The Austin Date Night Guide
70 ways to enjoy dating in Austin — from first dates to falling in love to spicing it up with your match
Dating never really stops — whether you're nervously planning a first date, still discovering someone new, or trying to keep things fresh after years together. It should be fun, exploratory, and the perfect excuse to discover new corners of your city. My favorite dates always involve sitting side by side at a restaurant's bar, then wandering to the next spot to keep the momentum alive, chatting with whoever's around us to keep things playful and light. Ending at Nickel City never fails, and snagging counter seats facing the kitchen always adds that extra spark. I'm constantly tracking special nights at restaurants, bars, and music venues — basically drowning in spreadsheets and phone notes about the best days to go anywhere — so I figured I'd put all that obsessive research to good use and make you the ultimate guide. Whether you're just starting out or keeping the flame alive after years together, here are 70 (yes, 70) of my best go-to ideas for memorable dates, organized by daily specials, intimate cocktail spots, active adventures that skip the booze and calories, and deals that are actually worth knowing about! (If you want to wow your date with the newest standout dishes in Austin right now, I've got you covered in my latest post.)
By Day of the Week
Note: Monday, Tuesday & Sunday activities are exclusive to those specific days of the week only. The other days feature activities that can be done any day, but I've placed them on the day I think you'll get the most enjoyment out of them.
MONDAY: Wine & Dine
Josephine House Steak Frites Night: Choose your steak cut for a three-course dinner and unlimited wine (starting at $50, depending on the cut you choose)
Jeffrey's: 25% off bar food and wines by the glass (get the bar steak!)
Rollin Smoke BBQ Burger Night and Carnitas Quesataco (my favorite unique taco, which you can't get anywhere else)
TUESDAY: Get Your Groove On
Playland: weekly Adult Only Skate Night every Tuesday 7-11 pm
Mac Mcintosh at Half Step: Austin's best jazz singer (dress up to fit in with the crowd and impress your date!) 9:30-11 pm, no cover
Lil Easy: Louisiana Surf Department (one of my favorite bands) plays every Tuesday 7-9 pm, with $2 oysters and drink specials, including frozen cocktails
Blanton Museum of Art: free every Tuesday!
Hestia: Tini Tuesday with $10 martinis at the bar from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY: Vinyl & Play
Equipment Room + Vespaio combo: Drinks here, then walk to Vespaio and sit at the bar
Paddleboard + Pool Burger: Rent ONE paddleboard from Rowing Dock to share (yes, one—trust me), then cool down with a frozen hurricane at Pool Burger
Carpenter's Hall: walk Town Lake before dinner and enjoy ½ off bottles of wine all day on Wednesdays
Butler Pitch & Putt: A lush 9-hole, par 3 course tucked right below Town Lake that's perfect for getting outside and moving your body without taking things too seriously. As someone who's never really played golf, this place is totally manageable and way more fun than intimidating. Plus, you can grab a burger and beer at Gimme Burger afterward to celebrate your questionable putting skills.