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Game On

If competition gets your blood flowing, dare your date to a friendly race down at Victory Lane Karting. With adult karts that go up to 35 to 40 mph, you can speed down the track for each eight-minute race. Need a little down time after the adrenaline rush? Relax with a game of corn hole or foosball to wind down the evening.

Along for the Ride

See the Queen City with a new perspective—from a Segway! While there are several tours available to discover scenic spots through Dilworth and Myers Park, South End, and uptown, our pick for date night is Charlotte NC Tours’ two-hour “Taste & Glide,” which includes brief tastings at local favorites like Harvest Moon Grille and Alexander Michael’s. “Couples may be good at one thing or another, but most people haven’t ridden a Segway, so you can try something new together,” says owner Dianna Ward. She also notes that it’s a great double or group date idea: “We have couples who didn’t come together do the tour then go hang out after—it’s a wonderful bonding experience.”

Rolling Retro

Bowling is undoubtedly an old-school date idea, and at the new Ten Park Lanes, you get the ultimate retro vibe with your friendly competition. Don’t let the landmark’s upgrade fool you. This is a casual setting complete with plenty of Southern comfort in the form of burgers, brews, and barbecue. Toast your scores post game with one of the spot’s famed moonshine drinks served in—what else?—a mason jar.

Giddy Up

Every other Saturday night during warmer months, Latta Plantation Equestrian Center offers Sunset Rides on their more than 16 miles of wooded trails ($65). For this out-of-the-ordinary date you’ll join a group for two hours, riding alongside lakes and streams on the picturesque nature preserve. After your time on the trails, you’ll return to the barn to fill up on the “Cowboy Dinner” featuring your choice of steak or chicken around a bonfire. Reservations are required.

All Day Adventure

From canyon crossing to canoeing, the U.S. National Whitewater Center is Charlotte’s easiest spot to go active on your next date. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll on one of its trails, a white water kayaking rush, or facing the obstacles on the course, there’s plenty to keep you both entertained—and in great shape—at this riverside spot. Plan on ending your day (and you should definitely plan a full day here) at the River’s Edge Bar & Grill where you can unwind as you watch the rapids and the sunset over one of their North Carolina craft brews.

More date ideas? Up next: Get Schooled.