This August, my husband and I will be celebrating three years of marriage—and despite the dishes, the bedtime routines, and the ongoing debate about thermostat settings, I still think he’s pretty great.
Year three is traditionally the leather anniversary (symbolizing strength and flexibility) and modernly associated with crystal or glass (because marriage is both shiny and fragile—how fitting). But if I’m being honest, what we really want this year isn’t another object to dust—it’s time together that doesn’t involve sorting laundry or arguing over dinner plans.
So instead of only focusing on what to gift, this year I’m putting the spotlight on what to do—specifically, the amazing local date options right here in Nevada County. Whether you’re looking for something romantic, adventurous, low-key, or creative, we’ve got plenty of ways to celebrate love (without having to leave town or hire a babysitter for three days).
Romantic Dinner Dates
Because sometimes love does look like a glass of wine and no one asking you to cut their food.
Tofanelli’s in Grass Valley
Classic downtown charm, and yes, their brunch is also anniversary-worthy. Plus, you can now make reservations online!
Golden Era in Nevada City
Upscale cocktails, moody lighting, and jazz vibes. Ideal for the “we still clean up well” kind of date.
Matteo’s Public in Nevada City
Cozy patio dining with delicious, locally sourced food and drinks.
The Stone House in Nevada City
Unique setting with rotating events and an artsy atmosphere.
(Check their calendar for live music or themed nights.)
Outdoor Escapes
No distractions. No screens. Just you, your person, and the sound of the Yuba.
Boat or kayak rental at Scotts Flat
Spend the day on the water and pretend you’re in a rom-com montage.
Picnic at the Yuba River
Pack snacks and head to spots like Edwards Crossing, Bridgeport, or Purdon for a riverside date.
Hike the Deer Creek Tribute Trail
Easy, scenic, and full of photo ops.
Stargazing at Harmony Ridge or Scotts Flat Lake
Bring a blanket, a thermos of something warm, and soak in the night sky.
Creative and Artsy
For when you want a date that’s a little less dinner-and-a-movie and a little more “look what we made.”
Nevada City First Fridays Art Walk
Local art, music, food, and the perfect excuse to wander hand-in-hand downtown.
Pottery painting at The Artist Workshop
Make something for each other (or just laugh at how terrible your mugs turned out).
Take a class together
Check out The Curious Forge or ASiF Studios for workshops—bonus points if you stick to the anniversary theme!
Three years in, and I’m still learning how to love better, laugh more, and plan a date night that doesn’t involve takeout on the couch. The beauty of living in Nevada County is that we don’t have to go far to feel like we’ve escaped—it’s all right here.
So if you’ve got a favorite anniversary tradition, a must-do local date, or even just a great gift idea, I’d love to hear it! Drop it in the comments or shoot me a message—I’m always looking for new ways to celebrate love, especially when it’s just down the road.
Here’s to year three—and to date nights that remind us why we said “I do” in the first place.
Looking for more local adventures, relatable rambles, and marriage moments from the messy middle.
Subscribe to get fresh posts straight to your inbox!
What’s your take? Drop it below!