15 Things to Do For Date Night in Charlotte, NC Your Favorite Person Will Never Forget

Charlotte is a beautiful city in North Carolina. And it is filled with all kinds of fantastic bars, restaurants, amusement parks, arcades, and movie theaters. If you’re looking to spend a night with that special someone, or you’re really trying to impress your cute new date, Charlotte definitely hasn’t something to do for date night. If you want to find the spot for your night out in Charlotte, or even just a fun afternoon, you are sure to find what you are looking for. 

Today though we’re going to discuss what the absolute best things to do for date night in Charlotte are.We’ve compiled a list of some of the best things you can do on a date that Charlotte has to offer. And we’ll give you the address and website to all of these locations so that way you can check them out online beforehand if something catches your eye. And in addition to telling you the best things to do for a date night in Charlotte, we’re also going to tell you which of these places accept convenient GiftYa digital gift cards.

Virtual GiftYa Cards make the perfect gift for loved ones and for anybody who likes to explore the Charlotte area or travel. These virtual gift cards can be sent and received within seconds. Usually with a special message inside with well wishes towards a loved one or special friend. The virtual gift cards are as easy to send as an email or a text message and can be purchased for nearly ten thousand different merchants and businesses. 

You can personalize the gift message, and send it directly to your recipient’s phone, all within seconds. GiftYa’ digital format provides not only a speedy delivery but also a convenient way to store and maintain different gift card balances. You don’t need to worry about having that particular gift card for that particular establishment on that particular day, as long as you have your phone, GiftYa cards are with you. 

Check out our list of the best things to do for date night in Charlotte, North Carolina below, including several that accept GiftYa!

1. The Charlotte Museum of History

A great place for a date, both night and day.

Gorgeous both outside and in, this museum is definitely worth a visit for a date night in Charlotte, NC. Image courtesy of Instagram.

3500 Shamrock Dr | Eastland | charlottemuseum.org 

Located on eight wooded acres in East Charlotte, this museum is Charlotte’s only remaining structure from the Revolutionary period. It’s the perfect place to learn about the city’s history and gain a deeper understanding of the past in order to work towards a better future.

The programs and exhibits of The Charlotte Museum of History focus on ideals such as liberty, freedom, equity, justice, democracy, and citizenship.

“Great event space and love the way the artifacts are displayed in the walls with texture elements. Came for a chocolate event and will def come back with my kids to learn about my hometown with them.” - Yelp Review

Buy a GiftYa for The Charlotte Museum of History.

2. Palestra Boutique Spa

A relaxing getaway can make the perfect date night in Charlotte, NC.

A couples trip to the spa could be just what you and your special someone need. Image courtesy of Instagram.

218 Baldwin Ave | Myers Park | palestraboutiquespa.com  

Established in 1995, Palestra Boutique Spa will help you take some time to relax and destress. The professional therapists are dedicated to curating an elegant environment that promotes the tranquility of their guests.

Located in the historic Cherry neighborhood and just minutes outside of Uptown and many other picturesque areas in Charlotte, Palestra offers massage therapy, body treatments, facial treatments, high-tech spa services, lash and brow services, and hair removal. 

“Have tried several spas around Charlotte and Palestra is my favorite! I go to Kahilea for monthly massages and they're excellent, especially for somebody who's scrunched up at a desk all day. Highly recommend!” - Yelp Review

Buy a GiftYa for Palestra Boutique Spa

3. Charlotte Symphony

Largest arts employer in the region— founded back in 1932!

The Charlotte Symphony puts on truly extravagant performances that would light up any date night in Charlotte, NC. Image courtesy of Instagram.

128 S Tryon St Ste 350 | Uptown | charlottesymphony.org

With 58 professional, full-time orchestra musicians on the staff, you definitely won’t want to miss out on the shows at Charlotte Symphony. They offer more than just performances, though— educational programming and community engagement are both super important to the organization.

This place is perfect for: 

• A date night in Charlotte, North Carolina
• Classical Series
• Pops Series
• Movies Series
• Family Series

And more!

“It was really a great show… The symphony performers had their own characters, and were fun to observe in their own right.  I would recommend going at least once if you've never been.” - Yelp Review

Buy a GiftYa for Charlotte Symphony

4. The Comedy Zone

Show your date that you’re cute and funny!

You may have the chance to see some of your favorite celebrities perform here! Image courtesy of Instagram.

900 N Carolina Music Factory Blvd | Third Ward, Uptown | cltcomedyzone.com

Sharing a good laugh is a great bonding experience whether this is a first date or a ten thousandth, and there’s no better place to LOL in Charlotte than The Comedy Zone. Considered the Queen City’s premier entertainment venue, The Comedy Zone hosts some of the best comedians in the country as well as rising local stars. 

Don’t worry about making separate dinner plans for your date — you can enjoy delicious dinner plates, pub fare, and fun cocktails and specialty drinks all evening long.

