Valparaiso is a city in Northwest Indiana, known for its outdoor recreation and vibrant downtown arts district. It has a diverse range of activities, from beaches, parks and historic sites for day trips, to thrilling adventures, to a nightlife full of live music and entertainment. Whether you are looking for a romantic walk or a lively evening, Valparaiso has it all.
1. Valparaiso parks and places for a walk on a first date
The city of Valparaiso has numerous parks and nature reserves, offering plenty of opportunities to take a romantic stroll and discover the beauty of the great outdoors. The Central Park Plaza Town Square is a beautiful green area with a great atmosphere, perfect for a stroll with your date. The Ivy Tech Walking Trail is another great option, following through the campus of Ivy Tech Community College. Then there is the Valpo Parks and Recreation Department’s numerous parks, offering lovely landscapes and peaceful views of nature.
2. Places for a coffee date in Valparaiso
What better way to get to know someone then over a nice cup of coffee? Café Julian is a great coffee shop, with delicious fresh roasted coffee, pastries and sandwiches. The Rollin Dough Café is another popular spot to grab a coffee, serving delicious baked goods and espresso drinks.
3. Valparaiso galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Valparaiso has plenty of galleries and museums that make for a great first date. The Porter County Museum is one of the city’s most popular attractions, with collections of fine art, historical artifacts, and exhibitions on the city’s history and culture. The Brauer Museum of Art at Valparaiso University is another great spot to visit, offering a range of contemporary and period artworks. The Taltree Arboretum & Gardens also makes for a lovely date, with its 330 acres of diverse plants and wildlife.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Valparaiso
Valparaiso has a lively night life, with plenty of live music and entertainment to choose from. The Memorial Opera House offers an eclectic range of music, from classical to rock. The Central Park Plaza regularly hosts outdoor concerts, with a variety of genres from jazz to country. You can also head to the local pubs and bars for drinks, as well as enjoying a few songs from the live bands performing in the evenings.
5. Valparaiso pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Valparaiso’s downtown area is full of great pubs, bars and restaurants. The Lantern Tavern is a great spot for drinks, as well as some delicious pub food. The Union Station Bar is another great spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat. The LaCantina Restaurant and Bar is a nice spot for a meal, offering Mexican and Italian dishes.
6. Other date ideas to try in Valparaiso
Valparaiso has plenty of other activities to try on a first date. The Valparaiso U-Pick Farm is great for nature lovers, offering a range of fruit and vegetables to pick and take home. The Valparaiso Family Aquatic Center is a great place for a fun day out, with its slides, wave pools and concessions. If you're feeling adventurous, then you can head to the Valparaiso Adventure Park, which features zip lines, an obstacle course and more.
