Johnston is a city in Polk County, Iowa, United States. It is a city of 8,353 people, with a population made up of mainly families and young professionals. With plenty of parks, restaurants, galleries and pubs to choose from, there’s no shortage of fun date ideas for those looking to get to know each other better.
1. Johnston Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
This city has many great parks and places to walk and enjoy the scenery. This includes the Johnston Frontier Park, which is a peaceful setting with woodland trails and ponds. Another great spot is the Johnston Lions Park, which offers playgrounds, walking paths and a great view of the Des Moines River. For those looking for a longer walk, the Johnston Greenbelt Trail is a 4.5-mile walking, jogging and biking trail that goes along the Des Moines River and through downtown Johnston.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Johnston
Johnston is full of great coffee shops and cafes for a casual date. The city’s most popular coffee spot is the Zen Coffeehouse, which serves coffee sourced from local roasters and offers an extensive selection of pastries and breakfast items. For those looking for a more unique experience, the Silk Road Cafe is a cozy cafe serving traditional Middle Eastern dishes alongside specialty lattes and teas.
3. Johnston Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Johnston is home to several art galleries, museums and exhibitions. The city’s most popular art gallery is the Johnston Visual Arts Center, which showcases local and regional artwork in a variety of media. For those interested in history, the Johnston Historical Museum is a great place to explore the town’s history, with exhibits on the area’s Civil War era, early immigration and more.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Johnston
Johnston’s vibrant music scene has something for everyone. The city’s top live music venue is the Oasis, which hosts several local and regional acts each week. Another great option is the Des Moines Playhouse, which stages a variety of musicals and plays throughout the year. For those looking for a more low-key evening, Johnston also has several cozy bars and pubs, such as Faun’s Tap House, that offer live entertainment.
5. Johnston Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Johnston is home to a variety of pubs, bars and restaurants. Popular spots include the Farmhouse, a gastropub and brewery that offers inventive seasonal dishes and craft beer. For those looking for a more traditional experience, AJ’s Fine Foods is a classic steakhouse and seafood restaurant. For a lighter fare, the Johnston Ice Cream Parlor is a great option, with an extensive selection of sundaes and shakes.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Johnston
Johnston offers plenty of other date ideas for those looking to get creative. The city’s movie theater is a great place to enjoy a night out. For those looking for something a bit more active, Johnston Sports Center offers bowling, laser tag and more. Those looking to test their skills can pay a visit to the Johnston Escape Rooms, which offer five interactive escape rooms.