“I like the setup, and all the staff were pleasant to interact with. We ended up being seated pretty close to the stage for general admission, so I was pleased! Our waitress was so friendly and attentive.” - Yelp Review

5. Stroke

Romantic, locally owned and operated cocktail and putt putt date spot!

Teamwork is essential in any relationship, but sometimes there’s nothing quite like a little friendly competition. Image courtesy of Instagram.

1318 Pecan Ave | Plaza Midwood | strokeputt.com

Putt putt is a classic date night activity — it’s friendly competition but not too intense, and even the worst minigolfers (your author included) can have a fun time making their way through the course. Stroke in Charlotte takes the putt putt date up a notch.

This isn’t the mini golf course behind the ice cream stand you went to for dates in high school — it’s indoor, slightly more upscale, and best of all? You can indulge in beer, wine, and cocktails to help you temper any pre-date jitters.

“This is literally a hidden gem. Tucked away off Central Ave, if you weren't looking for it you would miss it. Nonetheless, Stroke is such a cute picturesque spot.” - Yelp Review

6. Hot Glass Alley

Heat up your date night with a couples glass blowing class.

A date night at Hot Glass Alley will help you make more than just memories! Image courtesy of Instagram.

438 Atando Avenue | North Charlotte | hotglassalley.com

Wanna get creative with your special someone? Consider checking out one of Charlotte’s more unique date night options — glassblowing at Hot Glass Alley. Hot Glass Alley is a fine art gallery and a studio all in one, so whether you want to admire some quality, locally-created glasswares, enjoy an impressive demonstration by HGA’s expert artisans, or get in on the artistic action yourself, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at Hot Glass Alley.

Try making your own rocks glasses or another Hot Glass Alley “make your own” experience, and you and your date will be able to enjoy looking back on an unforgettable evening together every time you enjoy a drink together in the future.

“This is a wonderful glass studio and shop. You can take classes or come in and buy light covers, ornaments, vases, jewelry, etc. Very friendly staff and beautiful pieces.” - Yelp Review

7. The Light Factory

Upgrade your date night selfie into fine art status with a photography class.

Seize— and capture —the moment at The Light Factory with the perfect couples photograph. Image courtesy of Instagram.

1817 Central Ave | Plaza Midwood | lightfactory.org

Does your date love a good selfie? Is their Instagram account basically a professional photography portfolio? Do they love checking out art galleries and exhibitions? If you answered yes to any of these questions, date night at The Light Factory might be the perfect activity for you!

The Light Factory is a gallery that shows different photography exhibitions throughout the year. They also have a darkroom in house and offer a variety of fun adult art classes on photography and film, making it a great way for you and your honey to get creative (and also capture the great date night you’re having to look back on for years to come).

“A hidden gem in Uptown, hidden inside Spirit Square. The Light Factory is a small, but incredibly fantastic museum and cultural hub for photography and film in Charlotte. They hold regular rotating exhibits, summer camps, and adult art classes.” - Yelp Review 

8. Charlotte Comedy Theater

Say yes to an improv class for date night in Charlotte, NC!

Going up on a stage may be nerve-wracking, but so are dates! Why not face both fears at once? Image courtesy of Instagram.

700 N Tryon St Wet Willies | First Ward, Uptown | charlottecomedytheater.com

Watching comedy is one thing, but it’s even better when you have the unique opportunity to get in on the action! Charlotte Comedy Theater in the VAPA Center is Charlotte’s go-to location for laugh-out-loud, interactive improvisational entertainment. 

You can sit back and enjoy a show for date night or try out improv for yourselves. It’s a great bonding activity — Charlotte Comedy Theater actually offers improv classes to corporate groups as a team-building event — which means you and yours can come away from date night feeling a little bit closer (and having had a whole bunch of fun!)

“I feel so embraced at CCT - it's the community I've been longing for! What I love best about improv is the trust and friendships cultivated in the class. I see the positive impact improv is having on my life.” - Yelp Review

9. Rooftop 210

Romance your better half with rooftop views of the Charlotte skyline.

This rooftop bar is perfect for a date night, or even just a night out with friends! Image courtesy of Instagram.

210 E Trade Street | Uptown | rooftop210.com

If your idea of the ideal date night includes dazzling views of the Charlotte skyline, Rooftop 210 is the place to be. Located on the third and top floor of the Epic Center, Rooftop 210 is an open area with beautiful views of the city. 

The vibe is casual, and you and your date can enjoy drinks at the bar and dancing along to music played by the DJ.

“I love love love the layout of this place and the view is spectacular. Several bars, pumping music, big screen tvs. This is definitely a one stop shop!!! Oh and did I mention the view...breathtaking!!” - Yelp Review

10. District 57

Awesome escape room and entertainment center in Charlotte.

District 57 is the perfect place to go if you want to make sure your significant other will always have your back. Image courtesy of Instagram.

1526 Alleghany Street | Charlotte | district57.com

Remember when you were a kid and going to Chuck E. Cheese or Dave and Buster’s was the height of entertainment? District 57 will take you back to feeling like a kid, in a polished grown-up environment. Modeled to look post-apocalyptic, fans of video games like Fallout and movie franchises like the Hunger Games will feel right at home here. 

