Summer Date Night in Fairfield

 

Three years ago I lived in Washington D.C., a place bursting at the seams with unlimited activities and nightlife. I thought I had it all until I came to Fairfield and found everything I didn’t know I was missing. Since 2018, I’ve been spending my time exploring and researching my favorite corners of this charming, Iowa town, and it has produced some of the best backdrops for my favorite date experiences. Here are my top five summer date night ideas:

 

Fairfield First Fridays

 

Why just date one person when you can date your whole community? This monthly event held on the first Friday of the month sparks joy. It’s a great date night for a couple or a large group of friends. Music, food, vendors, glow sticks, games and activities, art, shopping, and friends all come together to bask in this fun vibe on the Fairfield town square. By the end of the evening, people are dancing, new smile lines are ironed into our happy faces, and we’re truly spirited into the weekend to begin a new month.

 

The Best Night Out Is a Night In

 

This is my personal top pick for couples with kids and busy lives who just need a night away. The AmericInn by Wyndham has suite number 324, which boasts a large hot tub, large sitting area, comfortable king-size bed, and more than enough fluffy pillows. The hotel also has an indoor pool, daily happy hour, and casual morning breakfast. We like to stop by Shokai or India Cafe to pick up a delicious dinner, and serve it up in the cozy living room while enjoying a competitive game of rummy. We also packed our favorite flavors of sparkling water and a bottle of champagne for the evening. Who doesn’t like a break from parenting while enjoying good food, hot tubs, bubbles, card games, and quiet connection for a night? Five stars!

 

A Quiet Night on the Water

 

A good date should include time for intimacy and connection, but that’s not limited only to physical connection. When we connect to each other while we’re connecting with nature, fireworks are bound to spark! There’s something that is deeply fulfilling about hopping in kayaks, dipping in at Waterworks Park, and engaging in a heart-connecting conversation while experiencing the intimacy that only comes when you’re in nature.

 

Cider, Burgers, and Views 

 

Hear me out: dates aren’t only for you and your main squeeze, and you should make time to date your friends! If you’re looking for a great group date that includes award-winning local cider, amazing burgers (including veg options), and breathtaking views, look no further than Cider House! Now that people are vaxxed and chillaxed after a long COVID season of avoiding people and gatherings, it’s time to get the crew back together for libations and celebrations. Did I mention the breathtaking views? It’s hard to beat this ambiance if you want a great night out.

 

Have Somm Fun!

 

If you enjoy the blessed fruit of the vine like I do, Somm Wines is a boutique wine store and by the glass lounge, located just off the square. has a wonderful tasting room and by the glass lounge for you to enjoy. This local company loves to incorporate more local love into their business by featuring Breadtopia sourdough loaves and Pickle Creek Herbs infused olive oil and balsamic vinegar. As an extra treat, they also serve local ciders from both Fishback & Stephenson and Jefferson County Ciderworks. If you’re interested in a little extra romance after an evening libation, head over to Fairfield’s new Petra Park, an ultimate expression of love celebrating the life of a cherished wife.