The Best North Carolina Spring Date Ideas

Spring has finally sprung, and with any luck, we’ll be treated to a few days of temperate weather before the long, hot days of summer are upon us. As we move into May, I’m ready to get outdoors and enjoy the warm sunshine we’ve missed during the winter months.

Here in the Triangle and Triad, we are lucky to have many activities to choose from to alleviate our cabin fever. Read on for some of my favorite spring date ideas:

1. Botanical Gardens

Whether in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or Greensboro, there are local gardens in bloom. Let’s walk through the NC State Arboretum, Duke Gardens, UNC Botanical Gardens, or the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden in Greensboro and get lost in each other’s company among the flowers.

2. Outdoor Concerts

With COVID abating, live music is back. Smaller venues like the Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh are great for getting up close to artists. Larger spaces like Coastal Credit Union/Walnut Creek Amphitheatre in Raleigh and the Greensboro Coliseum Complex allow plenty of room to enjoy a casual lawn experience. Is your favorite act coming to any of these venues?

3. State Farmers Market

I’ve never properly explored the State Farmers Market in Raleigh and am dying to check it out. I hear the restaurant on-site makes for a great lunch of local fare.

4. Goat Yoga

Knowing my flexibility and athleticism, this one comes with a side of comedy, watching me try to get into the poses. Avery Family Farm in Durham offers these classes, and I’ve always wanted to try it! If you’re feeling a less active date, they offer snuggle sessions with their animals as well. Are you ready to get cozy?

5. Strawberry Picking

There’s something romantic about the view of rolling fields while the sun warms our skin. After picking some fresh berries (and eating a few along the way!), we can head home to make some fresh strawberry shortcake to share in bed to satiate the appetite we’re sure to work up.

Which date will we be trying first this spring? Let me know in the comments below or, better yet, ask me out now!