Belle Rive is a small town located in Randolph County in southwestern Illinois. It lies in the Shawnee National Forest and is a popular spot for outdoor activities, especially during the summer. It is a quiet, rural community with a lot to offer for the nature lovers. From its many hiking trails, fishing spots, and other outdoor recreation areas, to the quaint, small-town atmosphere, Belle Rive is an ideal spot for a date.
1. Belle Rive Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
For outdoor lovers, Belle Rive has many parks and places to take a stroll. The Chapel Hill Nature Preserve is a quiet, peaceful 100-acre nature preserve with scenic trails and ponds, perfect for a romantic walk. The Lake Of The Four Seasons is a man-made lake with a beach and picnic areas, perfect for a summer date. Belle Rive Park is also a great place to walk, with a playground, a basketball court, and a baseball field. Other great spots include the Belle Rive Hiking Trail, the Cedar Knob Nature Preserve, and the Twin Bridge Nature Preserve.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Belle Rive
If you’re looking for an afternoon or evening coffee date in Belle Rive, there are a few places to choose from. The Belle Rive Café is a great spot to grab a cup of coffee and chat with your date. The café is cozy and has a variety of drinks and snacks to choose from. Another spot to get coffee is the Java Hut, which serves organic coffee and tea in a friendly atmosphere. Finally, the Coffee & Tea Emporium offers a unique selection of coffee and tea blends, as well as pastries and snacks.
3. Belle Rive Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Belle Rive offers a variety of galleries, museums, and exhibitions to explore on a date. The heart of Belle Rive is the Greenup County Historical Society Museum, which tells the story of the small town since its founding. The Belle Rive Art Gallery is also a great spot to experience art, with rotating exhibitions of contemporary and historic artworks. You can also take a look at the historic architecture and antiques at the Belle Rive Historic Village, a living history museum with a mansion, a small village, and various buildings.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Belle Rive
Belle Rive is also home to various live music venues and entertainment spots. The most popular is the Belle Rive Concert Series, which offers a variety of concerts by local, regional, and national acts in the summer months. You can also check out the comedy nights at the Belle Rive Comedy Club, or the music and art events at the Belle Rive Performance Arts Venue.
5. Belle Rive Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
When it comes to drinks and food, there are plenty of great pubs, bars, and restaurants in Belle Rive. For a romantic dinner, you can visit The Mill, a popular restaurant with a unique menu and fine wines. The Quarter House is a great spot for a casual atmosphere with local beers and menu items inspired by the region. For a more intimate atmosphere, you can try the Tap Room in the basement of the Mill, where you can find craft cocktails and an extensive whiskey selection.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Belle Rive
If you’re looking for something a bit different, Belle Rive also offers a variety of activities. You can take a relaxing canoe ride on the Kaskaskia River, or visit the Shawnee National Forest for some exploration and a picnic. The town also offers bike rentals, so you can take a ride around the area and explore the local scenery. For a more adventurous date, you can also try horseback riding or zip lining.
