John Day is a small town with a population of 1,700 people located in the U.S. state of Oregon. Located on the John Day River, the town is an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding wilderness, with many campgrounds and recreational opportunities in the region.
1. John Day Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
John Day offers a plethora of stunning outdoor spaces, perfect for a romantic stroll on your first date. The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is located in the neighbouring town of Kimberly and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Clarno Unit Trail is a popular hiking trail which offers spectacular views of the John Day River and the surrounding countryside. Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, located just a few miles from John Day, provides an opportunity to view a variety of wildlife, from deer and bear to over 300 species of birds.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in John Day
John Day doesn’t have a wide selection of cafes, but there are plenty of opportunities for an intimate coffee date. The Backstreet Coffee House is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike and offers a wide selection of hot drinks and pastries. For a more relaxed atmosphere, why not stop off at the nearby Coffee Shop, located in neighboring Dayville, OR. Here you can enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains while sipping your coffee.
3. John Day Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
John Day is home to a small but vibrant art and culture scene. Take your date to the Grant County Museum of Art and Culture, where you can discover a variety of artworks and exhibits. The museum also hosts special events and workshops throughout the year. The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is home to an impressive collection of fossils and artefacts, perfect for budding palaeontologists.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To in John Day
John Day’s entertainment scene isn’t as vibrant as some of the larger towns or cities in Oregon, but there are still plenty of live music and entertainment options. The Grant County Library is a popular venue for acoustic and folk music concerts, with local and travelling artists performing throughout the year. The John Day Arts Council hold regular live music and theatre performances in various venues across the town.
5. John Day Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For a more traditional first date, why not take your date out for a drink or a meal? The Fort House Saloon and Grill is a popular spot in John Day, with a lively atmosphere and delicious food. For something more casual, the Trails End Taproom is the place to go for a chilled out evening with a selection of craft beers and local wines. The Silver Spur is also a great place to grab a bite to eat, serving a variety of burgers and steaks.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in John Day
John Day is the perfect place to plan a unique first date. Take your date for a relaxing evening at the nearby Hot Springs, where you can take a dip in the natural warm waters and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. For something a little more active, why not explore the area on horseback? You can find several local stables offering horseback riding tours of the John Day area. And don’t forget the many campgrounds and recreational opportunities in the region, from fishing and kayaking to rock-climbing and biking.
