THE 10 BEST DATE DESTINATIONS IN THE MAHONING VALLEY

Dinner and a movie might be the classic go-to for date night, but why go for the merely ordinary when a world of exciting options are just around the corner? From cozy restaurants and art galleries to outdoor adventures and live entertainment, the Mahoning Valley is filled with unique date opportunities waiting to be discovered. At Thom Duma Fine Jewelers, our experts can help you plan a date night to remember, as well as choose the perfect jewelry to make the night truly unforgettable. Discover the 10 best date night destinations in Mahoning Valley with this guide from Thom Duma Fine Jewelers in Warren.

1. Set the Mood at a Romantic Restaurant

Dining out may be a classic date night move, but that doesn’t make it any less romantic. Sharing a delicious meal together is the perfect way to set the tone for the evening before venturing out for something a little more adventurous. The Mahoning Valley offers plenty of intimate, inviting restaurants where you can enjoy candlelight, conversation, and cuisine that leaves a lasting impression, making your date truly memorable. Whether you prefer a cozy setting with their favorite comfort food or a fine dining experience with a gourmet touch, choosing the right restaurant shows thoughtfulness, taste, and attention to detail— qualities that make any date unforgettable.

Here are a few of our favorite romantic restaurant options in the Valley:

• Michael Alberini's Restaurant and Wine Shop: Based in Boardman, this restaurant is anything but ordinary. Their talented chefs are skilled in Latin American, Asian and French cuisines, and they give the best local produce and meats a truly unique spin. As you enjoy your company and scintillating conversation, you can also uncork one of 600 wines or choose your favorite craft beer or cocktail. In addition to the spectacular food and wine, their atmosphere is unmatched— low lighting, a cozy fireplace, and tall leather booths provide a romantic and intimate setting as you enjoy your meal.
• Leo’s Ristorante: Food is love at Leo's. When your appetite calls for the indulgent and distinctive taste of Italy, head for Leo's Ristorante in Warren and treat your date to the finest and freshest Italian cuisine in Trumbull County. Prepared with the greatest of care and love, you and your date will taste for yourselves why Leo’s has been a local institution for more than 40 years. As well, the warm and inviting atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for an enchanting evening.
• Vernon’s Café: Located in Niles, this restaurant and lounge specializes in Italian cuisine, but also offers an array of American specialties for those seeking something a little different. For over 20 years, Vernon’s has been one of the Valley’s premier destinations for excellent food and a welcoming atmosphere that is certain to make sparks fly on date night. Just don’t forget to order some drinks from their extensive wine menu as you enjoy the evening!
• Selah Restaurant: Venture to Struthers for a one-of-a-kind dining experience for your next date night. With a mouth-watering menu that includes pasta, steak and seafood, Selah Restaurant is a perfect destination for excellent food and conversation. Occupying an old bank building still equipped with brass teller cages and a walk-in vault, the atmosphere here is unlike any other restaurant. To enjoy a classic “dinner and a show” date, Selah also offers live dessert theater with different shows throughout the year. Be sure to check their event calendar before your next date to see if you can turn a stop at Selah into a complete date experience.

2. Go for Old-School Romance Under the Stars at the Drive-In

Dinner and a movie may sound cliché and a little old school, but this date night staple is classic for a reason. From the atmosphere to the locale, a drive-in theater can transform your date night into something entirely different. There’s a nostalgic charm that comes with watching a film beneath the open sky, surrounded by the glow of headlights and the soft hum of the radio. While reminiscent of times gone by, the experience still feels timeless— almost like stepping back into a simpler era when date nights meant laughter, shared snacks, and snuggling up with your date under a blanket. With the stars above and your favorite movie on-screen, it’s an atmosphere made for romance.

The Mahoning Valley is fortunate to still feature two drive-in theaters— Skyway Twin Drive-In Theatre and Elm Road Drive-In Theatre— where local couples can enjoy double features for the price of one movie from the comfort of their own vehicle. Whether you pack a romantic picnic dinner or indulge in popcorn and milkshakes from the concession stand, the magic of the drive-in never fades. For an added touch of romance, bring along soft pillows and warm blankets to turn the back of your car into your own private movie lounge. And if you really want to impress your date, you can choose a film that sets the mood— perhaps a heartwarming romance, or an old favorite. Just remember, drive-in season runs from late spring through early fall, so plan accordingly.

