Tampa Wedding Photographer

Creating lasting memories often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences as a couple. For memorable date night ideas, try something new and challenge yourselves. In The Art of Making Memories, author Meik Wiking suggests that trying things that scare you or challenge the ordinary flow of your day is key to making moments unforgettable.

Inspired by this idea, I wanted to share 21 date night ideas in Tampa to help you and your partner create meaningful, lasting memories. From interactive cooking classes to adventurous outings, these ideas are designed to bring you closer while adding a spark of excitement to your time together.

1. Take a hands-on cooking class together.

This interactive experience lets you and your partner create a delicious dish together, adding a playful twist to your evening. After cooking your meal, enjoy the satisfaction of dining on your creation while sharing a special moment. Bonus: You learn a new recipe to cook together at home.

AJ’s Kitchen Drawer in Tampa is excellent! The cost varies from $85 to $200 per person. Sur La Table, located in Hyde Park Village, is another popular option, and their prices start at $69 per person.

2. Create a custom candle together at Candle Pour.

Add a spark to date night by crafting custom candles together at The Candle Pour in Hyde Park Village. You can choose from over 100 unique fragrances to mix and match, creating a blend that reflects your favorite scents. The process is fun and hands-on, perfect for sparking great conversation (and a little friendly debate over who created the best scent!). My wife and I agreed that I won that competition on our last date night at Candle Pour.

Prices at The Candle Pour typically range from $25 to $55 per candle, depending on the size of the vessel you select, making it an affordable date night experience.

After pouring your candles, explore the charm of Hyde Park Village with its nearby restaurants and dessert spots. You’ll leave with a candle that’s a keepsake and a reminder of your creative, one-of-a-kind evening. 

3. Have a creative date night at Painting with a Twist.

Located in several Tampa locations, Painting with a Twist is an interactive experience that allows couples to sip on their favorite beverages while following step-by-step instructions to create their masterpieces. Even if you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time, you’ll be in a relaxed, judgment-free environment. Sessions typically range from $35 to $50 per person, depending on the class and materials needed. Check the calendar for unique date night themes.

4. Visit the Florida Photography Museum and stroll through Ybor City.

Explore the art of storytelling through photography with a visit to the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, now located in the vibrant Ybor City neighborhood. This museum offers an impressive photography collection. Admission is $10 per person. Check their schedule for rotating exhibits and special events. After your visit, stroll through Ybor City’s historic streets for a perfect end to your date.

5. Visit the historic Tampa Theatre.

The beautifully restored Tampa Theatre, built in 1926, is a perfect, unique setting for a date night. It’s known for its ornate architecture and twinkling star-lit ceiling. The theatre shows a mix of first-run films, indie features, and classics. You can also attend one of its live events or special movie-themed evenings. Tickets for regular movie screenings typically cost $12.50 per person. Be sure to arrive early to take a photo in the grand lobby and soak in the ambiance!

6. Lunch and a Book at Oxford Exchange

Combine two date night ideas into one by visiting the Oxford Exchange, a beautiful, European-inspired space in Tampa known for its chic atmosphere. Start your date with lunch at their restaurant, where you can enjoy seasonal dishes like artisan sandwiches and flavorful salads (entrées range from $15 to $25). Afterward, explore their thoughtfully curated bookstore and pick out a book to read together—perfect for cozy nights in. Don’t forget to grab a coffee or tea from their café to complete this memorable outing!

7. Watch a live horse race in Tampa Bay Downs.

For an exciting date in Tampa, watch a live horse race at Tampa Bay Downs, located in Westchase. As the only Thoroughbred race track on Florida’s west coast, Tampa Bay Downs offers live racing from December through May, typically on Wednesdays, Fridays, and weekends. General admission is $3 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and free on Wednesdays. General parking is free daily, with valet parking available for $10. For a more intimate, romantic experience, consider reserving a private cabana in the Grandstand, available for $100 for a half cabana or $200 for a full cabana.

8. Watch the sunset together on a sunset cruise.

For a romantic night in Tampa, take a sunset cruise and enjoy the stunning waterfront views as the sun sets. Tampa Bay Fun Boat offers a 1.5-hour cruise from the Tampa Convention Center for $25 per adult and $12 per child, allowing you to bring your own drinks. For a more intimate experience, private cruises with champagne start at $300. Latitude Tours also offers a 2-hour sunset cruise for $39.99 per adult ($51.99 with dinner). Many cruises feature dolphin sightings and a relaxing atmosphere—be sure to book beforehand to secure your spot!

9. Stargaze together.

A unique and romantic date night idea in Tampa is to watch the stars together at The St. Pete-Clearwater Astronomy Club or at a secluded beach. Head to a dark-sky location like Fort De Soto Park or Honeymoon Island and bring a cozy blanket, snacks, and a telescope or binoculars to gaze at the stars. For a more guided experience, visit the Science Center of Pinellas County, where the local astronomy club hosts free public stargazing nights with telescopes set up for visitors. This intimate date is perfect for deep conversations.

10. Visit FloridaRAMA for a unique Tampa date night idea.

For another unique date night, visit FloridaRAMA in St. Pete. It hosts a world of immersive, playful art installations that celebrate Florida’s quirky aspects. The installation was created in collaboration with over 75 local and international artists. General admission is $27, with a discounted rate of $25 for Florida residents.   