Once you’re through the doors, you can amuse yourself with everything from escape rooms to classic 90s video games, and sip on self-pour brews while you do.

“District 57 is a massive post-apocalyptic entertainment center with so much happening inside! You can choose between one of their many escape rooms, pool, dart games, vintage video games (like sega and nintendo) and they have special event nights.” - Yelp Review 

11. UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens

Even more than meets the eye— and there sure is a lot to see.

The beautiful scenery will make for a beautiful date and some wonderful memories. Image courtesy of Instagram.

9090 Craver Rd | University City | gardens.charlotte.edu 

Even though they’re only open until sunset, the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens are a must-see if you happen to find yourself in the city. Spending your early evening hours here could be the perfect start to a date night, which you can follow up with a nice dinner or even one of the other locations on this list.

Though these botanical gardens are gorgeous to simply walk through and gaze at, the message is about more than just the plant’s beauty. The carefully curated selections of plants here are for inventory, education, conservation, and research as well.

“Such a beautiful spot. Up kept really well, so gorgeous and lovely to walk around. Has some benches along the way to sit and hang out. Really big area, I was surprised at the size of it all.” - Yelp Review

12. U.S. National Whitewater Center

Countless fun activities all in one place!

The Whitewater Center is perfect for a casual date night, or even the most special of occasions— it’s up to you to decide your own personalized experience. Image courtesy of Instagram.

5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy | Charlotte | whitewater.org 

You’ll be truly spoiled for choice at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. As the name suggests there’s whitewater rafting, but also kayaking, ziplining, rock climbing, yoga, mountain biking, hiking, ice skating, and more!

If the activities don’t suffice to entertain you, you can also enjoy live music, shopping, and some great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal after passing the whole day away here— not just the night!

“Such a nice, huge, outdoor activity park about 20 mins from the city. Came here for my first ice skating experience and boy, did we have a ball! Everyone was nice and accommodating, explained how the passes worked as well as what activities were available.” - Yelp Review

There you have it, a list of things to do for date night that you can find in Charlotte. You will be sure to find something that fits your sense of adventure and your wallet somewhere on that list. But even if you didn’t find what you’re looking for here, GiftYa has something to offer for everybody when they are in Charlotte looking for things to do on a romantic evening.

13. Bulla Gastropub

Casual Tapas Restaurant with Vibrant Spanish Style

Buy a Bulla Gastropub gift card

4310 Sharon Rd | South Park | bullagastrobar.com

Date night can get boring if you visit the same old steakhouse every weekend, but you won’t run into problems with boring fare here. Bulla Gastropub is a high-energy, high-quality restaurant led by chef Diego Solano to bring fun, fresh flavors to the Charlotte area.

Your date will love the authentic Spanish-style tapas, the charcuterie and cheese station, and the expansive wine list. 

“Great tapas spot! The food was absolutely delish. My favorite was the montaditos- the brisket was amazing! The meatballs were cooked to perfection and the sauce was mouth watering with the bread! The decor looked very authentic with a classy feel.” – Yelp Review

Buy a Bulla Gastropub gift card

14. Frye’s Roller Rink

Budget-Friendly Date Idea for Fun-Loving Couples

Send a Frye’s Roller Rink Gift Card

2800 Poplar Tent Rd| Concord | fryes4fun.com

Let the good times roll! You don’t have to have a bottomless budget to plan an awesome date night in Charlotte. Frye’s Roller Rink is a fun change of pace from dinner and a movie. You and your date will have a great time rollerskating to throwback jams and radio hits. 

“I go here every Wednesday, and every Saturday its a good time no matter when your there friendly staff, good food and a great rink floor. I highly recommend this skating rink!” – Yelp Review

Send a Frye’s Roller Rink Gift Card

15. Ink N Ivy

Trendy Local New American Restaurant with Next Level Rooftop Seating

Buy an Ink N Ivy gift card

222 S Church St | Uptown | charlotte.inknivy.com

Charlotte is a beautiful city, so what could be a better backdrop for date night than soaking up the glittering skyline? Enjoy a view of Romare Bearden Park from above when you grab a seat in Ink N Ivy’s romantic rooftop patio, surrounded by glass skyscrapers perfect for catching the last of the day’s rays.

Foodies will also love the diverse menu options – from shrimp tacos to blackened chicken pasta to juicy beef burgers to crispy fried brussels sprouts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

“Excellent Food and Service!! Everything was superb.  The drinks were priced right and atmosphere was amazing.” – Yelp Review

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Buy an Ink N Ivy gift card

We hope you’ve fallen for one of these sweet Charlotte date night ideas.

From getting your grub on at an authentic tapas restaurant to letting the good times roll at a groovy, budget-friendly roller rink, from testing your escape room skills to taking a romantic stroll through the flowers – there’s sure to be something on this list that fits your date night vibe. 

Haven’t met your perfect match? Not to worry. Check out the full GiftYa catalog for more great restaurants and attractions in Charlotte and all over the country.