You're allowed to date in person again, but where should you go? 

Spoiler alert. This post could also be titled, 11 places to grab dinner or drinks with your best friend but hey we decided it was going to be a first date story, so it is.

There weren't a lot of in-person first dates in 2020, there was a lot of text message dating and dating app swiping but actually meeting up and hanging out in person, not so much.

But maybe you actually want to meet up in person, where do you go?

I asked on Instagram and was flooded with answers.

Here are the 11 places we decided should make the list.

  • Velvet Buffalo in Beloit (ok, not in Rockford, but pretty close), apparently they will help with special touches like notes if you ask
  • Aero Ale House
  • Greenfire
  • The Rooftop at Hotel Goodwin (also Beloit)
  • Octane
  • 8th Ward
  • Big Timber Axe Throwing
  • Rock Pho'd
  • Zen Sushi (Beloit...)
  • Prairie Street
  • Pig Minds Brewery

So they're all food and drink places except Big Timber Axe Throwing.

I'm not sure I'd go axe throwing on a first date, unless you are sure that your date isn't going to you know throw an axe at you but maybe a second or third!

Where's your favorite place to go on a date in Rockford?

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