I know what you’re thinking: “Jen, it’s already late November! Autumn is rapidly coming to a close—why aren’t you writing about something more timely, like wintertime date ideas?” Well, dear reader, the answer is simple. As I am writing this in Austin, Texas, the temperature outside is 75 degrees Fahrenheit. (The high temperature today is 80 degrees!) Utter madness, for a November day in the northern hemisphere. Later this week we’ll see temperatures as low as 40 degrees, with highs in the 60s. That’s more like it! Winter doesn’t officially start until December 21st. Personally, I intend to make the most of the remaining autumn days in spectacular fall fashion. So, in eager anticipation of crisp air and light jackets, here are the cozy autumn activities I’m daydreaming of.
1. Coffee & live jazz
Autumn is the first of the two cozy seasons. It’s the perfect time for some truly cozy dates before the madness of the holidays hits—and for maximum coziness, nothing beats the perfect soundtrack. Live music may not seem like the coziest activity, but if it’s smooth jazz you’re listening to while sipping a hot latte? That’s a recipe for a perfectly cozy evening.
Austin edition: Mozart’s Coffee Roasters, one of the best-known coffee shops in Austin, is probably most famous for their holiday light show. The light show can be a blast, don’t get me wrong! But why not beat the crowd? Mozart’s has live music on the deck from 10:30 AM to 5 PM on most November & December weekends. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, sweet tunes, and smooth coffee before the crowd gets too intense. Then, it’s time to slip away to a more private venue…
2. Brunch & a hike
Speaking of fresh air, here’s another outside date idea for you. I love the outdoors—but I don’t love melting under the blazing hot sun in 100 degree weather. Now that things are cooling off, I can’t wait to get outside! And it doesn’t have to require an odyssey, either—plenty of cities have urban hiking trails within city limits. It’s important to fuel up before hitting the trail, though. Kicking off the day with a delicious brunch is the perfect way to do just that!
Austin edition: The hike & bike trail around Lady Bird Lake is a local favorite for a reason. It’s a refreshing reprieve from Austin’s hustle and bustle, yet it’s right at the heart of the city. Plus, it’s close to plenty of downtown brunch spots. Caroline is a favorite of mine!
3. Lunch & art museum
Is going to a museum strictly an autumnal activity? Perhaps not. But with the fall semester in full swing at UT Austin, I’m reminded of my bygone days as a university student. Ambling through art museums was one of my favorite pastimes then. What better activity to accompany the contemplative mood of autumn than taking some time to appreciate beautiful art—and perhaps a beautiful companion? Afterward, grabbing a bite to eat together provides the perfect opportunity to build a rapport.
Austin Edition: I’d be remiss not to mention the Blanton Museum of Art here. I’ve visited the Blanton dozens of times, and I can attest that it’s absolutely worth returning to again and again. It’s also close to lots of cozy university-area restaurants.
4. Book shopping & coffee
Hold the phone—a second coffee mention? Yes, I’m an unrepentant coffee fiend. That said, I don’t think I’m alone in thinking that book shopping and coffee make a perfect pair. Surely there’s a reason for all of those combination Starbucks/Barnes & Nobles! Even without the coffee, book-shopping makes for a fantastic date. Pointing out favorite books and suggesting books for one another is a great way to get to know a new companion.
Austin Edition: Bat City is blessed to have a magnificent independent bookstore right in the heart of downtown. BookPeople boasts two stories of books and literary gifts, so you’re bound to find something that suits your fancy. It even has its own cafe, CoffeePeople. What more could a book-lover ask for?
5. Board game night
Okay, so maybe board games aren’t an autumn-specific activity. So what? This is my list, and I make the rules! From classics like chess, checkers, and go, to modern hits like Jaipur, Codenames Duet, and Azul, there are enough 2-player (or 2-player-friendly) board games to fill hundreds of board game date nights. For those who imbibe, a couple of drinks can help keep you from taking things too seriously—although you might find yourself at a bit of a disadvantage if you’re playing a dexterity-based game like Jenga.
Austin Edition: There’s nothing wrong with board games at home, or at an incall location. But why not hit the town before retiring to a more intimate venue? Austin is home to two board game bars, Emerald Tavern and Vigilante Gastropub. I’m particularly fond of Vigilante on account of their delicious boozy milkshake offerings.
Thus concludes my list of autumnal date activities! Think I left something out? Have suggestions local to your area? Let me know on Bluesky. And if you’d like to treat me to one of these fantastic fall dates, please don’t be afraid to reach out via any of the contact methods here.
