Quirky Date Ideas In Cardiff

Ever been on a date to prison? Head to Alcotraz: Cell Block Nine-One, an immersive secret speakeasy inspired by Hollywood movies and TV. Smuggle liquor into the hands of the long-serving inmates so they can deliver bespoke cocktails for you and your partner, that is, if you haven't been caught by the warden. 

Looking for a restaurant or bar for your next date night? Then try out our brand-new table search engine, which shows 1000s of UK venues available for the time and date you want. To top it off, you'll earn rewards every time you make a booking to spend on incredible experiences.

Pretty restaurants rarely come as eye-catching as The Botanist. So if you're looking for quirky evening activities in Cardiff, make sure to check this city centre hangout. Its foliage-obsessed decor and fairy-lit rooftop offer a romantic backdrop for any date night, with live music and a menu full of international eats and moreish cookie dough desserts. 

It's one of the best secret bars around and is primed for any and all unique date nights in Cardiff city centre. Not only will you impress your beau with insider knowledge of the coolest spots about town, but the cocktails here are also as quirky as they come, like the rum-based Devil's Bridge and the citrusy Vampire Chairs.

Fancy something a little different for you next date night? This pink party palace in the city centre has got your back. Tonight Josephine shakes up retro sweet-inspired cocktails along to a soundtrack of killer tunes, plus hosts regular themed brunches if you're keen for a daytime affair.

Flaunting three floors full of fun, there's never a dull moment at The Philharmonic. Whether you fancy hitting the dancefloor with your beau or getting to know each other over classic cocktails on the rooftop, this fun date idea in Cardiff has all bases covered.

YO! is holding a weekly Sushi School at its Cardiff St David's outpost. Great for breaking the ice on first dates or charming your long-standing love, this unique experience sees you learning a new set of cooking skills to whip up a range of delicious Japanese bites like maki and California rolls (before eating them, of course).

One of the city's best hidden gems, this unique cocktail bar is changing the game when it comes to curious concoctions. Boasting an incredible range of curated spirits, like the Kill Our Demons involving pink grapefruit liqueur, paired with a slick hip hop soundtrack, Pennyroyal will certainly earn you date night brownie points.

Showcasing golden interiors, made up of trees reaching to the ceiling, large mirrors and fairy lights, Mowgli is sure to send hearts aflutter. On the menu, you'll find enticing Indian eats, from sizzling curries and fluffy roti to terrific tiffin boxes, with quirky cocktails to match.

Make your Cardiff date night one to remember with Play at Pins, the drinking den where you can pair your cocktails or beers with a whole load of games. Think bowling, shuffleboard, pool and a retro arcade across this cool space, as well as four escape rooms. 

Coyote Ugly is topping the ladder of cool and quirky venues in the city centre. Plus, with its mouthwatering menu of American-style fare, stellar drinks selection and rowdy karaoke nights, it's one of the most fun things to do in Cardiff for couples.

If you're seeking out fun activities in Cardiff for adults, Flight Club is a brilliant choice. Its quirky surrounds, which are inspired by vintage fairgrounds, makes a fabulous setting for an evening enjoying each other's company, playing social darts, nibbling pizza and sipping bubbly.

Looking for a unique date idea? Active Reality in Llanishen and Cardiff Eastern offers an immersive virtual reality experience perfect for couples seeking something different. Step into a 9m x 6m free-roam arena and explore various VR games together, from battling virtual enemies to solving puzzles.

This shared adventure not only provides excitement but also fosters teamwork and communication, making it an ideal way to bond. After your VR session, unwind at a nearby café or restaurant to discuss your favourite moments.

The Bootlegger is a Prohibition-themed bar split over two levels that's very easy to fall in love with. It dons exposed brick interiors and low-hanging lights, as well as a fabulous entertainment lineup so you'll never be strapped for ideas on what to do. Think live music nights and cocktail classes, where you can learn to make your favourite tipples.

For a truly unique treat, head over to just outside the Castle Quarter where The Alchemist is serving creative concoctions, the likes of which you won't have experienced before. Mixing up drinks that smoke, pop and change colour before your eyes, like the rum-based Lava Lamp featuring disco lights, this sleek space is one for the cocktail curious.

Get your game on with Treetop Adventure Golf, located right in the middle of the city centre. Take your date around an 18-hole mini golf course, with the sneaky 19th offering you the chance to win another round. Snap some cute pics in the photobooth and then refuel with food from Pizza Cabana.

Embark on a trail across the fact-filled city of Cardiff with the Fun Puzzle Treasure Hunt and learn more about its winding streets as you work together to solve the clues on the map and, ultimately, find X marks the spot. Tickets start from £19.99 for two players and the prize may or may not involve a lovely discount off of your bill at a cosy boozer. 

Add a little nostalgia to your night and pay a visit to NQ64, a luminous retro gaming arcade with all your favourite games like Guitar Hero, dance mat and Pacman. What's more, there's even some crazy themed cocktails to get your head (and lips) around, like the Crash Bandicoot-inspired Aku Aku Fruit Punch.

Pop over to Guildhall Place where Vermut is introducing you to the marvels of vermouth. Cosy up and spend an evening sampling some of the best examples of the spirit that Cardiff has to offer, with plenty of tapas, courtesy of Curado, available for any rumbling tums.

If you're looking for a bowling lane with a little more pizzazz, then you're going to love the neon-lit, graffiti-adorned Roxy Lanes in Cardiff. Not only does it boast a range of activities like shuffleboard and pool, but it's also home to some super quirky cocktails, like the lychee-based Purple Haze and tangy Yuzu Spritz.

Steak Of The Art is one of the best restaurants around, bringing something a little different to the table. From the art-splashed walls down to the massive plates, this one will certainly get you talking. Pick your cut and sides and devour a plate of delicious, responsibly sourced nosh before hitting up a poetry reading or some live jazz.

More of a classic games and comfort grub kind of duo? Chance & Counters has got you covered, as they house a mammoth range of new and old board games (and friendly staff to help you with the rules), as well as a tasty menu of wholesome grub like burgers and wings, plus some jazzy cocktails.