In a small town like Corvallis, it may seem like options for a good date are slim.
But don’t be fooled. While Corvallis is small, it packs a punch with a wide array of seasonal, queer-friendly and affordable date options.
Whether you are looking for that memorable spot to go out to on a first date or seeking a new place to help spice up your Friday night with your long-term partner, without further ado, here are some date ideas and locations in Corvallis.
If you are or were once an Oregon State University student who lived on campus, you may be familiar with the Irish Bend Covered Bridge along the Midge Cramer Path. The covered bridge is on the National Register of Historic Places and is just one of many attractive sights on the walk (aside from your date, that is).
Depending on the time of year, cows and goats may roam the fields along the path that extends from SW Campus Way, west of OSU’s campus. Year round, however, you can be sure to lose track of time looking out across beautiful farmlands and marveling at the covered bridge along the way.
For a Saturday morning get-to-know-you or a Saturday morning gee-what-should-we-do-today, have a stroll along SW 1st St. downtown at the Corvallis Farmers’ Market.
The market extends along a stretch right next to the Willamette and hosts a variety of vendors, from melon-growers to flower-pickers to bakers. During the summer, vintage jewelers and retail-clothing pop-ups set up shop, and you can be sure to find crepes and pupusas on a regular basis.
On your way out, stop by Bodhi on 2nd to enjoy a hearty breakfast and a fresh cup of joe.
For a more formal get-together, arrange a meeting at del Alma Restaurant & Bar on 136 SW Washington Ave. The restaurant’s website says that del Alma’s menu is inspired by Latin American, Spanish and Caribbean food, and sources its ingredients from local farms and fisheries.
Sample a curated yet expansive wine list with a view of the downtown waterfront and quality desserts to boot.
Be sure to catch a film at one of Corvallis’ established cinematic attractions. At Darkside Cinema, the only independently owned movie theater in Corvallis, you can enjoy reruns of eighties movies, unrated films and contemporary indie movies within a quaint, comfortable viewing experience.
For more big-name films, theatrical performances and concerts, have a seat under the ornate arched ceiling of the Whiteside Theater with that special person.
All these options are queer-friendly, of course, but two Corvallis dining options stand out as especially so and great for a get-together.
Bombs Away Café at 2527 NW Monroe Ave makes for a great meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner) or a late-night show, hosting a rotating cast of performers and musicians.
Interzone at 1563 NW Monroe Ave, just down the road from Bombs Away, hosts open mic nights and offers a completely vegetarian menu.
“We’re super queer-friendly, there’s cute vibes and good things (decorations) to talk about,” said Andrea Kirsh, a barista and longtime customer at Interzone. “Plus, a majority of the staff here is queer.”
For more date ideas, visit the Corvallis Event Calendar from Visit Corvallis to be up to date.
