8 Romantic (and Unusual) Places in Detroit for a Date Night

Story by Sarah Bence

There are plenty of unusual spots in Detroit for a date night that a non-Detroiter might not even be aware of. Romance can take many forms – cozy coffee mornings, incredible views, playfulness, and more. If you're looking to diversify your date nights, here are eight spots in metro Detroit that can help with that.

1. The Red Hook


The Red Hook is the perfect place to come for a cozy and casual date. Known for their coffee, espresso bar, and delicious pastries, The Red Hook now offers five locations across Metro Detroit for you to choose from. Choose from a variety of cookies, galettes, and other pastries made and delivered fresh daily. Located right next door to their Greenway location is their sister store, Wine Side. Wine Side offers an extensive selection of wines, creating the perfect opportunity to transition from a delightful coffee date to a sophisticated wine-tasting experience.

2. Z Lot


Most first dates don't happen in a parking garage, but the Z Lot isn't your typical parking garage! Located on Library street, Z Lot, is one of Detroit’s largest parking garages, with over 1,275 spaces. Take your date to the top floor and you’ll be treated to one of the best (and free!) views in Detroit. Time it right, and you’ll catch a sunset over the city’s skyline. Take some time to admire the parking garage itself, which features over 130 murals created by 27 international and local street artists. And if you want to keep the night rolling, just head out the parking garage doors - you’ll find yourself directly downtown for easy access to other fantastic (and more traditional) date spots.

A happy couple holding hands and smiling on top of the Z garage.
Featured Image
Credit: @kyaliann

3. Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory


A trip to Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory makes for a romantic and whimsical date in Detroit. The conservatory is located on Belle Isle, and has free entry. With its stunning collection of exotic plants and vibrant flowers, the conservatory offers a beautiful and tranquil setting perfect for leisurely strolls. Spend an afternoon wandering through rare flora and fauna, including one of the country’s most extensive orchid collections. After you're done exploring the lush gardens, enjoy a peaceful picnic on Belle Isle, surrounded by the natural beauty of the island.

4. The Siren Hotel’s Candy Bar


The Siren Hotel is one of Detroit’s swankiest hotels. Even if you’re not staying the night, you can still experience the hotel’s plush atmosphere at The Candy Bar. Treat your date to an unforgettable nightcap with classic cocktails, wine, and late night snacks. With it's beautiful decor and intimate ambiance, The Candy Bar sets the perfect mood for a memorable evening for you and your date.

5. Ford Drive In


Looking for an old-fashioned date night? Make your way over to Ford Drive In for a romantic drive-in movie experience. Watch a full-length movie with your date from the comfort (and privacy) of your own vehicle. With five different mega screens, and showtimes running as late as 2am, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Grab some popcorn and snacks from the concession stand to complete your nostalgic night out.

6. John K. King Used and Rare Books


There’s just something romantic about book shops. And if the number of books correlate to the level of romance, then you need to take your date to John K. King Used and Rare Books, ASAP. With over a million books, this bookshop features four floors of rare and unique finds, making it the perfect place to explore and get lost with your love. Upon entering the bookshop, you’ll be given a map detailing all the various sections. You can either use it to navigate, or set it aside and embark on a spontaneous, choose-your-own-adventure exploration. Either way, this is surely to be a special date spot.

7. Baker’s Keyboard Lounge


Baker’s Keyboard Lounge is a Detroit institution and the ideal spot for a nostalgic and classy
date night in Detroit. Here, you can take in a night of jazz, booze, and food in the world’s oldest jazz club. Soak up the club’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere, where jazz greats including Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, and Miles Davis once performed.

8. Valentine Distilling Cocktail Lounge and Tasting Room


Head over to the Valentine Distilling Cocktail Lounge and Tasting Room,in Ferndale, for a romantic date night. This distillery is one of the country’s first craft distilleries and has won many awards for its bourbons, vodka, and gin. You won’t just sip cocktails and make conversation with your partner, but you’ll actually experience mixology and learn about tasting notes. Enjoy the speakeasy setting, and be sure to order some tapas to help soak up those craft cocktails.

For your next date night in Detroit, get a little creative – whether that’s going to a drive-in movie, wandering a million-book bookshop, or just enjoying a really good view from a parking garage. No matter what you’re into, there’s a spot in Detroit for your next date night.

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