It can be easy to fall into the familiar routine of dinner and a movie when it comes to planning date night. If you’re in need of some exciting date ideas in Arlington VA, look no further. Here are some top picks for fun things to do that will help you create a memorable and enjoyable evening. You can see a show, escape a room, play games that take you into the past or show you the future, and so much more. Take a look at some of your next date night options, and don’t forget to cap it all with a visit to a fresh dinner venue.
Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse
Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse is more than just a movie theater. The space includes a restaurant/theater combo with tableside service and a full menu of appetizers, entrees, and desserts as well as beer, wine, and cocktails. Get comfortable in a leather office chair to watch the latest releases, a live stream of theater performances, and live events in the theater itself, including comedy shows. Arlington Cinema is housed in a 1930s, art deco style building, making it an elegant setting for your next date night.
VR Zone
Ready to be the star of your own video game? Check out VR Zone DC, where you and your date can enter a thrilling new world. Fight off enemies with lightsabers, escape an island, explore the International Space Station and more with state-of-the-art virtual reality technology, including full body sensors and trackers for a truly immersive experience. With more than 200 experiences to consider, you’ll easily find yourself transported somewhere amazing.
The Magic Duel
You might not believe in magic, but if you’re in need of a good laugh, you’ll want tickets to The Magic Duel. Mark Phillips and Brian Curry battle each other for the chance to call themselves the best magician, with plenty of hilarity along the way. The audience participates throughout the show, then votes on a winner. This unique show is the perfect excuse to dress up and enjoy something a little different during your night on the town.
Georgetown Piano Bar
The Georgetown Piano Bar offers a duel of the musical variety. Every Friday and Saturday, its resident pianists battle it out for the adoration of the crowd. If you’re looking to get involved yourself, stop by any other evening for bar-wide singalongs accompanied by live piano music. Song requests are happily accepted, too, so brush up on your favorite tunes. You can always enjoy the bar’s inventive cocktails and food, including bar snack favorites and delicious entrees and desserts, no matter the type of music you’re there to experience.
Players Club
Indulge your nostalgic side at Players Club. The 1970s themed space celebrates the golden age of video games with a soundtrack to match. Enjoy craft beers, specialty cocktails, and Shake Shack burgers as you play pool, foosball, pinball, and classic arcade games all night long in the basement area, then take it upstairs to the Skybox bar for a break. The bar offers sweeping views of DC and a perfect place to relax.
Bond’s Escape Room
For a mental challenge with high stakes, there’s nothing like Bond’s Escape Room. Bond’s features 10 escape rooms with thrilling themes. You can save the White House, escape from Venus, and travel through time in the venue’s escape rooms. Each one contains theater-grade props and decorations, immersing you in the story, and gives you a mission to complete before the timer runs out. You’ll have to use all of your creativity, teamwork, and communication skills to solve puzzles, find clues, and successfully escape the room to save the day.
DC Improv
Make date night a one stop shop at DC Improv, a comedy theater and restaurant rolled into one. Shows include showcases of local talent, visiting stars, and interactive shows guaranteed to make you laugh. If you’re feeling particularly daring, sign up for an open mic night and test your latest material. Guests are asked to purchase at least two items from the in-house restaurant menu, but with a full selection of appetizers, entrees, and beverages, you’re sure to find the perfect combo for your night out.
Tiki TNT
Take a quick trip to the tropics at Tiki TNT, a rum bar that instantly transports you to sun drenched beaches. You and your date can share some small plates for a little taste of Hawaii or go big with full-sized entrees. Be sure to try a classic tiki drink or something with a twist, like a frozen rum and coke. Happy hour and late night specials keep the good vibes going, while boozy brunch can kick your day off the right way. Tiki TNT features Thrasher’s White Rum, a local, small batch spirit made by Potomac Distilling Company.
*Located at 1130 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024