Kids, this is the story of how I met your mother, and it was all thanks to SACtoday.
OK, so maybe that’s not exactly how the 2000s sitcom went, but if Ted Mosby had consulted us for date night ideas, we could’ve shaved the show down to two seasons (and saved his kids a lot of time). Regardless, whether you’ve met “the one” or are hoping to impress someone new, we’ve got 20+ local date night ideas that are legen — wait for it — dary.
For the ones who want a night out on the town
Grab a drink at one of Sacramento’s rooftop bars, then catch a live show nearby at one of our city’s amazing venues. Pro tip: Grab a drink at Harlow’s before enjoying a show — there is so much variety here.
If you’re a bit of a craft cocktail connoisseur, pay a visit to some of the best and friendliest “boozy chemists” in town. They’ll be sure to shake up your evening with something exciting.
Ya like jazz? Every Tuesday is jazz night at The Butterscotch Den, and best of all, you can get some fresh steaks smothered in house-made steak seasoning along with your drink of choice.
If you’re so comfortable with your date that words aren’t totally necessary, head to the historic Crest Theatre for a movie night, and maybe grab a bite at Empress Tavern beforehand.
If the way to their heart is through their stomach
Take a DIY approach with a cooking class at Napoli Culinary Academy — prepare dishes from across the globe + bring home some tips and tricks for your next cozy night in.
If something sweet is more your style, try a guided baking workshop with Justine + Candice at Sugar Sweetery.
Depending on your date’s diet, take them to a veggie-friendly restaurant or get on that pescatarian wave with one of Sacramento’s best sushi spots.
If you love the great outdoors
Beat the heat on a toasty day at a swimming hole near Sac, or take a hike at local accessible trails. Hit the Sacramento Waterfront Trail — the sunsets here are epic.
Have a pup that wants to join in on the fun? Take your furry friend along to a local dog park, and bond with your date over all the adorable pets.
Touch grass at east Sacramento’s McKinley Park where you can enjoy basketball and tennis courts, a jogging trail, and the Garden and Arts Center. Pro tip: Pack a picnic — there are lots of spots for a romantic dining set-up.
Take a peaceful stroll through the gorgeous grounds at the California State Capitol Park World Peace Rose Garden. It boasts ~650 roses and major Victorian vibes.
While the wildlife is abloom, take a walk through Sacramento and try to identify as many native plants as possible — loser has to pay for some scoops at a local ice cream shop.
Sugar Sweetery hosts regular classes and workshops teaching how to make adorable baked goods like these.
Photo by Sugar Sweetery
For the ones who like to play games (just not with your heart)
Have a blast in the past at Coin-Op Game Room, where you can play a variety of retro arcade games. Pro tip: Every last Sunday of the month is free play, all day.
Check out a local trivia night, sip on a beer, and feign nonchalance while you try to conceal that mean competitive streak.
Tee it up at one of the golf courses in town — we recommend choosing from the mini putt variety to keep things fun and simple.
If you want to get creative
Spend a day at a local museum, and don’t bypass the gift shop. Pick up a little trinket as a memento for your date if you really want to impress them.
Find a farmers market near you to explore — it’s truly a one-stop-shop for food, crafts, art, clothes, drinks, and more.
Set out to discover the many murals of downtown Sacramento. We can get you started with seven of our faves and where to find them.
Hit the bullseye on your date by throwing a few axes at Wise Axe — single-throwing sessions last one hour, which is just enough time to look super cool.
If you’re really hoping that it works out
Find your zen together with a local yoga class, like hot yoga Natomas Yoga Studio. Even if you’re a tiny bit sweaty, you still look great.
Get physical — take boxing, Muay Thai, or jiu-jitsu classes at Urijah Faber’s Ultimate Fitness.
Try a rock climbing class or free fall (isn’t that what love is all about, after all?) at Quarry Park Adventures in Rocklin.
If you wanna show off by knowing all the hottest events in town
Shameless plug: Sign up for our weekly newsletter, where we call out our top picks of things to do around town. Your date doesn’t have to know we’re behind it, you can take all the credit.
Stay up-to-date on the coolest local events around Sacramento with our events page (and check out this guide for our tips on navigating the page).
What did we miss? If you know a perfect date spot that’s not on the list, guide us in the right direction.
