5 Best {Date Nights}
Words by Erin McWilliams
The typical date night can get monotonous, but have no fear! The Eastside has plenty of variety to bring you out of your dull date night routine and put the boredom to bed.
1. Halcyon Coffee + Bar + Lounge
Coffee, Cocktails, & Board Games
Halcyon has expanded to East Austin, and we couldn’t be more excited about it. With plenty of parking (which was our only complaint about the 4th St. location) and ample seating, Halcyon on Aldrich Street makes for a no-hassle date night. Cozy up with s’mores for two, accompanied by a signature coffee drink or a chocolate espresso martini. Grab a board game from one of the many stacks, and you have yourself an enjoyable, laid-back date and a great opportunity to unplug and connect with your partner.
1905 Aldrich St., #110 | halcyoncoffeebar.com/location/mueller
2. Tillery Kitchen + Bar
Outdoor Happy Hour with a View
Located across from Secret Beach, Tillery is the best place on this list for happy hour drinks with a view of the river from their dreamy patio and backyard. From 3-7pm, get $1 off all shareables, $3 off all specialty cocktails, and all draft wine and select beers for $5.50. Whether you come for happy hour, or at night when it’s dark, the patio is the perfect lounging spot. If you don’t want to leave your furry friends at home for the evening, bring them! The outdoor patio is dog-friendly.
3201 E. Cesar Chavez St. | www.tilleryatx.com
3. Alamo Drafthouse Ritz
New Releases & Favorite Classics
You can never go wrong with dinner and a movie, and Alamo Drafthouse has the best of both worlds. The Alamo Drafthouse Ritz’ name speaks for its aesthetic—walk in under the classic “Ritz” theater sign on 6th Street and fall back in time to a glitzy, vintage movie theater. With reclining seats and addicting popcorn, you won’t want to see another movie anywhere else. Enjoy a movie that’s new to the screen or a classic at one of Alamo Drafthouse’s movie parties, listed here.
320 E 6th St | drafthouse.com/theater/ritz
4. Austin Bouldering Project
Get Physical then Relax with a Brew
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path kind of date, Austin Bouldering Project has it. With climbing routes designed for beginners all the way up to experts, there is something here for everyone. A nifty color-coordinated system from yellow to white signifies the levels of difficulty. Shoes are free for first-time climbers, and Friends & Allies Brewing is conveniently located next door for a thirst-quenching beer when you decide your arms can’t take any more climbing. If you’re hungry, walk across Springdale Road to Sa-Tén for coffee and Japanese-inspired light bites.
979 Springdale Rd #150 | austinboulderingproject.com
5. American Bingo
Get Lucky & Drink On
American Bingo is a cheap date night for when you need a change of pace. Tired of dinner? Grab a 25 cent beer and try your hand at some good old-fashioned bingo. Foster some friendly competition with your date and maybe win a cash prize in the process. If you win, take your earnings to Stay Gold to celebrate with after-bingo cocktails. Stay Gold is a staple for Austinites with its live music, unique cocktails, and amazing food truck, and is best enjoyed on a warmer night as the outdoor setting is the main attraction. Sip on your drinks while sitting on cabana-like couch formations, or if it’s cold outside, step inside to experience the jazz club vibes and live music.
1919 E. Riverside Dr. | austinbingo.com
