Date Night FUN: The Best Ideas In and Around Youngstown
If you’re planning a night out with your special someone and need some ideas, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re heading out together for the first time or are simply looking for some new adventures, we’ve collected a few great date ideas located throughout the Youngstown area.
Restaurants with a Romantic Twist
There’s no better way to start or end your date night than with an intimate dinner for two. Here are some unique, local restaurants that are renowned for both their cuisine and their atmosphere.
Selah
You won’t find many restaurants with decor like you’ll find at Selah – a real hidden gem in downtown Struthers. Diners enjoy the restaurant’s unique surroundings (it’s a converted bank) and its fabulous meals, which include steak, seafood, and homemade pastas.
Selah also hosts live dinner performances, so check the Selah’s Events page for information and tickets!
Selah Restaurant
130 S. Bridge St.
Struthers, OH 44471
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Aqua Pazzo
Aqua Pazzo, located in Boardman, is an authentic Italian “ristorante,” featuring modern dishes inspired by cuisine from all regions of the Italian penninsula. Choose from a variety of pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and generous cuts of meat – plus, desserts that are guaranteed to impress.
For an extra romantic experience, dine out on the patio, where the gentle lighting and water features make for a date like no other!
Aqua Pazzo
492 McClurg Rd.
Boardman, OH 44512
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Michael Alberini’s Restaurant and Wine Shop
Michael Alberini’s serves high-end cuisine in a restaurant that’s reminiscent of the best eateries in New York City or Chicago. The food represents every corner of the globe, spanning Italian, East Asian and Cajun flavors! You and your date can also have your meals expertly paired with a glass of wine from the restaurant’s collection of over 600 international and domestic wines.
Michael Alberini’s Restaurant and Wine Shop
1140 Boardman Poland Rd.
Boardman, OH 44512
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Popular Wineries and Breweries
If you and your date are wine or beer fans, Mahoning County has a few amazing winery/brewery options! So, whether you’re enjoying a day date or searching for a fun spot to end your night, be sure to add these great locations to your list!
Penguin City Brewing Company
Penguin City Brewing Company is located just east of downtown Youngstown in a recently renovated manufacturing building. Their beer, billed as “solid beer for solid people,” echoes Youngstown’s blue collar roots.
Besides a date, Penguin City is also a great place to meet up with friends or watch a game. Check Penguin City’s Facebook page to see what food trucks are scheduled, along with special events and new brews!
Penguin City Brewing Company
460 E. Federal St.
Youngstown, OH 44503
Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
L’uva Bella Winery
L’ uva Bella Winery is way more than just a wine bar! Couples can enjoy an intimate experience at L’uva Bella’s Bistro with a couple glasses of fine wine (made onsite) and delicious, modern crafted cuisine. The Bistro’s Italian-inspired rustic decor lends to its romantic atmosphere and this local favorite has an incredible selection of appetizers, sandwiches, entrees and wood-fired pizzas!
L’ uva Bella Winery
6597 Center Rd.
Lowellville, OH 44436
Hours: Thursday 4 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Mastropietro Winery
Mastropietro Winery’s 14 acres of picturesque vineyards make for an ideal backdrop when it comes to a romantic wine tasting date on the patio. On a chilly night, you and your date can even cuddle up by the patio’s fire pits!
If you’d prefer to stay inside, head into the attached sports bar for some local craft beers and sandwiches or snacks.
Mastropietro Winery
14558 Ellsworth Rd.
Berlin Center, OH 44401
Winery hours: Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. (except January and February), Fridays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Sports bar hours: Wednesday and Thursday 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Music Venues for Unforgettable Concerts and More!
There’s no better way to spend your evening than by taking in a live music performance at one of Youngstown’s venues! This area is incredibly proud of its diverse music scene and the national acts that make regular stops here.
Covelli Centre
Covelli Centre is not only Youngstown’s premier indoor concert venue, it’s also home to the USHL’s Youngstown Phantoms.