3. Take in a Rock Concert at the Amphitheatre

When the weather warms up, the Warren Community Amphitheatre comes alive with music and magic for some truly unforgettable summer nights. The open-air venue creates an electric atmosphere perfect for sharing with someone special. Whether you’re singing along to your date’s favorite band or introducing them to the songs that shaped your own playlist, live music always sets the stage for connection. Between sets, wander hand in hand along the nearby Mahoning River and soak in the glow of the lights reflecting on the water. It’s the perfect way to blend excitement and romance into one memorable evening under the stars.

4. Opt for an Indoor Music Venue

If you prefer your date nights without the heat, humidity, bugs, or unexpected weather an outdoor venue may provide, the W.D. Packard Music Hall in Warren offers the perfect indoor alternative for a musical date night. This historic venue provides an elegant setting for an evening filled with music, culture, and charm. From concerts and Broadway tours to ballet performances and special events, there’s something captivating on stage year-round. A little planning goes a long way— choosing a show that reflects your date’s interests or surprising them with something new shows thoughtfulness that they’ll be certain to remember. With its rich ambiance and diverse lineup, Packard Music Hall sets the tone for a memorable and sophisticated night out.

5. Enjoy an Afternoon of Art and Gardens

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy a date filled with art and culture. In Warren, the Trumbull Art Gallery on North Park Avenue offers a local-focused experience, showcasing a variety of artists and mediums that highlight the region’s limitless creative talent. Stroll through the galleries, admire the artist of the month, and share your thoughts with your date as you behold the beauty the region has to offer. This option works especially well for an afternoon date, as the gallery is typically open from noon to 4PM, Tuesday through Saturday.

For those who want a more hands-on experience, Trumbull Art Gallery also offers art classes that allow you to create your own masterpieces together. The class offerings change regularly and may include alcohol inks, drawing, clay, and mixed media, giving you the chance to show off your creative side and leave with a memorable keepsake. The gallery also hosts special events throughout the year, some of which take place in the evening, offering even more flexibility for planning a date that suits your schedule.

If you’re willing to venture a little further, Youngstown offers two excellent art destinations. The Butler Institute of American Art spans four centuries of work, arranged chronologically to tell the story of American art history. Located on the Youngstown State University campus, the McDonough Museum of Art focuses on contemporary art, and its striking modern architecture adds to the experience. Whether you and your date prefer classic or contemporary art, Youngstown’s local scene has plenty to offer for a cultured afternoon outing.

For a date immersed in the beauty of nature, Fellows Riverside Gardens provides a serene escape across 12 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds at the northern end of Mill Creek Park. The gardens feature roses of every variety, seasonal annuals, perennials, flowering bulbs, and scenic vistas that create a picture-perfect backdrop for a romantic stroll. Benches, fountains, and gazebos are scattered throughout, offering the perfect spots to relax, hold hands, or simply soak in the beauty around you. The Andrew and Carol Weller Gallery inside the main building also hosts rotating art exhibitions if you want the best of both worlds. When hunger strikes, the on-site café overlooking Lake Glacier is ideal for a light lunch. For an extra touch of romance, climb the Arseny Melnick Observation Tower for sweeping views of the gardens and lake, as well as a perfect spot to steal a kiss or simply enjoy the moment together.

Whether exploring galleries or wandering through gardens, the Mahoning Valley offers a wealth of options for a date filled with art, nature, and shared experiences that will leave lasting memories.

6. Sip Vino at a Vineyard

Nestled in scenic Fowler, Hartford Hill Winery transforms two 19th-century barns into a charming 5,500-square-foot winery that offers a variety of red and white wines, as well as creative blends for the tasting. Surrounded by green pastures and a sparkling lake, the winery’s rustic architecture creates a romantic setting perfect for savoring a glass of wine with someone special. Whether you enjoy your wine indoors or on the patio, you can also enjoy a menu of delicious wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, appetizers, and desserts with your wine, often accompanied by live music. If you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon or a memorable evening, Hartford Hill Winery provides an intimate, cozy, and scenic backdrop for a truly memorable date.

7. Explore History With Romantic Views

Exploring the Mahoning Valley’s historic landmarks can turn an ordinary date into an unforgettable adventure. For example, with its striking wood-and-stone structure nestled among towering trees along scenic Mill Creek, Lanterman’s Mill in Youngstown offers a picturesque blend of history and natural beauty. The restored 19th-century mill provides a glimpse into the past, with seasonal tours allowing visitors to step inside and experience the antique craftsmanship firsthand. Outside the mill, the overlook deck is an ideal spot for snapping a selfie with the cascading creek as your backdrop, or simply pausing to enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature together.

