Austin which borders Texas Hill Country, is the live music capital of the world, and has a huge art scene and so many great museums and historical sites so that you can bond with your partner over some quality time and learn a little. If you’re an art lover or a history buff, these romantic date ideas in Austin for art and history lovers are the best way to spend your time.
You don’t have to go fine dining to have a date, feel free to grab an ice cream or tacos as you explore some of the best art, music and history that Austin has to offer and you’re sure to have the best time!
Texas Travel Guide
With our latest edition of our Texas Travel Guide, you can take an exciting vacation every weekend without breaking the bank and still have more to do! And in just one trip, the guide pays for itself! You’ll be amazed at all the hidden gems, international influence, and wacky attractions you’ll find all over Texas!
Not ready to purchase quite yet? We wanted to make this guide as accessible as possible, so we’ve shared our 1st edition of our guide, 50 Texas Trips Under $50. Click the button below to get yours for FREE!
Romantic Art & History Date Ideas in Austin
See Art at the Mexic-Arte Museum
Explore Mexican culture through art at this museum in downtown Austin with regularly rotating exhibits. There is free admission for members.
Visit the Blanton Museum of Art
With over 19,000 art pieces from Europe and Latin America, you could easily spend all day at this great spot in the heart of Austin, whether its a special occasion or not. If you’re an art lover the museum will be heaven to you.
Enjoy Cool Art Programs
Take your pick of amazing Austin date ideas with one of the programs from Big Medium, including different galleries, an East and West Austin Studio Tour, and other events. As an added bonus, its open Tuesdays!
See Some Theatre
The only hard part will be choosing which ones. Austin has so many great acting troupes to enjoy and support. You can make your way through the list for multiple theatre date ideas until you find your favorite on your next date night. Some of the theatres in Austin are Hideout Theatre, Zach Theatre, Vortex Theatre, Salvage Vanguard Theatre, Scottish Rite Theater, Fallout Theatre, City Theatre, Zilker Theatre Productions, Paramount Theatre, Coldtowne Theater, Hyde Park Theatre, and Rude Mechs. All of these companies are a great addition to the perfect date night!
Go on an Art Gallery Tour
This is another Austin date that can turn into multiple dates. Choose a few that look like they’ll interest you and spend time checking out each one. Some great ones include Roadhouse Relics, Flatbed Center for Contemporary Printmaking, Big Medium, Russell Collection of Fine Art, and Yard Dog Art, just to name a few.
Related Posts: Fun and Date Ideas in Austin
Visit the Contemporary Art Museum
Where you’ll see all sorts of incredible sculptures in this downtown location as well as amazing art by contemporary artists. Then sit on top of the limestone tree stump and reflect on life.
Explore the South Austin Popular Culture Center
Here you’ll find a museum that showcases the pop culture of Austin. Be sure to take your camera because there are so many insta-worthy backgrounds!
Wander through the Mi Casa Gallery
Where you’ll find all types of Latin American art, pottery, and religious items. It’s like a visual walk through history.
Discover Programs at the Asian American Cultural Center
With programs like Chinese cooking classes, where you can taste delicious food, Shaolin Kung Fu, calligraphy, music, and more, there is so much to learn and experience. This is a fun date for art lovers as well as foodies.
Go on an Austin Historic Walking Tour
They have different walking tours that teach you about the capitol and different historic spots around Austin. It’s a history buff’s paradise!
Go on an Austin Music Heritage Tour
Walk back through 50 years of Austin music history all about live music venues and the birth of local legends! With Austin being the music capitol of the world, it’s well worth the visit.
See the Lotus Asian Art
This gallery has all types of Asian antiques, ancient and contemporary art, and decor. It’s really beautiful to see and you’ll find yourself in awe of the asian techniques.
Sign Up. Be Inspired. Travel.
Experience travel like never before with our exclusive tips, tricks, and recommendations. Join our newsletter for the best advice on making the most of your Texas adventures!
Learn about German Heritage
At the German-Texan Heritage Society, you can take language and cooking classes, as well as take part in special events! Learn to speak and cook the German way for an extra fun date.
