these 20 Romantic Date Ideas
- Catch the Sunset at Twilight Epiphany Skyspace
- Solve Puzzles at The Escape Game Houston
- Be Artsy at Painting with a Twist
- Learn a New Recipe with Sur La Table
- Experience Blind Tasting at Dining In The Dark Experience
- Watch a Movie at Miller Outdoor Theater
- Hit the Target at Houston Axe Throwing
- Get a Massage at Trellis Spa
- Attend a Candlelight Concert with Fever
- Zipline at Texas Treeventures
- Cool off at Big Rivers Waterpark
- Appreciate Art at the Museum of Fine Arts
- Bike along Buffalo Bayou Park
- Tour the Underground Cistern
- Staycation at the Blossom Hotel Houston
- Hike at the Houston Botanic Garden
- Wine and Dine at MARCH
- Kayak at Buffalo Bayor Waterway
- Horseback Riding at Cypress Trails Ranch
- Ride the Ferris Wheel at Kemah Boardwalk
Is it just me, or do you feel like your date nights have become a never-ending cycle of dining out at restaurants? Well, if you feel a bit pressured to escape the predictability, I’ve got you covered!
Made especially for the partners out there who are always teased for not keeping the sparks flying, Houston has lots of romantic date ideas that will turn you to the love birds you once were.
Get ready to impress and be the best partner ever as we check off everything on our list of romantic date ideas that will leave you swooning in the heart of the city.
1. Catch the Sunset at Twilight Epiphany Skyspace
Media credit: @ericalba
Website: https://moody.rice.edu/james-turrell-twilight-epiphany-skyspace
Address: Suzanne Deal Booth Centennial Pavilion, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Contact details: +1 713-348-2787
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Couples can have a simple date by walking along the Rice University campus before catching the sunset at Twilight Epiphany Skyspace by James Turrell.
This place is great for those who appreciate art and architecture. With its sleek and futuristic design, you’ll enjoy watching the day transition into the night.
At Twilight Epiphany Skyspace, you’ll see wonders about human perception through LED projections on the structure’s ceiling and roof aperture during dusk. You can also maximize the space to sit and meditate while enjoying the golden time.
Additionally, this sunset spot is famous among wedding photographers, allowing them to capture great shots of couples before their big day.
| Pro tip: Twilight Epiphany Skyspace can be a relaxing place but it can also be full of mosquitoes, especially during sunset. Make sure to put insect repellant to protect yourself from mosquito bites. |
2. Solve Puzzles at The Escape Game Houston
Media credit: @greatbiggameshow @theescapegame
Website: https://theescapegame.com/houston/
Address: 794 Sorella Ct #127, Houston, TX 77024, United States
Contact details: +1 713-999-1496
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
The Escape Game Houston can offer couples an exciting romantic date experience, letting them put their problem-solving skills to the test, great for those who love challenges and teamwork.
Upon entering, you’ll appreciate the design of the rooms and puzzles, allowing you to be in the zone right away. Moreover, you and your boo can choose from the different escape rooms inside where you’ll strategize your escape in under 60 minutes.
What’s great about The Escape Game Houston is that their escape rooms (escape rooms houston) can accommodate all skill levels. Some of the escape rooms you’ll see here are Cosmic Crisis, Prison Break, and The Heights.
| Pro tip: Prison Break is one of the most favorite escape rooms in The Escape Game Houston. If you wish to play in this room, make sure to book it ahead to secure a spot. |
3. Be Artsy at Painting with a Twist
Media credit: @paintingwithatwist
Website: https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/houston/
Address: 10001 Westheimer Rd Ste 1110, Houston, TX 77042, United States
Contact details: +1 713-609-9509
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
For those of you who want to showcase your creativity during a romantic date, you can spend time at Painting with a Twist. Here, you’ll surely get to “paint your heart out” with your significant other.
The staff at Painting with a Twist will hand you two outlined canvases, allowing you to paint them as you please. No need to worry if you’re a newbie, aside from the guided canvas you’ll get, their artists roam around the room to help you.
You can also catch some romantic themes such as Love Trees at Night if you plan to visit during their weekly ‘Date Night’ schedule.
Meanwhile, don’t forget to bring your own drinks so you can enjoy your artsy date with a glass of wine on the side.
| Pro tips: Consider bringing a small cooler with you if you need to put ice on your drinks as they only provide ice for chilling, not serving. While aprons are provided, it’s still best to avoid wearing whites or your favorite clothes. |
4. Learn a New Recipe with Sur La Table
Media credit: @surlatable
Website: https://www.surlatable.com/
Address: 1996 W Gray St, Houston, TX 77019, United States
Contact details: +1 713-533-0400
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
For couples who love spending time in the kitchen or those who want to encourage their significant other to try their luck in prepping meals, then Sur La Table can provide a great romantic date for you.
