Date nights are great but whether you’ve been married 30 years or are hoping to learn more about the new person you’re seeing, planning the night can be a daunting task for many people. Luckily, Statesboro offers plenty of classic things to do along with some unexpected activities to shake up your usual routine. With just a little planning, you can experience the thrill of adventure and romance by exploring Statesboro like a tourist. 

Game Night: There are several fun options for a game night out in Statesboro. Tuesdays are traditionally Bingo Night at Dolan’s Bar B Que so get there early for a great seat! Galactic Comics & Games also hosts a board game night every Friday starting at 6:30 p.m. Trivia is offered nearly every weekday evening at a variety of locations like Gnat’s Landing, Wild Wing Café and Del Sur Taqueria & Cantina. Check out the Community Calendar at visitstatesboro.org for the full list of trivia locations.   

Progressive Dinner Date: Statesboro has a fantastic foodie scene so plan a night to visit different restaurants for each part of your meal. Choose a theme like barbecue or international cuisine, or you could mix it up but be sure to set aside a few hours to truly savor Statesboro. Want to walk off a few calories between courses? An example route could look like this:

• Pre-dinner cocktails at 

   Bull & Barrel Steakhouse

• Appetizer cheeseboard at Vino 1910

• Dinner at Tandoor & Tap

• Dessert at Sugar Magnolia Bistro & Bar

• After-dinner drinks and live music 

   at Eagle Creek Brewery

Remember that this date night can be repeated often since there are so many different combinations to try!

Archery Date Night: Channel your inner Cupid with an evening of archery at the Georgia Southern University Shooting Sports and Education Center. No experience is necessary so it’s perfect for beginners to learn a new skill together. Are you an experienced archer? What better way to impress your date than hitting the bullseye on your first try! Upcoming events can be found at recreation.georgiasouthern.edu/ssec

Think outside of the box when designing your perfect date. Daytime activities can be just as fun as a night out and are a wonderful change of pace. Day dates also allow you to spend more time together so you can coordinate a broader range of plans.

Outdoor Adventure: Located just minutes from Statesboro, you can explore the great outdoors at Blackwater Preserve. Kayak or canoe miles of waterways through a cypress swamp while observing a variety of birds and animals. Not into paddling? Hike numerous land trails then fish for bass, catfish, blue gill and red breast just to name a few. Feeling especially adventurous? You can even camp under the stars at this well-hidden retreat! Visit blackwaterpreserve.com for the required reservation information. 

Picnic in the Park: Picnic dates are not only fun but also affordable, making them a great option for any budget. Pack a blanket, grab your favorite take-out and head to Mill Creek Park. Dress comfy because you might want to stroll the 1.25-mile walking trail that circles the park. Pack a Frisbee or soccer ball if you’re both feeling sporty that day.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side: Since opening in 1997, the Center for Wildlife Education at Georgia Southern University has become one of Statesboro’s most popular attractions. Admission is only $4 for adults and you and your date can get up close and personal with animals you wouldn’t normally encounter as you tour this 18-acre center. Wander scenic boardwalks that wind through native habitats from wetlands to an old-growth forest and make plans to catch the wildlife program that rotates themes daily. For a complete list of events visit academics.georgiasouthern.edu/wildlife. 

Memorable dates aren’t just for lovebirds. Imagine surprising your bestie, your parent, or your child with a special outing where you’ve set aside time just for them! Statesboro has many options so get out there and enjoy our wonderful city. Take lots of pictures and most of all, have fun!