If every date you've ever been on starts out with, "so... what do you wanna eat?", you're doing it all wrong.

Don't get me wrong, I love food.  I am a huge foodie.  But sometimes dates can be awkward, expensive, and way too easy to turn into an "interview" across a table.  Sometimes you need a date that actually lets you talk, laugh, and see if you even like each other without committing to a full meal.

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So to prevent another awkward dinner date, here are the perfect date ideas that aren't dinner, but they are in Rockford!  Tested by me, approved by me, recommended by me, and way more fun than splitting an appetizer.

Perfect Rockford Date Ideas That Aren’t Dinner

Bowling - we have so many bowling alleys around town; Cherry Bowl, Don Carter Lanes, Forest Hills Lanes, B&B... it's competitive and brings out your personality fast!  Honestly, the way someone reacts to losing tells you everything you need to know.

Burpee Museum or Rockford Art Museum - You can walk around, talk about the art, pretend you know what you're looking at.  Plus, if there's chemistry, it feels way more intimate than sitting and staring at each other.

Hiking at Rock Cut - Sure, winter doesn't sound like an ideal time to go hiking, but it's so peaceful!  It really isn't that cold, honestly.  I love hiking at Starved Rock and Devil's Lake, too.

For a cozier vibe and dinner is still in the cards, try the winter igloos!  They're heated and you can snuggle together in blankets while you enjoy dinner.

Alchemy Restaurant's Cozy Heated Igloos are The Perfect Rockford Winter Dinner Date

Private dining igloos are one of the most wonderful things to come out of the covid pandemic. Looks like a great night ahead and the view is spectacular.

Gallery Credit: Steve Shannon

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