Second Date Ideas in Chicago

So, you've made it past the first date – congrats! Now, the pressure's on to plan something equally awesome. Don't worry, we've got you covered with a curated list of the best second-date ideas in chicago, designed to spark conversation and connection, from cozy cafes to exciting activities.

Cafes & Coffee

Ready to ditch the bar scene? Chicago's cafes offer a chill, conversation-friendly vibe perfect for a second date, letting you actually *talk* and get to know each other while enjoying some delicious coffee or treats.

3 Arts Club Cafe at RH Chicago
Restaurant
🍽️

3 Arts Club Cafe at RH Chicago

4.6

$$

Chic & romantic, 3 Arts Club Cafe is perfect for intimate conversation over delicious food, in a stunning atrium!

1300 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610

Outdoor Cafe
Cafe
β˜•

Outdoor Cafe

4.5

$

Chill vibes and cheap eats make Outdoor Cafe perfect for relaxed second-date conversation.

3257 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, IL 60659

Restaurants

Okay, so you've made it to date number two – congrats! Chicago's got a ton of restaurants that are perfect for a second date, offering a step up from casual while still leaving plenty of room for conversation and connection.

Aba
Mediterranean restaurant
🍽️

Aba

4.8

$

Aba's stunning rooftop setting and shareable Mediterranean plates make for easy, romantic conversation.

302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60607

Gibsons Italia
Italian restaurant
🍽️

Gibsons Italia

4.7

$

Wow your date with Gibsons Italia's stunning views and upscale Italian fare.

233 N Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606

Bars & Drinks

Looking to keep the good vibes flowing? Chicago's bar scene offers the perfect atmosphere for a second date, with plenty of options to chat, laugh, and maybe even share a drink (or two!).

Headquarters Beercade
Bar
🍸

Headquarters Beercade

4.5

$$

Play classic arcade games at Headquarters Beercade for a fun, competitive date!

213 W Institute Pl, Chicago, IL 60610

Electric Shuffle Chicago
Cocktail bar
🍸

Electric Shuffle Chicago

4.9

$

Up your game with shuffleboard and cocktails; it's social and fun, perfect for a second date!

488 N La Salle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654

Activities

Okay, you've survived the first date, congrats! Now it's time to level up with some Chicago activities that offer a little more interaction and spark some real connection. These ideas provide built-in conversation starters and opportunities to see how you vibe together.

Museum of Illusions Chicago
Amusement center
πŸ“

Museum of Illusions Chicago

4.7

$$

Get ready to laugh! The Museum of Illusions is interactive, fun, and creates great photo ops.

25 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602

Navy Pier
Amusement center
πŸ“

Navy Pier

4.6

$$

Navy Pier's fun, with rides and games; perfect for playful second-date vibes!

600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

What Perfect Place Would Search For

Tell us about your date's preferences, and here's the kind of searches we'd run to find the perfect venues:

🍹 Appreciates a good cocktail
craft cocktail bars speakeasy near me rooftop bars cocktail lounges with live music
πŸ€” Enjoys thought-provoking conversation
wine bars with small plates independent coffee shops art galleries with late hours bookstores with cafes
🀸 Is adventurous and likes to be active
bike rentals near me climbing gyms outdoor patios with a view mini golf

The app finds actual venues matching these searches, ranked by how well they fit your date's personality.

No matter your style or budget, Chicago offers endless possibilities for a memorable second date. We hope this guide inspires you to create a special experience. For even more personalized recommendations and to discover your perfect match, be sure to check out the Perfect Place app, which can help you find even more amazing second-date ideas in chicago!

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