Ah, summer lovin’. Even as adults it still feels like the season of adventure when anything is possible, but between the heat index and blockbuster fatigue, date night can start to look a little stale.
Never fear, love birds. We scoped out the fresh summertime fun to be had in Little Rock, so grab your S.O. and go have you a blast.
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Food Truck Hopping
Remember how excited you got as a kid when you heard the ice cream truck coming your way? We much prefer this power dynamic. Little Rock is full of food truck hot spots — weekly markets, restaurant pop-ups, practically around the clock at The Rail Yard and The Filling Station — so dig in. Divide and conquer the trucks, sharing dishes and trying a little bit of everything, comparing notes until you’re practically food truck aficionados. Now that’s a relationship milestone worth bragging about. (Too hot out? Hit Ottenheimer Hall for a similar experience with AC.)
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Outdoor Movie Nights
There’s nothing quite like watching your favorite flicks under the stars. See some of the greats with snacks in hand and a stellar view at the monthly Rooftop Cinema series hosted atop the parking deck at Sixth and Scott streets. Movies begin at sundown and admission is free, so spread out your blanket and cozy up. Just make sure to BYO-bug spray.
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Farmers Market Mornings
This one is a twofer. Not only do you get to peruse local produce and vendors in the fresh air, but afterward you get to spend time together in the kitchen crafting your next masterpiece menu. And the best part? Almost every neighborhood has its own farmers market (Psst! We mapped them all out here), so whether you want to stay close to home or visit an area you don’t often see, you’re all set.
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Fun in the Sun
Summertime is the best time to get out and explore the city together. Rent bikes in the River Market (bonus points if you go for the tandem), finally try out a Lime Scooter or get a whole new perspective and take it to the water with kayaks from Rock Town River Outfitters. Be sure to take the proper heat safety precautions, but as Queen Bey once said, “a little sweat ain’t never hurt nobody.”
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Get Giving
Ok, so maybe volunteering isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when drawing up your date night plans, but you’re looking for new ideas, right? From washing dogs for the Humane Society to stocking the nearest food pantry, volunteering is the perfect way to get you away from Netflix and working toward a greater good together. Plus, you might discover a new cause you’re both really passionate about. Win-win. (Not sure where to start? Try this.)