10 Creative & Affordable Date Nights in Central Ohio
Why Date Nights Matter—Especially for Parents
As parents, carving out time for date nights can feel nearly impossible. Between work, childcare, and the endless to-do list, it's easy to let intentional connection fall by the wayside. But here's the truth: nurturing your relationship isn't a luxury—it's essential. Every time we make space for a date night, we realize how much we needed it. To talk uninterrupted. To feel connected and fun. To get out of the daily and weekly grind and really keep growing together.
Regular date nights can boost relationship satisfaction, improve communication, and even reduce stress. They remind us that we're partners, not just co-parents. Even a couple of hours away from the daily grind can reignite the spark and strengthen your bond. Bonus if you change it up. Dinner is great, but trying new things adds a level of excitement and exploration to the relationship and most people could use that!
To help you deepen your connection during these date nights, I've created a free resource: "Communication Scripts to Build Emotional Intimacy." These scripts are designed to facilitate meaningful conversations, helping you and your partner connect on a deeper level
Making It Happen: Childcare & Budget-Friendly Resources
Finding a trustworthy sitter is often the biggest hurdle. Maybe you have an easy release to other people being with your kids, or maybe it’s a barrier to you getting out and about. Services like Sitting Made Simple connect families with vetted, reliable babysitters, making it easier to plan that much-needed night out. It’s one thing take care of and you know your kids are in good hands so you can stop texting to “check in” every 14 minutes.
Budget constraints? Many local libraries, including the Columbus Metropolitan Library, offer cultural passes that grant free or discounted admission to museums, theaters, and other attractions. Check with your local branch to see what's available. Our family particularly enjoys the passes to Franklin Park Conservatory and the variety of live performances from Shadowbox, BalletMet and more.
10 Creative & Affordable Date Night Ideas in Central Ohio
If you are like me and get analysis paralysis when it comes to planning, I got you. Let’s give your brain a boost with some ideas already created for you.
1. Craft Cocktails & DIY Projects at The Maker’s Social
Where: The Maker’s Social, 461 W Rich St, Columbus, OH 43215
What: Choose from a variety of DIY projects—think leather coasters, wood signs, and more—while enjoying craft cocktails.
Cost: Projects range from $20–$40 per person.
2. Cooking Class at The Seasoned Farmhouse
Where: The Seasoned Farmhouse, 3674 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
What: Participate in hands-on cooking classes focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. You can learn anything from sourdough to sushi to ravioli.
Cost: Classes typically range from $75–$200 per person.
3. Secret Comedy Show with Don't Tell Comedy Columbus
What: Experience a night of laughter with a twist. Don't Tell Comedy hosts pop-up stand-up shows in unique, non-traditional venues—think art studios, rooftops, or cozy backyards. The catch? The exact location and lineup remain a mystery until the day of the show, adding an element of surprise to your evening.
Cost: Tickets are typically $29.99 per person.
4. Sunset Paddle at Hoover Reservoir
Where: Hoover Reservoir, 7701 Sunbury Rd, Westerville, OH 43081
What: Rent kayaks or canoes and enjoy a serene sunset paddle.
Cost: Rentals start at $20 per hour.
5. Hidden Gems: Exploring Columbus's Speakeasies
Where: Various secret locations throughout Columbus
What: Step back in time and experience the allure of Prohibition-era speakeasies. Columbus boasts a variety of hidden bars that offer unique atmospheres and craft cocktails.
Here are a few to consider:
The Sacred Palm: Tucked beneath Mikey's Late Night Slice at 457 N High St, this tiki-inspired speakeasy offers tropical cocktails in a cozy setting.
Switch: Located under the East Market at 212 Kelton Ave, Switch requires a password for entry, which you can obtain by purchasing a drink upstairs.
Apt B: Hidden behind the kitchen wall of Bodega at 1044 N High St, Apt B provides an intimate atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails.
The Speakeasy: Situated at 520 S Front St, this venue combines timeless cocktails with live music in an elegant setting.
6. Outdoor Movie Night at Green Lawn Abbey
Where: Green Lawn Abbey, 700 Greenlawn Ave, Columbus, OH 43223
What: Watch classic films in a historic mausoleum setting.
Cost: Suggested donation of $5 per person.
7. Stargazing at Perkins Observatory
Where: Perkins Observatory, 3199 Columbus Pike, Delaware, OH 43015
What: Attend a public program and observe the night sky through telescopes.