Forget about what you watch on television, the chefs at Sur La Table aren’t intimidating at all! They’ll prepare you before you begin your cooking class and keep you engaged with lots of stories!
You’ll also love that the people at Sur La Table will advise you where to buy ingredients, and offer you discounts on kitchen tools and equipment, helping you continue your cooking journey at home.
| Pro tip: If you want to have a semi-private cooking class, consider booking the 4pm slot on a weekday, which is normally their low-peak schedule. |
5. Experience Blind Tasting at Dining In The Dark Experience
Media credit: @dininginthedarkexperience
Website: https://dininginthedarkexperience.com/houston/
Address: 927 Studewood St #100, Houston, TX 77008, United States
Contact details: +1 713-533-0400
Operating Hours: Thursday: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Dining in the Dark Experience allows you to enjoy a three-course meal while you’re both blindfolded for about 120 minutes.
It’s probably a win-win night—you don’t get to be too self-conscious, but at the same time have a satisfying dinner that enhances your sense of taste and smell.
You’ll also get a chance to spark more conversations since you’re both unaware of the surroundings, including what’s being served.
If you want to be more intimate, you can also book a private blackout dinner. This setting is recommended for couples who also have certain dietary needs.
| Pro tip: Consider wearing black or any dark-colored clothing to conceal any drips. This allows you to be less conscious about your outfit while enjoying your meal in the dark. |
6. Watch a Movie at Miller Outdoor Theater
Media credit: @hougrandopera
Website: http://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/
Address: 6000 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Contact details: +1 832-487-7102
If you love catching flicks with your partner, you can opt to watch a movie outdoors at Miller Outdoor Theater. All you need to bring is your own camping chairs or blankets, secure a cozy spot, and enjoy the movie.
They even have separate areas for those on camping chairs and blankets, ensuring everyone gets a great view of the screen.
Since there are limited food stalls in the area, don’t forget to bring your popcorn as well.
And for those of you who want booze, make sure to have a small cooler to keep your drinks cold.
| Pro tip: Consider visiting Miller Outdoor Theater during summer as you can watch movies here for free. Bringing a handheld fan is also ideal as it can be hot, even at night. |
7. Hit the Target at Houston Axe Throwing
Media credit: @houstonaxethrowing
Website: http://www.houstonaxe.com/
Address: 6734 Larkwood Dr STE B, Houston, TX 77074, United States
Contact details: +1 832-930-2937
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM; Friday: 2:00 PM -10:30 PM; Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:30 PM
For a more competitive but romantic date night, you can try hitting the bullseye at Houston Axe Throwing.
Don’t worry if you don’t have any experience, Houston Axe Throwing will provide safety and technique training before you begin your 50-minute self-guided session.
If you ever need further assistance, their expert guides are just roaming around the area, allowing you to locate and ask for help easily.
Additionally, if you’re still waiting for your turn on axe-throwing (axe throwing houston), you can enjoy other games to play such as Jenga and Connect 4. You’ll also find a bar that sells some snacks and beer, allowing you to recharge before your next session!
| Pro tip: We suggest making sure to wear closed-toe shoes for extra safety! |
8. Get a Massage at Trellis Spa
Website: https://www.trellisspa.com/
Address: 111 N Post Oak Ln, Houston, TX 77024, United States
Contact details: +1 713-685-6790
Operating Hours: Sunday – Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Thursday – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
For couples who need to take a break and disconnect from the hustle and bustle, you can plan a romantic date and book a massage at Trellis Spa.
Here, you can enjoy a luxurious spa experience in a European villa-inspired space, surrounded by lush greens. After a relaxing spa, you can continue your romantic date while relaxing in their plunge pools or garden area.
There’s also a quiet spot where you can take a nap together. And if you feel hungry after that good massage, you can also dine in their treetop restaurant, complete with a scenic view, and healthy dishes.
| Pro tip: At Trellis Spa, maximize their quiet zone by reading your favorite books with your partner. |
9. Attend a Candlelight Concert with Fever
Media credit: @candlelight.concerts
Website: https://feverup.com/en/houston/candlelight
Another intimate romantic date idea that you should add to your list is a candlelight concert experience through Fever. Imagine being inside a concert venue filled with thousands of candles, while listening to some great music.
