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If you’re traveling with your beloved partner, you’ll want know where the two of you can work in a super romantic evening or two in the city you’re visiting, right? We hear you. Whether you prefer being in a traditional setting or doing something that’s completely different, below you’ll find the absolute most romantic spots for a great date in all 50 states.

RELATED: 6 irresistibly romantic cruises

Alabama

Take it slow in Birmingham at the Birmingham Museum of Art‘s Slow Art Sunday meetups where you and bae can listen to docent talks about the museum’s collection. Next, take your “little spoon” to Big Spoon Creamery for a scoop of awesome artisan ice cream and work it off with a sunset stroll through Railroad Park.

Alaska

A 10-minute drive from downtown Anchorage, Arctic Valley—located at one of the first Chugach State Park access points heading north—makes for an active date thanks to hiking ops in warmer weather and downhill or backcountry skiing, and tubing fun during wintertime. For $40, grab the park’s date night special which includes two tubes, two drinks and a shareable pizza.

Arizona

Lowell Observatory

Stop gazing into each other’s eyes and start gazing up at the sky at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff featuring scientific exhibits, historical telescopes, outdoor constellation viewing and celestial programming. And if you’re still bummed about Pluto’s planet downgrade, take heart in knowing that this is where Pluto was discovered on February 18, 1930.

Arkansas

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

In Bentonville, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art offers picturesque views both indoors and out thanks to its surrounding 120 acres of native Ozark forest. After viewing its collection, become your own photographers while exploring various gentle to moderate hiking trails encompassing natural springs, rolling streams and white oak and shortleaf pine trees.

California

Visit Huntington Beach

Snuggle up in Huntington Beach, by taking part in a beach bonfire. Purchase a bonfire kit from beach concessionaires at Bolsa Chica State Beach, Huntington City Beach and Huntington State Beach. Bring a blanket and some food and drinks (alcohol is not permitted) and savor the glow while cuddling on the sand.

Colorado

Liz Levy

On the first Friday of every month, Denver‘s Art District on Santa Fe becomes an interactive canvas by putting on an evening art walk where visitors can step in and out of galleries, studios and co-ops along with seeing street art in alleys and, of course on the street. Afterward, grab a bite at an on-site food truck.

Connecticut

From May through late October, the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat’s Essex Clipper Dinner Train rolls out a four-course meal onboard a restored 1920s railcar that has splendid views of the Connecticut River Valley as a romantic backdrop.

Delaware

Joe Del Tufo

In Wilmington, the Wilmington Riverfront boasts numerous romantic itineraries. Stroll the 1.3-mile path, have a brew at Constitution Yards Beer Garden, hit a hole in one at Riverfront Mini Golf and find seclusion at Russell W. Petersoon Urban Wildlife Refuge. Indoor offerings include the oyster happy hour (wink, wink) at Banks Seafood Kitchen.

Florida

Deremer Studios

An easy drive from Jacksonville or Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island State Park gives you a chance to do something different in a Florida state park—it’s the only one to offer horseback riding on its beaches. Sign up for a ride at Kelly Seahorse Ranch or go on your own way and instead take a trolley tour.

Georgia

The Atlanta Beltline in the morning

The Atlanta Beltline in the morning

Chew the magnificent scenery while also trimming your waistline with a walk around the BeltLine in Atlanta. The ongoing constructed path connects to parks and various trails going throughout the city. Grab a bite to eat afterward at one of many eateries along the BeltLine including the Ponce City and Krog Street markets.

Hawaii

Hawaii Tourism Authority / Vincent Lim

In Kaneohe, about 30 minutes from Honolulu, pick up Hawaiian dishes such as lau lau (pork wrapped in taro leaf) or chicken long rice (a version of noodle soup) or haupia (a coconut milk dessert) from Waiahole Poi Factory then head to nearby Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden for a romantic DIY picnic.

Idaho

Boise River Greenbelt

The beautiful Boise River Greenbelt in autumn

Head out along the Boise River Greenbelt, a tree-lined, 25-mile bicycle and pedestrian trail that follows the river through the heart of the city. Make stops along the way to cross scenic bridges, hang at bars and eateries and check out attractions ranging from the Discovery Center of Idaho to Zoo Boise.

Illinois

Chicago Magic Lounge

Believe in magic in the Windy City at the Chicago Magic Lounge, a bar and multi-theatre cabaret located inside an old laundry building in the city’s Andersonville neighborhood. Savor small plates and cocktails while house magicians perform some sleight of hand right at your table. Plus, the lounge’s secret entrance will have you second-guessing yourself.

