Yes, Spring Is Coming
Take your sweetheart out on a date to these romantic points of interest
By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
With spring’s blooms just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to freshen up your dating game by trying a few new ideas for a romantic date.
Plan an evening of entertainment at Eastman Theatre or Geva Theatre Center in Rochester or The Smith Center for the Arts in Geneva.
Regardless of the film or live performance you see, the historic architecture of these structures adds a touch of luxury to the evening. The Eastman Theatre maintains is 1920s ambiance. Its Kodak Hall boasts a chandelier bearing 20,000 imported crystals. Geneva Theatre was designed in 1868 by Andrew J. Warner, a well-known Rochester architect. After decades of assorted uses — from meeting site to convention center to hospital — the building was renovated in 1985. The Smith was founded in 1894 as Smith Opera House. The Richardsonian Romanesque-style theater has been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.
Explore fine art hand in hand at Rochester’s Memorial Art Gallery. Check the website for current exhibits. Weather permitting, bring along a picnic to enjoy in the Sculpture Park.
Enjoy an out-of-this-world show at the Strasenburgh Planetarium.
In anticipation of warmer weather, book reservations now to cruise the Erie Canal on the Colonial Belle in Fairport or Sam Patch Tour Boat in Pittsford. Both tour companies offer special events listed on their websites.
Cuddle up for a movie at the restored Vintage Drive-in Theatre in Avon or Silver Lake Twin Drive-in in Perry. The retro vibe sets the right mood for romance.
Bristol Mountain in Canandaigua offers more than skiing. This spring, go exploring together on Bristol’s Aerial Adventures course, including zip lining and high ropes.
As spring begins to bloom, check out Sonnenberg Gardens in Canandaigua. The 50-acre estate is home to historic, themed gardens and a mansion appointed with period antiques to view. Have lunch at the High Noon Café on-site or bring a picnic. On weekend afternoons, enjoy wine tasting at The Finger Lakes Wine Center, located in the cellar of the Bay House on-site.
Finding a romantic place to dine is tough because of so many choices. Roux in Rochester offers a feeling-fancy French flair while still providing a casual dining experience. Tapas 117 prides itself on appetizers and entrees designed to share — perfect for date night.
Plan a sweet experience to enjoy together at Laughing Gull Chocolates in Rochester which offers workshops, tastings and pairings of chocolate and wine or beer, cocktails, or non-alcoholic alternatives.
For a more upscale experience, try Avvino, The Inn on Broadway or Pane Vino in Rochester or Pittsford.
In addition to fine dining onsite, Belhurst Castle, a Georgian Revival mansion in Geneva, also operates Isabella, a full-service spa that offers couples massage packages and three distinct lodges, including Chambers in the Castle, for an overnight getaway.