You can choose from various genres such as classical music, jazz, or pop. Fever also provides candlelight concerts based on famous movie soundtracks, and tracks from different eras like the 80s and 90s.
| Pro tips: Make sure to be at the venue 60 minutes before the candlelight concert starts. Latecomers won’t be allowed to enter once the show has started. If the show has 2 showtimes, consider choosing the first one as it often means easier parking and less traffic when arriving and leaving the venue. |
10. Zipline at Texas Treeventures
Media credit: @txtreeventures
Website: https://texastreeventures.com/
Address: 6464 Creekside Forest Dr, The Woodlands, TX 77389, United States
Contact details: +1 281-210-2048
Operating Hours: Thursday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Texas Treeventures has also been one of the go-to romantic date ideas among Houstonian couples. If you’re down to some physical challenge, then the zipline should be on top of your list.
You can choose from various zip lines, rope courses, and climbing sections situated among the trees.
No need to worry about safety, the staff at Texas Treeventures take their time in explaining the use of each piece of equipment. They will also conduct some safety briefings before you enter the course.
| Pro tip: If you forgot to bring your own gloves, Texas Treeventures sells them onsite. We recommend buying a pair as these will help you get a good grip while you tackle some adventure courses. |
11. Cool off at Big Rivers Waterpark
Media credit: @bigriverswaterpark
Website: http://bigriverswaterpark.com/
Address: 23101 TX-242, New Caney, TX 77357, United States
Contact details: +1 832-509-1556
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
If you’re searching for where you can enjoy more ziplines and rope courses then you should head over to Big Rivers Waterpark. What’s more, you can cool off on the wet rides too!
If you want to swim, there’s a huge wave pool, but if you just want to take a quick dip and relax, you can soak up the sun under the parasols.
Meanwhile, if you need to grab some snacks and drinks, there are snack bars and sit-down restaurants that you can choose from in the theme park.
| Pro tips: If you prefer a ride that offers the biggest drop at Big Rivers Waterpark, make sure to line up at the green slide. While you can’t bring your own water inside, you can still have a water bottle with you as there are several water refilling stations inside Big Rivers Waterpark. |
12. Appreciate Art at the Museum of Fine Arts
Media credit: @mfahouston
Website: https://www.mfah.org/
Address: 1001 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005, United States
Contact details: +1 713-639-7300
Operating Hours: Thursday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sunday: 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM
For the art lovers out there, make sure you add the Museum of Fine Arts to your romantic date list. The Museum of Fine Arts has over 70,000 art pieces from various regions and periods.
You can appreciate ancient artifacts and even see European masterpieces including pieces by renowned artists like van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso.
If you and your significant other are interested in thematic exhibitions, you’re lucky that the Museum of Fine Arts hosts several exhibitions that often feature one-of-a-kind and exclusive art.
You can also drop by the Cullen Sculpture Garden at the Museum of Fine Arts if you want to check out modern and contemporary sculptures along the lush greenery.
| Pro tips: If you’re interested in contemporary art, you can head over to the Museum of Fine Arts’ Kinder Building. Take advantage of the Museum of Fine Arts free admission on Thursdays! |
13. Bike along Buffalo Bayou Park
Media credit: @buffalobayou
Website: https://buffalobayou.org/
Address: Shepherd Drive to Sabine Street between Allen Parkway and, Memorial Dr, Houston, TX, United States
Contact details: +1 713-752-0314 ext. 301
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM
If cycling is your thing, biking along Buffalo Bayou Park is an ideal romantic date for you and your partner. The well-maintained bike trail is mostly flat, making it accessible to casual cyclists visiting the area.
Moreover, Buffalo Bayou Park also has an amazing view of the Houston skyline, allowing you and your partner to have a picture-perfect backdrop during your date.
And if you ever need to take a break, you’ll find various picnic areas and lawns, where you can also get a great view of the Houston skyline.
| Pro tip: If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one out through Houston BCycle, the city’s bike-sharing program. You can find multiple BCycle stations inside Buffalo Bayou Park. |
14. Tour the Underground Cistern
Media credit: @buffalobayou @thecistern
Website: https://buffalobayou.org/location/the-cistern/
Address: 105-B Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007, United States
Contact details: +1 713-752-0314
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
You and your significant other can also have a one-of-a-kind date by touring the Underground Cistern, a former water reservoir in Buffalo Bayou Park built in 1926 and repurposed as a public space.
You’ll appreciate the low lighting and the echoes inside the venue, inviting you and your partner to share an intimate or quiet conversation during your trip.
