Huntington is a city located in the southwestern corner of Cabell County and the northwestern corner of Wayne County in West Virginia, United States. It is the principal city of the Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, which spans seven counties across three states, with a population of 367,292. Greater Huntington includes the cities of Ashland, Ironton, South Point, and Kenova. The city itself is the largest settlement by population in the state of West Virginia. In 2013, Huntington was ranked No. 25 on Forbes list of the Best Small Places for Business and Careers and No. 9 on the list of America's most affordable cities. With its location on the Ohio River and its access to Midwestern markets, Huntington has been a historically important manufacturing center.
1. Huntington parks and places for a walk on a first date
Ritter Park is a 38-acre public park located in Huntington. A walking trail follows the creek through a ravine, while a netted baseball diamond, playgrounds, and plenty of picnic shelters provide fun for all. Ritter Park also offers access to the two-mile Burgess Trail, which runs along the abandoned CSX railroad bed and through a tunnel beneath Ritter Park. Another great spot for a walk is at the Botanical Garden of West Virginia University at Huntington, where a series of trails offer a relaxing stroll among the flower beds and trees.
2. Places for a coffee date in Huntington
For a coffee date, check out Huntington's newest coffee spot, Rarekind Coffee, located downtown. Not only do they offer high-quality coffee drinks, but also a selection of non-coffee hot drinks and plenty of pastries. Another great spot is The Market Cafe, a locally-owned coffee and sandwich shop located in historic downtown. Here you can find great coffee drinks, an extensive sandwich menu, and plenty of pastries.
3. Huntington galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Huntington offers a variety of galleries, museums, and exhibitions to explore on a first date. Make sure to check out the Huntington Museum of Art, which is the largest art museum in the region and features an extensive collection of American, European, and Asian fine art. Other galleries in the area include the Huntington Galleries, the 3rd Avenue Gallery, and the Huntington Art Guild. You can also visit the Museum of Radio and Technology, which features interactive exhibits on the history of radio and television.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Huntington
If you want to plan a first date with live music and entertainment, there are plenty of places to go in Huntington. The V Club is a great spot to catch local up-and-coming acts, both big and small. Other great music venues include the Pullman Square Amphitheater, which hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, and the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center, which hosts live music, theater, and comedy.
5. Huntington pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a first date drink or food, there are many pubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from in Huntington. The Corner Bar & Grill is a great spot to grab a bite and a drink in downtown Huntington. Their menu features classic American fare with a few twists. Another great spot is The Wild Ramp, which serves a variety of craft beers, wines, and spirits. For a more upscale dinner, head to the Summit, which serves classic French fare with a modern twist.
6. Other date ideas to try in Huntington
If you're looking for something different to do on your first date, why not try a movie night at Marquee Pullman Square Cinema or a game night at The Game Haven? For something a bit more active, try bowling at Main Lanes, go roller skating at the Roller Dome, or take your date to the West Virginia State Wildlife Center for a tour of the zoo. If you're a fan of outdoor activities, head to the Blenko Glass Factory to take a tour of the glass-making facilities, or take your date for a picnic at the Barboursville Park.
