Austin is full of amazing date ideas, which means there’s really no excuse for a boring one. I’ve put together a curated list of the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Austin, TX whether you’re planning something sweet and cozy, fun and playful, or a full-on adventure.
This guide is for couples at every stage (first dates included), but honestly, it’s just as perfect if you’re single and looking for fun ways to explore the city. Think of it as a go-to resource for trying new experiences, discovering great spots, and making the most of everything Austin has to offer.
And if you’re planning something spontaneous, be sure to check out my list of the best things to do in Austin at night for last-minute and late-night date ideas.
P.S. Don’t forget to check Groupon for the best deals on things to do in Austin!
Table of Contents
Best Date Ideas: Romantic Things to Do in Austin
Love is in the air with these romantic date ideas in Austin.
Stroll Through Zilker Botanical Garden
Wander hand-in-hand through the Zilker Botanical Garden for a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city. With 26 acres of vibrant blooms and hidden pathways, it’s the perfect place to slow down and connect.
Don’t miss the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, where you can cross stone bridges over quiet koi ponds, or the prehistoric Hartman Prehistoric Garden for a fun, unique twist on your stroll. It’s a classic Austin date that feels like a total sanctuary.
Book a Sunset River Cruise
For the ultimate Austin date night, head to the Hyatt Regency docks and hop on a boat with Capital Cruises. There is nothing quite like watching the skyline glow from the water as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you want to join one of their famous bat-watching tours to see the Congress Avenue Bridge colony take flight or prefer a private, catered dinner cruise for two, it’s the most relaxing way to see the heart of the city.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling active, they also offer swan-shaped pedal boats and paddleboards for a fun, sunset photo-op on Lady Bird Lake!
Grab a Margarita with a View
For a “top-tier” date experience, head to The LINE Austin in the heart of downtown. Make your way up to P6, their Mediterranean-inspired rooftop bar, for panoramic views of Lady Bird Lake and the South Austin skyline. It’s arguably the best seat in the house to sip a craft margarita while watching the Congress Bridge bats take flight at sunset.
Enjoy a Spa Day
If you’re looking for the ultimate “treat yourself” moment, Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa is exactly where you need to be. It’s a 13,000-square-foot sanctuary tucked away in the Hill Country that feels like a total escape from reality. You can spend the entire day rotating between the steam rooms, dry saunas, and that incredible indoor heated whirlpool.
Pro Tip: You don’t actually have to book an overnight stay to experience this. You can grab a day pass through ResortPass to access the spa amenities and the gorgeous tiered poolscape for a perfect daycation.
Discover Austin’s Best Secret Speakeasies
If you want to add a little mystery to your night, there is nothing more thrilling than hunting down a hidden bar. Austin is full of these “blink-and-you’ll-miss-them” spots, from the underground, vinyl-spinning Equipment Room to the tropical paradise of Tiki Tatsu-Ya.
Some of these require a daily password or a secret app to even get through the door! I’ve put together a complete guide to my favorite secret speakeasies and hidden bars in Austin so you can find the codes and the entrances before you go.
Go Back in Time (Drive-Ins)
For a nostalgic night under the stars, head just south of Austin to Doc’s Drive-In Theatre. You can watch a double feature from your car or book one of their themed “Tiny Homes” for the ultimate staycation. Don’t forget to grab a milkshake and some wings from their 50s-style diner, and stop by Mama Merlot’s, their hidden onsite speakeasy, for a pre-movie cocktail.
Visit the Symphony
Get dressed up for a night of music at the Austin Symphony Orchestra. You might even be surprised at some of the shows they have, with music from West Side Story, Tango Symphonies, or Cosmos and Classics.
Catch a Dance Show
There are so many different dance forms and troupes, but each experience makes for a unique and exciting date night idea in Austin! Spend time checking out the Austin Ballet, Tapestry Dance Co, Blue Lapis Light, Andrea Ariel Dance Theatre, and Forklift Danceworks.
Visit NYC
Well, not quite. However, you can experience Broadway in Austin for a little NYC date night! There’s something about a live show that can spice up the romance and give you something to talk about in the weeks to come.
Go Sailing
Book a charter with Texas Sailing which includes sunset cruises, dinner cruises, and other romantic evening events! You’re sure to have a fun time out on the water.
