Athens (
1. Athens parks and places for a walk on a first date
) Athens, Ohio is a small city located in the Appalachian foothills of southeastern Ohio. It is home to many wonderful parks and natural areas perfect for a romantic stroll. Strouds Run State Park is a great option, with its 12 miles of trails, scenic lakefront and picnic areas. If you're looking for something more urban, the Athens Community Trail is a picturesque 3 mile loop along the Hocking River with plenty of spots for a stop and take in the sights. For a stroll through Athens's vibrant downtown area, visit Court Street, where you'll find a number of interesting shops and eateries, and a few historic buildings. (
2. Places for a coffee date in Athens
) Athens has a number of great coffee shops, perfect for a first date. Donkey Coffee is great for a relaxed atmosphere and hand crafted espresso drinks. If you're looking for something a bit more unique Headies Coffee is the place to go, with its artisanal pour-over brews and selection of teas. If you're feeling adventurous, head to Cubs Coffee, for their signature coffee cocktails. If you're looking for a quick cup of joe, Stauf's Coffee is the place to go, where you can grab a cup of the local favorite before heading out on your date. (
3. Athens galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
) Athens is home to several art galleries, museums and exhibitions, perfect for a more culturally inclined first date. For a dose of art, head to The Dairy Barn Arts Center, which features rotating exhibitions and installations from local, regional, and national artists. If you're more interested in history, check out the Ohio University Art Gallery, which includes a number of permanent and special exhibitions, or the Athens County Historical Society and Museum, where you can learn about Athens's rich heritage. (
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Athens
) Athens is a great place to take your date if they're into live music. The city is home to a number of music venues, from more intimate settings to massive concert halls. The Union is great if you're looking for up and coming bands, the Memorial Auditorium is a great spot for larger acts, and the Casa Nueva is the place to go for live Latin music. If you're looking for something more low-key, there are also several bars, restaurants, and cafes that offer live music, such as Jackie O's Pub & Brewery, The Smiling Skull Saloon, and The E.J. Edison Lounge. (
5. Athens pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
) Athens has plenty of bars, pubs, and restaurants to choose from if you're looking for a more laid-back first date. For a casual dinner, head to Jackie O's Pub & Brewery or Nacho's Taqueria y Cantina for some delicious pub fare. For a more upscale option, check out The Athens Room for a romantic dinner in a cozy atmosphere. If you'd like to grab a drink, head to The Pub for a pint of craft beer, or The Union for a more lively atmosphere with live music. (
6. Other date ideas to try in Athens
) For a unique experience, try a date at the Funarium, an indoor play center complete with inflatable slides, bounce houses, and an arcade. If you're looking for something more outdoorsy, take a canoe or kayak trip down the scenic Hocking River. If you're feeling adventurous, head to Tri-State Ziplines & Aerial Adventures for a thrilling zip line tour. For a romantic evening, take your date to a show at the Ohio Valley Summer Theatre, or spend a day at the Wine and Arts Festival, where you can sample some of the best local wines and artwork.
