Grant Park is a small village in Kankakee County, Illinois, situated about 40 minutes south of Chicago. The village is known for its lush and scenic parks, which are perfect for a romantic first date. Some of the best choices for a romantic walk in Grant Park include the Grant Park Nature Park, a 12-acre preserve nestled in a quiet corner of the village. Here, couples can wander along winding trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature. Other park options include the expansive Miller Park, which offers walking trails, fishing ponds and playgrounds, or Moraine Woods State Park, a gorgeous park with a boardwalk, wildflower meadows and nature trails through dense woods.
1. Places for Coffee Date in Grant Park
If you're looking for a more relaxed coffee date, Grant Park is home to several coffee shops and cafés where couples can sit and chat over a cup of coffee. The Cakery Café is a popular choice, serving an array of freshly baked pastries, cakes and treats alongside specialty coffee drinks. The Local Roast, located in the village center, serves up traditional coffee drinks, as well as smoothies, teas and pastries. People’s Coffee and Tea is another popular option, serving up warm and inviting drinks and snacks. For a more romantic setting, head to the historic Prescott House Café, a cozy café housed in a historic home, with a charming garden patio for alfresco sipping.
2. Grant Park Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
For a more cultural date, Grant Park is home to several museums and galleries. The Kankakee Valley Museum is a great option, offering interactive displays and hands-on exhibits about the local region, along with a variety of rotating exhibitions. For a more contemporary art experience, the Gallery 249 is a great choice. This delightful gallery offers constantly changing displays of works from local and internationally acclaimed artists. For an even more unique experience, the Kankakee Railroad Museum is a great choice. Here, couples can explore fascinating railroad exhibits and get a glimpse into the past of the local area.
3. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite your Date to in Grant Park
For an evening of live music and entertainment, Grant Park is home to several venues hosting musical acts, events and performances throughout the year. The Miller Park Amphitheater is the perfect place to take your date for a night of live music or entertainment. The amphitheater offers a wide range of concerts and performances, from classic rock, to jazz and blues, to country and beyond. Other options include 7th Street Music Hall, which offers a dynamic assortment of local and national acts, small-town pubs and eateries such as Ginn's and the Corner Pub, and the cozy Little Sicily Bar & Grill, offering a wide range of local bands, singers and live music.
4. Grant Park Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For a more traditional first date, Grant Park is home to several pubs, bars and restaurants where couples can grab a bite to eat and a drink. For a classic pub experience, head to the Corner Pub, featuring appetizing pub grub, a selection of craft beers, and regular live music. The Miller Park Pub is another great option, serving up mouthwatering entrees along with handcrafted cocktails and craft beers. For an intimate dinner setting, the Ginn's Restaurant is a great choice, offering an array of delicious seasonal dishes, paired well with an extensive wine list.
5. Other Date Ideas to Try in Grant Park
For couples looking for something more creative, Grant Park offers a wealth of activities and attractions to keep things interesting. Visitors can take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride around the village, rent a paddleboat for a leisurely afternoon on the nearby lake, or take in a show at the Miller Park Theatre. For adrenaline junkies, the village is home to several adventure parks and amusement centers, offering go-karting, mini golf and more. Alternatively, couples can head to the local wineries and breweries, including the Bourbon Street Winery and Distillery, for a taste of the local area.