See Austin from the Sky
A helicopter tour is one of the most romantic things you can do with your partner! There is so much to see from up above, whether it’s getting to take in the wildflowers, seeing the splendor of Austin, or taking a trip out to Salt Lick BBQ for lunch! A great option for a helicopter ride is Alamo Helicopter Tours.
Listen to Live Jazz
The soft candlelight and moody lighting set the mood for a romantic date night in Austin at the Parker Jazz Club where you’ll hear some of the best jazz around. Be sure to dance with your partner if you want to impress them and make your night even more fun!
Visit the Opera
The Austin Opera is a great place for a classy and elegant date night in Austin that you have to try at least once but will probably draw you in show after show! Plus, it’s a great excuse to get dressed up for each other.
Check Out The Austin Aquarium
Discover marine life and experience personal animal encounters like feeding stingrays and interacting with sloths, kinkajous, lemurs, otters, and more! Click here to purchase your admission tickets.
Try a Chef’s Tasting
Wink has a 7-course meal for a fancy date night in Austin where you can savor the delicious food and try dishes with ingredients from local farms. It takes wining and dining to the next level, and is truly a treat that will impress your partner for sure.
Or Go For a 20-course Omakase
Otoko on South Congress only seats 24 people a day for this special 20-course meal. Be sure to book well in advance to snag a seat, but it’ll definitely be worth the wait. You’ll get carefully crafted Tokyo-style sushi and Kyoto-style kaiseki prepared by the head chef. Its a unique date night that you’ll be talking about for years!
Cruise in a Cool Car
If you want a day of luxury and scenic drives around Austin, check out the incredible cars available on Turo and you’re sure to have the best time! From Tesla’s to Porsche’s, you can choose your ride for an unforgettable and fun date.
Go for a Picnic
Of course, you can set up your own picnic or let the people at XOXOPicnics set it up for you! With tables, pillows and more, this is a picnic fit for royalty!
Go on a Wellness Retreat
For a full day of relaxation, book a trip to Miraval Austin Resort and Spa where you can enjoy their world class spa treatments, sauna, steam room, and two infinity pools. It’s the perfect way to enjoy some quality time and unwind. On top of that, the day passes include access to their zip lining, mindfulness centers, walking trails, and other daily activities.
You can stay overnight for added relaxation and an extended date night in Austin together. Getting out into nature is one of the best things you can do with your loved one.
Go for a Brunch or Dinner Cruise
For a great meal and views of the lake, check out Lake Austin Riverboats. A cruise is one of those timeless dates that never fails to spark the romance.
Take a Friday Moonlight Cruise
At night, the lake takes on a whole new look. You can see the Texas sky with Lonestar Riverboat Cruise, a BYOB date night in Austin.
Enjoy a Romantic Meal
The classic, romantic dinner date night is still a great idea, especially at the right restaurant where you can both enjoy some fine dining. Some of the most romantic spots and best restaurants that will set the mood with incredible dishes, the right atmosphere, and great service include Olamaie, and Eberly.
Book More Spa Time
You really can’t get enough romantic spa dates, especially with all the great places there are in Austin. Lake Austin Resort is an all-inclusive spa resort that features Eastern Asian spa treatments, in addition to other great options. This special place is sure to make lasting memories and set the mood for a romantic night in.
Plan a Staycation
Feel like you’ve been transported somewhere new by booking a hotel in Austin. It’s a couple’s trip without the worry of actually having to travel far, and Austin has so many fun hotels to check out, including The Thompson, East Austin Hotel, Canopy Austin Downtown Hotel, The Otis Hotel, the Driskill, and the Hotel Van Zandt.
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Go on a Wine Tour
With the Texas wine country in Austin’s backyard, Austin Wine Tours will take you to see all that Texas has to offer when it comes to wine! Enjoy the wine tastings with your partner and savour the opportunity to taste more expensive wines without having to pay for a full bottle!
Visit the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum
Permanently home to works by Charles Umlauf, enjoy the outdoors and admire the sculptures scattered throughout the Umlauf Sculpture Garden. Take advantage of the benches and have a quiet moment with your partner while you’re at it. Extend the date and wander to nearby Zilker Park.
Plan a Day Trip/Weekend Getaway
Turn that Austin date night into an entire date-filled weekend or plan a day trip to some of the amazing towns nearby! You don’t need a special event to have an excuse to go away, and you really can’t go wrong when you experience the romantic city of Dripping Springs, the fairy tale town of Wimberley, the cutest downtown in Georgetown, or the adventures in Burnet.