Indiana

Try your hand—or feet—at swing dancing at the Fountain Square Theatre Building in Indianapolis, where you’ll find a regular schedule for its Friday Night Swing Dance series. Not a swinger (just kidding), the building also boasts ducking bowling, a lobby bar and game room and a rooftop garden and lounge featuring skyline views.

Iowa

Ditch the stuffy museums in favor of the whimsical John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines. This outdoor arts display of 31 works is full of Instagrammable treasures including its own version of Robert Indiana’s iconic Love sculpture (hint, hint). Afterward, head to  El Bait Shop, for Mexican American eats and craft beers.

Kansas

In Topeka, rev up your relationship by being daring with a visit to the Evel Knievel Museum, which celebrates the life and limb of the death-defying stunt performer. Or, if you have the stamina, go on a tour of the Kansas State Capitol building and in particular its dome, which involves climbing up 296 steps from the fifth floor to the cupola. For dinner, feel refined over French cuisine at The White Linen in downtown Topeka.

Kentucky

Get boozy and woozy on bourbon by checking out downtown Louisville‘s distilleries and tasting rooms. Key stops include the Rabbit Hole in East Market, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, Angel’s Envy and Mitcher’s.

Louisiana

Have a taste of the Pelican State’s culinary history at the Southern Food & Beverage Museum in New Orleans. This NOLA museum holds weekly chef demonstrations and in-depth cooking classes, where you can watch the step-by-step recipe process and partake in a delicious lunch that you can enjoy together.

Maine

Visit Maine

Make a date out of visiting Portland‘s six lighthouses located within 20 minutes of the city. The Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth’s Fort Williams Park is Maine’s oldest in operation. Also in Cape Elizabeth, Two Lights State Park boasts twin lighthouses, while Ram Island Light is at the entrance to Portland Harbor off Portland Head. Next, drive through the campus to the Portland Harbor Museum, and walk along the granite wall to Spring Point Ledge Light. Lastly, head to Bug Light Park to visit the aptly named Bug Light.

Maryland

Book lovers will fall hard for Baltimore‘s literary history. First, check out the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum. In the Mount Vernon cultural district, the five-story George Peabody Library at John Hopkins is is often referred to as the “cathedral of books” due to its open atrium and ornate design. Next, visit the quirky cool Hampden Village and check out the indie titles at Atomic Books—where John Waters gets his fan mail! Lastly, order craft beers at The Owl Bar inside the Belvedere Hotel, a watering hole once frequented by F. Scott Fitzgerald and H.L. Mencken.

Massachusetts

Discover Central Massachusetts

Worcester was once the epicenter of the commercial valentine industry in the United States (the greeting card was born here). Create one of your own here by posing in front of the city’s downtown POW WOW murals. Or visit the words “Love You, Marry Me,” which is a popular spot for engagements. And then bite into some Belgian liege waffles from Blue Shades, featuring sweet, savory and funky food pairings.

Michigan

In Detroit‘s Cass Corridor, Third Man Records is where you and your date can not only look at vinyl, but also create your very own love song. Owned by Jack White of The White Stripes, this shop lets you take a tour of its record pressing plant, record a song right inside the store, and then get a copy on a seven-inch vinyl single.

Minnesota

Was there ever a singer more seductive than Prince? In Minneapolisfollow in the Purple One’s footsteps. First, check out a show at First Avenue, a live music venue made famous in Prince’s film, “Purple Rain.” Next, take a 30-minute ride to the musician’s Paisley Park in Chanhassen. Lastly, chill over the sounds of jazz by world-class musicians at the Dakota Jazz Club, where Prince used to hang out and once performed a series of instantly sold-out shows.

Mississippi

Robert Smith

Head to coastal Mississippi and take in the scenic Mississippi Gulf Coast with a cruise on the Betsy Ann Riverboat as it propels along the mighty river. Opt for onboard dining by purchasing one of their special dinner excursions. Or go back on land to The Chimneys in Gulfport, which was voted “Mississippi’s Most Romantic Restaurant” by Food & Wine magazine!

Missouri

At the commitment stage in your relationship? Make your love for one other official in Kansas City by putting a padlock on the Old Red Bridge in Minor Park. Afterward, celebrate at Char Bar by filling your plate with Southern-style eats, then hitting the beer garden for some friendly competition including bocce, ping pong and cornhole.

