Now that the weather is finally starting to be season appropriate, everybody has been dying to get outside and soak up the long awaited sunshine. Whether you’re in a relationship, single and Spring Fever is hitting you hard or the warm weather has you in a good mood and you’re willing to give someone new a chance, here are the best warm weather date spots in Evanston. Take advantage of the extra free time during Reading Week to take out that special someone on a sunny day!
1. The Classic Lakefill Date
One of the most scenic and nicest spots on campus, the Lakefill is the perfect location for a sunny day picnic. Bring a blanket and lounge on the grass, enjoying the weather, picnic food and each other’s company. The Lakefill is also a good place to fly a kite or toss a Frisbee around. Also, if you come out at night, you can go star gazing with the Chicago skyline faintly glowing in the distance.
2. Tandem Biking Date around Campus
It might sound a little weird at first, but it’s a fun and active way to spend a sunny afternoon. You can rent tandem bikes online from Norris Outdoors through Northwestern’s Bike Share Program. Tandem bike rental is $20/day.
3. Beach Day
One of the perks of Northwestern’s campus is having access to two beaches: one on north campus and one on south campus. Bring a beach towel, put on that swimsuit you’ve been working out all winter for and relax in the sun together or splash around in the lake if it’s not too cold.
4. Dinner for Two at Tapas Barcelona
Voted the best date night restaurant by students in Spoon Magazine and in The Daily Northwestern, Tapas Barcelona offers delicious food and a fun, casual atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its sangria and its variety of Spanish-style dishes. Get a table outside and enjoy the warm weather and each other’s company over a plate of paella.
5. Check Out the Grosse Point Lighthouse
The Grosse Point Lighthouse is actually a really cool landmark just a couple blocks north of campus. Head north on Sheridan on the east side of the road and the lighthouse will come up on your right. There are scheduled tours of the lighthouse June through September on Saturdays and Sundays at 2-4pm every hour. The tours cost $6, but tours of the lighthouse are currently limited due to construction. However, the grounds around the lighthouse are open to the public and free and there’s a nice public beach nearby.
6. Ice Cream Run
Cool off on a hot day together by making a quick ice cream run. There are plenty of ice cream shops in downtown Evanston including: Andy’s, Red Mango, and Cold Stone Creamery.
7. Take a Trip to Lincoln Park Zoo
Take a trip together to the Lincoln Park Zoo. It’s about ten miles from Evanston, but it’s fun, there are tons of cool animal exhibits and it’s free! It’s open from 10am-5pm on weekdays and 10am-6:30pm on weekends and you can get there on the El from campus.