“Choose Your Vibe” Date Ideas in Downtown Crystal Lake
January 23, 2025

Downtown Crystal Lake is the perfect backdrop for a date night that matches your vibe! Scroll through for a few fun options!

Book tickets to a comedy or music show at the Raue (events.rauecenter.org), and plan a night
around it. For a list of Downtown dining options click here > dining.
Call Metro Bowl to ask about open bowling hours, which change and are limited. (Opening line
on your date: “you wouldn’t think bowling would be the most exclusive thing to do downtown, but
it kind of is.”)
Bring a record over to Crystal Lake Brewing on Wednesdays, and they’ll spin it for you!

Mix things up with a little rush of adrenaline. The Other Side Sober Bar & Cafe, Aroma Coffee &
Wine, and Labemi’s Tavern & Restaurant all have Open Mic nights. Duke’s Alehouse and
Cantina52 have karaoke. (Call to check on days and times, or follow them on social media.)

Brunch & Shopping. Sit at the bar at Cafe Olympic, or get a table at Benedict’s La Strata. Then
stroll the streets and duck into shops as they strike your fancy.
Paint a keepsake at Color Me Mine. Head to Mellie’s Chocolate Co. or Cheshire Cakes for a
little treat before, after, or while you wait.
Enjoy complimentary tastings on Saturdays at Off the Vine Wine Shop, and The Olive Tap.
If you decide to choose one of these vibes for your next special date, don’t forget to tag us so we can see!
Stay in the loop on special events and happenings! Visit downtowncl.org/newsletter to become a downtown insider!
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