Charlotte for Couples
Whether you’re planning a date night or a longer getaway to the Queen City, Charlotte has plenty to do for two.
by Rosa Sprinkle
From first dates to anniversaries and everything in between, no matter what occasion you’re celebrating or the type of couple you are, Charlotte has what it takes to entertain you and your favorite person.
For the Foodie Couple
Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen
Neighborhood: Lower South End
Culinary couples can take a day or night to learn a new favorite dish at a cooking class at Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen. These classes make cooking fun and approachable for all skill levels. Each month offers different options to cater to the seasons.
Counter-
Neighborhood: Wesley Heights
For a fully immersive dining experience, make reservations at Counter- and enjoy a 10-course tasting menu by James Beard-nominated chef Sam Hart, complete with wine and nonalcoholic pairings to enhance your meal.
McNinch House Restaurant
Neighborhood: Uptown
For fine dining, it’s tough to top the royal treatment you’ll experience at McNinch House Restaurant. This beloved restaurant is located in a charming turn-of-the-century home and regularly voted as Charlotte’s most romantic restaurant.
Sweet Spot Studio
Neighborhood: Oakhurst
Those who prefer to try their hand at something sweeter should look no further than Sweet Spot Studio. Sweet Spot offers hands-on dessert- and pastry-making classes that are a perfect opportunity to create a special moment and delectable treat.
For the Arts & Culture Couple
Blumenthal Performing Arts
Neighborhood: Uptown
Step out on the town together and see exciting performances by Charlotte Ballet, Opera Carolina and the Charlotte Symphony. Several Blumenthal Performing Arts theaters, including Booth Playhouse, Belk Theater and Knight Theater, provide the right setting for any production.
The Comedy Zone
Neighborhood: Uptown
Have some laughs together at a performance at The Comedy Zone. National headliners regularly take the stage at this comedy club. Before your show, grab dinner from one of the restaurants at AvidXchange Music Factory, or during the show from the on-site kitchen.
The Evening Muse
Neighborhood: NoDa
Although Charlotte has no shortage of music venues and arenas that host the hottest national headliners, couples shouldn’t miss the smaller, more intimate locales like The Evening Muse for local and regional acts.
Middle C Jazz
Neighborhood: Uptown
Jazz afficionados can enjoy live performances at Middle C Jazz, an intimate jazz club that frequently hosts national artists. Complement your live music experience with food and craft cocktails from the full-service Dressler’s Improv Kitchen.
For the Couple Who Loves Competition
Queen Park Social
Neighborhood: Lower South End
Get in on the action yourself at Queen Park Social, an 18,000-square-foot warehouse with drinks, food, bowling and games. This is the perfect venue for a casual night out, complete with some friendly competition.
Rally Pickleball
Neighborhood: Lower South End
Enjoy a game of pickleball at Rally Pickleball. Choose from an indoor or outdoor court then, after playing, wind down with coffee, a smoothie and breakfast sandwich or a cocktail and Neapolitan-style pizza.
SupperClub SouthEnd
Neighborhood: Lower South End
SupperClub SouthEnd has your full date night experience covered. Enjoy a delicious dinner of wood-fired cuisine paired with cocktails. Across from the lush dining room are eight lanes for duckpin bowling and two billiards tables, along with board games, Jenga and more.
Top Golf
Neighborhood: University City, Southwest Charlotte
Swing for the green from one of the bays at Topgolf, perfect for an outing year-round. Top Golf’s high-tech balls score themselves, making it easier to partake in some light-hearted competition with your loved one.
For the Outdoorsy Couple
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Area: Fort Mill
Anne Springs Close Greenway offers a charming mix of scenic trails, peaceful lakes and cozy picnic spots, making it perfect for an outdoorsy couple looking for a relaxed yet adventurous date. Whether you're kayaking on the water, hiking under the canopy of towering trees or spotting wildlife together, the natural beauty sets a romantic and playful tone.
McGill Rose Garden
Neighborhood: NoDa
With its charming blend of nature and history, McGill Rose Garden's tucked-away feel makes it a perfect place to slow down and enjoy each other’s company. Strolling through fragrant roses or relaxing on a cozy bench while sharing a bottle of wine adds to the dreamy setting of this hidden gem.
Treehouse Vineyards
Area: Monroe
Spend a day or weekend enjoying the views and vintages at Treehouse Vineyards in Monroe. Take a day trip for a tasting or plan an overnight trip and reserve a Date Night treehouse, situated 30 feet in the air and overlooking the vineyard.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
Area: West Charlotte
Take a hike at the Whitewater Center, where you can enjoy multi-course, on-site culinary experiences that are combined with one of the recreational activities like yoga, paddling or ziplining.
Article originally written by Rosa Sprinkle. Updates by Arielle Patterson in January 2025.
