Saint Jacob is a small village located in southern Illinois, about 28 miles east of St. Louis. It is a quiet, peaceful town, with a great sense of community, and plenty of outdoor recreational activities. The town boasts four lakes, several parks, and a historic downtown district. So, whether you're looking for a romantic stroll, a coffee date, or a night out with some live music, there's something for everyone in Saint Jacob.
1. Saint Jacob parks and places for a walk on a first date
If you’re looking to get outside and explore, a great place to start is one of the many parks in the area. The Robert E. Lee Natural Park offers a beautiful, picturesque walk through nature, with plenty of trees and wildflowers. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s the Jacob Mountain Trail, where you can take a leisurely hike around the foothills of the Ozarks. And, if you’re feeling particularly romantic, the Iron Bridge Nature Trail offers a lovely and tranquil stroll along the banks of the Meramec River.
2. Places for a coffee date in Saint Jacob
Saint Jacob is the place for coffee lovers, with plenty of cafes and coffee shops to choose from. For a cozy, intimate setting, check out Cafe Amour, which offers a variety of specialty drinks and pastries. If you’re wanting to try something a bit more eclectic, D’Olivio has a great selection of organic, locally-roasted coffees and teas. Or, if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with the Beans & Cream Coffee Shop.
3. Saint Jacob galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Saint Jacob has a wide range of cultural attractions, from art galleries to museums to live theater. The Jacob Art Gallery hosts a variety of local and international artists, while the local Historical Museum offers a unique window into the town’s past. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more unusual, head to the Underground Video Arcade and Museum, where you can explore a selection of vintage video games.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Saint Jacob
For music lovers, Saint Jacob offers a wide variety of live music and entertainment. In the summertime, you can take in a show at the historic Verbeck Opera House, which hosts a variety of classical and jazz performances. The town also boasts several dive bars, such as the notorious Ace of Clubs, which features live bands most nights. Or, for a more upscale experience, head to the newly opened Oasis of Sound, where you can dance the night away with a selection of DJs and live bands.
5. Saint Jacob pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Saint Jacob has plenty of great places to grab a bite or a drink on a first date. Some of the most popular spots include the Castle Pub, a cozy pub with a great selection of craft beers and a delicious menu of appetizers; Ramos, a Mexican Cantina serving up tacos and margaritas; and the Main Street Bistro, a fine dining establishment offering a variety of gourmet dishes.
6. Other date ideas to try in Saint Jacob
If you’re looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, Saint Jacob is full of unique date ideas. Check out the local bowling alley, or spend an evening at the movies, at the historic Jacob Theatre. Take a stroll around the town’s historic downtown district, or hop on a carriage ride for a romantic tour of the town. Alternatively, visit a nearby winery, or take a day trip to one of the nearby outdoor recreational areas, such as Granite City or the Shawnee National Forest.