Afterward, you can stop by the mill’s gift shop to pick up freshly stone-ground cornmeal or whole wheat flour— perfect for baking something together later. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, you can take a short walk upstream to the covered bridge, a charming setting for more photos and maybe a kiss. Nearby, the Gorge Trail offers a scenic two-mile loop that winds along Mill Creek with dramatic sandstone walls on the opposite side. The hike combines exercise, fresh air, and breathtaking views, creating the perfect mix of romance and exploration for couples who enjoy discovering beauty in both history and nature.

8. Enjoy a Night of Nostalgic Fun

Not every date night needs to be filled with candlelight and roses— sometimes, the best nights out are the ones spent laughing over something a little cheesy. Bowling is a perfect example of this kind of entertainment— dust off those retro vibes, slip into some borrowed shoes, and embrace the fun of a little friendly competition. Whether you’re there for the nostalgia, the kitschy vibes, or the chance to show off your skills, a bowling date is all about keeping things lighthearted and full of laughter.

For another destination for old-school entertainment, the Mahoning Valley also offers plenty of arcade fun. Head to a local spot like Past Times Arcade in Girard to battle it out with your date on pinball machines, race through classic driving games, or compete for the high score on your favorite arcade challenge. There’s something playfully nostalgic about sharing tokens, trading turns, and cheering each other on as you strive for a new high score. If you’re looking to ease the pressure of a one-on-one date, you could invite a few other couples to join the fun. Whether you’re bowling strikes or racking up arcade points, these carefree date ideas guarantee plenty of laughs and good memories.

9. Check out Classic Cars

If your date has a passion for classic cars— or simply appreciates a glimpse into the past— a visit to one of the Mahoning Valley’s automotive landmarks makes for an unforgettable outing. Warren proudly holds the title as the birthplace of the Packard automobile, and the National Packard Museum celebrates this rich legacy in style. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of beautifully restored vehicles, from early 1900s models to the elegant designs of the mid-20th century.

As you explore the exhibits, you’ll uncover fascinating photographs, documents, and artifacts that tell the story of how Packard shaped American automotive history. The craftsmanship and innovation behind every car are certain to spark conversation and admiration. Whether you’re avid car enthusiasts or are just looking for a date with a touch of nostalgia, the museum offers a fun, engaging way to experience Warren’s proud automotive heritage— and maybe a way to discover a new shared interest at the same time.

10. Embrace Mahoning Valley History With a Tour of Monuments

Exploring local monuments is a great way to turn date night into something meaningful and memorable. The Mahoning Valley offers plenty of fascinating landmarks that celebrate both regional history and hometown pride. In downtown Warren, Dave Grohl Alley pays tribute to the former Nirvana drummer and Foo Fighters frontman, who proudly calls the city his hometown. The alley’s brick walls are covered with colorful murals and creative tributes by local artists— an ideal stop for music lovers or anyone who appreciates vibrant street art.

A short drive away, you can visit the First Flight Lunar Module that marks the spot where Neil Armstrong took his very first airplane ride. The impressive half-scale replica of the Apollo Lunar Module commemorates the 1969 moon landing and stands beside a memorial rock engraved with Armstrong’s iconic words: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

To complete your tour, stop by the Trumbull County Veterans’ Memorial, where engraved bricks and thoughtful design honor the sacrifices of local service members. Exploring these monuments together offers a chance to share stories, reflect on history, and connect through conversation. With themes of music, exploration, and heroism, these landmarks make for a date that’s both fun and inspiring.

Plan the Perfect Date Night with Thom Duma Fine Jewelers

At Thom Duma Fine Jewelers, we love helping couples plan unforgettable date nights that shine with personal significance and style. Our showroom in Warren, Ohio features a stunning selection of fine jewelry from today’s most popular designers— perfect for celebrating love at every stage. For something truly personal, our expert artisans can bring their dream jewelry to life through our custom jewelry design services, creating a one-of-a-kind piece your significant other will treasure forever. We invite you to visit our jewelry store to explore our exceptional collections firsthand, or to contact us with any questions about our jewelry or services— we’re here to make every moment a cherished memory.