Sterling Forest is a state park in Orange County, New York, approximately 25 miles from New York City. The park is a picturesque, sprawling woodland of 18,000 acres, with a plethora of recreation activities and opportunities for visitors to explore its natural beauty. Sterling Forest is home to a huge array of flora and fauna, including deer, bear, fox, turkey, and various species of birds. It also has 7 scenic lakes, numerous ponds, gorges and wetlands, mountain trails, and tranquil forests. The park also has numerous historic sites, from Revolutionary War sites to Art Deco historic buildings.
1. Walks on a First Date
A great way to get to know each other casually is to take a walk. Sterling Forest has a plethora of trails to choose from, so you can find the one that’s right for your date and you. With the park being so sprawling, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and find a spot to enjoy a picnic, take some photos and make conversation. If your date likes to walk or hike, you could chose a more challenging trail that takes you up and around the mountains. Or, opt for a gentle stroll along the lake or through the meadows.
2. Coffee Date
For a coffee date, you could visit one of the many nearby cafes in Sterling Forest that offer fresh coffee and other drinks, as well as scrumptious pastries. Some of the most popular spots include Park Place Cafe, Little Flower Cafe, and The Roasterie. These cafes provide a great atmosphere for a casual date, with plenty of comfortable seating and tasty treats to enjoy. If the weather is nice, you can always opt to get your coffee to go and sip it in the park for a relaxed first date.
3. Galleries, Museums, and Exhibitions
If the two of you are more the museum-loving type or prefer art galleries and exhibitions, there are some great spots to visit in Sterling Forest. The Sterling Forest Art Gallery showcases hand-crafted works of art from local artists, for those who appreciate creative expression. The museum at Sterling Forest also offers an engaging collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits about the park’s history and the environment.
4. Live Music and Entertainment
For music lovers, Sterling Forest is home to some great live music and entertainment venues. You can take your date to a live concert or performance, or just to a fun pub or club. The Bear City Music Hall is a great spot to catch live music, with a wide range of genres to choose from. If you’re feeling brave, why not take your date to a karaoke night or open mic?
5. Pubs, Bars, and Restaurants
If you and your date decide to go for drinks or dinner, there are plenty of bars, pubs, and restaurants to choose from in Sterling Forest. For a relaxed evening, you could opt for a cozy pub like The Heights Pub. Or, for a more upscale dinner, try out the award-winning restaurant, The Boathouse. After dinner, you could also visit one of the local breweries for a drink and some live music.
6. Other Date Ideas
Sterling Forest also has plenty of other activities to enjoy on a date. If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, why not take a boat ride on the lake for some quality time in the sun. Or, for those seeking a bit of adventure, you could go on a hike through the mountains, or try some of the park’s many biking trails. If you’re a fan of horseback riding, you can take a guided tour around the park. In the winter months, you can also visit Sterling Forest's ski resort to enjoy a day on the slopes. Overall, Sterling Forest offers plenty of fun and romantic activities for a first date. The beauty of the park is an added bonus, providing a stunning backdrop to your evening. Whether you’re a nature-lover or an art enthusiast, or just looking for an enjoyable evening, Sterling Forest is the perfect place to spend your first date!