Remember, concerts and events are seasonal, so be sure to check the Covelli Centre’s Events page for information on upcoming shows. Youngstown Phantoms games are scheduled regularly throughout hockey season, which runs from November to April.
Covelli Centre
229 E. Front St.
Youngstown, OH 44503
DeYor Performing Arts Center
DeYor Performing Arts Center is a great spot to see a concert, musical or play! The DeYor’s Ford Family Recital Hall is a 600-seat venue, and its famous Edward W. Powers Auditorium boasts 2300 seats. No matter what type of event you’re attending, with that seating capacity, you’re almost guaranteed good views each and every time!
Be sure to check out their Upcoming Events page for Youngstown Symphony Orchestra performances, plays and concert dates.
DeYor Performing Arts Center
260 W. Federal St.
Youngstown, OH 44503
Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre
Situated between downtown Youngstown and the Mahoning River, the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre is the perfect outdoor venue for live music and community events in Mahoning County. Check out their Events page to see who’s playing this summer!
Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre
201 S. Phelps St.
Youngstown, OH 44503
One-of-a-Kind Daytime Dates
Who doesn’t love a day date? Start off the morning with brunch and then check out some of these fun things to do around town!
The Butler Institute of American Art
The Butler Institute of American Art is unique among art museums – it was the first art gallery of its kind dedicated solely to American art! The Institute’s 22,000 individual works include recognizable artists from across the nation and one-of-a-kind Native American pieces. It’s conveniently located north of downtown Youngstown, adjacent to the Youngstown State University campus.
The Butler Institute of American Art
524 Wick Ave.
Youngstown, OH 44502
White House Fruit Farm
Spend an afternoon at White House Fruit Farm and enjoy their outdoor spaces along with all the goodies they have to offer! Shop their selection of homegrown produce, jams/jellies, fresh-baked goodies and unique finds at their Gift Barn. Pro Tip: don’t leave without trying the donuts!
White House Fruit Farm
9249 Youngstown-Salem Rd.
Canfield, OH 44406
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Mill Creek MetroParks
Did you know that there are over 5,000 acres to explore in Mill Creek MetroParks, with opportunities for hiking, biking, golf, boating and more? It’s your chance to get out in the fresh air and enjoy your date’s company!
Lanterman’s Mill
Discover the inner workings of Lanterman’s Mill, one of Mahoning County’s most notable historic landmarks. Take a guided tour through the mill or explore on your own. (Don’t forget to buy some of the stone ground flour while you’re there.)
Also, many people like to walk down to the nearby covered bridge and take in its romantic views!
Lanterman’s Mill
1001 Canfield Rd. (SR 62)
Youngstown, OH 44511
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May through October. Closed Mondays and observed holidays.
Admission: Children under six – free, students six to eighteen (including college students with ID) – $1, adult Mahoning County residents – $2, adult non-residents – $3, informational tour – $3 plus admission.
Fellows Riverside Gardens
Fellows Riverside Gardens is like a secluded getaway within Mill Creek MetroParks. Take a stroll with your significant other through the beautifully manicured gardens and enjoy the gorgeous views. If you get hungry while you’re there, stop for a bite to eat at the Garden Cafe in the nearby D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center.
Fellows Riverside Gardens
123 McKinley Ave.
Youngstown, OH 44509
Garden hours: Open daily, year-round sunrise to sunset
Garden Cafe hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Youngstown Flea
The Youngstown Flea isn’t like most flea markets – it’s more of a showcase for local artisans, craftspeople and small businesses to show off their creations.
One weekend every month, vendors gather in downtown Youngstown for an experience like no other. You and your date can browse homemade art and furniture, vintage clothing and pick up goodies like local honey or fudge! Stay for lunch at a food truck or visit one of the many restaurants nearby.
Youngstown Flea
365 E. Boardman St.
Youngstown, OH 44503
Stay and Play Options
Sometimes it’s nice to get away for a night or two without driving hours to get there, and the Mahoning Valley has a couple of luxurious options that will have you returning time and again!
