Date Night Fort Eisenhower

Welcome to Georgia! My mantra as a military wife is “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Wherever my husband and I end up, we want the full experience of the region, as we absorb the culture. In this case, we wanted a taste of the South. You may have noticed a slower pace of living once you entered the land of Dixie, and you possibly asked yourself what Augusta has to offer couples seeking a little romance or adventure. Within a short period of time, you’ll find all the charms and intricacies of the CSRA. Without further ado, I present you with a list of date ideas to make Fort Eisenhower even more memorable.

The art lover date night

Artistic couples will thoroughly enjoy an evening at the Bites and Brushes studio in Augusta. An artist will guide you as you create a masterpiece, while you sip a glass of Pinot (or what-have-you!). For a nice touch, pack a picnic basket of your favorite cheeses, crackers, and grapes. If you planned ahead and made a reservation, end the night on a high note at Frog Hollow Tavern. Enjoy the highly recommended lasagna, as you sit outside under the stars.

The adventurous date night

Dates aren’t limited to nighttime only, and shouldn’t be—not when you can take a kayak down the Augusta Canal with your adventure-seeking sweetheart. The Savannah Rapids Kayak Rental is open year round, with options between paddle boarding, and single and tandem kayaking.

Because you’ll both be disheveled after a trip down the river, there’s a decent chance that you won’t dine at a French cuisine restaurant. Have no fear! Rather than opting for a fancy bistro, try Rhinehart’s Oyster Bar where they say “Ice-cold beer makes the world a friendlier place.” Who can argue with that? In 2015, Rhinehart’s was voted the Metro’s Best Winner by readers of the Metro Spirit.

The overnight date

Take a drive over the bridge into North Augusta, SC. At Rosemary Inn, a turn-of-the-century mansion overlooking the Savannah River, active duty guests are offered a 15% discount. Each room is fashioned from the Gilded Age, radiating elegance and character. With this much charm, order your dinner to-go and bring it back to your suite. Take in the moment, because you’re stepping back into a time long forgotten.

For those of you who are breakfast aficionados, you’ll further enjoy the gourmet breakfast come morning.

A unique evening to remember

Fort Eisenhower Dinner Theater’s belief is that “music and theatre are cultural forces that have the power to transform.” The theater strives to bring Broadway to the military, in a state-of-the-art facility. You’ll be served a flavorful meal, and will be able to treat yourself to their dessert station with assorted cakes. During October, audiences will take delight in the thriller I’ll Be Back Before Midnight. It focuses on a husband and wife who rent a remote cabin in the woods. Suddenly, bodies begin to appear and disappear. New York Theater Voice says “No amount of praise seems excessive, you’ll either be shivering in your seat or rolling out of it with laughter.”

A romantic evening

Petersburg Boat Tours will navigate you along the scenic Augusta Canal. Beginning in April through the end of October, you’ll have the chance to listen to live music as you float down the river. One of the many treats are the two 18th century homes that you’ll see along the way. Make it even more special, and prepare a basket of your favorite snacks and beverages.

After you’re back on dry land, go to dinner at Bee’s Knees. Locals rave about their tapas and Asian BBQ!

For the history buffs

If you happen to miss the music cruise season, you’ll still find other options for a romantic ride down the canal. History buffs will enjoy the Civil War tour, which is available year round. Guests will learn Augusta’s role in assisting Southern troops during the War Between the States.

After your expedition, I recommend a tour of Woodrow Wilson’s Boyhood Home. It serves as a museum, giving us a glimpse into the life of the 28th President’s days during the Civil War and Reconstruction.