You can also check out different art installations and exhibitions, and enjoy the space’s unique visual elements and acoustics.
| Pro tip: Consider trying out Underground Cistern’s sound healing meditation sessions on weekends. It’s a great way for you and your partner to connect on a deeper level. |
15. Staycation at the Blossom Hotel Houston
Media credit: @blossomhotelhouston
Website: https://www.blossomhouston.com/
Address: 7118 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030, United States
Contact details: +1 832-734-8888
If you can’t go too far but prefer a different setting for a romantic date, then you can avail a cozy and minimalist room at Blossom Hotel Houston. And if you’re a fur parent, you’ll be glad to know that you can bring your pets to this cool hotel!
If you need to grab some food, you can visit their Japanese restaurant and dessert bar. Here, you can also buy some craft cocktails to cap off the night.
And don’t limit your evening to the hotel either! You can take advantage of Blossom Hotel Houston’s Mercedez-Benz shuttle service!
| Pro tip: If you prefer a floor-to-ceiling window, consider booking the King Suite to enjoy the city view and starry skies even while laying down on your bed. |
16. Hike at the Houston Botanic Garden
Media credit: @houstonbotanic
Website: https://hbg.org/
Address: 1 Botanic Lane, Houston, TX 77017, United States
Contact details: +1 713-715-9675
Operating Hours: Sunday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
If you and your partner prefer to hike while appreciating diverse plant life, then you can enjoy various flora from across the globe at Houston Botanic Garden.
You can enjoy different zones where you can learn about different plant types and ecosystems.
You can also learn more about the park, plants, and trees at Houston Botanic Garden by checking out the interactive displays and signages placed throughout the grounds.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss out on Houston Botanic Garden’s themed gardens such as the Global Collection Garden and Culinary Garden. |
17. Wine and Dine at MARCH
Media credit: @marchhtx
Website: https://www.marchrestaurant.com/
Address: 1624 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006, United States
Contact details: +1 832-380-2481
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
If you want to plan a fine-dining romantic date with your partner then MARCH is a great choice for you. Here, you can indulge in an upscale Mediterranean tasting menu.
You can also choose from their 11,000-bottle wine cellar. Even better, the staff can assist you in finding the best drink for you, depending on your preference.
MARCH also prepares a parting gift bag, which includes some lovely keepsakes such as chocolates and herbal teas, so that you and your partner have a reminder of your date.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of the complimentary valet, so you can maximize your time and enjoy your reservation right away. |
18. Kayak at Buffalo Bayor Waterway
Media credit: @buffalobayou
Website: https://buffalobayou.org/
Address: 105B Sabine Street between Allen Parkway and, Memorial Dr, Houston, TX, United States
Contact details: +1 713-752-0314 ext. 301
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sunday: 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM
If you want to do some cardio while having the Houston skyline as your backdrop, then kayaking at the Buffalo Bayou Waterway is a great romantic date idea for you.
Here, you can paddle under bridges and even pass by Houston’s beautiful park. You can even get on a kayak tour, where you and your partner can learn about the landmarks such as the Waugh Drive Bat Colony.
| Pro tip: To make your kayak date more romantic, consider paddling either at sunrise or sunset. Aside from the ambiance, there are also less people during these times. |
19. Horseback Riding at Cypress Trails Ranch
Media credit: @cypresstrailstx
Website: http://cypresstrailsranch.com/
Address: 21415 Cypresswood Dr, Humble, TX 77338, United States
Contact details: +1 281-446-7232
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
For those who want to experience some horseback riding while being surrounded by woods and waterways, then you should set a trip to Cypress Trails Ranch.
First time riding a horse? Don’t worry as Cypress Trails Ranch offers horseback riding introductory lessons on guided trail rides.
If you and your partner are seasoned riders, you’ll find challenging trails inside Cypress Trails Ranch, where you’re allowed to go at a faster pace.
| Pro tip: If you want a longer horseback riding experience, you can sign up for their half-day or full-day excursions! |
20. Ride the Ferris Wheel at Kemah Boardwalk
Media credit: @kemahboardwalk
Website: http://www.kemahboardwalk.com/
Address: 215 Kipp Ave, Kemah, TX 77565, United States
Contact details: +1 281-535-8100
Operating Hours: Sunday – Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Thursday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
You and your partner can feel like kids all over again at Kemah Boardwalk. Here, you can ride the Ferris wheel, and enjoy other amusement park rides available in the area.
Feel nostalgic as you get on some classic rides like the roller coaster. You can also ride the heart-pounding tower drop to get things more exciting.
Meanwhile, if you feel hungry after a few hours of fun, there are restaurants and bars inside this 42-acre megaplex, allowing you to replenish that energy before driving back home.
| Pro tip: Kemah Boardwalk has great views of the sunset. Consider riding the Ferris wheel during this time to get amazing views of the sky as the sun sets. |