Montana

Bozeman Hot Springs

Warm up in the mountain town of Bozeman by taking a dip in the Bozeman Hot Springs, featuring 12 naturally heated pools of varying temps. Sit and soak in pools both indoors and out. Afterward, get all lovey dovey over a steak dinner at loft-like eatery Open Range.

Nebraska

Visit Omaha

In Omaha, invite a third-wheel on your date by taking a walk along the 3,000-foot-long Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge (aka the Bob) connecting Nebraska and Iowa. It’s a prime selfie spot; you can even tag “Bob” as he’s got his own Instagram account. Afterward, head to the Old Market Entertainment District for its candy shops, restaurants and its Laka Lona Rum Club—a Polynesian-themed bar.

Nevada

Photo courtesy of the Neon Museum

From hit shows to happening clubs to hot Strip restaurants, Las Vegas is jam-packed with things to do. However, if it’s romance you seek, head to the Neon Museum, which offers a lively history of Sin City via an outdoor “boneyard” of iconic vintage signage. Definitely go at night when the signs are lit up and now through April 12, 2020, check out Tim Burton’s “Lost Vegas” exhibit at the museum.

New Hampshire

Courtesy White Mountains New Hampshire

In winter, the Ice Castles in North Woodstock make for a romantic adventure. Think LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides and fountains. In summer, take a leisurely drive along the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

New Jersey

Get your hearts racing by heading up to the monument marking the summit of High Point State Park in Sussex.  At 1,803 feet above sea level, the monument is also the spot for splendid panoramic views of farmland, forest, hills and valleys in not only New Jersey, but also New York and Pennsylvania.

New Mexico

Enter a whole other realm in Santa Fe at Meow Wolf’s fully immersive art installation, “House of Eternal Return.” Inside, guests discover a multidimensional mystery house featuring secret passages, portals to magical worlds, and an expansive narrative amidst surreal, maximalist and mesmerizing art exhibits.

New York

The Battery Conservancy

There are so many romantic spots in New York City, but this date suggestion will have you feeling like a kid again—on a carousel ride! Brooklyn has the B&B Carousell in Coney Island, Jane’s Carousel in DUMBO and Prospect Park Carousel in Prospect Park. Meanwhile, Manhattan’s got the SeaGlass Carousel in Battery Park, the Friedsam Memorial Carousel in Central Park, Le Carrousel in Bryant Park and Carousel at Pier 62. The Bronx Zoo has a bug-themed carousel and Queens has the Forest Park Carousel in the park of the same name. So you have plenty of options to take a ride!

North Carolina

North Carolina Museum of Art

In Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of Art and its adjoining Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park not only have art on display inside and out but also a neat attraction. The Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky looks like a simple hobbit home set in the middle of woodlands but once you enter the light-tight stone hut, a camera obscura effect projects what’s outside inside. Head to Bella Monica for delicious Italian afterward.

North Dakota

Yes, Fargo is cooler than you think it is and has a historic and bustling downtown to prove it. Have the perfect date at BernBaum’s, a deli located entirely within a hip, midcentury modern furniture store. Or, for something heartier, gaze into each other’s eyes over dinner at beloved fine dining resto Mezzaluna. Either way, make sure to snap a lovey-dovey selfie in front of the iconic Fargo Theatre.

Ohio

Step back in time in Columbus‘ idyllic German Village neighborhood, featuring cobblestoned streets and brick buildings dating back to the 1800s. Be sure to pop in and out of the charming shops, pubs and eateries. German food isn’t the most romantic so instead opt for a surf ‘n’ turf at charming corner eatery Lindley’s.

Oklahoma

Tulsa Glassblowing School

In Tulsa, learn how to make your own glass art at Tulsa Glassblowing School in the city’s Arts District, followed by sampling artisan chocolates and caramels from Glacier Confection. Dating on a Thursday? Try the themed nights at Foolish Things Bar & Biscuits.

Oregon

Alberta Art District has amazing art galleries, pubs, food, and coffee all year around. 

Make a date out of dining within Portland‘s famous food cart scene. Get started along 5th and 3rd Avenues downtown, try Cartopia or Hawthorne Asylum in Southeast ‘hood or check out Cartlandia along 82nd Avenue and North Portland’s  Killingsworth Station.

