Cortez is a small town located in the beautiful Montezuma County of the US state of Colorado. In the southwestern corner of the state, the town is home to about 9,000 people, who cherish the great outdoors and all the activities it offers. From the relaxing lake and rivers surrounding the area, to the nearby mesas and rocky mountain ranges, Cortez is the perfect place to relax and explore with your date.
1. Cortez parks and places for a walk on a first date
For a nature-filled first date, take your date to the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park. With over 10,000 acres of breathtakingly beautiful desert and mountain off-road trails, the park is perfect for some outdoor exploration. Spend some time learning about the various Native American cultural sites in the park as you explore the area. For more peaceful activities, take your date to the Cortez city park, located right on Main Street. Here, you can admire the nearby lake and find the perfect spot for a romantic picnic.
2. Places for a coffee date in Cortez
Grab a cup of joe and catch up with your date at one of the many local coffee spots in Cortez. The aptly named Coffee Trader is a popular choice, known for its variety of delicious drinks and pastries. For something a bit more unique, take your date to the Cortez Cultural Center’s Coffeehouse. Not only do they serve great coffee, but also offer live music and poetry readings.
3. Cortez galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Visit the Cortez Cultural Center to learn more about the town’s rich culture. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits, depicting the town’s age-old traditions and customs. For more art and culture, take your date to one of the galleries located in downtown Cortez. The galleries feature works of fine art, photography, ceramics and more, sure to leave a lasting impression.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Cortez
For a lively date, attend a music performance or festival at the local theater. Every summer, the Cortez Creative Arts Council organizes the Summer Concert in the Park series, with an eclectic lineup of artists from all kinds of genres. The town also hosts a variety of theater and musical shows, ranging from musical theater to contemporary opera.
5. Cortez pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
There are plenty of great places for a drink or a bite to eat in Cortez. At the small-town favorite and local landmark, the Big Shawn’s Bar & Grill, you can choose from a vast selection of drinks and share some of their delicious appetizers. The Oro Redlounge is another great spot, known for its craft beer options and tasty comfort food.
6. Other date ideas to try in Cortez
If you and your date are looking for something more active, try a round of golf at the Conquistador Golf Course. The 8-hole course is well-maintained and perfect for a day out. Or if you’re feeling daring, head over to the Adventure Zipline Tours and challenge each other to a fun zip-line ride through the mountains. No matter what kind of date you choose, Cortez has something for everyone. From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, the town’s many attractions make it the perfect place for a first date.
