Fort Thompson is a small town, situated in the primeval forests of South Dakota, filled with unspoiled nature, and home to a few local businesses and retailers. The town is also nearby to two picturesque lakes, the Fort Thompson Lake and Lake Francis Case, making it a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some fresh air. Fort Thompson is a great place to take a first date, with plenty of activities to explore, no matter the occasion.
1. Fort Thompson Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Fort Thompson is home to some beautiful nature reserves, parks and trails that make for a perfect first date. There’s the Moot Creek Trail, a 2.5-mile loop which offers stunning views of the lake front and it’s woodlands. Wounded Knee Creek Trail is another great place for a walk, with multiple loops for different distances and beautiful wildflowers in season. Upper Brule State Park is a great spot for a romantic picnic, with flowery meadows, peaceful rivers and walking trails. Another popular spot for a walk is Lion’s Park, with a large open field, and off-street paths to explore.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Fort Thompson
Coffee dates are a great way to get to know each other without being too intrusive. Fort Thompson has several cafés and coffee shops to visit, with delicious treats, and warm, friendly atmospheres. Pharoah's Den Coffee House is a popular spot for coffee and cake, with vintage vibes and a laid back atmosphere. Matching Mugs Coffee House offers a range of hot drinks and home-made goodies, and panoramic views of the lake from its outdoor seating. The Fort Thompson Trading Post is a small store with great coffee, fresh bread and pastries, and live music on the weekends.
3. Fort Thompson Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
For an interesting and inspiring date, why not visit Fort Thompson’s galleries, museums and cultural attractions? The Eagle Nest Gallery and Education Center allows visitors to explore a variety of artworks and artifacts, with an emphasis on Native American culture. The Fort Thompson Heritage Center is a great place to learn more about the town's history and the history of the Sioux Nation, with interactive exhibitions and displays. The Sioux Indian Museum is also worth a visit, with a unique collection of artifacts, art, and displays from the Sioux Nation.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Fort Thompson
For a lively, entertaining evening out, Fort Thompson has several venues for live music and show performances. The Prairie Winds Casino has regular live music and comedy performances from local and national acts, as well as dancing and gaming. The Fort Thompson Cultural Center is an intimate venue for live music, with traditional music and blues performances from local and national acts. The Fort Thompson Trading Post has regular live music events, with a variety of genres, as well as impromptu performances from local artists.
5. Fort Thompson Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Fort Thompson is home to some great pubs and restaurants, which are perfect for first date drinks and food. The Lost Elk Tavern is a lively pub with a warm atmosphere, great beer and spirits, and some delicious pub food. The Badlands Bar and Grille has a selection of craft beers, wines and spirits, as well as a great selection of comfort food. The Prairie Wind Café is a great spot for a romantic dinner, with a selection of steaks, seafood, and other classic dishes.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Fort Thompson
Fort Thompson has plenty of other fun and unique date ideas to explore. For a creative and fun activity, why not try an escape room or scavenger hunt? Or perhaps a mini-golf session at Fort Thompson Mini Golf to test your golfing skills. For something a little more adventurous, why not take a kayaking or fishing trip, or take a drive up to the Upper Brule State Park to explore the scenery and wildlife. For a romantic evening, pack a picnic and take a boat ride on the lake, or watch a movie at the Big Ten Cinema.
