While it’s possible that my lenses are colored by the fact that I met the love of my life here, to me there’s no better city than San Antonio in which to date your spouse! From our rich history and diverse culture that has built up around the River Walk, to the growing number of unique restaurants, music venues, attractions, distilleries, and nearby vineyards, there’s something for every taste, budget, and mood to enjoy a romantic night out on the town!
Picnic at the Pearl
One of our favorite things to do as a couple is to pack up a picnic blanket and a deck of cards or board game, head down to Pearl Brewery in the late afternoon, and set up shop on the lawn for the evening. We may grab dinner and a drink from The Bottling Department (San Antonio’s first food hall), or coffee and dessert from Local Coffee and Bakery Lorraine. Regardless of what suits our taste buds on any given day, Pearl has something to satisfy the craving (and the people watching and quality time are unmatched!)
Hiking
When something less crowded is what the day calls for, we may lace up our hiking boots and head out to Government Canyon State Natural Area. The expansive 40 miles of trails make it easy to fill a day of exploring. Add the historical Zizelmann House, built in the 1880s, and the 110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks to your list of must-sees while you’re there, and you’ve built an afternoon of both good exercise and interest. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, and we recommend a tasty snack paired with a beautiful lookout point for a romantic rest stop along the way.
Bike Along the River
We enjoy an active lifestyle but are not always up for a hiking trail depending on the time of year. (In the heat of August? No thank you.) We also enjoy renting bicycles at Blue Star Bike Shop and riding along the river to tour the San Antonio Missions along the way. A picnic lunch is a perfect addition to this day-date, followed by fish tacos and live music at La Tuna or a couple of ice-cold beers and a movie at The Friendly Spot, both within walking distance from the Blue Star Complex.
Restaurants
As a self-proclaimed foodie, my wife knows the way to my heart is through a great meal, paired with the perfect adult beverage. These days, San Antonio is bursting at the seams with delicious, creative, farm-to-table restaurants with great flavors and value on every side of town. Some of our favorites as of late include The Hoppy Monk for wings and Palomas (or partake of their absurdly long list of beers on tap), Cured for a charcuterie board and a glass of wine, Stella Public House for wood-fired pizza and craft beers, and Clementine for a fresh twist on a casual but elegant neighborhood restaurant with a nicely curated wine list.
Live Jazz
We love live music – especially jazz. We are old school San Antonians, so for us, nothing beats LUNA Music Bar & Lounge for a night of live music. They draw well-known and locally-known performers alike, with an emphasis on bands that perform original music. Their cozy, dimly lit vibe and dance floor is reminiscent of a 1920s club during the Jazz Age in New York. Enjoy an appetizer and a craft cocktail by candlelight and then dance the night away!
Family-Friendly Date Night
Finally, let’s be real. As parents, we can’t always slip away on our own for a romantic date night. For these occasions, we love heading to The Point Park and Eats! They offer a rotating variety of food trucks (so there’s something for everyone), live music (be sure to check their website for upcoming events), adult beverages, and a playground. This casual local gem gives our kids the space to run around with new friends, and us some much needed downtime.
Indeed, San Antonio offers a richly dynamic atmosphere that makes it easy to keep the romance alive in our marriage. From drinks to exploring to dinner to entertainment, the Alamo City opens its doors to anyone with a taste for good food and adventure – just add your own unique sense of creativity and the night is yours! (And, at least in my case, the company can’t be beat either.)
Wonderful!!! I love all of those places you mentioned!! Great suggestions!