Pennsylvania

Visit Philadelphia

Get lost in a labyrinth of art at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, the work of visual artist Isaiah Zagar. Nearly every nook is adorned with an array of colorful tiles, cement, bicycle tires, bottles and other whimsical objects. Then, Mission Taqueria enables solid plate sharing with options like the ceviche sampler.

Rhode Island

While admiring Gilded Age mansions, follow along the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile oceanside route in ritzy Newport where you and your bae can enjoy elegant homes on one side and sea breezes on the other. Then go for some chowdah at Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar, noted for its clam and scallop versions.

South Carolina

Brookgreen Gardens

A 20-minute drive from family-friendly Myrtle Beach, the fishing village of Murrells Inlet offers waterfront dining and natural settings to explore. The MarshWalk ventures along a natural saltwater estuary that turns into a happening night spot. Within the area, Brookgreen Gardens showcases outdoor American sculptural art.

South Dakota

Courtesy of South Dakota Department of Tourism

In Custer State Park, follow along the Lover’s Leap Trail, a rocky looping route with an uber-romantic view of the Black Hills and the canyon that U.S. Highway 16A runs through. It’s a short and challenging route that will show you two that love (and strong gams) can conquer all! Save room for dinner at Tally’s Silver Spoon, a no-frills diner with an upscale twist, in nearby Rapid City.

Tennessee

Get some slow-smoked barbecue from iconic smokehouse Central BBQ and stroll down to the Mighty Mississippi for a riverfront picnic at Martyrs Park in downtown Memphis. Then, stroll along the Big River Crossing, a pedestrian and biking bridge spanning the river from Memphis to West Memphis, Arkansas.

Texas

Becker Vineyards

In Texas Hill Country, sip on wines and stroll a leafy, small town charmer. German-founded Fredericksburg offers tasting rooms such as Becker Vineyards and Fiesta Winery. Away from downtown, Fat Ass Ranch & Winery, Great Creek Vineyards and the Fredericksburg location of Messina Hof Winery offer great labels.

Utah

Temple Square Hospitality

Partake in fine dining that’s up above downtown Salt Lake City at The Roof Restaurant at Temple Square. On the 10th floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, indulge in a premier gourmet dining buffet and watch the sunset go down right at your dinner table.

Vermont

Go for a sweet date in Burlington with a factory tour at local favorite Lake Champlain Chocolates, where you can watch their artisan confections being crafted by hand and try them too. (We hear Ben & Jerry’s offers a pretty sweet tour of their own, about 40 minutes east.) Top off your day with a savory meal at Waterworks and a spectacular view of the Winooski River.

Virginia

Darnell Vennie / 2016 The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Step back in time by taking a trip to Colonial Williamsburg or the Jamestown Settlement to not only see what these historic sights are all about, but to envision what it would have been like to court—or be courted by—a partner way back when!

Washington

For the geeky couple, Ada’s Technical Books & Café in Seattle will appeal to your analytical side with its stacks of subject-minded books. Alternatively, go for a burger and a beer at Loretta’s Northwesterner, featuring a patio equipped with a sleek old trailer turned into a lounge.

Washington, DC

Courtesy of washington.org

Our stately nation’s capital is brimming with iconic sites so it’s tough to go wrong, but we say take a stroll through the National Arboretum featuring 446 acres of elegantly landscaped grounds, including the columns from the original Capitol building. For dinner, see if you can snag a table at Anju, the hottest restaurant in DC right now.

West Virginia

Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park

At Blackwater Falls State Park in the Allegheny Mountains, hike to Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot cascade drop among fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The Falls, along with a few of the park’s other features like Elakala Falls, Lindy Point and Pendleton Point Overlook, are some of the state’s most photographed spots.

Wisconsin

Cave of the Mounds

Twenty minutes west of Madison, the Cave of the Mounds might require some hand-holding as the two of you venture through this natural wonder on a guided tour. Attend their “Cave After Dark” series, which turns this dimly-lit location into a romantic setting.

Wyoming

In Cheyenne, take a lively street trolley tour that winds past historic buildings, followed by dinner at the Rib & Chop House, or beers and pub grub at Freedom’s Edge Brewing Co., Cheyenne’s oldest craft brewery.

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Michele Herrmann

Michele Herrmann

Michele writes about women's travel, destinations, culinary, and cultural topics for various outlets and has ventured as far as Fiji, to date. She also muses her tales on She Is Going Places.
Michele Herrmann

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