Idlewild, Michigan is a small town located around 35 miles north of Traverse City, in the Manistee National Forest. Here, visitors and residents can find a variety of parks, trails, and activities for a perfect first date.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Idlewild Park is the highlight of the area, offering a range of activities from hiking, and biking to geocaching and stargazing. During the summer, the park offers live music, carnival rides, and a country store. For a peaceful stroll, the Lake Michigan Beach Park is ideal, with a long boardwalk that stretches along the coastline. Along the way, visitors can spot a range of birds, wildflowers, and animals. For those looking for a little bit of adventure, the Camp Creek Hiking Trail features a loop through the Manistee National Forest with plenty of hills and valleys.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Idlewild
Coffee dates are perfect for getting to know one another and Idlewild has a few options for this. The Eikenhousen Coffee House is a charming cafe with house-made pastries, local beers, and teas. For a more intimate atmosphere, there is the The Crema Coffeehouse with its cozy atmosphere and tasty treats. The Fireweed Coffeehouse is ideal for those looking for specialty coffees and a variety of loose-leaf teas.
3. Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Idlewild is home to the Arts on the Lake Gallery, which showcases the work of local artists. The Idlewild Historical Museum is dedicated to the area’s history and culture, with exhibits on local industries such as logging, fishing, and farming. Lastly, the Idlewild Natural History Museum highlights the natural history of Idlewild and its surroundings.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To in Idlewild
The Idlewild Music Venue is a great place to take a date to listen to live music. The venue hosts a variety of musical genres, from local musicians to national touring acts. The Norwood Theater is another option for a night out, featuring live theater performances, movies, and other entertainment.
5. Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For a drink and some food, The Hop House is a great option. It features a cozy atmosphere, an extensive beer selection, and a menu of pub grub. The Idlewild Wine Cellar is the perfect place to sample some of the area's best local wines. For those looking for something a bit more upscale, the Idlewild Club offers an impressive menu of seafood, steaks, and more.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Idlewild
If you’re looking for something different, Idlewild has plenty of options for that. Take your date on a horse-drawn wagon ride, take a cooking class together, or have them join you for a game of paintball. For a unique experience, try a yoga class at the Yogi Tree studio and then enjoy dinner at the nearby Pizza Mill. For a fun activity, challenge your date to a game of miniature golf at the Idlewild Park. The possibilities are endless!
