By: Christian Switzer

With the holidays having overtaken any concept of alone time, consider carving out an evening in the gorgeous and quickly changing Ivanhoe Village district. Here are our three picks to spice up date night this month:

1. The Virginia Experience – Head to Santiago’s Bodega right after work so you can catch their happy hour from 4-6 PM everyday. Offering the most delicious sangria with a choice of red, white, and sparkling. Stroll down Virginia Drive and explore the creative buildings like Luna Mosaic. Here you can learn how to create unique and customized mosaics. Soak those toes and experience Barefoot Spa with either a couples massage or luxurious foot rub. Cap the night off with a trip to Orlando Meats and select the perfect cut of fresh local meat to extend your date night right into the next evening at home!
2. A Walking Tour of Orange and Virginia – The shops along Swanson’s Ivanhoe Row have an eclectic mix of unique stores. Yay! Tiny Shop hosts a variety of small items to delight your date. Walk down to Tim’s Wine and take a class on everything from champagne to Merlot. With the expertise of Tim and his staff, you won’t be disappointed. If wine doesn’t suit your tastes, travel carefully to Ivanhoe Park Brewing and try the Bungalow Wit during their happy hour from 4-7 PM. For dinner this area has it all, with Sette serving up authentic Italian dishes to The Hammered Lamb offering their updated menu and a more laid back atmosphere.
3. Northern Walkabout – Ride your bikes to Loch Haven Park and participate in the monthly Critical Mass ride through downtown Orlando. The end of ride gives you an opportunity to check out The Imperial and order up one of the delicious charcuterie boards or flatbread. Afterward make your way over to the best dessert bar in town, Better Than Sex. Try some suggestive treats with a full dessert menu and chocolately drink options. If you prefer a more traditional dinner, then White Wolf Cafe is open until 10 PM on Friday and Saturday. With all these local favorites, you can’t go wrong.