Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just activity curious, going out and getting physical is a great way to reconnect. Challenging yourselves together can help build your ability to work as a team--a huge asset for every parent. If you're not afraid of heights (or even if you are...) check out the indoor climbing space at Rock Climb Fairfield. Don't worry if you've never tried it before, first timers complete a quick belay certification before being allowed to climb on their own. The gym has late hours, until 10:00 pm during the week and 9:00 pm on weekends. When you've worked up an appetite, stroll over to Local Kitchen & Beer Bar. If you want to continue your healthy night, try the Hippie Bowl. It's delicious and nutritious. Another high-up adventure is night climbing at the Discovery Adventure Park in Bridgeport. Head up into the canopy lit with special LED lights that give a magical, twilight effect. Who knew climbing could be so romantic?! 

If you'd rather watch other people exercise, why not take yourselves out to the ball game? You can make a whole night of it complete with dinner and adult beverages...provided a hot dog or nachos qualify as dinner to you. Not summertime? Not to worry, Fairfield County has its very own hockey team, too! Same basic idea as a Bluefish Game, only it's indoors, it's hockey, and bring a sweater.

What couple doesn't want to find themselves trapped in a room together...am I right?! Good news, now you can literally pay for the experience! Escape venues are the new cool these days and Fairfield County has two. Panic Room in Norwalk and Trap't in Stamford offer multiple room scenarios. Solve all the puzzles to escape in time. Booking ahead is strongly recommended at both venues. 

Get your groove back (sorry, sorry) at one of the many, many live music and theater venues in the area. The Acoustic features usually local and regional acts and tickets are typically available the night of the show. It's a bare bones venue so don't expect assigned seating and ushers. Think very cool dive bar with music and you're on the right track. Fairfield Theater Company has a rotating roster of amazing talent from all across the music world and tickets should definitely be purchased in advance. Ridgefield Playhouse has everything from music to movies on their calendar, while Levitt Pavilion in Westport has a summer season packed with amazing artists. For literally world class theater, take in a show at Westport Country Playhouse. There is a full season of amazing theater to be had as well as special events from time to time. 

Maybe you'd rather have a date day than a date night. It can be quite liberating to find yourself free as a bird while the sun is still shining. Here are a few spots to check out if you've got the sitter booked long before dusk. The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield is gorgeous from top to bottom. They bring in world class exhibitions and are well worth a leisurely stroll. Take a hike along one of the area's many trails. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. If you want to watch the day melt into the horizon, climb aboard for a sunset cruise on the Long Island Sound.

Our area is positively brimming with great things to do that will guarantee a date night that isn't just about happy hour and two for one entrees. Not that there's anything wrong with that, of course. But when you're a parent in the trenches, free time becomes a precious commodity. Use it wisely. Make amazing memories and remind yourselves that you're both on the same team.

Cheers!

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