Chicago is a city brimming with things to do on Valentine’s Day, offering endless options for dates. New couples can break the ice, while well-established couples can rekindle their spark all over town. The Windy City certainly has it all, but with so many choices, it can be hard to narrow it down.
If you’re a film lover, you may think your options are limited. But truth be told, there are an incredible array of date ideas for film fanatics. These six Chicago date ideas are simply perfect for you!
1. Watch Movies at Millennium Park
Few places are as iconic as Millennium Park in Chicago. The date can go many different ways, starting with a romantic walk. Check out the art exhibits, then stroll over to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion or lounge on the Great Lawn to watch a movie outdoors on the 40-foot LED screen. Act fast because this film-fanatic date night can only be enjoyed at the park from July through August.
2. Catch a 3D Movie at the Field Museum
Not all dates need to be at night. In fact, a daytime date may be the perfect solution when you both have hectic schedules. You can have an amazing time at the Field Museum, a legend along Lake Michigan’s shores. Take your time to enjoy the view, then head inside to enjoy the exhibits. With nearly 40 million artifacts and specimens, there’s plenty to see that will ignite your love for natural history. Part of the exhibitions include a 20-minute 3D movie.
3. Visit the Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center is a public program of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, making it a date for a good cause. This film center allows you to catch classic cinema and international and independent films that reflect Chicago’s unique diversity. Partake in lectures, panels, and filmmaker conversations and turn your movie date night into an educational experience.
4. Step Back in Time at the Music Box
Another experience movie lovers will adore is visiting the Music Box. Evoking the style of the 1920s, films are revealed with the rise of a red velvet curtain. This independently owned theater provides a way to go back in time and shows only foreign, cult, independent, and classic films. Grab some real-buttered popcorn and enjoy the immersive entertainment of yesteryear.
5. Check Out a Sky Show at the Adler Planetarium
Adler Planetarium is perfect for couples who want to keep their heads in the clouds. The planetarium boasts an incredible array of learning options and the chance to view a Sky Show in the dome theater. You can explore the skies and the universe together or go to the moon. You can even imagine what the future is like, taking a trip through the solar system and feeling immersed in a brand new world. It’s certainly a unique date idea for Chicago couples!
6. Grab a Drink and Catch a Show at Landmark
This list of Chicago date ideas for film fanatics simply could not be complete without the Landmark Century Centre Cinema. What makes it an iconic spot for your date is that it’s not the sort of theater to see only summer blockbusters, but rather, a spot where you can also enjoy independent and foreign films.
There are seven screens at the Landmark, all with stadium seating. You can also reserve your seats in advance to pick the best spots to enjoy a film in the intimate screening lounges. Or, you can head to the other five auditoriums and watch in comfort with high-back leather seats. Before, during, or after the showtime, stop in The Century Bar to grab a drink. This full bar offers cold beer, wine, and custom movie cocktails.
Come early and enjoy your drinks, then bring them along when it’s time for the film to start. Running late? Hang out for a while at the bar and have a drink. You can also enjoy the concessions area that has fresh hot popcorn and a variety of delicious premium foods and beverages, including Fair-Trade Certified chocolate bars, vegan cookies, and organic iced tea.
Since it’s right in the Century Shopping Centre, it’s a great date night spot after a day of shopping or dinner at one of the award-winning restaurants. In fact, it’s probably the most unforgettable way to take in a movie in the entire city.
Now that you know where to go for your movie date night, make plans with that special someone. You can check each one off this list as you go and head back to your favorite spots again and again when you want to catch a film.