11. Attend a magic show.

For a memorable date night, attend a magic show. The Zubrick Magic Theatre in St. Petersburg offers a 70-minute performance featuring sleight-of-hand, comedy, and grand-scale illusions. Ticket prices start at $49.99.

12. Mini golf.

There are so many fun and engaging mini-golf venues in Tampa, and a visit to one would be a perfect date. Here are some options to explore:

• Mr. Putters features three 18-hole indoor mini golf courses with interactive obstacles, such as ‘The Floor is Lava. ‘ It also offers pinball, foosball, and more. This great spot for date nights offers fun and unique challenges.
• Elev8 Fun Tampa. Experience blacklight mini-golf at Elev8 Fun Tampa with glowing landscapes and playful challenges. 
• Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf. Smugglers Cove offers an 18-hole adventure-style mini golf course with a unique twist—you can feed live alligators! It’s a fun and adventurous option for a date night. 

13. Get a couples massage.

For a romantic and relaxing date night in Tampa, indulge in a couples massage. No matter your budget or preferences, you’ll find a spa in Tampa that allows you to unwind and relax together.

• The JW Marriott Tampa provides a luxurious experience with a 50-minute couples massage for $340, ensuring a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. 
• Another great option is Safety Harbor Resort and Spa, where you can enjoy a 50-minute couples Swedish massage for $255 in a tranquil setting. 
• If you want a more affordable yet luxurious experience, Soho Wellness & Med Spa provides a 60-minute couples massage for $125. 
• For a more widely available option, Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa has locations throughout Tampa and features a private couples room for side-by-side massages, perfect for special occasions or a shared wellness ritual.

14. Do some pottery together.

Get creative by taking a pottery class together and going home with a unique keepsake that’ll forever remind you of your time together. The Tampa Museum of Art offers various ceramics classes, such as the “Ceramics Wheel” course, priced at $325. DRIP Ybor also provides beginner-friendly pottery wheel classes at $50 per person, as well as a five-week all-level pottery series for $300.

15. Horseback riding on the beach

This date night idea is so memorable you’ll likely never forget the experience. Cypress Breeze Farm offers unique horseback rides that wade into Tampa Bay, leading to a sandbar where you can enjoy the serene surroundings. Priced at $150 per person. 

16. Go paddleboarding at night with LED-lit paddleboards.

Another unique, enjoyable, and romantic date night is to share a glow-in-the-dark paddleboarding experience. Urban Kai offers guided tours every Friday at 5 PM from their Armature Works and Gandy locations. Priced at $40 per person, you’ll get a paddleboard or kayak, paddle, light, and a guide. Those bringing their board can join for $15, with lights available for rent at $5. As you glide through the water under the night sky, the LED-lit boards create a stunning effect, attracting marine life and offering a one-of-a-kind way to explore Tampa’s waterways.

17. Experience a hot air balloon ride.

Watch the sunrise from the sky on a hot air balloon flying over Tampa’s picturesque landscapes. Big Red Balloon offers shared flights at $275 per adult, which include ground transportation, a traditional champagne toast, and a full sit-down breakfast. 

18. Enjoy live jazz at the Landing at Jannus

For a memorable date night, enjoy jazz music in the vibrant atmosphere of The Landing at Jannus, an elevated balcony bar situated within the iconic Jannus Live complex in downtown St. Pete. Ticket prices for events at Jannus Live vary depending on the artist and event, with advance tickets typically ranging from $20 to $45 and door prices slightly higher. 

19. Have a progressive dinner experience at Hyde Park Village.

Start the night at Hyde Park Village having drinks at one place, appetizers at another, entrees at yet another, and dessert elsewhere. Our favorites? The pork belly tacos at Bartaco are incredible! Dinner at Forbici is a must, and we highly recommend ending the night with popsicles from The Hyppo.

20. Plan a picnic at Curtis Hixon Park.

For a fun and relaxing daytime date, plan a picnic at Curtis Hixon Park. Pack your own blanket and a basket of your favorite snacks, and enjoy the sunshine and views of the Hillsborough River. 

For a more elevated experience, you can hire a luxury picnic service like Picnic Ave or The Picnic Boys. These vendors provide beautifully styled setups, complete with cozy seating, table décor, and curated treats. Packages typically start around $200 for two people, with options to add on extras like charcuterie boards or fresh flowers. It’s a unique way to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time together.

21. Chocolate and wine pairing at Peterbrooke Chocolatier

Another unique date night is a chocolate and wine pairing at Peterbrooke Chocolatier in Tampa. You’ll sample a variety of handcrafted chocolates paired with wines that bring out their flavors, making for a fun and delicious experience. Tastings are usually held in-store and cost around $40 to $60 per person, depending on the event. Be sure to check their schedule or call ahead to reserve your spot. It’s a great way to try something different and treat yourselves to a sweet evening.

These locations are not just great as date night ideas in Tampa, but consider also taking your engagement sessions at one of these top Tampa spots. Contact me here to book an engagement session! Are you looking for top engagement session locations in Tampa? I’ve compiled a list of my top favorites here.