Remember when you first started dating your partner? Going out of your way to think of special things to do together that would surprise and delight the other? I used to think ‘date night’ was a great idea for couples busy with kids, who needed to set time aside for each other – and so it is. But then I discovered that life can get so busy, so social, that even without kids, couples can forget to spend one-on-one time together … and so I added a weekly date night into our calendar. Since mid-2014, Franz and I have taken turns, week about, to organise it, always keeping the details a surprise from each other until we arrive at the destination. Some have been bucket-list experiences (especially when we’re travelling) and others much more low key … but it’s always a highlight of our week. Here are some of our more innovative date nights ideas – and if you’d like more, have a look at my Date Night Pinterest board for all of them, with a new one added each week.
Stars & Curry Sydney Observatory, Millers Point
www.maas.museum/sydney-observatory/
How many Sydney-siders regularly whiz past the wonderfully historic observatory beside the Harbour Bridge’s southern pylon, but have never peered through its giant telescope? After seeing the rings of Saturn, we drove down the hill to the Lord Nelson for an excellent Nepalese curry and glass of house-brewed ale.
Art After Hours Art Gallery of NSW, The Domain
www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au
Did you know the Art Gallery is open until 10pm on Wednesdays? Wander through the free general collection or view a special exhibition (we went for the Archibald, Wynne & Sulman), then grab a glass of wine and listen to free live music before dinner at Chiswick at The Gallery with fab harbour views.
Great Choctops & a Movie Golden Age Cinema & Bar, Surry Hills
www.ourgoldenage.com.au
Ever wondered what’s in that elegant art-deco building wrapped around the corner of Commonwealth and Hunt Streets? Try a cosy art-house cinema and moody basement bar with short, fun menu (including the world’s best choctop), great cocktails, beer and wines and live music most nights.
Walking on Air Bridge Climb, The Rocks
www.bridgeclimb.com
I’m not sure about heights, but once I was suited and harnessed up and out on the walkway I loved our afternoon climb of the iconic Harbour Bridge. Afterwards a short stroll through The Rocks and we were at Rosetta in time for a Happy Hour Negroni on the terrace.
His’n’Hers Massage Swissotel Spa & Sport, Sydney
www.cityspaandsport.com.au
Relax together with a his and hers massage at my favourite Sydney spa on the 10th floor of the Swissotel, including a sauna and dip in the rooftop pool. Afterwards, a 4-minute stroll and you’re at Fix Wine Bar with a glass of something quirky and a platter of Pino salumi and great cheeses.
Updated 15 March 2020
