Fun Date Ideas in Toledo, Ohio

The city of Toledo offers couples plenty of fun date ideas.

You finally asked and she said "yes." Now what? Planning the details of the all-important first date can be stressful. After all, the success of the first date often determines if another will follow. If you live in the city of Toledo, Ohio, or the surrounding area, you're in luck. Look no farther than Toledo's city limits for fun date ideas.

Local Sports

Sports fans need not travel farther than downtown Toledo for the ideal date destination. Catch a Toledo Mudhens game at Fifth Third Field during baseball season or, better yet, snuggle up with your date at the Huntington Center and watch a Toledo Walleye hockey game. Be sure to visit the souvenir shop and take home a memento of your time together. After the buzzer sounds, continue your date with dinner and drinks at one of the local pubs or restaurants in the area. Ottawa's Tavern, Blarney's Irish Pub and City Grill are all located within blocks of both sporting venues.

Horse Races

Get swept up in the energy and excitement of horse racing at Toledo's Raceway Park. The track, located five miles from downtown Toledo, hosts live harness races every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday night from spring through the end of year. Follow your favorite horses from trackside seating or in the comfort of the Crazy Horse Clubhouse or Horseshoe Café while enjoying dinner and a drink. The cost of admission is nominal and, with a minimum bet of $2, even the most inexperienced gamblers catch racing fever. Celebrate your wins and commiserate over your losses together at Raceway Park.

Toledo Zoo

Bring out the kid in each other at the Toledo Zoo, just four miles south of downtown Toledo. Share a laugh over the antics of the chimps, squeal at the insect exhibit and even feed the giraffes. Climb aboard the Safari Railway together to tour the zoo or use walking as an excuse to hold hands. When you and your date are ready for a break from the sun, rest and soak up the air-conditioning while enjoying lunch at the Carnivore Café or dine al fresco in the refreshing shade of the Beastro. End your date on a magical note with Music under the Stars performed by the visiting Toledo Symphony every Sunday night during the summer season.

Botanical Gardens

If the weather permits, pack a picnic for two and head to the Toledo Botanical Gardens. The natural beauty and fragrance of the gardens creates just the right setting for romance. Absorb the peace and serenity of nature in all its glory while strolling hand in hand through the lush, colorful gardens. Choose your favorite garden spot, lay out a blanket and enjoy an intimate lunch and quiet conversation.

Sunset Cruise

Invite that special someone to accompany you on a sunset cruise along the Maumee River. Board the local river canal boat, the Sandpiper, at Promenade Park in Toledo and take in the waterfront view of Toledo while cruising down the river. Cuddle close together and watch the sun set against the Toledo skyline. Romance shimmers in the air at nightfall when city lights and evening stars sparkle on the water. After a cruise on the river, visit the Docks at International Park where you'll find a restaurant to satisfy any taste, whether you and your date prefer seafood, fine wine and Italian cuisine or Mexican fare and quality tequila.

References

• Toledo Mudhens Fifth Third Field: Highlights and Amenities
• Toledo Walleye: Dining and Entertainment Guide
• Horseracing.com: Raceway Park in Toledo, Ohio
• The Toledo Zoo: Fun Activities
• Toledo Botanical Garden: Frequently Asked Questions
• International Park of Greater Toledo: Watercraft