Nothing is like it used to be anymore, and that definitely includes dating and relationships. Whether you're just getting to know each other, or you've been booed up for a while, it's hard these days coming up with safe yet creative & affordable date night ideas. Take a deep breath and relax, because we've got you covered with this genius list of cool romantic ideas that are conveniently located to your UCF apartment.
Eat, Drink, and Be Quirky
Enjoy some grub that you didn't make yourself while still social distancing at some of Orlando's best restaurants with outdoor seating and a unique flair. If you don't mind a bit of a drive with your bae, then check out Munchies Live BBQ in western Orlando. You should make reservations in advance, but you can enjoy two whole hours of delectable barbeque and sides, as well as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing at their gorgeous lakefront location. Luke's Kitchen and Bar in north Orlando has a patio canopied with twinkling lights and evening romance under its stately oak trees – as well as a stunning menu of locally sourced chef's creations. Directly south of UCF, the Lake Nona area offers Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen, featuring tapas and specialty cocktails that are sure to delight. On Friday evenings, you can enjoy Art After Dark Lake Nona – a charming popup market with a variety of vendors and libation offerings. And don't miss the Orlando Farmers Market, every Sunday starting at 10am on the shores of stunning Lake Eola, close to Downtown.
Outdoor Fun and Romance
It has often been said that taking a long, leisurely walk is one of the most romantic things you can do. There are a massive amount of fun, safe outdoor activities nearby that let you spend quality time with that special someone while enjoying gorgeous landscapes and lush Florida scenery. The Lake Claire Recreation Area is right on campus and free for UCF students and open seven days a week. You can rent kayaks and canoes, hike, or just relax and snuggle at a lakeside pavilion. Just drive a few minutes north on Interstate 4 from UCF and you'll find Wekiwa Springs State Park, a little-known tropical jewel featuring a second-magnitude crystal-clear natural spring. The water is a delightfully crisp 72 degrees year-round, and manatees can often be found frolicking nearby. Or head over to the Thornton Park District – aka, "downtown for grownups" – for the Wine & Art Walk, the second Thursday of each month. Enjoy an adult libation and live music while taking a leisurely stroll with your current favorite person.
Get Your Culture On
It's important to look educated and suave to your date, right? Sure! Arts-related events are eminently enjoyable, laid back, and the proceeds go to a worthy cause. The Dr. Phillips Center is currently hosting the Front Yard Festival, with a vast line-up of comedy, live music, film, and more. You can book a private box and have a romantic dinner and drinks while staying safely distanced from other patrons. The Enzian Theater in Maitland is an alternative cinema featuring art-house and international movies, as well as a stunning outdoor bar, and a monthly movie series, "Popcorn Flicks in the Park." The Orlando Museum of Art in the Mills 50 district offers 1st Thursdays, "Orlando's original art party," a chill event with live DJs, cold wine, and a specially curated local art show.
Booze & Cruise (Responsibly!)
If you and your bae aren't driving and would like to enjoy some adult libations, how about a brewery tour? Florida microbreweries are gaining national and international awards for the rich variety of their offerings. Check out Dead Lizard Brewing Company, near Universal Studios, and slurp a Humpity Pumpity IPA, a Sour Cherry Watermelon Tilted Tonic, or the Gila Monster Chocolate Coffee Stout. Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company is convenient to many local apartment complexes, and they have an innovative beer menu, featuring the Guavacation sour Berliner weisse, the Tupac Shaporter, and Suck It Trebeck sour farmhouse IPA. If you're close to Winter Park, be sure to visit the Hideaway Park Brewery, grab a growler or two to go, and take the uber-romantic Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour.
The World is Your Oyster… Well, Orlando is, Anyway
Funds might be low, but the fun certainly isn't! There's always something new and exciting to do near your UCF apartment. And with the weather warming up, opportunities for outdoor romantic date adventures get a bit easier. Keep checking 407Apartments for more ideas on affordable amorous activities for you and your loved ones!