Sweet photography clients of mine on the oldtown walking mall
It's DATE NIGHT!
Whoop whoop! If you're anything like me, it's probably way overdue, but the struggle is real when it comes to finding a trusted, dependable sitter for a date night. Not to mention the costs, planning and vetting involved in both the date activity itself AND in paying for childcare. But let's be real, we all need time to reconnect with our spouses and significant others one-on-one. And as much as we love our kids, we also realize that it's good for us and for them when we model prioritizing a positive, healthy bonding time as their parents.
That doesn't mean it's easy, though, and sometimes it's downright difficult. When we go on a kid-free date, we tend to make it a big deal because it's not an everyday opportunity. There's gettin' fancy, finding and remembering to take cash out for the sitter, tidying the house, making sure dinner is planned for the kiddos, writing down emergency contacts, bedtime routines explained and making sure all the other bases covered... it's a lot.
Sadly, I can't help you with most of it, but I can make your life just a little easier in listing my top local recommendations for a fun date night! For reference, these date night ideas are local to or within easy driving distance of Winchester, VA. Some are nearby areas, but I'll include the location for each so you can evaluate the best options for you based on your specific location, as well as include a link to their website when possible (click the title for each link).
A Night at the Rink
This Skating rink is a place I went somewhat regularly as a kid and would like to go back to more as an adult--sans toddlers of course. Skating with 1 and 2 year olds isn't my general idea of a good time, but that's just me. But for a date night? YES?!
I've linked to a Winchester skating rink above, but there's also Mac's Roller Rink off route 522 South/Front Royal Pike which could potentially be more convenient depending on your location.
Northside Bowling
Another place I have enjoyed both as a kid and as an adult. If bowling is for you, Northside has you covered!
Enjoy yummy concession-style food and a night of bowling without the kids OR the bumpers (or maybe with, no judgement here) at Northside Lanes, located right in town.
Drive-In Theater
This is technically out past Stephens City toward Middletown (not far at all from Winc.), but it's worth a few extra minutes of drive time if you can afford the time away. Snuggle up under the stars for a relaxing evening at our local drive-in for a unique and fun movie theater experience. If you'd rather a traditional indoor theater in Winchester, both the Apple Blossom Mall and the Alamo theaters in are great options also.
Oldtown Walking Mall
Will there ever be a List for Locals that does NOT include the Oldtown Walking mall? Probably not. It's just so versatile and family friendly! We go pretty regularly as a family, especially on nice days. Do you like antiques? Check out The Blue Peacock. Coffee drinker? The Espresso Bar has you covered. Sushi? Awabi is my husband's favorite!
Dine lakeside at Regions 117
Region's 117 is known for being a beautiful spot for date night dining. You can dine indoors or out and enjoy a beautiful view of Lake Frederick. It's paired especially well with the next recommendation on my list, and a quick drive from town.
Boating on lake frederick
Lake Frederick is peaceful and serene. Eat at Regions 117, pack a picnic, take a boat out on the lake, and relish the beautiful, intoxicating, kid-free... quiet. And enjoy time with your date too. ;)
Hike to Bear's den
Outdoorsy folks? The hike to Bear's Den is a local fave. It's one of the first things my now husband and I did when he first visited me! The parking area for the trail entrance is located off of Rt. 7. See above link for details!
It's not a super intense hike, but you will want good shoes and bottled water. Plus a snack if you're anything like me.
Visit a local Winery
I had to request backup for this one, because--I confess--I've never been a legit wine drinker. If that means I'm uncultured I suppose I'll have to own it. Nonetheless, my wine-loving friend had this to say about her top choice in a local winery:
"For a date night and a well rounded experience. Barrel oak. They have wine. They have beer. They are kid and dog friendly. They encourage outside food, have picnic tables and fire pits, live music often, and they also have their own wood fire pizza and a deli for a a good charcuterie board. Wine is good I can’t complain and the atmosphere is fun. Great views as well."
I might have to rethink the wine and try it out anyway with a review like that... It's 30 minutes from town in Delaplane, VA.
