Monona is an excellent place for a first date with its abundance of parks, galleries, pubs, and other attractions. Built on the shores of Lake Monona, the city is home to an ever-growing population of just under 8,000 people. The town is close to Madison, Wisconsin’s capital, and has plenty of culture of its own with its vibrant downtown area and diverse entertainment venues. Boaters, fishermen and nature lovers alike find plenty of opportunities to explore the lake and its shoreline with its numerous parks and historic sites.
1. Monona Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Monona has plenty of outdoor opportunities for first-time daters to enjoy a stroll or a nature adventure. The Monona Beach Park and Lake Monona Loop Trail offer a leisurely walk alongside the lake, with plenty of spots to stop, rest, and take in the views. The park also has playgrounds, picnic areas and grills, and access to the lake for kayaking and canoeing. For those looking for a more scenic and peaceful spot, the Aldo Leopold Nature Center offers plenty of opportunities to explore, like walking the trails, fishing, and bird watching.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Monona
For a fun, low-key first date, there are plenty of coffeehouses in Monona offering a relaxed atmosphere and delicious drinks. The Coppertop Coffeehouse offers a cozy spot with plenty of cozy drinks and small bites, right in the heart of downtown Monona. For something a bit more upscale, R Coffee Shop near the lake has locally roasted coffees, teas, craft beers, and artisan snacks.
3. Monona Galleries, Museums, and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Monona has a wide range of galleries, museums, and cultural exhibitions, perfect for a more cultured first date. The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is always a great place to explore and appreciate art and has a wide variety of exhibitions for every taste. The Monona Historical Museum also provides insight into the town’s past with its exhibits of artifacts, photos and documents from the area’s residents and businesses.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To in Monona
Monona is home to multiple venues that offer live music, comedy, and other entertainment. The Hartman Theater is a great spot to catch a show in the heart of downtown and features everything from headliners to local acts. The Patio is a classic bar-style venue with pool tables and a lively atmosphere, while Red Electric Bar and Grill serves up delicious food, craft beers, and regularly hosts live music and DJs.
5. Monona Pubs, Bars, or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Monona offers plenty of options for a date drink or food. The popular Elderberries Wine Bar and Tapas restaurant has an extensive selection of wines and small plates, perfect for sharing. Park Street Pub offers classic pub grub with plenty of beers on tap, as well as special themed nights like Taco Tuesday. For more upscale fare, the Libellula Italian Kitchen offers classic Italian dishes in a stylish setting.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Monona
Monona has lots of other great date ideas to explore. The Monona Drive-in offers movies beneath the stars, perfect for a romantic evening. For an active date, the Monona Community Center features a climbing wall, fitness classes, and an indoor pool. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities at the Monona Mall, which houses over 40 stores, restaurants, and service providers.
