Several professional sports teams, one of the country’s most celebrated culinary scenes, and a population rich in creativity and entrepreneurial skills make Houston a city with date nights for every couple.
If you’re a fan of the arts and you’re in the market for some fun date night ideas, we have a few for you in and around Houston’s vibrant theatre district.
Alley Theatre
A Tony-award winning theatre in the heart of Houston’s theater district, the Alley Theatre is a great place to catch a show with that special someone. An architectural and cultural icon, the theatre has hosted dozens of award-winning shows throughout the decades. This summer’s show is Larry Shue’s comedy The Foreigner, a hilarious and slightly mysterious modern theater staple that runs through August 9, 2015.
The Dinner Detective
Does a four-course dinner with a twist sound dangerously fun to you? If neither you nor your partner is shy, y’all like the board game Clue, or you’ve always wanted to attend a murder mystery dinner, The Dinner Detective might be perfect for your next date night. Talented improv actors make The Dinner Detective especially entertaining.
Scenarios based on real, present-day cold cases add a believable dimension. But the success of a show ultimately depends in large part on audience involvement. If that doesn’t intimidate you, then you’re probably up for the experience. This theater district affair is held regularly at the Magnolia Hotel.
Miller Outdoor Theater
Miller Outdoor Theater isn’t actually in the theater district, but its important role on the Houston theater scene makes it relevant and worth mentioning as a Bayou City date spot. This is especially true if you and your partner appreciate performance arts and the outdoors.
Located in beautiful Hermann Park, the large outdoor theater can accommodate more than 6,000 guests. It hosts movie screenings, live music, dance, Shakespeare in the Park, musical theater, and children’s theater performances. Shows are completely free, but often require tickets. Miller Outdoor Theater is just a short drive from Rice University.
Rogue Improv
The couple that laughs together stays together. Okay, we’re not sure there’s evidence to back that up, but it sounds logical, right? If it is, fans of comedy improv are in luck. Over the past five years, the Rogue Improv Troupe has taken Houston by storm. The talented group has a broadly appealing sense of humor and they play at venues throughout town. If you live in a NearTown Houston apartment, look for shows at Rudyard’s British Pub, AvantGarden, and Station Theater.
Theatre Under the Stars
Known for its heartwarming, high energy performances, Theatre Under the Stars is a musical series at the Hobby Center for Performing Arts perfect for a date night. Grab dinner before or after the show at the Hobby Center’s own Artista or one of several nearby restaurants. Upcoming shows include The Little Mermaid, Rent, Bonnie and Clyde, and Matilda. Although most performances take place at the Hobby Center, one show from the series makes a run at the Miller Outdoor Theater every summer.
Bonus Date Idea: Adickes SculpturWorx Studio
If you’re part of a fun-loving couple that hasn’t taken advantage of the multitude of photo ops at Adickes SculpturWorx Studio, plan a visit soon. Gigantic presidential busts and a 36-foot sculptures of The Beatles are the top draws at this free Houston attraction, which is not in the theater district.
Since this one is best done during the day and really doesn’t take all that long, we suggest combining a visit to your favorite brunch or lunch restaurant. If you’d like to eat nearby, Southwell’s Hamburger Grill and a plethora of fast food chains are near the studio.
If your partner has a birthday coming up, you have an anniversary to celebrate, or you’re overdue for a just-because date night, hopefully this list of date ideas has inspired you. We wish you a great night (or day!) out with your special someone, and encourage you to check back here for fun leisure activity ideas and events near your Houston apartment.
What’s your favorite Houston theater district date spot? Share what you love about it below!
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View All Posts by Jason Ernst