The Carroll News

John Carroll University's student newspaper since 1925
February 11th, 2010

Five hot dates for cold winter nights

Arts & Life
Vol. 86, No. 13

The city of Cleveland, despite its viral-video reputation for being a two-building city with dead nightlife, has plenty to offer couples who are looking for unique date options this winter.

This Valentine’s Day weekend, plan a date night that takes advantage of specialty shops, creative dining and indoor and outdoor sports activities. These five Cleveland hotspots are perfect for a creative and memorable Valentine’s Day date.

Lilly Handmade Chocolates is a specialty shop in Tremont that sells handmade, preservative-free chocolate desserts. Couples can stop in and pick-up an assortment of dark, white and milk chocolate truffles.  Lilly’s also sells specialty wines and beers and will provide consultation about the best pairings. Lilly Handmade Chocolate is located at 761 Starkweather Ave.

The Cleveland Museum of Art offers free admission to visitors on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. The museum also has special exhibitions for a fee. The Museum is located at 11150 East Blvd

The outdoor ice rink at Wade Oval in University Circle is an inexpensive and unique way to spend a winter afternoon or early evening before dinner.  Admission is free and skate rentals are $3. The rink is open noon-7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays until March 21.

The Chocolate Bar, located at 347 Euclid Ave., offers couples a unique dining experience themed with the sweet treat of love, chocolate. Order the Chocolate Chocolate Mint martini, a Cocoa Puff liquor milkshake, frozen hot chocolate, or Chocolate Fondue for two to allow for a romantic twist on drinks and dining.

Adventurous couples can conquer the rigid rock walls inside Cleveland Rock Gym. Instead of dinner and a movie, climb to new heights in your relationship with an activity that is challenging and gets your body moving. Reservations are required for first-time climbers. Call (216) 692-3300 to make reservations. The Rock Gym is at 21200 Saint Clair Ave. in Euclid.