Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Best date spots in SA

This Valentine’s Day, change things up and do something other than your average dinner and movie night. Get creative and be original by exposing you and your special someone to a romantic, intimate evening that celebrates you as a couple. Here is a list of the top ten most unique and engaging date night ideas:

1. Painting with a Twist (8910 Bandera Rd, Suite 202)

Sip, paint and relax. Also known as Corks N’ Canvas, Painting with a Twist provides a unique way to express your artistic skills. With a glass of wine or beer in one hand and a paintbrush in the other, create individual masterpieces with your partner. Wine, beer, soft drinks and water are offered during your two-hour or three-hour session. Painting with a Twist offers public events, or you can schedule a private party. Sessions range from $35-$45. For more information, visit paintingwithatwist.com.

2. The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo (AT&T Center)

The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo is one of the biggest events of the year in San Antonio. The local event features animals and agriculture, live music, carnival rides and family entertainment. An extensive variety of mouthwatering food is offered — from juicy turkey legs to fried Twinkies. Indoor and outdoor venues showcase artists and bands performing classic country, soft rock and much more. Win a grand prize for your date by playing at one of the many game booths placed throughout the area, then wind down with a sweet Ferris Wheel ride that gives you a perfect view of the city up top. Prices vary for each event. For more information, visit sarodeo.com.

3. Francesca’s at Sunset (16641 La Cantera Pkwy)

Immerse yourself in an enchanting experience at this AAA Four-Diamond Award winning restaurant. Bask in awe with captivating rooftop views of the Hill Country while you and your partner dine on exquisite cuisine. Francesca’s at Sunset has been a top-rated San Antonio fine-dining restaurant for years and will be an essential part of your special evening. Reservations are recommended. Menu items range from $14-$36. For more information, visit resortlacantera.com.

4. Monster Mini Golf (2267 NW Military Hwy)

Come test your putt-putt skills at an indoor mini golf course. This isn’t your ordinary golf course. This exciting 18-hole, monster-themed, glow in the dark miniature putt putt course offers fun activities at every hole. Featuring monster décor with custom and animated props, this unique setting will add excitement and adventure to your date night. Entertainment consists of a full arcade, cool contests and an in-house DJ. Admission is $9. For more information, visit monsterminigolf.com

5. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium (307 Alamo Plaza)

Escape from the ordinary and explore the unique and fascinating world of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. The three-level attraction features over 500 unusual and shocking exhibits that will spark an extraordinary twist on your date night. Walk through an array of themed settings ranging from Hollywood to horror. Snap a picture with your partner and favorite celebrity star in Ripley’s Wax Museum. The museum features over 200 life-like wax figures. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium also offers an arcade area and snack bar. Tickets range from $12.99-$28.99. For more information, visit ripleys.com/sanantonio.

6. The Semeneya Dance Studio (12066 Starcrest Dr. #210)

Whether you are the type who has two left feet or can break it down like nobody’s watching, the Semeneya Dance Studio has a place for you. Spreading out at 7,000 square feet, the multi-level master studio offers a unique way for you and your partner to get close and lively. The Semeneya Dance Studio offers beginning, intermediate and advanced lessons in Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cha-Cha, Cumbia, Men/Women Styling, Mambo, Cuban Salsa, Ballroom Dancing, East Coast Swing, Lindy and Hip Hop. The studio delivers a home-like cozy feel with coffee and a snack bar allowing students as well as instructors to socialize and connect on the dance floor. Individual or group prices are offered. Class prices start at $12 per person for a one-hour class. For more information, visit mysemeneya.com

7. Japanese Tea Garden (3853 N. St. Mary’s Street)

Explore and enjoy a romantic stroll through one of San Antonio’s historical jewels, the Japanese Tea Garden. The scenery features a lush, year-round garden and colorful floral displays with shaded walkways, stone bridges, a 60-foot waterfall and ponds filled with Koi fish. After a quiet and intimate walk, delight yourself to a nice meal at The Jingu House where a variety of food and beverages are served, ranging from Asian entreés to Japanese tea. Admission to the garden is free and is available to the public from dawn to dusk. For more information, visit japaneseteagarden.org.

8. Main Event (1911 N. Loop 1604 East)

Get a glimpse of your partner’s competitive streak and allow them to channel their inner childhood spirit. Main Event is fully equipped with state of the art bowling lanes, billiards, an ultra modern laser tag arena and over 100 video games. With a unique variety of food and a full service bar, there is sure to be something that will satisfy even the pickiest person. In honor of President’s Day they are promoting their “President’s Day All You Can Play Weekend” special, beginning Friday, Feb. 14 through Monday, Feb. 17. Tickets range from $15.95-$17.95 per person. For more information, visit mainevent.com.

9. Ice & Golf Center at Northwoods (17530 Henderson Pass)

Lace up and hang on tight to your partner’s hand as you glide over ice (almost) effortlessly and experience the cold air seep down into your lungs. After a few rounds (and hopefully very few falls) satisfy your taste buds with their fully stocked concession stand for a quick snack or full meal, or cozy up together with a cup of hot chocolate. Admission ranges from $8-$11. For more information, visit northwoodice.net

10. The Cove (606 W Cypress)

The Cove restaurant is known for their sustainable, organic and local cuisine. Their focus is providing their customers with as much local, natural produce as possible, including produce grown from their own garden. Menu items include a variety of options ranging from their famous fish tacos to burgers. Grab a drink from the Texas Beer Garden, which offers almost 60 Texas-brewed beers on tap. Dance to music of all genres performed by local and traveling performers at their live music venue. Want to bring your furry friend? Good news, the restaurant is pet-friendly, so make it a play date and bring your pets along to share the experience with you and your partner. Prices range from $2.25-$12. For more information, visit thecove.com.

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