Beyond the Bar: 12 Ideas for Nights and Days Out That Aren't Dinner and a Drink

Sometimes you want a plan, not just a place. Here are twelve kinds of experiences worth looking for.

1. Food tours: a guided walk through a neighborhood's best bites
2. Guided walking tours: history, architecture, street art
3. Brewery and winery tours: tastings with a guide
4. Cooking classes: hands-on, with a meal at the end
5. Boat and harbor cruises: especially around sunset
6. Outdoor adventures: kayaking, paddleboarding, easy hikes
7. Museums and galleries: many offer evening hours
8. Comedy nights: an easy group plan
9. Live music: from small rooms to big venues
10. Hands-on workshops: pottery, painting, candle-making
11. Scenic day trips: a view, a town, a trail
12. Escape rooms and games: good for friends and coworkers

Before you book anything

• Read the starting point. Meeting locations vary, and some tours cover several stops.
• Check duration, group size, and what's included.
• Read the cancellation policy. It differs between experiences.
• Know where you're booking. Joy Finder shows experiences from partners, and you'll complete your purchase on the partner's site.

Browse what's near you: See activities and experiences on Joy Finder.