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Escape the Box
For a thrilling and immersive experience, visit Escape the Box in Austin, where you can test your wits and teamwork in uniquely themed escape rooms. Ideal for date nights, it’s a perfect blend of fun and challenge!
Other Best Date Ideas & Romantic Things to Do in Austin TX
Best Date Ideas: Things to Do in Austin on the Water
Austin is lucky to have the turquoise blue waters of Lake Travis, scenic spots like Barton Creek, and other great swimming holes! With that comes a surplus of fun date ideas in Austin on the water! Click the link to discover the best water date activities in the city.
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Best Date Ideas: Active Things to Do in Austin
One thing I love about Austin is its focus on getting out and staying active! So of course, we had to find all the best date night ideas in Austin for couples to bond, maybe break a sweat, and get those endorphins flowing! If you and your partner enjoy getting active, be sure to check out our list of the best date ideas: active things to do in Austin. Whether you like rock climbing or want to relive your childhood dreams of joining the circus, this guide has it all.
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Best Date Ideas: Fun Things to Do in Austin
Prepare for lots of laughs, great memories, and a wide variety of activities with all of these fun Austin date night ideas! For an extra dose of fun, dive into our guide on fun romantic things to do in Austin. There are a whole bunch of classic date ideas like going to an escape room or a comedy, dancing and even racing around a track!
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Best Date Ideas: Romantic Things to Do in Austin for Art & History Lovers
Austin has a huge art scene, plus so many great museums and historical sites so you can bond with your partner. If you two lovebirds are history buffs and art lovers at heart, then you’ll want to be sure you check out the list of romantic things to do in Austin for art and history lovers. Here you can find all the best theatres and museums in Austin, as well as music and galleries, so you can slowly work your way through the list!
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Best Date Ideas: Things to Do for Foodies in Austin
Everybody loves to bond over good food and in Austin there are so many cool restaurants to be explored. Austin is a foodie city with new places to explore around every corner. And, if you’re looking for more than a sit-down dining experience, this comprehensive guide of best date ideas: things to do for foodies in Austin has everything from making cheese and sushi to dining in the dark.
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Best Date Ideas: Unique Things to Do in Austin
Looking for something unique to do with your date? We’ve got you covered with this list of the best date ideas: unique things to do in Austin. From playing bingo with chickens to going vintage hunting, you’re sure to find something weird.
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Best Date Ideas: Free Things to Do in Austin
Going on a date doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, and if you live in Austin you’re spoiled for choice with the amount of amazing free things you can do. You can even score free drinks on Sixth Street, see free concerts and enjoy a buffet at Sahara Lounge totally free of charge. Check out our complete list of the free best date ideas you can do as a couple in Austin.
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Best Date Ideas in Austin: FAQs
Where should I go on a date in Austin?
Be sure to check out our comprehensive list for the top-notch date ideas that’ll make your heart flutter and your smile sparkle. Here are some romantic date ideas you can share with your loved one.
- Indulge in spa treatments for a day of relaxation.
- Savor intimate dining experiences at Austin’s finest restaurants.
- Cozy up together at a drive-in movie theater.
- Embark on a scenic hike along one of Austin’s urban trails.
- Taste a variety of local beers, wines, and spirits.
- Challenge each other to a fun round of golf.
- Escape to a luxurious resort for a romantic getaway.
- Enjoy delicious treats and explore South Congress Avenue together.
Is Austin Texas good for dating?
Austin’s vibrant cultural scene, abundance of outdoor activities, and diverse culinary options make it an ideal place for dating. With its lively music scene, beautiful parks, and delicious food, there’s always something exciting to do together. Plus, being ranked as the 5th best city for dating in 2022 by Apartment List underscores its appeal as a dating destination.
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Best Date Ideas in Austin: Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it! With so many amazing date ideas in Austin, there really is no reason to be bored. No matter the budget or interests you share with your partner, there’s a tremendous amount of unique date ideas!
If you find yourself in a pinch and are in need of a last-minute, nighttime date idea, check out our list of the best things to do in Austin at night!
Did we miss something you think should be included? Share in the comments and we might add it to the list. Or if you encounter a night where you’d rather stay in, check out our list of stay-at-home date ideas!
Last Updated 7 days ago ago by Jessica Serna | Published: February 8, 2026
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