February is typically the month of hearts and flowers, chocolate and cupids, and many times grand gestures of wining and dining and
day-long outings with intricately planned details. Most of you reading may agree, sometimes less is more and grand gestures, although appreciated, aren’t always what we’re looking for; sometimes we’re just looking for a little something different for a fun night out. If you’re looking to plan a date night or just a night out with friends, there are many options you may not have realized are available for consideration—whether you’re looking for a new culinary experience, something a bit adventurous, a little art and culture or something completely different. Check out what might be your next night out.
Want to keep it simple with a nice dinner out? Why not try something new like Cuban food at Havana's Bakery and Café, scratch-made Italian at Portofinos, or maybe enjoy the the Greek fare at Opa Grill?
Feeling a bit daring? Maybe look into exploring the Denver area a little differently with Big City Hunt. See some of the best sites through photo challenges and fun activities to do with a group of friends. Maybe take a drive around town or even to the mountains, but in your DREAM car. Rather take a spin on the dance floor instead of the highway? Many dance schools offer classes for adults from ballroom to hip hop. Check out Fred Astaire Dance for some toe tapping options. Perhaps you’d like to do something out of the ordinary, but make it a night in? Check out www. nightofmystery.com for a variety of Murder Mystery party plots and ideas.
Those looking for a sportier night out may want to try some fun straight out of the pages of gym class. Check out Ultimate Dodgeball at Skyzone, book the climbing wall at Parker Recreation or lace up your skates at the Ice Trail at Discovery Park. Maybe drive a few miles out of town and try your hand at any one of the activities at Family Sports Center (laser tag, climbing wall, ice arena, or the two- tiered, heated driving range). Instead of a battle on the turf, maybe a battle of wits is in order - check out Try’n Escape. See if you can beat the clock against Ghostly Mayhem, Money Madness or the Sinking Ship room.
Looking to up the culture factor? The PACE Center and Schoolhouse Theater have schedules packed with shows weekly, including the popular Comedy and Cocktails series, the Parker Symphony Orchestra, Firefall, and a number of other music and lecture attractions. You could also take the arts into your own hands, literally, by checking out local Paint Nite events. You’ve most likely seen those, paint a picture with friends while enjoying a beverage establishments; this is a traveling version of that concept. Check out their calendar of events at local bars and restaurants near you (www. paintnite.com) If the idea of painting has you making other plans, check out Plant Nite - instead of painting, plant beautiful succulents in beautiful terrariums and planters. Go green, and go home with new décor!
Plants or paint, exploring the city or staying close to home. The next time you get a date night on the calendar or you’re able to get the guys/girls together, think outside the box a bit and try something new on for size. Don’t save the original ideas for once a year on Valentine’s - make every night out a new adventure!