Ashtabula is located on Lake Erie in the northernmost corner of Ohio. This vibrant riverside city is full of things to do and see, from its deep maritime roots to its lively and colorful downtown. Offering a perfect blend of big city amenities and small-town charm, Ashtabula is a great place for a first date.
1. Ashtabula Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Ashtabula has many picturesque parks, trails and nature reserves that offer the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Areas like the Lakeshore Park in Fisherman's Park have plenty of paths, benches and picnic spots to explore. The newly renovated breakwater at Ashtabula Harbor is also a great place to take a walk and soak in the lake views. The city's waterfront trails will also take you to the Ashtabula Town Hall which offers unique historic landmarks, gardens, green spaces and stunning views of Lake Erie.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Ashtabula
Ashtabula offers many cozy cafes and coffee houses that are perfect for a casual first date. Café Ambiance caters to an eclectic crowd, ranging from college students to retirees. It's located in the old train station and serves a variety of specialty coffees, teas and pastries. Druken Monkey Coffeehouse is another great spot for a coffee date, with its cozy atmosphere and wide selection of drinks and snacks.
3. Ashtabula Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
The Ashtabula Arts Center is a beautiful and unique venue that's perfect for a date. Combining art, music and theater, the center offers a variety of interesting exhibits and events. There are also many galleries and museums in the city, such as the Ashtabula Historical Museum and the Lakeside Art Gallery. The Ashtabula Maritime and History Museum is an especially unique venue, with its wealth of artifacts, interactive exhibits and programs.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Ashtabula
The city of Ashtabula is known for its lively music and entertainment scene, with plenty of venues to enjoy. The Graffiti Bar is a great spot for live music, with weekly performances by local and touring acts. It also features an outdoor patio, beer garden and arcade. The recently opened Out of the Blue Music Venue is another popular spot for live music, featuring folk and blues performances. There are also many local theatres and venues to visit, such as the Ashtabula Playhouse and the Lakeside Performing Arts Center.
5. Ashtabula Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Ashtabula has a vibrant bar and restaurant scene, with something to suit everyone's tastes. For a laid-back vibe, head downtown to The Spot Bar & Grill, which offers an impressive craft beer selection, comfort food and a cozy atmosphere. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, the Ashtabula Inn & Tavern is a great option. It features a charming outdoor patio and a menu of locally sourced dishes.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Ashtabula
There are many other ideas to try in Ashtabula. For a romantic evening, take a boat ride on the Ashtabula River and enjoy the sunset views. Or, head to the historic Conneaut Township Park where you can take a ride on an old carousel, enjoy a picnic or explore the unique sculptures and monuments. If you're looking for something fun and unique, you can also try a virtual reality escape room experience at the Ashtabula Escape Room. Alternatively, adventure seekers can also check out the many trails, dirt roads and mountain biking paths around the city.
