Joplin is a charming city in Southwest Missouri and the county seat of Jasper County. It is the birthplace of Rock & Roll pioneer Johnny Cash and home to some of the most beautiful parks, galleries and entertainment venues in the state. Whether you're visiting or live here, Joplin has plenty of great spots and ideas for a first date.
1. Joplin Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Take a leisurely stroll through some of the many parks and places in Joplin. Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center is a great option for nature lovers, a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. If you’re looking to explore the city, there’s no better place than Landreth Park, with its wide variety of outdoor leisure activities, such as fishing, swimming, tennis, and golf. Cunningham Park, on the other hand, offers a peaceful setting with a lake, trails, and picnic areas. The beauty of Joplin is further enhanced by its vibrant street art, an amazing mix of street murals and wall art that you can take in while taking a stroll around town.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Joplin
Joplin is home to some of the best coffee spots in the state. Try Z’s Café, a cozy spot with delicious coffee and a relaxing atmosphere. If you’re looking for something a bit different, give the Grinder a try. The funky atmosphere, complete with vintage décor, makes for a great first date spot. For a more traditional coffee date, drop by Starbucks, the city’s premier spot for specialty coffee drinks.
3. Joplin Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Take a tour of the George Washington Carver National Monument to learn about the life of America’s greatest inventor. Or, stop by the Joplin Museum Complex for a glimpse into the city’s fascinating history. The Spiva Center for the Arts is a great place to explore Joplin’s vibrant culture with rotating art exhibitions, artist talks, and guided tours. The Joplin Public Library also hosts a number of art shows and special events throughout the year.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Joplin
There’s no shortage of great live music and entertainment in Joplin. Stop by the Blackthorn Club for a night of live music and dancing. The Main Street Music Hall also hosts a number of great concerts, ranging from rock and punk to country and blues. For a more intimate date, check out the Theater 8, a small theater that screens independent films from around the world.
5. Joplin Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
If you’d like to grab a drink or a bite to eat with your date, head to the popular downtown area for some great food and drinks. If you’re looking for a nice dinner, there’s no better place than Pappy's Pub, a cozy bar and restaurant that serves up delicious craft beer and pub fare. For a more casual night, swing by the Old Town Restaurant, a quaint spot that serves up great burgers and local brews.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Joplin
Go bowling at Bowl-A-Rama, an old-school bowling alley. Or, if you’re feeling like a thrill, take a ride at the Route 66 theme park for some great roller coasters and other fun attractions. There’s also the Joyland Amusement Park, with rides and carnival games, sure to make for a great first date. Lastly, you can spend a relaxing afternoon at the Joplin Aquatic Center, where you can swim, dive and relax in the sun.
