Are you looking for some fun things to do with someone you care about without having to stray too far from campus? Well, here are a few fun date ideas to give you some inspo!
Cat Cafe
Newport News is lucky enough to have our own cat cafe. It’s currently transitioning management but should reopen this October under the name Toby’s Cat Cafe. If you want to sip some coffee and cuddle with some cute cats and kittens, then you and your loved one should keep your eye out and visit this gem once it reopens.
Port Warwick
Port Warwick is a section of Newport News that’s quite close to CNU and has a variety of restaurants and shops worth checking out. There are a number of high-end restaurants if you want to treat your date to a fancy night out. Or, if you’re looking for a romantic way to spend a Sunday afternoon, grab a coffee and a crepe from the French bistro, Aux DĂ©lices, and wander around the gazebo located at the heart of this shopping center.
Paint your own pottery
I purposely left out what is my favorite location in Port Warwick because I think it deserves its own section. If you’re looking to have a fun and relaxing time with your significant other where you can express your creativity and enjoy each other’s artistic side, Starving Artist Studio should be your next date location. You can choose from a variety of ceramics and create your own masterpiece. You can paint a keepsake for yourself or create something for your date to remember you by. If you’re looking for a more social function to attend together, this studio also hosts events and workshops, so keep a lookout for anything that sounds like fun.
Virginia Living Museum
The Virginia Living Museum is less than a mile away from CNU and is one of the most valued locations in Newport News. Invest some time in viewing the variety of exhibits there with your partner. Whether you’re reading and learning about Virginia wildlife together or just enjoying a nice walk along the outdoor trails of the museum, there is plenty to enjoy at this location when you go with a friend or partner. (Make sure to bring your CNU ID for a discount!)
Hilton Shops
Just 10 minutes south of CNU lies Hilton Village, which has a variety of locally owned shops and restaurants all along Warwick Boulevard. Pick a day with nice weather and go on a cute little shopping date. I’d recommend Indulge for lunch and then Act II Consignment for a little thrifting. Also, every Saturday between 9 am and 12 pm, Hilton holds a farmers market outside the library. There you can spend a cozy morning with a loved one picking up some fresh produce and artisan goods and enjoying specialty coffee and desserts usually sold there.
I hope this article was able to give you a few ideas for your next date and help you remember to make time for fun during this last half of the semester. If fall break has gotten you in a festive autumn spirit, then make sure to check out my article on fun fall activities, which includes some more local recommendations!