Are your date nights getting a little… stale? Same restaurant, same dress that you’ve worn since your college graduation (or is that just me?). Get out of that routine and how about doing something a little more exciting?
Plano offers a fantastic selection of unique outings that can make any date feel extra special. Instead of the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine, why not explore the city’s charming local gems?
Here’s Local Profile’s list of unique date ideas — because who wants to settle for another dull dinner date?
The Wilfred
4017 Preston Rd #530, Plano
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What To Expect
Located next to Sea Breeze Fish Market & Grill, this speakeasy-style neighborhood cocktail lounge is a heartfelt tribute to Wilfred, the beloved dog of co-owner and chef Ryan Oruch. The spot has a solid lineup of liquor, especially bourbons such as Weller C.Y.P.B. But as a true speakeasy, a password is needed. Visit @thewilfredplano on Instagram for the password.
Why You Should Go
Unlike many cocktail lounges with sky-high prices, The Wilfred prices drinks at just $13 — and they’re well executed, too. Visit on a Thursday for $2.50 oysters and enjoy a martini for only $10.
Pipe and Palette
6121 W Park Blvd Suite C118, Plano
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What To Expect
It all starts with a blank canvas. Then comes the real fun: suiting up in a full-body plastic poncho that makes you look just a little bit like a mad scientist. Once you’ve had a few good laughs at each other’s outfits, it’s time to head into the paint room, armed with brushes and more colors than a unicorn’s daydream. Under glowing blacklights, you’ll splatter, flick and fling paint onto your canvas like a true Jackson Pollock in training.
Why You Should Go
Just when you think your masterpiece is Louvre-worthy, the real chaos begins. They take your painting to dry, and you and your partner get to engage in a paint fight. That’s right, you and your date throwing paint at each other. Battle mode activated. Flick neon paint at each other while attempting (and failing) to stay clean. Don’t worry — this round of paint is totally washable, though good luck dodging every splash. It’s a date night that guarantees laughs, memories and possibly a new appreciation for abstract art (or at least for ponchos). For an extra touch of romance, upgrade with wine and chocolates. Just don’t get paint on them.
Mic Drop Comedy
7301 Lone Star Dr Suite A-110, Plano
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What To Expect
Nestled in Legacy North, Mic Drop Comedy Plano brings a wild mix of “Robin Hood meets Burning Man” vibes — think arrows, graffiti and pure comedy. Already hosting big names like Jiaoying Summers, the lineup includes AGT star Preacher Lawson, internet redneck king Ginger Billy and sharp-witted Rachel Feinstein from Life and Beth and Parental Advisory. Come for the laughs, stay for the weirdly awesome décor.
Why You Should Go
Taking over the old Plano House of Comedy, this revamped club serves up killer laughs, great food to fit many types of dietary needs like vegetarian and gluten free and top-tier service — minus the dreaded two-drink minimum. Even better? If you order a non-alcoholic drink, they’ll reward your sobriety with a free ticket to a future show.
Tre Wilcox Cooking Concepts
8200 Preston Rd #135, Plano
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What To Expect
Enjoy a fun, hands-on couples' cooking class led by Top Chef alum and James Beard nominee Tre Wilcox, who previously headed upiconic restaurants such as Abacus in Dallas. With only six couples per class, you'll enjoy an intimate setting, lively music and a global small-plate menu as you create and savor three delicious dishes together. Oh, and don’t forget — it’s BYOB!
Why You Should Go
Perfect for date night, you’ll bond over great food, pick up pro tips from a chef Wilcox and enjoy your freshly made creations together. With lively music and your favorite drink in hand, it’s a recipe for a fun and memorable evening. To celebrate the release of Local Profile’s latest issue, we held a cover party at Tre Wilcox Cooking Concepts; read all about the experience here.
Dark Hour
701 Taylor Dr, Plano
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What To Expect
Why wait for Halloween? Dark Hour Haunted House throws you into your worst nightmares with 30 full minutes of creepy creatures more focused on giving you a heart attack than a hug. Designed for horror fans and adrenaline junkies, you’ll stumble through the darkest corners of the manor, desperately trying to escape the terrifying monsters lurking at every turn — because let’s be real, running from them is the best cardio you’ll get all year.
Why You Should Go
Dark Hour Haunted House is DFW’s top-rated haunt with themes year-round including Christmas and, of course, Valentine’s Day — because what's scarier than that? Book now for a special Valentine’s Day haunt.
Not in Plano? No problem! Check out Local Profile’s guide to creative dates in Frisco.
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