15 Unique Date Night Ideas
Plan an exciting and memorable adventure for your sweetheart.
Whether you’re in the mood for a creative outing, an outdoor escape, or an enriching cultural event, there are countless unique and romantic date ideas for you to take part in. Don’t miss these fun things to do in Ocala/Marion County this weekend for couples!

1. Unleash Your Creativity with an Art Class
Learn a new skill together, like pottery and glassblowing, at Picasso's Palette or create paintings while sharing a bottle of wine at Painting with a Twist.
2. Laugh Together at a Comedy Show
Spend the evening smiling and laughing at The Joke Joint. Sit back, relax, and let talented comedians entertain you and your partner with jokes and stories that will leave you both grinning from ear to ear.

3. Watch World-Class Performances at Reilly Arts Center
Make your date night unforgettable by taking in an exceptional live performance at the Reilly Arts Center. The venue hosts a wide range of events where you can listen to the captivating sounds of Ocala Symphony Orchestra, enjoy high-energy concerts by touring bands, or be mesmerized by classical operas and ballets.

4. Spark Curiosity During Date Night at the Discovery Center
Turn date night into an interactive adventure at the Discovery Center. With themed science experiments, light refreshments, and after-hours access to exhibits, every Date Night is a fresh opportunity to learn something new together.

5. Stroll Through Captivating Exhibits at Appleton Museum of Art
Lose track of time as you explore the galleries of the Appleton Museum of Art and take in works that celebrate Florida’s natural beauty and equestrian heritage. With rotating exhibits, special events, and film screenings, each date at this museum is a unique experience.
6. Attend an Energetic Equestrian Competition
Watch world-class show jumping at the World Equestrian Center, enjoy the elegance of Hunter Rider events at HITS, or cheer on barrel racers and polo players at Florida Horse Park.

7. Go Horseback Riding
Escape the everyday with a peaceful trail ride. Guided horseback adventures in Ocala/Marion County are designed for riders of all skill levels, with calm horses and experienced guides. As you ride through forests, you’ll have a chance to connect with nature—and each other.

8. Follow the Trails of the Cross Florida Greenway
Trade busy streets for the peaceful trails of the Cross Florida Greenway. Whether you’re hiking or biking, you’ll find stretches of beautiful landscapes and quiet spots to take in the scenery. Pack a picnic to make a day of it!

9. Drift Along Rainbow River
Share a quiet moment as you drift along the water at Rainbow Springs State Park. Tubing and tandem kayaking are great ways to enjoy the crystal-clear water and spot wildlife, like turtles, fish, and otters. Keep your eyes on the sky for hawks and osprey, and don’t be surprised if you see an alligator soaking up the sun.

10. Spot Wildlife on an Airboat Tour
Feel the thrill of gliding across wetlands on an airboat. Speed across glassy surfaces as your Captain Bob's Airboat Tours guide takes you through backwater marshes, pointing out wildlife along the way.

11. Peek Beneath the Water’s Surface from a Glass-Bottom Boat
Step aboard one of Silver Springs State Park’s famous glass-bottom boats for a peaceful ride with a view like no other. Beneath the surface, fish, turtles, and manatees go about their day while you float above in awe.

12. Take Your Date to New Heights with Zip Lining
Take your relationship to the next level—literally—with a zip-lining adventure at Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park. Fly above canyons and lakes by day, or make it extra special with a sunset or night tour.

13. Search for Hidden Treasures at Antique Shops
Turn your date into a scavenger hunt through our antique shops and thrift stores– perfect for discovering vintage treasures, quirky keepsakes, and picking out fun outfits for themed date night.
14. Roll Into a Retro Date Night at a Skating Rink
Lace up your skates for a retro night out at one of Ocala/Marion County’s skating rinks. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or a first-timer—there’s nothing more endearing than a few wobbly laps! With a lively, nostalgic atmosphere skating brings out a carefree kind of fun that’s perfect for a laid back date.

15. Transport Yourselves to Another World at a Themed Cocktail Bar
Wrap up your date night with drinks in a uniquely themed setting. Enjoy a tropical, tiki escape at Tipsy Skipper, find the secret password and sneak into a speakeasy like Anti-Monopoly Drug Store or The Thirsty Cobbler, or embrace your seafaring side at the pirate-themed Mutiny. For a local touch, the equestrian-themed Yellow Pony serves up sophistication with saddle-inspired bar stools.
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Picasso's Palette106 SW 17th Street
Ocala, Florida 34471
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Painting with a Twist4414 SW College Road, #370
Ocala, Florida 34474
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The Joke Joint13685 US 441
Summerfield, Florida 34491
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Reilly Arts Center500 NE 9th Street
Ocala, Florida 34470
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Discovery Center701 NE Sanchez Avenue
Ocala, Florida 34470
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Appleton Museum of Art4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
OCALA, Florida 34470
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HITS, LLC13710 US Highway 27
Ocala, Florida 34482
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Florida Horse Park11008 County Road 475
Ocala, Florida 34480
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Rainbow Springs State Park19158 SW 81st Pl Rd
Dunnellon, Florida 34432
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Captain Bob's Airboat Tours12189 S Williams Street
Dunnellon, Florida 34432
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Silver Springs State Park5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
Ocala, Florida 34470
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Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park8045 NW Gainesville Road
Ocala, Florida 34475
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The Tipsy Skipper48 S Magnolia Avenue
Ocala, Florida 34471
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Anti-Monopoly Drug Store36 S. Magnolia Ave.
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The Thirsty Cobbler11 East Fort King Street
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Mutiny46 S. Magnolia Ave.
Ocala, Florida 34471
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The Yellow Pony8510 NW 17th Lane
Ocala, Florida 34482
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