Explore Latino Theatre
Teatro Vivo puts on plays based on the Latinx community. It’s the perfect place to go for a romantic date.
Discover the Richness of Texas History
The Bullock State Texas History Museumis the right place to make this date feel nothing like those high school history classes. Instead, it lets couples connect through interactive exhibits.
Discover Indian Classic Music
At the Indian Classic Music Circle of Austin, you can see different music and dance performances for a unique date night. There’s something incredibly relaxing about the sound of an Indian flute, and here you can listen to many different styles of Indian music.
Visit the French Legislation Historic Site
This was built to represent the French government in the new Republic of Texas and, since then, serves as a piece of history that you can explore for yourself. There is a hotel there that serves breakfast and lunch to take your date to the next level.
Participate in a Program at the Texas Folklife Center
Featuring concerts, story series, folklife exhibits, and more, there are so many great opportunities for an educational and fun date night. From music and cultural heritage to folk art and health, there are some really great programs to choose from.
Related Posts: Unique Date Ideas in Austin for Couples
Learn about the Messenger of the Alamo
At the Susanna Dickinson Museum, history comes to life through immersive exhibits and engaging storytelling. Explore the life and legacy of Susanna Dickinson, who played a pivotal role in the historic events of the Alamo. You’ll learn all about the history of the battle of Alamo and see some interesting art.
Listen to Different Local Music Performances
The building was once a school for the blind, as well as a federal war hospital, and you can learn about its past on your next visit. It’s a great date for history buffs!
Learn About the Neill Cochran House Museum
The building was once a school for the blind, as well as a federal war hospital, and you can learn about its past on your next visit. Click here to purchase your admission tickets.
Live Out History
The Jourdan-Bachman Pioneer Farms outside East Austin is a living history farm where you can experience farm life, learn skills from back in the day (and that are still relevant today), and participate in special events! This is a fun date where you can both get your hands dirty and bond over some good old fashioned work.
Learn About the History of Texas Music
With special exhibits and events no matter the time of the year, the Texas Music Museum is a great place to learn about the diverse traditions of Texas music! It’s a good idea to check this out given that Austin is the live music capitol of the world.
Rock n’ Roll
Or at least learn about it at the Modern Rock Gallery. See iconic photos as well as different rock and roll art.
Related Posts: Things to Do in Austin on a Rainy Day
Other Romantic Things to Do in Austin For Couples
Wondering how to impress your loved one? Dive into our comprehensive guide of the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Austin TX. From a sunset cruise or helicopter ride to a wine tour, we have the best ideas that will keep your date smiling from ear to ear. So, grab your partner and get ready to have a really good time!
Art & History Date Ideas in Austin: FAQs
Does Austin have an art scene?
Austin’s vibrant and diverse creative community is one of its defining features. The city’s unique blend of artists, actors, musicians, and other creatives contributes to its dynamic indie arts scene.
Does Austin have any museums?
For museum enthusiasts in Austin, these are some of the top recommendations:
- LBJ Presidential Library: Explore the legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson through exhibits showcasing his presidency, civil rights achievements, and more.
- Bullock Texas State History Museum: Dive into the rich history of Texas with interactive exhibits covering various aspects of the state’s past, from its Native American roots to modern-day developments.
- Thinkery: Perfect for families and curious minds, Thinkery offers hands-on exhibits and activities focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) education.
Is Austin Texas romantic?
Springtime in Austin is truly magical, and it offers countless opportunities for couples to create unforgettable memories together. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant blooms in the city’s parks and gardens, enjoying a romantic picnic by the lake, or discovering hidden gems in Austin’s cultural scene, there’s something for every couple to enjoy.
Art & History Date Ideas in Austin: Final Thoughts
Whether its your first date or your hundredth, there are so many cool things to do as an art and history lover. This list has some of the best places to go for a date to be sure you and your partner have a great time.
Why go to a coffee shop or yet another happy hour when you can check out live performances or a historic building for a fun date idea? These romantic date ideas are a better way to spend your time as they are enjoyable, unique and educational. You can even go on a double date for twice the fun!
Last Updated 7 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: May 12, 2024