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Date Night Ideas in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio, is one of the most surprisingly romantic cities in the Midwest, offering a wide range of date night ideas for every kind of couple. Whether you are visiting together for the first time or looking for fresh things to do in Ohio for couples, you will find no shortage of charming spots and unique experiences to share with your special someone in this vibrant city.

From hands-on coffee and art experiences and guided food tours to comedy clubs, craft beer trails, and glow-in-the-dark mini golf, the date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio on this list cover every mood and occasion. Red Roof® properties are conveniently located near all of these destinations.

Plan your stay at redroof.com and make your Columbus trip one to remember.

A group of people holding glasses of beer
A person eating food at a table
A bowling ball in front of pins

Romantic Columbus Experiences for Two

A person pouring water into a glass cup

Learn About Coffee at the Crimson Cup Innovation Lab

One of the most unique date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio, the Crimson Cup Innovation Lab offers couples a hands-on coffee experience covering the origins of coffee beans, roast levels, and brewing techniques. Interactive sessions include roasting, grinding, and brewing your own coffee under expert guidance, with plenty of samples from rich espressos to smooth cold brews along the way.

A group of children painting

Take an Art Class

AR Workshop in Worthington offers a variety of DIY art classes for couples, ranging from woodwork to crafts, with skilled instructors guiding you through artistic techniques as you create personalized pieces together. It is one of the most creative and memorable things to do in Ohio for couples looking for a shared hands-on experience.

A glass of beer on a wood table

North High Brewing

With locations in Dublin and Uptown Westerville, North High Brewing is one of the most enjoyable and relaxed date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio, for craft beer lovers. Daily happy hour from 4 to 6 pm Monday through Friday offers half-off beer, wine, and cocktails, and the diverse selection of brews ensures a fresh experience every visit.

A red panda in a tree

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Known globally for its conservation efforts, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium offers a wonderful range of things to do in Ohio for couples who love animals. Highlights include the Polar Frontier, the African Congo exhibit, and the Land Down Under, where snoozing koalas are a fan favorite.

A man and woman in a movie theater

Visit the South Drive-In Theater

One of the most romantic date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio, a visit to the South Drive-In Theater is a charming throwback where couples can watch a movie together under the stars from the comfort of their car. Typically open Friday through Sunday with affordable admission, it is a cozy and genuinely special evening out.

A group of people clapping

Share Some Laughs at Funny Bone Comedy Club

The Funny Bone Comedy Club is a local favorite for couples looking for a lively and laugh-filled evening. A great option for dinner-and-a-show date nights, the club features both local and visiting stand-up comedians in a welcoming, fun atmosphere.

A aerial view of a golf course

TopGolf Columbus

Combining the thrill of golf with a social and culinary experience, TopGolf Columbus is a standout date night idea in Columbus, Ohio for couples of all skill levels. Friendly competition at the driving range targets is paired with a full-service restaurant and bar, with panoramic city skyline views adding to the atmosphere.

A group of people eating food

Columbus Food Adventures

A guided food tour sampling dishes from some of the city's best eateries while exploring historic neighborhoods and hidden gem restaurants, Columbus Food Adventures is one of the most immersive and delicious date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio.

A woman holding a glass of beer

Columbus Ale Trail

A self-guided tour taking couples through local breweries across the city, the Columbus Ale Trail offers artisanal brews ranging from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and crisp lagers. Collecting stamps at each brewery earns rewards and bragging rights, making it one of the most sociable things to do in Ohio for couples who love craft beer.

A person pouring milk into a cup of coffee

Columbus Coffee Trail

Featuring over 25 top-notch coffee shops across the city, including Boston Stoker, Crimson Cup, and Stauf's, the Columbus Coffee Trail is a wonderful non-alcoholic date option. Earning rewards, including a free t-shirt after just four stops, makes it one of the most fun date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio.

A close up of a man and woman dancing

Dance the Night Away at Emerald City Ballroom

Offering private dance lessons for couples of all experience levels, Emerald City Ballroom is one of the most romantic things to do in Ohio for couples looking to connect on the dance floor. Whether you are complete beginners or seasoned dancers, learning new moves together makes for an elegant and memorable evening.

A group of fruit in baskets

Shop at North Market

A historic marketplace in operation for over 148 years, North Market brings together hundreds of independent merchants, farmers, and makers selling fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies. Sampling treats and discovering unique gifts together makes it one of the most enjoyable date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio.

A golf club and ball on a green surface

Glow Putting at Miner49er

Miner49er offers glow-in-the-dark mini golf with neon-lit courses and a playful atmosphere perfect for couples of all ages. Friendly competition and the rule that the loser buys the drinks make it one of the most entertaining things to do in Ohio for couples looking for a fun evening out.

A statue of a woman in a pool of water

Columbus Museum of Art

Free on Sundays and open until 9 pm on Thursdays, the Columbus Museum of Art offers couples the chance to wander hand in hand through galleries of diverse masterpieces spanning centuries. It is one of the most affordable and meaningful date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio for art-loving couples.

A cat standing on a cat tree

Kitty Bubble Café

A truly unique and relaxing date experience, Kitty Bubble Café invites couples to sip on drinks while spending 30 to 60 minutes with the café's resident cats. The soothing feline company and cozy atmosphere make it one of the most charming and distinctive things to do in Ohio for couples.

A group of bowling balls

Bowling at Ten Pin Alley

A premier bowling destination with state-of-the-art facilities, stylish décor, and an upbeat atmosphere, Ten Pin Alley is one of the most classic and reliably enjoyable date night ideas in Columbus, Ohio. Whether you are aiming for strikes or simply enjoying each other's company, it promises hours of laughter and fun.