5 Unique Date Ideas in Arlington Heights, IL

Although our neighborhood is home to some of Chicagoland’s most renowned attractions, planning an outing for two can be a challenge. You want an activity that’s fun and romantic but also one that allows you to engage in conversation with your special someone. Don’t fret. We did the hard work for you, so you can relax and enjoy the occasion. Use our guide to find five unique date destinations in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Attend a Fundraiser at the Metropolis

People in Concert by Sebastian Ervi is licensed with Pexels License

Getting tickets to a show may not qualify as a momentous occasion, but when you check out the playbill at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, you’ll understand why this is a unique date night destination. This 329-seat complex hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year, including comedies and musicals. It’s also home to the Metropolis Youth Symphony and the School of the Performing Arts, serving over 2,500 students annually.

Enjoy an intimate showing of your favorite musical, such as Cabaret, or sing along with a tribute band like The Neverly Brother’s Rock and Roll concert. You can also do something different and attend a fundraiser to support the arts. From wine-tasting affairs to an elegant dinner, it’s the ideal way to show your commitment to the future of local live entertainment. The Metropolis’s convenient downtown location makes it an excellent place for quality date night entertainment, and ticket prices are generally quite budget friendly. Check online for the long list of upcoming shows.

• Location: 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights.
• Box Office Hours: Noon to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Go Boating on Lake Arlington

Lake Arlington is the ideal destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. You and your date can bond over scenic views of the water with a stroll around the shoreline. The 2-mile path is open year-round and circles the lake. You can also launch your non-motorized boat and explore the 50-acre lake afloat. If you don’t have your own craft, the marina offers paddle boats, kayaks, sailboats, pontoon peddle boats, and paddle boards you can reserve by the hour during the summer and fall seasons.

In addition to sailing, you can get in a couples’ workout at the outdoor exercise area, fish from the pier, and read the interpretive signage along the trail. There’s also a sensory garden with a fountain, a picnic area with a covered pavilion, and game tables. Take a sailing or kayaking lesson on the lake, then grab a bite to eat from the concession stand.

• Location: 1400 E. Valley Lane, Arlington Heights.
• Boat Rental Hours: From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, with a few exceptions posted online.

Indulge Your Inner History Buff

Whether you and your date love area history or you’re just learning about this side of you, head to the Roselle History Museum. Wander its permanent and changing exhibits hand-in-hand and discover local history, programs, and activities you can do together. Plan to attend annual events like the Old Settler’s Picnic and the Cemetery Walk.

There are three late 19th-century buildings on the museum’s campus, including the Sumner, Richter, and Coach Houses. The Roselle Historical Foundation stocked the buildings with vast displays of local artifacts, many from the former owner’s original homestead. Stop by this dynamic historical and educational resource to glimpse numerous original photographs and documents. If you’ve already been to this pick, the Centennial Room is a newly debuted exhibit that you won’t want to miss.

• Location: 102 S. Prospect St., Roselle.
• Hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, or by appointment.

Book a Staycation at the Eaglewood

Who said your date has to end at midnight? Book an overnight stay at a nearby hotel and make it an occasion to remember. We recommend the Eaglewood Resort and Spa. This four-star hotel is only 20 minutes west of Arlington Heights and touts the world-class amenities you thought you had to go into the Windy City to find.

There’s so much to do on this 106-acre estate and upscale hotel. The prairie-style building has 295 sophisticated guest rooms with cherry and mahogany furnishings and mission-style decor. Each one is outfitted with a comfortable seating area, coffeemakers, whirlpool tubs, iHome radios, andfree Wi-Fi. Book a spacious suite and enjoy a private balcony or patio, and if you need to check in with the office, use the oversized desk and ergonomic chair.

After your relaxing evening, play a round of golf — it’s one of the best 18-hole championship courses in the area — or try your luck at the six-lane bowling alley, get in a workout at the fitness center, and then cool off with a splash in the indoor pool. There are three on-site restaurants to satisfy any craving, anddon’t head home without a spa treatment. Rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit with a massage, facial, or manicure.

• Location: 1401 Nordic Road, Itasca.
• Checkout time: 11 a.m.

Tour the Entertainment District

One of our top choices for a unique date in Arlington Heights is to explore the walkable downtown entertainment district. This area of the city attracts couples of all ages with such activities as dining, show-going, and shopping. There are 30 restaurants serving everything from sushi at Nikko’s to gourmet burgers from Jimmy D’s. But the fun doesn’t stop there. You’ll find plenty of lounges, theaters, and live entertainment venues to choose from, as well as boutique shops that offer everything from one-of-a-kind gifts to furniture.

Local events make this vibrant destination one of the most popular date spot ideas. The 10-day Chicago Northwest Eat Local Week festival takes place each year in March, while summer concerts attract couples from all over the city. Arlington Heights also hosts Frontier Days in May. It’s one of the largest Memorial Day festivals in the area, complete with a parade.

• Location: 101 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights.
• Hours: Vary, based on your activities.

The staff at NeuroHealth Arlington Heights put together this list of the best five unique date ideas in the city. Which one caught your eye? Let us know how it goes. We’d love to hear that you and your significant other had a great time.