Cost: Admission is $10 per person.
8. Live Music at Natalie's Coal-Fired Pizza & Live Music
Where: Natalie's, 5601 N High St, Worthington, OH 43085
What: Enjoy live music performances with a side of delicious pizza.
Cost: Cover charges vary, typically around $10–$20.
9. Art Exploration at Columbus Museum of Art
Where: Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
What: Explore diverse art collections and rotating exhibitions.
Cost: General admission is $18 per person; free on Sundays.
10. Immersive Relaxation with hOm Sound & Meditation
Where: 589 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215
What: Experience a tranquil sound bath session at hOm Sound & Meditation. These sessions combine modern sound therapy with traditional healing practices, featuring instruments like singing bowls, gongs, chimes, piano, and violin to create a soothing auditory environment. The immersive experience aims to promote rest, relaxation, and emotional well-being.
Cost: Prices vary by event
Availability: Regular sessions are scheduled, including special events aligned with lunar cycles and seasonal themes. Upcoming events can be found on their website.
10 Upcoming Central Ohio Festivals Perfect for Date Nights
June 6–8, 2025
🎨 Columbus Arts Festival
📍 Downtown Columbus, Scioto Mile
A vibrant celebration of visual art, performance, and food trucks. Free and open to the public. Great for wandering hand-in-hand and supporting local artists.
June 7, 2025
🍗 Columbus Chicken & Beer Festival
📍 Dodge Park, Columbus
A flavor-packed experience with all kinds of chicken dishes and local craft beer. Perfect for casual foodies.
June 7, 2025
🍷 Columbus Summer Wine Festival
📍 McFerson Commons Park, Columbus
Sip wines from Ohio and beyond, enjoy live music, and stroll through vendor booths. A more mellow, romantic atmosphere than your typical festival.
June 13–14, 2025
🌈 Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival
📍 Goodale Park, Columbus
An energetic and joyful celebration of LGBTQIA+ culture with parades, performances, and vibrant community vibes.
June 27–29, 2025
🎶 ComFest (Community Festival)
📍 Goodale Park, Columbus
Free-spirited and grassroots, ComFest offers local music, progressive activism, food, art, and a people-powered vibe.
June 29, 2025
🏡 German Village Haus & Garten Tour
📍 German Village, Columbus
Tour stunning private gardens and historic homes in one of the city's most romantic neighborhoods. A slower-paced, beauty-filled experience.
July 18–20, 2025
🎷 Jazz & Rib Fest
📍 Downtown Columbus, Scioto Mile
World-class jazz performances meet smoky, saucy BBQ. It’s loud, fun, and delicious—bring napkins and comfy shoes.
September 5–7, 2025
🍺 Schmidt’s Columbus Oktoberfest
📍 Ohio Expo Center, Columbus
Oompah bands, bratwurst, steins, and German dancing. A high-energy date with all the lederhosen and polka vibes you could want.
September 19–21, 2025
🎭 Arts in the Alley
📍 Grove City, Ohio
Live entertainment, a parade, and eclectic local art make this a perfect low-pressure daytime date.
September 25–27, 2025
🇨🇭 Ohio Swiss Festival
📍 Sugarcreek, Ohio
A charming small-town festival with cheese, polka, and rich Swiss-American traditions. Great for a mini getaway with big European vibes.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version of this list or if you want these woven into your full blog draft!
Enhance Your Connection: Free Communication Scripts
To help you deepen your connection during these date nights, I've created a free resource: "10 Communication Scripts to Build Emotional Intimacy." These scripts are designed to facilitate meaningful conversations, helping you and your partner connect on a deeper level.(Axios)
Do it for your relationship
Date nights don't have to be extravagant or expensive to be meaningful. With a little creativity and planning, you can create memorable experiences that strengthen your bond and bring joy to your relationship.
Remember, investing in your relationship is one of the best gifts you can give to your family. So go ahead—schedule that date night, try something new, and enjoy the journey together.
Relationship Coaching for Parents
If you're finding it hard to reconnect—whether you're stuck in survival mode, navigating a big life transition, or just feeling out of sync—you're not alone.
These date nights are a great start, but sometimes couples need more than a few hours away to truly feel seen and understood again. If you're ready to deepen your emotional connection, improve your communication, and create a relationship that feels more like a team, I’d love to support you. Explore my coaching options designed specifically for real-life couples who want real change without pretending everything’s perfect. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Let’s talk.
