Date night ideas in Stuart, Florida, range from waterfront dining to sunset cruises along the St. Lucie River. Whether you’re planning a first date or celebrating years together, this riverside town delivers options beyond the typical dinner-and-a-movie routine.
Historic Downtown Stuart sits along the St. Lucie River, creating a natural backdrop for evening strolls and waterfront meals. You’ll find everything from intimate bistros to interactive art studios. The compact layout means you can easily combine multiple activities in one night.
This guide breaks down date night ideas in Stuart, Florida, by mood and interest. Some couples want fine dining and craft cocktails. Others prefer hands-on experiences or outdoor adventures. Stuart accommodates both.
Romantic & Waterfront Dining Options
Waterfront Restaurant
Start your evening at this chic waterfront spot overlooking the St. Lucie River. The glamorous atmosphere pairs boats passing by with creative cocktails like the Peartini and Blackberry Bliss. The menu features elevated dishes, including the standout Tuna Poketini.
📍 Location: 131 SW Flagler Avenue, Stuart, FL 34994
The restaurant offers both upstairs dining and a downstairs lounge area. Reviewers consistently mention the waterfront views as the main draw, with sunset timing creating particularly romantic settings. The location makes outdoor dining easy to combine with a walk along the Riverwalk afterward.
Riverwalk Cafe and Oyster Bar
This established restaurant has served Stuart since 2002, specializing in fresh oysters and seafood. Chef/Owner Steve Feder brings passion to every plate, from exquisite oysters to USDA Prime Center Cut Steak. The wine selection spans over 120 bottles from around the globe.
📍 Location: 201 SW St. Lucie Crescent, Stuart, FL 34994
The friendly staff helps guests navigate the extensive wine list. One couple described the knowledgeable service as a highlight, with recommendations that perfectly complemented their meals. The combination of quality seafood and riverside location makes this spot ideal for special occasions.
Chef’s Table Stuart
For an unforgettable evening, book this intimate Italian fine dining experience. Since 2009, Chef’s Table has earned its reputation through authentic Italian cuisine and warm service. Executive Chef Paolo Ferretti from Senigallia, Italy, joined in 2019 under an O-1 visa (granted only to individuals with extraordinary ability).
📍 Location: 11 SW Osceola Street, Stuart, FL 34994
The space seats 52 inside with 20 covered patio seats. The main dining room features a beloved family heirloom table that seats six. The restaurant offers ala carte dining plus multiple preset and tasting menus. The extensive wine list complements the culinary artistry evident in every dish.
Reservations book well in advance for this destination restaurant. The understated elegance blends with a sense of home, creating an atmosphere that feels both special and comfortable.
Drinks and Cocktails
Sip Tequila Bar
For couples who prefer starting (or ending) with drinks, this tequila-focused bar offers extensive selections. The bartenders know their stuff and can recommend pairings based on your taste preferences. The small plates menu includes street tacos and other Mexican-inspired bites.
The atmosphere balances casual and sophisticated vibes. You’re not in a rowdy sports bar, but you’re also not stuck in stuffy formality. One reviewer described bringing their partner here after dinner elsewhere, calling it the perfect nightcap spot.
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Frazier Creek Brewing and Distilling Company
This unique venue claims the title of the first and only brewery, distillery, winery, and cidery on the Treasure Coast. USA Today named it the 2025 Best New Brewery, recognizing the quality and variety under one roof. Whether you prefer beer, spirits, wine, or cider, you’ll find craft options.
The space encourages exploration, sampling different styles, and discovering new favorites together. The casual atmosphere makes it easy to settle in for conversation over drinks. This versatility works whether you’re a beer enthusiast or prefer wine and cocktails.
Art and Culture Experiences
Stuart Ceramics
Move beyond passive entertainment and create something together. This pottery studio offers walk-in painting, with no experience necessary. You pick your ceramic piece (mugs, plates, bowls, figurines), choose your colors, and spend the next hour or two decorating.
📍 Location: 61 SW Osceola Street, Stuart, FL 34994
One couple mentioned this as their favorite first date because it gave them something to focus on while talking, reducing the pressure. Your finished piece gets fired in the kiln and is ready for pickup within a week. It becomes a physical reminder of your date. The studio also hosts private parties for groups wanting exclusive access.
Keep in mind that they close at 5 PM, so it’s a great date night idea before hopping to a restaurant, show, or bar.
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The Lyric Theatre
This restored 1926 theater hosts live performances ranging from concerts to comedy shows. The venue seats about 600, so even “bad” seats provide decent views. Check the schedule before planning your date; shows vary from tribute bands to Broadway-style productions.
📍 Location: 59 SW Flagler Avenue, Stuart, FL 34994
The theater’s vintage architecture adds charm to any evening. It’s the perfect rainy day activity to enjoy time together. Arriving early lets you grab drinks at the lobby bar and soak in the atmosphere. Several reviewers recommended checking the website for performance schedules, as show types vary significantly week to week.
Active and Outdoor Dates
Tiki Taxi and Cruises
Get on the water for a different perspective of Stuart. This tiki boat service offers both quick rides and longer cruises along the waterfront. The boats run on a schedule, departing from multiple locations, including Waterfront Restaurant and other marina spots.
📍 Location: Departs from 131 SW Flagler Avenue and other Stuart locations
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The service runs hourly or on the half-hour, depending on the pickup location. BYOB is allowed on private charters, so grab a bottle of wine and some snacks for sunset cruises. Ladies cruise free on Thursday nights (one drink minimum). The relaxed atmosphere and waterfront views create natural conversation.
