If you’re bored with your typical date night spots, these options could make you feel like a kid again. Go to a carnival or visit an arcade, skating rink, or zoo — these outings offer nostalgic fun for everyone.
Attend a county fair
Loudoun County Fair
Now in its 90th year, the Loudoun County Fair is planned for July 21 though 25. It’s a great place to spend a date night spinning and twirling on carnival rides like you did when you were young. Couples can play games to win prizes and share classic fair food like funnel cakes and kettle corn. But the fair isn’t just rides and food — there are magic shows, racing pigs, a rabbit hopping competition, a rodeo, and more. Parking is $5. 17558 Dry Mill Rd., Leesburg, $5.75-$38.50, kids under 5 are free
Go out for ice cream
The Dairy Godmother
The Dairy Godmother is a fun date night to feel like you did when you were a kid and mom or dad said they’d treat you to ice cream. Featured flavors change often, and can include banana pudding and dulce de leche or traditional favorites like strawberry. 2310 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria
Have an afternoon at an arcade
Reclaim Arcade
Challenge your date to a Donkey Kong or Pac-Man competition at this nostalgic Fredericksburg arcade. It also includes themed pinball machines featuring television shows and movies like The Addams Family, Star Wars, and Stranger Things. Couples can eat like a kid again, with shareable menu offerings like chicken tenders, hand cut fries, and pizza. 2324 Plank Rd., Fredericksburg
Head to the skating rink
Skate N’ Fun Zone
Recreate the retro magic of holding hands at the roller rink with your crush at Skate N’ Fun Zone in Manassas. The venue not only offers roller skating, but also includes an arcade, laser tag, and play zone for kids. Thursday nights from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. is adult skate night for those ages 18+. 7878 Sudley Rd., Manassas, $9.32 for Thursday adult skate, $13.46 for Friday skate
Go on a bike ride
Mount Vernon Trail
Remember when a bike was your best transportation option? Recapture childlike magic and schedule an afternoon date riding the Mount Vernon Trail. There is plenty of water access for bottle refills on hot days, and with spectacular views of the Potomac River and DC skyline, it’s worth packing a picnic to enjoy mid-ride. Mount Vernon to Theodore Roosevelt Island
Visit the zoo
Nova Wild
Kick off the season May 17 at Nova Wild, a nonprofit zoo and safari park in Vienna. Go on a self-drive safari to see and feed animals like llamas and bison. Or go on a walking tour to check out cheetahs and other animals, as well as a large butterfly aviary. Best of all, Nova Wild isn’t your typical roadside drive-through safari. The center focuses on animal welfare, education, and conservation. 1228 Hunter Mill Rd., Vienna, $20 for a single day ticket
Go bowling
Bowl America Falls Church
With a retro vibe and “Night Strike” specials beginning at 7 p.m. on select days, Bowl America Falls Church is a great option for a neon-lit bowling night. The venue also as has an arcade and fan favorite foods like mini corn dogs, quesadillas, and mozzarella bites. 140 S. Maple Ave., Falls Church
Feature image courtesy Reclaim Arcade
