You know it’s fall when the Ugg boots are back, the leaves are turning red and Caitlin Covington is doing her annual Vermont photoshoot. Break out the flannel shirts and crochet scarves because it’s the so-called “Cuffing Season.” Something about cold weather makes people yearn for new connections or want to strengthen their existing relationships. Maybe it’s the ambiance or the seasonal depression, but whatever you’re feeling deserves to be shared with the people you love. Date nights are a great way to make the most of it all.
Elevate your music taste at the symphony
Okay, your driving playlist is cool, but it might be time to switch things up. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra is a powerhouse of classical talent that welcomes new audiences. Ticket prices range from $100s to $20s, and even the most “unwanted” seats display a full view of the musicians. If you’re a true music enjoyer, you can buy the ASO college pass for $20 to access 20 performances — that’s only $1 per show. If that’s not enough reason to go, the ASO just welcomed the amazing maestro Nathalie Stutzmann as their music director.
Challenge your wits in an escape room
Time to Escape is downtown Atlanta’s best escape room, and it’s perfect for friend groups and double dates. Players can select public or private rooms to get through a tough series of puzzles. “The Launch” is a space adventure with tons of futuristic props, and “Saving Christmas” will get you into the holiday spirit. Time to Escape’s rooms are no piece of cake, with some having only a 30% escape rate. Are you up to the challenge?
Warm your stomach and soul at a hotpot restaurant
Atlanta’s Asian food scene is delicious and interactive. Hot Pot originates in China, and the idea is to cook raw food in boiling broth, making it the perfect solution for picky eaters. The cook times are super fast, and you can try a myriad of meats, vegetables and noodles. Even better, you choose the food and the budget.
Travel back in time at the Plaza Theatre
The Plaza Theatre is Atlanta’s oldest independent cinema, and you can tell. Its big glowing sign and saturated colors make it hard to miss. Another plus about this old-school layout is the lack of stairs, so no stumbling through the dark or worrying about wheelchair access. Fresh popcorn and a vintage photobooth will complete your movie experience.
Drive each other crazy at the Porsche Experience
Anyone who loves luxury cars will have a blast at the Porsche Experience. Learn about the brand through their heritage gallery, and dine at Restaurant 356. Select any car for an instructor-trained cruise or hop in the passenger seat of a 911 or GT to have a professional take you on the joyride of your dreams. It’s the “experience” for a reason.
Get competitive at the arcade
This one never fails because there’s always something fun to play. Round1 Bowling & Amusement has everything from shooters to air hockey to Japanese rhythm games. Arcades will test your teamwork in multiplayer games or give you the chance to show off your skills. And if you’re a try-hard, make it up to your partner with an adorable plush toy from the claw machine. The Round1 membership cards stacks points from all the games so players can win big prizes, and the card is reusable every time you visit. It’s a worthwhile investment.
Adventure the pages of a new book
What says “I’m a good listener” better than books? Your partner will appreciate your ability to pay attention to the little things, and books are great conversation-starters. Laugh, cry or cringe together in a Barnes & Noble or Virginia Highland Books. The paper and coffee smells will melt your stress away. Cozy and romantic — what could be better?
The temperatures are dropping and so is everyone’s spirits in liu of midterms and finals. Combat cabin fever without dragging your partner outside in the freezing, rainy weather. Now you don’t have an excuse.
