4 ideas for COVID-19 safe dates in Atlanta

With so many changes in the past six months due to the ongoing pandemic, it’s been hard to adjust to living life in a new way. The dating scene in Atlanta is no exception. Spending time with a sweetheart or getting to know a new person looks pretty different now than it did a year ago, and doing so safely is a worthwhile concern. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of fun ways to get out and enjoy the city safely. Check out these 4 ideas for COVID-19 safe dates in Atlanta.

Picnic in a park

Research suggests that spending time outside with other people carries a smaller risk for  coronavirus transmission. With this in mind, a picnic date is a great way to be romantic while still staying safe. A big enough blanket makes social distancing easy, and there are many options for food – from picking up a to-go meal at a local restaurant to bringing home-prepared snacks or packing snacks or deli items from a grocery.

Atlanta is home to many beautiful green spaces and parks, most of which have remained open or reopened in the past few months. From Atlanta Memorial Park near Buckhead to Piedmont Park in Midtown, then to Freedom Park and Grant Park moving further south through the city – there are so many beautiful outdoor spaces to enjoy. A bonus for this type of date is the opportunity for biking, walking or playing a sport together. Most of these parks feature trails, fields and sports facilities.

Hit the trails for a hike

Speaking of trails, another scenic outdoor option for the sporty dater is to hit one of Atlanta’s numerous trails for a hike. Known as the “City in the Trees,” Atlanta is home to many old-growth forests and nature preserves tucked away throughout the city. There are plenty of hiking trails near the city, plus a ton of spots for a nice day trip. Some great trails in the perimeter or just outside include the East Palisades Trail in Sandy Springs, Cascade Springs in the city’s west side, Briarlake Forest Park near North Druid Hills and Sope Creek Trail in Marietta

Relax on a roof

Enjoy a relaxing date by spending time on one of the many developed and thriving rooftops throughout the city. Many Atlanta businesses and developments have made the most of their roof space, so depending on your style, there is something for everyone.

For drinks and socializing, look no further than the recently renovated Hotel Clermont. Its roof offers sunset views while sipping delicious cocktails. It is spacious with a strict capacity, so social distancing is easily accomplished. Or visit The Roof at Ponce City Market in the same neighborhood. They have carnival-type games and a sit-down restaurant if you’re in the mood for a more one-on-one experience. Also nearby is New Realm Brewing. If you and your date are up for local brews and some tasty lighter fare, this is a great choice. Fair warning though – it can definitely get busy, so plan ahead. Another impressive rooftop restaurant is Gypsy Kitchen in Buckhead. It’s a must-visit for tapas and taking in views of this iconic Atlanta neighborhood.

Delight in a drive-in

If you and your date are dead-set on movie night, but want to get away from the standard Netflix-and-chill pattern on the couch – check out one of Atlanta’s many drive-in options. The historic Plaza Theater in Poncey Highlands recently reopened for seated indoor showings. But, if you would like a novel and potentially more intimate experience, check out their drive-in showings. Since May, Atlanta’s oldest continually operating theater and one of the country’s only nonprofit theaters has had two different drive-in movie options available with different movies each week.

Catch a flick from your car in the back parking lot of the Plaza Theater, or you can visit an  outside show at Dad’s Garage Improv Theater in the Edgewood neighborhood. Check their website and be sure to buy tickets in advance, as there is limited space for these showings.

Another great drive-in option that’s been in business since long before the pandemic is the Starlight Drive-In Theatre. This large outdoor drive-in venue offers multiple films all week, including new releases. Restrooms and a snack bar are available on-premise as well, but they ask that you practice social distancing and proper hygiene to keep everyone safe.

Though things have changed a lot this year, there are still many ways to safely get out and about and spend quality time with your significant other – or get to know someone new. Whether it’s relaxing in the park, exercising on the trails, enjoying rooftop skyline views or watching a flick from the privacy of your own car, dating in Atlanta can still be fun and safe. So, don’t be afraid to make the first move and invite someone along to share in one of these fun experiences.

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