Stuart Bowl Lanes & Lounge
This isn’t your typical bowling alley from childhood. After a $2 million renovation in 2012, Stuart Bowl transformed into a modern entertainment center. The facility features 38 lanes with futuristic glow-in-the-dark bowling, plush custom seating, special effects lighting, and surround sound.
📍 Location: 1638 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34997
Lane-side food and beverage service means you don’t have to leave your game to eat. The King Pinz Sports Bar and Grille features an award-winning bar and menu. The VIP area adds extra luxury. One reviewer joked about “greasy holes to put your fingers in” and “crisp beer to make you bowl better”—capturing the fun, unpretentious atmosphere.
Kayaking the Mangroves
Rent a tandem kayak or paddleboards and explore the mangroves. The St. Lucie River and nearby waterways offer calm conditions perfect for beginners. Morning sessions beat the afternoon heat, but sunset paddles provide stunning light.
There are plenty of local options. Beach Water Sports is on Hutchinson Island and operates until 5 PM.
Multiple rental companies operate along the waterfront. Most provide basic instruction and life jackets. Reviews consistently mention the peaceful environment and wildlife spotting opportunities—manatees, herons, and fish are common sights.
Unique Evening Activities
Play Money Pinball Arcade-Bar
This arcade bar combines vintage and new games with craft cocktails. You’ll find pinball machines, video games, basketball, skee ball, table shuffleboard, and more. The wristband system covers game play rather than feeding quarters into machines.
📍 Location: 872 SW Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
The venue offers beer, mixed drinks, and seltzers. Family-friendly hours run until evening, with adults-only time on Friday and Saturday nights for the party crowd. Adult karaoke nights add another entertainment option. The variety means you can try multiple games without worrying about running out of tokens.
Stuart Ghost Tour
For couples who enjoy something different, these walking tours explore downtown Stuart’s haunted history. The 90-minute route covers historic buildings while guides share documented paranormal activity and local legends.
Tours run on select evenings—check the schedule and book ahead at US Ghost Adventures. Groups stay small for a more personal experience. Even skeptics find the historical information interesting, while believers appreciate the spooky atmosphere. The walking pace stays leisurely, covering about a mile total.
Live Music and Entertainment
Terra Fermata
This intimate venue books local and touring musicians across multiple genres. The schedule varies week to week: blues one night, rock the next, folk after that. Recent live music shows have featured one-man performances, creating unique experiences straight from the soul.
📍 Location: 52 SW Osceola Street, Stuart, FL 34994
Doors typically open around 6 PM for evening shows. The close quarters put you near performers regardless of seating. The atmosphere emphasizes the music experience. Many couples grab dinner elsewhere, then come here for live entertainment. Shows are all ages unless otherwise specified.
Free and Budget-Friendly Date Ideas
Riverwalk Stroll and Picnic
The Stuart Riverwalk stretches along the waterfront, offering free walking with built-in scenery. Pack a picnic from a local deli or grocery store and claim a bench as the sun sets. You’ll see boats, birds, and other couples doing the same thing.
Public parking is available near the downtown area. The walk itself is flat and easy, suitable for any fitness level. Several reviewers mentioned this as their regular date tradition: low cost, low pressure, high enjoyment.
Stuart Green Market
Open Sunday mornings, this farmer’s market offers a different kind of date experience. Browse local produce, baked goods, and crafts together. Grab coffee and fresh pastries, then walk around tasting samples.
The market attracts locals and tourists alike, creating a lively atmosphere. It’s particularly good for morning people or couples who want to start their day together before other plans.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
There are hundreds of Stuart events and festivals throughout the year that double as date opportunities. The Stuart Air Show brings military and vintage aircraft every fall. The Downtown Stuart Craft Festival showcases artists in the spring. Rock’n Riverwalk fills the waterfront with music.
Check our event calendar when planning your date. These gatherings often provide entertainment, food vendors, and a festive atmosphere different from standard date nights. They also give you built-in conversation topics and activities.
FAQ
What are the most romantic restaurants in Stuart, Florida?
The Waterfront Restaurant offers chic riverside views with creative cocktails and elevated cuisine. Chef’s Table provides intimate Italian fine dining with an award-winning chef from Italy. Riverwalk Cafe and Oyster Bar has served quality seafood since 2002, with over 120 wine selections. Many locations near Downtown Stuart and the beach provide a romantic ambiance.
What can couples do in Stuart besides dinner?
Stuart offers Tiki Taxi cruises on the water, pottery painting at Stuart Ceramics, kayaking through mangroves, modern bowling at Stuart Bowl, and pinball at Play Money arcade-bar. The Riverwalk provides free walking and picnic opportunities along the waterfront.
Are there any unique date night activities in Stuart?
Stuart Ghost Tours explore haunted history downtown. Frazier Creek is the only venue on the Treasure Coast combining a brewery, distillery, winery, and cidery. Play Money combines nostalgic arcade games with drinks.
What are good first date ideas in Stuart, Florida?
Stuart Ceramics offers hands-on pottery painting that encourages conversation without pressure. Riverwalk Cafe provides lively energy in a friendly atmosphere. Stuart Bowl combines activity with socializing in a modern setting. Tiki Taxi cruises create shared experiences on the water.
Where can couples hear live music in Stuart?
Terra Fermata books various genres throughout the week in an intimate venue. The Lyric Theatre hosts concerts and performances in a historic 1926 theater. Check our event calendars for seasonal festivals featuring live entertainment along the waterfront.
What are budget-friendly date options in Stuart?
The Riverwalk offers free scenic walking and picnic spots along the water. Stuart Green Market on Sunday mornings provides browsing and samples. Seasonal festivals offer free entertainment with optional food purchases. Happy hours at various bars reduce drink costs.
