January is Mental Wellness Month, and we want you to make the most of it.

Throughout this month, we’ve discussed physical wellness a lot in the context of New Year’s Resolutions, but it’s equally important to prioritize your mental wellness too. Therapy is a powerful tool for improving mental and emotional well-being.


For a Classic Date Night

The classics are classics for a reason. Enjoy a romantic night out with an intimate dinner (paired with craft cocktails) at one of the neighborhood’s famed restaurants and a movie at the Majestic Bay Theatre

For Music Lovers

If you and your partner share a love of music, look no further than having your next date night in Ballard. Home to legendary music venues, a fantastic record store, and local artists performing at neighborhood spots, find your melody at these places.

Music Venues:

Conor Byrne Pub

Egan’s Ballard Jam House

The Sunset Tavern

Tractor Tavern

Where Else to Catch Local Acts:

Bar Sabine

Skal Beer Hall

Vera’s Pizza & Bar

For the Adventurous Couple

Is your date an extrovert who loves to laugh, look at art, explore the unexpected, and try new things? Make a whole day or night of it at one (or all) of the businesses below! 

—Register for an upcoming craft class at Monster!

—Enjoy a night of new realms at Portal Virtual Reality!

—Explore the new Mygration exhibit at the National Nordic Museum!

—What’s more romantic than getting a mani or pedi together? Check out Ballard Nail Studio, Hava Nails & Spa, LT Nails & Spa, Bella Nails & Spa, or White Lotus Salon!

—Go on a DIY art tour of local galleries, including Get Nice. Gallery, Keil Studio, Push/Pull, Sacred Circle Gallery, and Venue!

—Stop into Miro Tea to experience a trip around the globe as you sip and savor a unique selection of over 150 teas!

—Head to Aluel Cellars to try out their wine flight, glass, or a bottle of your favorite Washington wine!

—Attend the Ballard Farmers Market for an early morning/afternoon date! Peruse the market for fresh and tasty Pacific Northwest produce and handmade goods, stop and chat with the farmers and artisans, and sample delicious pastries, drinks, and more!

—Take a tour of the Ballard Brewery District (BBD) using the new and improved Ballard Brewed Passport! There’s a good concentration of breweries within walking distance of each other in the BBD, making it easy to taste a range of Pilsners, IPAs, Stouts, and more!

For the Stay at Home Couple

A night out on the town isn’t for everyone! If staying in for the night is more your thing, consider stopping at one of the businesses below to elevate your date night experience!

—Grab a one-of-a-kind pint of ice cream from Salt & Straw!

—Swing by Truffles & More for delicious chocolate-dipped peanut butter cookies and tasty truffles!

—Order takeout from one of the neighborhood’s restaurants!

—Make craft cocktails at home by picking up supplies from Heritage Distilling Company!

—Pick up some Ballard-brewed beer from a brewery in the Ballard Beer District!

—Stop at Sweet Mickey’s Candy Shoppe for homemade fudge, a box of chocolates, old-fashioned candy, and more!

—It’s not a date without wine, right? Stop into Grape Juice Wine Shop or Aluel Cellars for all your vino needs!

—Head to Cupcake Royale for a sweet treat that will bake your date crazy for you! 

—Comb through Sonic Boom Records‘ vinyl selection for tunes that will make for a great impromptu date night dance party!