As my husband and I were ringing in the New Year in our pajamas and toasting with a glass of champagne, we started discussing what we would like to accomplish or work on in the new year. Both of us agreed that we would like to refocus on our relationship. With three young children it is very easy to let your marriage fall by the wayside and we both realized that has happened.
We’ve become so busy trying to make it through our day-to-day lives that we’ve forgotten about us.
I started making a list of things that I would like to do with my husband for our monthly date night. You can always do dinner and a movie, but there are so many great things to experience around Chattanooga. I know that it can get expensive to have a date night once you factor in the babysitting fees and activity costs, so I’ve included different price point options.
January: Grab a drink and play games at The Bitter Alibi.
We’re all usually a little broke the month after Christmas, so go have a drink and play some of the free board games at The Bitter Alibi. If you get hungry they have a small, but tasty menu with reasonable prices.
February: Take a cooking class together at The Sweet and Savory Classroom.
My husband and I have taken a couple of cooking classes before and want to try The Sweet and Savory Classroom. We both enjoy cooking and this is a fun way to learn new recipes and skills.
March: Be a tourist and explore the city on the Chattanooga.
So many times we miss out on the great things there are to do around the city. Spend some time in March looking at our beautiful city through the eyes of a tourist. Take a ghost tour, ride the Chattanooga Ducks, or take a walk across the Walnut Street bridge, through the Bluff View Art District or in the West Village area!
April: Get crafty with a class at Pinspiration!
Pinspiration is new to Chattanooga, and the Pinspiration staff provide the tools, materials and a clean, inviting and inspiring place to put it all together. Customers can create their own idea on the spot or they can choose from an array of ever-changing monthly project menus based on the most popular “pinned” social media projects and current craft trends. What’s more, Pinspiration has it’s own wine/beer bar and party room! Pinspiration is a world-class venue for planning truly memorable and entertaining events.
May: Discover your favorite ice cream shop.
There are several ice cream shops downtown and on the North Shore: Ben & Jerry’s, The Ice Cream Show, Stone Cold Creamery, and Clumpies. Visit each one and try different flavors of ice cream, or the same and then decide on your favorite place.
June: Challenge your adventurous side and book an escape room game.
Put your mind to the test and work together to solve a series of puzzles and riddles with hints and clues to find a way out of the room. We have a couple of different options for escape rooms in Chattanooga:
July: Take a Class at Ignis Glass Studio
Ignis Glass Studio located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, Ignis Glass Studio offers a one of a kind experience to make memories together. Master craftsmen include you in their art-making process of forming and blowing glass ornaments that will be cherished along with the experience. Walk-ins are welcome, but to be assured of an appointment, make a reservation!
August: Go on an art tour around the city.
Tap into your creative side and discuss the meaning behind each piece of art work. Chattanooga has so much to see – try the Hunter Museum or look for all the interesting architectural elements in our beautiful city!
September: Eat, Sip and Walk through Chattanooga’s food scene.
You can take a guided tour through the Southside or downtown. The walking tours range from 2-3 hours and include 4-5 different eateries. While walking you will learn tidbits about Chattanooga’s rich history and the local cuisine from favorite locally owned restaurants.
October: Go on a hike and have a picnic.
My mother has always told me to go on a picnic when you and your partner get stressed. I’m not really sure what that means, but maybe I’ll find out. October is the perfect time to get outside and see the beautiful fall foliage — Chattanooga has a ton of hiking trails. So pack a romantic lunch or dinner and get outside together! (Family-friendly hikes found here)
November: Have a brunch date.
There’s just something different about a brunch date vs. a dinner date. Maybe because it’s earlier in the day and I’m not exhausted yet, but I’m always livelier and a little more carefree…maybe it’s the mimosas. We have a great brunch guide which gives the ins and outs of all things brunch in our area.
December: Netflix and chill.
I know this phrase is so overused, but if your December is anything like mine, it is jam-packed with events. The last thing I want to do is plan something else, especially something for which I have to pay a babysitter. This is the perfect opportunity to sit at home with your loved one and veg out with a movie.
(The Tivioli Theatre is closed due to the pandemic BUT you can help support the Theatre by the foundation recovery fund. They are usually a staple on this list as are concerts in non-pandemic times.)
What are some of your favorite date night activities? I would love to add something fun to my list!
