Couples looking for a different kind of date simply need to turn back the clock. Instead of waiting until evening falls to start the fun, head out earlier in the day and enjoy a few different activities before a romantic evening meal together.
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Date Idea #1
If your pint at lunch leaves you wanting more, head down the road to Brantford for a stop at the city’s homegrown craft brewery, Bell City Brewery. The friendly folks here will be happy to pour you a taste of their brews in their Tap Room. You’ll also find seasonal selections and creative one-off brews that in the past have included unique flavours combinations like a chocolate and orange porter and a Habanero chili lager. If you’d like to incorporate some other craft breweries into your visit, the True Brew Path showcases 6 of the region’s best.
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Date Idea #2
For your next stop, spend some time exploring one of Hamilton Halton Brant’s amazing galleries or gardens. Royal Botanical Gardens is the largest botanical garden in the country. Check out the Rock Garden, which was originally built in the 1930s and now boasts a dramatic waterfall. The International Sculpture Garden should also be on your must-see list while you’re there.
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Date Idea #3
Oakville’s Gairloch Gardens is another beautiful option for an afternoon stroll with stunning Lake Ontario views. After your walk, head inside to check out the Oakville Gallery’s contemporary art exhibits. When you’re finished at the gallery, spend some time exploring the unique shops of downtown Oakville.
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Date Idea #4
If you’d like to see more art, make the short drive to downtown Hamilton and visit the Art Gallery of Hamilton. It’s the oldest and largest public art gallery in southwestern Ontario and has one of the finest collections of art in Canada, featuring over 10,000 works of art including historical European, historical Canadian and contemporary art.
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Date Idea #5
Afterward, explore Hamilton’s trendy Locke Street district and enjoy a delicious farm-to-table dinner at Earth To Table: Bread Bar.
If you’d prefer to stay outside, head to nearby Burlington and stroll the city’s beautiful Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail. For some two-wheeled fun, consider renting a bike. Urkai offers Dutch Bike rentals and it’s just a seven-minute cruise to get from their store to the waterfront. Wrap up your day with a delicious meal at the cool and contemporary The Ivy Bar + Kitchen. If it’s a warm evening, request a table on the patio and enjoy an al fresco meal.
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Date Idea #6
For a mini-escape with some old-world flair, start your day out in Paris. Enjoy a late morning cup of coffee at Cobblestone Common. This charming little downtown park on Grand River Street North overlooks the forks of the majestic Grand and Nith Rivers. Explore the shops of downtown Paris and then enjoy lunch on the patio at 2 Rivers Restaurant. The restaurant features two new microbrews each month, so be sure to ask your server for the current selection.