Sebring Mansion Inn and Spa
Sebring Mansion Inn and Spa is an intimate bed-and-breakfast getaway located in a mansion that was built to resemble an Italian Renaissance villa. Suites are decorated with an early-20th-century style, inclusive of deep colors and rich woods.
Breakfast and dinner are served on-site in the conservatory, and Sebring Mansion also offers special add-ons like champagne, chocolate covered strawberries or their special Wedding Anniversary Romance Package (inclusive of roses, chocolate covered strawberries, champagne and two customized flutes).
Sebring Mansion Inn and Spa
385 W. Ohio Ave
Sebring, OH 44672
Bistro 1907 and DoubleTree Youngstown Downtown
If you’re looking for an unforgettable date night in downtown Youngstown, pay a visit to Bistro 1907 by Mark Canzonetta and then stay the night at the DoubleTree Youngstown Downtown (a unique option that offers early 1900’s charm with all the modern amenities).
Bistro 1907 features American favorites with French flair in its sleek, contemporary – yet historic – atmosphere. Enjoy cuisine you’d expect to find in a fine Parisian restaurant, and choose from an endless variety of drinks and cocktails to complement any flavor.
Bistro 1907 & DoubleTree Youngstown Downtown
44 E. Federal St.
Youngstown, OH 44503
Bistro Hours:
Breakfast Buffet – Monday and Tuesday from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Brunch: Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lunch: Saturday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Dinner: Wednesday and Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.,
Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Other Fun Things to Do!
Don’t overlook some of these more common yet exceptionally fun options for your next date!
Bowling Alleys
There’s nothing like a little friendly competition on a date! Check out these local alleys that have much more than just bowling!
Camelot Lanes
Camelot Lanes is a local favorite for many reasons! Couples can play billiards, arcade games, and giant-sized versions of childhood favorites like Connect 4 and Jenga.
Plus, you can enjoy a drink from the fully-stocked bar along with pizza, wings or a burger and fries. All in all, Camelot has your date night covered!
Camelot Lanes
628 Boardman Canfield Rd.
Boardman, OH 44512
Hours: Monday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., Tuesday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Wednesday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 12 a.m., Sunday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Westside Bowl
Westside Bowl is one of the best places in Youngstown to see a local band, and it plays host to a variety of special events like trivia, open mic night and karaoke!
Plus, Westside Bowl has a full menu of appetizers, sandwiches and pizza to share while you’re enjoying the show or bowling a few games.
Westside Bowl
2617 Mahoning Ave.
Youngstown, OH 44509
Hours: Monday through Thursday 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., Friday 4 p.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. to 1 a.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Movie Theaters
Let’s not forget about the classic “dinner and a movie” date. Bring your date to one of the area’s movie theaters and take in a film together. In Boardman, there’s Cinemark Boardman and XD and Regal CinemaSouth. In Austintown, head to Golden Star Theaters Austintown Cinema.
Cinemark Boardman and XD
7401 Market St. Suite 575 (Located at the Southern Park Mall)
Boardman, OH 44512
Regal CinemaSouth
7420 South Ave.
Boardman, OH 44512
Golden Star Theaters Austintown Cinema
6020 Mahoning Ave.
Austintown, OH 44515
Golf Courses
The Youngstown area has some of the best golf courses between Cleveland and Columbus! So, if you and your date are avid golfers, a golf date is a perfect way to spend the day. Check out the Mill Creek Golf Course, Reserve Run Golf Course or Knoll Run Golf Course websites for rates and tee times (and those are just to name a few!).
For a more complete listing of area golf courses, check out our Youngstown Golf Course Guide!
Mill Creek Golf Course
1 W. Golf Dr.
Boardman, OH 44512
Reserve Run Golf Course
625 E. Western Reserve Rd.
Poland, OH 44514
Knoll Run Golf Course
1421 State Route 616
Lowellville, OH 44436
Make It a Special Date in Youngstown
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, live music, or a quiet place to enjoy each other’s company, Youngstown is full of date ideas to try. For more fun activities in Youngstown and throughout Mahoning County, Youngstown Live is your source for everything local!