Picnic at Blandy
This spot off of route 50 is a top location for photographers like me for a reason. It's beautiful and massive, quiet, open nearly every single day of the year, and there's no fee for entry. It's perfect for a quiet walk and a picnic away from all the busyness of life. Also they have bathrooms by the main building. You're welcome.
AXE throwing
I'll admit, I've not done this. But I know a lot of my friends enjoy it. This is located right on the oldtown walking mall and who knows, it might be therapeutic (please see my humor here and don't judge me)?
Throw some axes and drink a beer at the Union Jack for a fun and unique date night.
Tour the MSV Museum and gardens
Interested in learning about the local Shenandoah Valley history? How about touring some of our area's most beautiful gardens? The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley offers both a great local museum and large gardens worth the entry fee.
My husband proposed to me in the MSV gardens, so it's an extra special and romantic location to us. But it's also just incredibly beautiful in its own right! Located right in town.
play Miniature golf at Appleland sports center
Another family favorite--but also a fun date night option. In addition to the miniature golf they also have a driving range.
This is technically in Stephen's City. Check it out!
Go on a trail ride
Another one for the especially adventurous couple! I've linked here to Rockin' S Ranch. While I've been on trail rides with different local ranches/farms, this was my favorite trail riding experience of the three I've been to.
It's a 30 minute drive.
Visit a Local Farm
West Oaks won my vote for date night farm recommendation because they often have live music and serve food as well.
Pick-your-own fruits and flowers are frequently available throughout the summer and fall months, so check out their website for some seasonal fun!
Take him out to the ballgame
It's timeless. It's classic. It's good-old-fashioned fun!
If baseball season is in, why not take a trip to the ballfield for a night of cheering on the Winchester Royals! See their schedule on the website linked above.
Get Crafty at the polka Dot Pot
The Polka Dot Pot is a fun and crafty hangout for kids and adults alike! They offer pottery painting and other fun crafty things for the creative types (and those who love them) to enjoy.
Located right in town!
Escape Room Adventure
I thought I was done, but remembered this one and realized I had to include it. While (hangs head in shame) I have not been here, I do have friends and family that have gone multiple times! If the idea of being trapped in an escape room appeals to you, you may be strange, but there's a place in this world for you, too. Behind a locked door. Just kidding, they do let you out if you can't figure it out. Right? Right?
Let's Go fishing!
I'm not sure which place to link here. Jim Barnett in Winchester, Clearbrook in Cleabrook, VA, and Sherando Park in Stephen's City as well as Lake Frederick are popular fishing spots around here. Don't forget your fishing license! For a bit of a more remote location, Elizabeth Furnace/Passage Creek in the George Washington National Forest is great also, and you can swim there if you'd like. Be prepared for no cel signal!
Walmart carries them, as well as bait and gear. Have fun!
Woodstock tower hike
Another I almost forgot, but adore. It's sort of a hidden gem, and a bit of a drive (45 mins. for me). But it's free, and the views from this tower are incredible! Follow the link above to see a video. It's breathtaking up there.
A romantic Photoshoot
I got to the end of this list and truly, I didn't originally intend to include this. But then I thought--why not? I'm a family photographer, and that includes couples also!
If you've not gotten photos together since your engagement shoot (or ever), it's probably time. Why not make a date of it and do a fun activity like boating, fishing, or even a simple ice cream date while you're at it? Your session can be as unique as you are, and reflect your interests as a couple. Grab a thrift shop outfit and do something crazy, or head to a local farm and pick apples together. Photoshoots can be FUN and you'll have the memories captured in the process.
Have a recommendation for this list?
No one paid me to be listed or linked here. These are just my personal recommendations as someone that grew up here, and I hope for it to be an ever-growing and up-to-date (no pun intended) local resource. That being said, if I forgot a business or location that you LOVE and recommend, please let me know! Not only would I like to include it but if it's somewhere I've never been I want to try it out too!
Never stop dating your spouse, friends. <3
