Staunton is a small scenic town located in the heart of Montgomery County, Illinois. With a picturesque downtown area, several parks and outdoor activities, and an abundance of local attractions, Staunton makes for a perfect first date destination.
1. Staunton Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Staunton boasts a number of parks and outdoor spaces for a leisurely stroll with your date. The Ironhorse Trail is a 5-mile multi-use path perfect for biking, walking, and rollerblading. If you’re looking for a spot to set up a picnic, the historic Haffner Park is a great option, complete with picnic tables and grills. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, the Montgomery County Conservation Area has plenty of hiking trails and nature-viewing spots, perfect for getting in touch with the great outdoors.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Staunton
If you’re looking for a more low-key date, Staunton is home to several cozy coffee shops. The Brick House Cafe is a great spot for a casual date, where you can sit and chat over cups of hot drinks and delicious snacks. The Great American Cookie Company serves up freshly-baked treats and specialty coffees, while the Twisted Bean Coffeehouse is a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
3. Staunton Galleries, Museums, and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Those looking for a more cultured experience can visit one of the several galleries, museums, and exhibitions around Staunton. The Prairieland Art Gallery features the work of local artists, and the ArtFunktion Inaugural Art Festival features local musicians. The Black Hawk Museum and Thunderbird Museum is an immersive cultural experience, with exhibits on Native American history as well as Civil War artifacts. The Staunton City Museum houses artifacts from Staunton’s rich history, as well as collections of vintage postcards, photos, and other memorabilia.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Staunton
Staunton is known for its vibrant music scene, and there are plenty of live music venues to choose from. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, The Nitebird Coffeehouse hosts open mic nights and live bands. Staunton also hosts a number of music festivals, including the Prairie Music and Arts Festival and The Seeds of Sound Music Festival.
5. Staunton Pubs, Bars, or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For those looking for a bite to eat or a drink on a first date, Staunton has plenty of options. The Crossroads Bar and Grill serves up classic pub grub, while the Red Ox Grill offers a selection of sandwiches and burgers. The Jankinn Brewing Company is a great spot for craft beer, and the Prairie Street Brewing Company is a great place to sample some of the local favorites.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Staunton
For those looking to get creative, Staunton offers plenty of unique date ideas. The Prairie Street Brewing Company offers brewery tours and beer tastings, and the B&B Stables allows couples to rent a horse for a romantic horseback riding tour of the countryside. The Staunton Family Drive-In is an old-fashioned movie theater perfect for a cozy evening under the stars. There’s even a hidden escape room in town, perfect for partners to work together to solve puzzles and overcome challenges.
