SimplyGrand dates begin here

Even though the holidays are a busy time for everyone, you definitely don’t want to forget about hanging out with the one you love. So, here are a few suggestions for a SimplyGrand date night in Forks.

Start out with dinner up high at Sky’s. This five-star, second floor restaurant features such upscale dishes as gorgonzola topped filet mignon, beurre blanc seared scallops and herb crusted lamb. Sky’s Cloud 9 Lounge offers a less casual, less expensive but equally awesome menu that includes appetizers, lavosh, burgers and barbecue. Afterward, cross the street and walk a block to the iconic Empire Arts Center. There you can catch a 7:30 PM performance of Elf: The Musical. The plot of this jolly comedy revolves around William "Buddy" Hobbs, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag and is transported back to the North Pole. After discovering the baby, Santa and his elves decide to raise the child as an elf. Years later, Buddy finds out that he is actually a human being and at Santa's prompting, heads off to New York City in search of his father.

Spend a sparkling night on the Southside. Begin your intimate evening with dinner at Helix Wine & Bites. For an appetizer, I highly recommend either the buffalo chicken or prosciutto & pear flatbread. When it comes to the main course, my go-to’s are vegetable gnocchi, seared salmon and an amazingly delicious pan roasted chicken breast on arugula pesto that’s plated with garlic herb roasted potatoes. Not sure what wine to pair with your meal? Just ask any of Helix’s knowledgeable servers for their suggestions. Next stop is Lincoln Drive Park, where you and your sweetie can meander through paths lit by dozens of festively decorated displays during the annual Lions Christmas in the Park.

Helix Couples eating wine and cheese

Nothing beats a date with some hot mamma! Pick up your plus-one, then check out an earlier showing of the romantic flick Last Christmas at River Cinema 15. After the credits roll, stroll hand-in-hand down the Riverwalk Center hallway to Mamma Maria’s Italian Restaurant for a delectable dinner canoodling over noodles. Of course, the freshly baked garlic knots are a must try. Just some of their most delicious dishes are the cranberry tortellini, chicken Milano, lobster carbonara and for those wanting a little taste of everything, the popular Trio combination platter includes homemade lasagna, chicken parmesan and fettuccini alfredo. When it comes to dessert, holy cannoli are Mamma’s amazing!

For more information on these and all our SimplyGrand places to dine, unwind, stay and play, please go to VisitGrandForks.com. We also invite you to follow Visit Grand Forks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.