Watch CBS News

A Night At The Theater In Philadelphia

The new theater season is just around the corner, with great shows appearing at many of Philadelphia's theaters. A theater date night is perfect for a first date, anniversary celebration or a fun girls' night out. Make a full night out of it with drinks before, a nice dinner at a fancy restaurant and maybe dessert or a nightcap after the show. Philadelphia is known for both its arts and its restaurants, so the choices are plentiful and conducive to a wide range of budgets. Here are some fun and fancy night out ideas for you in Philadelphia during the theater season.

A Night at the Arden Theater

Arden Theater Box Office
40 N. 2nd St

Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 922-8900
www.ardentheatre.org

The Arden Theater is in the heart of Philadelphia's Old City, the oldest and most historical part of the city. The Arden Theatre produces a wide variety of theater styles including contemporary, classic, musical and drama and is a major part of the Philadelphia community. The fall season starts September 11 with "La Bête" by David Hirson.

Fork Restaurant
306 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 625-9425
www.forkrestaurant.com

Before heading to the theater, stop at Fork - an Old City favorite neighborhood restaurant. Chef Eli Kulp was voted one of Food & Wine Best New Chefs of 2014, and his inventive cuisine features seasonal and delicious fare made using local ingredients from the area's best farms. The atmosphere is stylish and sophisticated and a meal here is the perfect way to start your night of theater.

The Continental Martini Bar
138 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-6069
www.continentalmartinibar.com

End the evening with a stop at Stephen Starr's very first restaurant, The Continental. Famous for its classic martinis and other delicious cocktails, The Continental is a great place to sit and reminisce over the evening's entertainment.

Related: A Guide To Broadway Theaters In Philadelphia

A Night at the Forrest Theatre

Forrest Theatre
1114 Walnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 923-1515
www.forrest-theatre.com

The Forrest Theatre was built at its current location on Walnut Street in 1927. The theatre was named after the 19th century tragic actor, Edwin Forrest, and has produced many musicals, dramas and comedies. "The Book of Mormon" runs from July 29 - September 14, 2014. The play was created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone of the "South Park" fame and it won nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Check out the Forrest Theatre's event page for more plays this season.

The Walnut Street Supper Club
1227 Walnut St
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 923-8208
www.1227walnut.com

Enjoy a little pre-theater entertainment during a fabulous dinner at The Walnut Street Supper Club. Dine while being serenaded by the talented staff who perform music from greats such as Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and many others.

Max Brenner
1500 Walnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19102
(215) 344-8150
www.maxbrenner.com

Always save room for dessert, especially after a night out at the theater, and head on over to Max Brenner's Chocolate Bar. Indulge in this restaurant's decadent fondue or enjoy a deliciously thick milkshake. Max Brenner knows how to make the taste buds sing. It's a great way to end a perfect evening.

Related: Top Directors in the Philadelphia Theater Scene

Christina Thompson is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.