Boone is a town located in Story County, Iowa. This small city of about 20,000 people is historically significant, being the birthplace of the Iowa Women's Suffrage Movement. Despite its small size, more than 900 businesses call Boone home and it is a center for education, thanks to the Iowa State and the Des Moines Area Community College campuses located there.
1. Boone parks and places for a walk on a first date
Boone has a number of parks and natural areas where couples can go for a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike. The Middle River Greenway is a 7.5 mile long trail system that runs through city neighborhoods and along the Des Moines River. Ledges State Park and Cooper's/Garrigus/Quail Ridge Park offer more scenic views, with plenty of trails for hiking, biking and walking. These parks also have picnic areas and shelters for those who'd like to add a lunch or dinner date to their walk.
2. Places for a coffee date in Boone
If a couple wants to start their first date with a cup of coffee, Boone has several places they can consider. The Boone Coffee & Espresso Bar is a local favorite whose baristas serve up locally roasted coffee and espresso drinks in the historic downtown area. They also have an array of baked goods and snacks to accompany those drinks. The Honey Creek Farmstead Coffee Company is another popular spot, offering handcrafted drinks in an old farmstead setting.
3. Boone galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Boone has several galleries and museums where a couple can explore and admire artwork or learn more about the history of the town. The Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum takes visitors on a nine mile ride through the Des Moines River Valley and offers views of the historical bridges, tunnels, and cliff faces along the way. The Boone County Historical Center is located in the old courthouse building, and features interactive exhibits and artifacts from Boone's past. The Youth Arts Gallery showcases artwork from grade school through high school students from the Boone area.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Boone
If a couple wants to add some live entertainment to their date, Boone has plenty of options. The Boone Music & Entertainment District has numerous venues hosting live music and shows throughout the year. The Boone County Fairgrounds also has a permanent entertainment stage, and hosts the county fair in the summer. The Boone Theater is a popular spot for art films and independent productions.
5. Boone pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
There are also several pubs, bars, and restaurants in Boone where a couple can enjoy a drink or meal together on their first date. The Honey Creek Tap is popular local spot for craft beers and pub-style food. The Dirty Hippie is a live music venue and bar that also serves up burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The Boone Country Club Steakhouse & Sports Bar has several TVs for sports fans and a menu featuring prime rib, seafood, and other American classics.
6. Other date ideas to try in Boone
Boone also offers other types of date ideas, such as mini golf at The Lumberyard, bike rides through the Middle River Greenway, boat rides on the Des Moines River, or just relaxing in one of its parks. A couple can also take in a show at the Boone Community Theatre, explore the grounds of the Mamie Doud Eisenhower Birthplace, or take a stroll down the historic Main Street lined with specialty stores and antique shops. There is also plenty of shopping to be had at the Boone Mall, which has a variety of stores and restaurants.
