We've got four fresh date night ideas that you can turn into a getaway.
1. Outdoor Adventures with a Side of Comfort
Columbus' Metro Parks are some of the best in the nation, with thousands of acres of nature preserved just minutes from downtown. Spot birds at the Scioto Audubon Metro Park, hike through dense and photogenic pine forests at Walnut Woods Metro Park, or explore the sandstone cliffs at Clear Creek Metro Park.Get back to the city for dinner at Rockmill Tavern, where elevated pub fare like burgers and an amazing chicken sandwich, along with Belgian-style beers will refuel you.
Make it a Getaway: Lean into the comfort angle, and get a room at the Art Deco Hotel LeVeque: Autograph Collection, in downtown's most recognizable skyscraper. Grab breakfast at The Keep, the LeVeque's stellar restaurant, with a view over the Scioto Mile.
2. Craft Drinks and Fine Dining
Columbus' drinks scene is on fire, but narrow down on craft distilleries for a fun night of sipping with tours at Watershed Distillery and Middle West Spirits. After you sample, choose a cocktail with your favorite spirit along with an outstanding meal at either distillery's restaurant: Watershed Kitchen and Bar and Service Bar. These are some of the most exciting restaurants in the city.
Make it a Getaway: Book a room and the brand new Moxy Hotel and spend your post-dinner evening exploring the nightlife of the Short North Arts District. Check out the rooftop bar at Lincoln Social. Sleep in, then check out the boutiques and art galleries that make the neighborhood so special.
3. Global Food, Premier Shopping
Explore Columbus' booming global food scene at authentic Somali, Nepali, West African or Latin American restaurants along the Morse Road and Cleveland Avenue corridors. Or get a guide experience with Columbus Food Adventures' Alt Eats tour.
Make it a Getaway: Stay at the Hilton Columbus Easton, a AAA four-diamond property adjacent to shopping mecca Easton. Start your morning with breakfast at Northstar Cafe, and do a little window shopping at the brand new RH Gallery.
4. Architecture and Cozy Dining
German Village is one of America's most scenic neighborhoods, with brick architecture from the 1800s, pocket parks, and a huge variety of appealing restaurants and shops. Pick up an architectural map at the German Village Meeting Haus, and learn about the unique heritage of the neighborhood. Then, stroll over to Ambrose and Eve for a shareable-plates meal that pairs comfort with innovation. For a nightcap, try a flight of sour beers at Antiques on High, or a craft cocktail at Law Bird.
Make it a Getaway: Book a room at the Westin Great Southern Columbus. Just north of German Village, this is the city's oldest hotel, but the rooms are nothing but modern inside. Pop over to Pistacia Vera for breakfast or brunch before you head home.
