Kankakee is a city located in northwest Illinois, near the banks of the Kankakee River. With a population of just over 26,000 people, it offers visitors small-town charm and plenty of places to explore. For a first date, Kankakee is great for its variety of activities special to the area.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
One great way to get to know your date is to take a walk together. Kankakee State Park provides a great place to take a walk together, with a half-mile trail that winds through wetlands and connects to the Kankakee River. Another great spot is the Kankakee Riverfront Trail, a 6-mile trail along the Kankakee River with plenty of scenic views.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Kankakee
If you and your date want to take it slow, you can always meet up for a coffee date. Some great spots for coffee in Kankakee are Riverfront Cafe and Art Gallery, which offers a range of locally roasted coffees and teas, and Lighthouse Coffee, which serves up locally roasted single-origin coffees.
3. Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Kankakee also has a range of great galleries, museums and exhibitions to explore. The Kankakee County Museum, located in the old county jail building, offers visitors a chance to explore local history, while the Kankakee Art Gallery showcases local and regional art. There is also the Riverside Art Center, which features a range of rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To In Kankakee
If you and your date want to experience some live music and entertainment for your first date, Kankakee has plenty of options. The Kankakee Valley Symphony Orchestra has been performing since 1940, and offers a range of concerts throughout the year. There is also the historic Rialto Square Theatre, which offers a range of live music including rock, pop and jazz. The VenuWorks performing arts center also hosts a range of performances, including music, theater and comedy.
5. Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Kankakee also offers a range of great pubs, bars and restaurants for a first date drink or dinner. Beer house 54 is a popular spot with a great selection of craft beers, while Gastro Pub offers a range of contemporary American cuisine. For a romantic dinner, you can also check out Fireside Grille, located in a historic building and serving up classic American dishes with a modern twist.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Kankakee
If you want to do something a bit different for your first date, there are plenty of unique activities to try in Kankakee. You can try your hand at bowling at Classic Lanes or spend an afternoon at the Riverview Mini Golf & Batting Cages. For a romantic evening under the stars, you can also take a trip down to the Kankakee River, rent a canoe or kayak, and explore the river together. Finally, if you and your date are looking for some adventure, you can check out the nearby Kankakee Paintball, which offers a range of paintball courses and packages. No matter what you choose to do, Kankakee is a great place for a first date. With its parks, trails and museums, there’s something for everyone. So grab your date and explore what the city has to offer.
