Located in Las Animas County, Colorado, Olney Springs is a small town of about 1,000 people. This sleepy, picturesque village is nestled on the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains and is surrounded by rolling hills, expansive farmlands, and the immensity of the Great Plains. The town is known for its summertime festivals, offering everything from a chili cook-off to a tractor pull.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
If you and your date are the outdoorsy type, there's plenty to explore in Olney Springs. The town is home to two parks: Olney Springs Park, which offers a playground and a nature trail winding around a quiet pond; and Barbour Lake Park, where you'll find plenty of picnic areas and an easy walking path around the lake. For a longer hike, you can head out to the Tierra Amarilla Recreation Area, where you'll find 30 miles of trails, plus plenty of activities like horseback riding and fishing.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Olney Springs
If you and your date prefer a more low-key affair, you can always stick to something simple like a coffee date. Olney Springs is home to three charming cafes: Bliss Coffee House, a cozy spot with established a local following; 622 Coffee & Tea, a trendy cafe with a great selection of espresso drinks and pastries; and Mongeau's, a European-style cafe with authentic French macarons and artisanal teas.
3. Galleries, Museums, and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
If you'd like to combine a coffee date with some culture, Olney Springs has several galleries, museums, and exhibitions perfect for a first date. The Kuivato Museum of Art showcases a rotating collection of artwork from prominent local artists, as well as specialties like basketry, pottery, and jewelry. Just a few blocks away, the Olney Springs Historical Museum delves into the rich history of the town and its surrounding areas.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To in Olney Springs
If you want to show your date a good time, Olney Springs has plenty of live music and entertainment. Every Wednesday night, the town holds a free summer concert series, featuring everything from Americana to blues to country. If you're looking for something a bit more low-key, check out the Blue Wolf Saloon for live jazz, karaoke, and open mic nights.
5. Pubs, Bars, or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For a dinner or drinks, Olney Springs has plenty of pubs and restaurants that will make your date special. The local watering hole, Nighthawk Tavern is a great spot to kick off the evening with some craft beers and pub-style food. Other spots to consider include the Catfish Cafe for Southern-style eats, the Olney Springs Country Club for a fancy dinner, and the Hootenanny for dinner and a show.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Olney Springs
If you're looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, Olney Springs has plenty of other date ideas to explore. You can take a day trip to the nearby Hot Springs and soak in the natural springs or head to the Picketwire Canyon to explore the rocky landscape and hunt for dinosaur fossils. If you'd like to learn something new, the Rosedale Schoolhouse offers regular classes on the fascinating history of the area. And if you want to end your date on a sweet note, the Main Street Creamery serves up delicious homemade ice cream in rotating flavors.
