Top 10 Date Night Locations in Canberra
Canberra, with its old world charm and modern-day elegance, has an endless choice of idyllic date night destinations. Whether you’re off on a first date, celebrating an anniversary or just looking to surprise that special someone with a well-deserved romantic night out, these date night spots in Canberra are guaranteed to sweep them off their feet.
Here are 10 of the most romantic date night destinations, which are all easily accessible from Pavilion on Northbourne!
Catch a movie at the Sunset Cinema
Images via Sunset Cinema Canberra
Trade your regular Netflix movie night in for the outdoor Sunset Cinemas at the Australian National Botanic Gardens.
From blockbuster features, new releases, family flicks and more, there’s something to suit any movie lovers’ taste. Sit back and relax on the plush bean bags and order tipples and nibbles during the flick, or pack your favourite movie snacks and snuggle up on a picnic blanket.
For a bit of luxury, amp up the romance and opt-in for The Gold Standard seating with full length, uber comfy loungers.
Located at Eucalypt Lawn, Australian National Botanic Gardens
Open until 26 February 20. More info here.
Treat Yourselves to Relaxation and Bliss
Images via Stuart Miler & Visit Canberra
It’s a year for wellness, so experience the day spa scene in Canberra for your next date night. Share a room for a couples massage, or spend some time apart with separate sessions. For Canberra’s most luxurious wellness retreat, visit Hale Spa, for a natural experience surrounded by rainforest visit Jindii Eco Spa or for convenience head across the road to Sui Spa Canberra. Top it off with a stay in one of our Spa Suites at Pavilion on Northbourne
See a live show at the Canberra Theatre
Images via Canberra Theatre Centre
Looking to inject a dose of arts and culture into your next date night? Only an 8-minute drive from the Pavilion on Northbourne is the Canberra Theatre Centre, the Capital’s premier performing arts centre where you can catch world-class live shows from the likes of Bell Shakespeare and The Australian Ballet.
With an amalgamation of modern Grecian and Elizabethan architecture along with spectacular live performances, it’s hard not to fall in love at the Canberra Theatre.
So whether you’re into classics or looking for contemporary masterpieces, there’s something to impress any theatre buff.
Located at Civic Square, London Circuit, Canberra ACT
See what’s on at the Canberra Theatre here.
Stargaze at Mount Stromlo Observatory
Images via Mount Stromlo Observatory
There are few things in life that compare to the romance stargazing brings. Head up to the Mount Stromlo Observatory with your favourite person and experience a magical night under the stars through a private stargazing tour.
This includes a behind-the-scenes tour to the observatory, use of Mt Stromlo’s outreach telescopes, and a guided viewing of the spectacular Southern Hemisphere sky. If you’d rather keep it simple, catch one of the free public stargazing nights. Either way, a date night marvelling at the wonders of the universe is sure to leave you starry-eyed.
Located at Cotter Rd, Weston Creek ACT
Open daily from 7 am to 6 pm; private tours until 10 pm
Late nightcap at Bar Rochford
Images via Bar Rochford | Good Food Guide
For couples who appreciate intimate and captivatingly quirky spots, Bar Rochford is the perfect place to grab a late nightcap.
As the recipient of Gourmet Traveller’s 2018 Bar of the Year, Bar Rochford boasts an impressive cocktail list, fine food and chill vibes. Brave one of their eclectic cocktails - we especially recommend Buena Vista Social Club, made with White Rum, spiced mango, tepache and agave. Yum! If you want to stick to the classics, they’ve also got a curated list of sparkling, crisp white and bold reds.
Located at 65 London Circuit, Canberra City ACT
Open Tues to Thurs from 5 pm to late, Fri from 3 pm to 2 am & Sat from 5 pm to 2 am
Romantic GoBoat ride on Lake Burley Griffin
Images via GoBoat Canberra
GoBoat Canberra takes date nights to a whole new level by offering Scandinavian-style picnic boats for hire to cruise along the picturesque Lake Burley Griffin.
With an elegant atmosphere, stunning lakeside views, and the company of your special person, a regular date night will easily turn into an unforgettable evening.
For some nibbles, pack your partner’s favourite treats or pre-order a delightful platter for two at Graze Expectations. These self-driven, and easy-to-use boats are also pet-friendly so your furbabies can hop onboard.
Located at Wharf 2, Trevillian Quay, Kingston ACT
Last GoBoat departures at 6 pm on most days. More information here.
After dinner dessert at eightysix
Images via Good Food Guide | eightysix
Experience pure indulgence and treat your date to the utter decadence that is eightysix’s dessert menu. A stalwart to Canberra’s hippest dining scene, eightysix is set up with cosy booths, chic black walls and distinct chatter of fellow patrons, making it ideal for a late night dessert session.
Share their scrummy banoffee pie and signature caramel popcorn sundae for a sweet end to a romantic date night. This spot is always bustling so be sure to book your seats before heading out.
Located at Lonsdale St & Eloura Street, Braddon ACT
Open Tues to Thurs from 6 pm to 10 pm, and Fri to Sat from 6 pm to 11 pm
Wine tasting at Hops & Vine
Images via Hops and Vine
For something off the wall, or rather off the vine, experience a late afternoon wine tasting at Hops & Vine in the charming village of Hall. As the name suggests, Hops & Vine stocks many boutique wines that don’t have a cellar door, and hosts regular wine and craft beer tastings. So whether you prefer a bold shiraz or a craft IPA, they’ve got just the tipple to match your taste.
You’ll also find a plethora of specialty, homemade treats, local produce, and delicately-made hamper baskets for you to take home. Just a short drive from the CBD, Hops & Vine will take you back in time with its rustic, old country town charm, friendly atmosphere and one-of-a-kind wine selection.
Located at 6a Victoria St, Hall ACT
Open daily Wed to Sundays from 11 am - 7 pm
Panoramic views of the city at the Telstra Tower
Images via Telstra Tower | Dani Barrios
When you think of romantic date nights, Telstra Tower doesn’t usually come to mind. But don’t be fooled - this iconic spot has some of the most amazing views of the city at night! Situated on top of Black Mountains peak, you’ll get uninterrupted views of the CBD and its surrounds.
For a truly exceptional date night experience, catch the sunset and watch the city lights come to life. Afterwards, you can warm up with a cuppa at the Telstra Tower Cafe while peering over the Parliamentary Triangle, Lake Burley Griffin, and the National Museum.
Located at 100 Black Mountain Dr, Acton ACT
Open daily from 9 am - 10 pm
