Kids, this is the story of how I met your mother, and it was all thanks to RICtoday.links will definitely be cut down in the newsletter. most of the info is old but the tips are new, and i added a few more suggestions. if you think anything is missing feel free to add!

Ok, so maybe that’s not exactly how the 2000s sitcom went, but whether you’ve met “the one” or are hoping to impress someone new, we’ve got 25+ date night ideas for a romantic excursion in the River City.

⭐️ Senior City Editor Robin here. I'll be popping in throughout the guide with some personal tips — look out for the star emoji.

If you want a night out on the town

Take in a theatrical performance put on by Virginia Rep, Triangle Players, Richmond Shakes, or Broadway in Richmond.in NL - change to current productions and delete links
The Richmond Symphony season has something for everyone with classic favorites and contemporary performances.
Find the perfect live music venue and get tickets for a show.
Throw caution to the wind and enjoy a night with the improvisational experts at Coalition Theater.

Grab tacos and a marg at Big Chile in the Fan. | Photo by RICtoday

If the way to their heart is through their stomach

Design your own unofficial taco tour with our ultimate map to all the local spots.

⭐️ You could do a similar challenge with our map of pizza places, menus with mac and cheese, or burger joints.

Try your hand at a new dish with a cooking class at Mise En Place or The Kitchen Classroom.
Make a reservation at a reader-recommended date night restaurant like Pinky's, Little Nickel, or My Noodle & Bar.

⭐️ Looking for atmosphere? Consult our outdoor dining guide to find the perfect patio for date night.

Explore the floodwall on foot or by wheels. | Photo by RICtoday

If you love the great outdoors

Explore the trails near the flood wall in Manchester, then cross the T. Pott Bridge and make your way to the Canal Walk.
Combine a nature walk and art project by making cyanotype prints. Pick up the materials from Plaza Art, then take a stroll through a local park to gather leaves, flowers, and sprouts to produce handmade prints.
Order a grab-and-go meal from a local restaurant and set up a picnic at a nearby park — we've got ideas for good pairings.

⭐️ For all you bookworms — if you pass a Little Free Library on your neighborhood walk, borrow two books and start reading. Pro tip: Choose a shorter book or something out of the ordinary to prompt discussion.

If you like to play games (just not with your heart)

Pick out a board game at One Eyed Jacques or enjoy dinner and entertainment at Unplugged Games Cafe.
Book a lane at Shield N Sheath and try your hand at axe throwing.
Hotel Greene has you covered on a too-cute-for-words mini golf experience.
River City Roll has bowling, drinks, food, and hosts live music regularly.
Enjoy local brews and get the competition going with pool, skee-ball, and more arcade games at Bingo Beer Co.

Rage RVA can help you blow off steam on a date or with pals. | Photo via Rage RVA

If you’re really hoping that it works out

Get a pair of day passes at Peak Experiences and climb the day away.
Take a class together at a local gym — couples yoga, anyone?
Break a sweat by breaking stuff at Rage RVA, where you can demolish bottles, copiers, computers, and vehicles.
Rent some skates and get out on the rink at Rollerdome.

⭐️ There are plenty of local parks with athletic facilities ideal for a fun afternoon. Try out pickleball, give the disc golf course at Bryan Park a spin, or just shoot some hoops.

Get to the drive-in early to get your spot and your snacks. | Photo by RICtoday

If you want an “old fashioned”-style date

Keep it classic with dinner before a catching a movie at The Byrd Theatre, which has been showing films since 1928.
Order an old fashioned at The Jasper, a classic cocktail bar with contemporary twists.
Make a reservation or stop by one of the oldest restaurants in the River City for a meal decades in the making.
Roll into the Goochland Drive-In for a movie under the stars complete with popcorn and ice cream.

If you wanna show off your local knowledge

Shameless plug: Sign up for our daily newsletter, where we call out our top picks of things to do around town. Your date doesn’t have to know we’re behind it — you can take all the credit.
Stay up-to-date on the coolest local events around Richmond with our events page.

What did we miss? If you know a perfect date spot that’s not on the list, let us know.