DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum Inspires Deep Conversations & Connections Between Art Lovers on Dates

The Short Version: Boston’s deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum opens people up to interesting conversations and romantic moments. Since 1950, deCordova’s indoor and outdoor museum has delighted hundreds of thousands of visitors seeking a thoughtful respite from the everyday. This unique date venue boasts 30 acres of grassy expanses and woodlands decorated by 50+ works of art. The museum’s striking sculptures give visiting couples something unique to look at, photograph, and talk about as they meander through a picturesque outdoor scene. If you and your partner are tired of the same old date night routine, you can go on a guided tour, attend a ceramics workshop, or share an outdoor picnic at deCordova to inject some excitement into your dates.

At deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, couples can stroll together along the sculpture museum’s 30 acres of grassy lawns and woodlands. The intimate trails give people space for reflection and relaxation by surrounding them with gorgeous artistry. On quiet afternoons, thoughtful daters can discuss how different works of art make them feel and grow closer to one another throughout the visit.

On sunny days, you’ll often see picnickers sitting together in the open air beside a favorite piece of art. The museum’s cafe serves wine, coffee, sandwiches, and other snacks for hungry visitors who want to slow down and soak in the moment. Such a romantic scene makes deCordova a memorable and beautiful date spot for Bostonians.

Since it opened its doors in 1950, the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum has awakened the senses and ensnared the imagination with vibrant works of art. With a focus on New England artists, the museum carved a distinct niche and educated the public about the nuances of contemporary art.

DeCordova’s works of art draw people in and stimulate animated discussions.

Today, the gardens receive over 100,000 visitors each year and host dozens of engaging programs, events, and courses to inspire a love of art in the community. If you’re planning a date, deCordova’s sprawling gardens are an absolute must. Not only is it much more romantic than the standard dinner-movie routine, it also triggers thoughtful conversations between visitors experiencing unusual, funny, and meaningful works of art.

“There’s new art on view all the time both indoors and outdoors, so it makes for a great date,” said Emily Kowalski, Head of Marketing and Communications at deCordova. “You can see the art, grab some wine or coffee, and go for a walk in an open atmosphere.”

Daters can find a conversation starter around every corner and every grassy knoll at deCordova. These towering displays of colors, shapes, and textures create an impression on all who gaze upon them. Some are even quite romantic, like the large hearts standing in the middle of an open field.

Jim Dine’s towering bronze hearts offer couples a unique photo opportunity in the Sculpture Garden.

The Sculpture Park displays over 50 works of art on its 30 acres of rolling woodlands and lawns. It’s quite a sight to see.

“Our trails, lawns, and gardens are great for active couples to hike through,” Emily said. “You can also find a spot on the lawn and picnic by a work of art you enjoy.”

When you’re wandering through the galleries and lawns of deCordova, it’s easy to get caught up in the wonder of the experience. The artwork transports people to new perspectives and ideas, creating a space for heartfelt conversations about all sorts of culturally significant topics.

Visitors can explore an ever-changing scene of visual marvels at deCordova. The museum always has something new to see and do, which makes it ideal for daters looking to fill up their calendars.

Every other year, the deCordova Biennial exhibition displays the artwork of New England’s up-and-coming artists to highlight the talent and quality at work in the northeastern states. You can go on the website to keep an eye out for upcoming exhibitions of different artists, mediums, time periods, and movements.

DeCordova hosts engaging workshops, readings, yoga classes, and other programs.

DeCordova also arranges a number of exciting programs and events for couples, including Valentine’s Day clay workshops in February. The museum’s programs take place throughout the year and educate people about the world of art.

Whether you’re attending an art-inspired beer tasting or an exhibition-related lecture, you and your date will come away with lots of things to think about and discuss.

Programs are free after paying admission or with a museum membership. If you’re planning to come back to deCordova again and again with your date, getting an individual or dual membership plan could be a real money saver.

Starting this November, DeCordova is offering a six-week ceramics course designed for beginners and experts alike. Participants watch expert demonstrations and learn firsthand how to sculpt expressive vessels, forms, and environments with their hands.

This course could be a fun endeavor for a dating or married couple. If you’ve ever seen the movie “Ghost,” you know that ceramic work can get pretty steamy. The slightly messy hands-on activity lets you show your creative side and make a special memory with your partner.

“Being creative together can be really fun,” Emily said. “Our classes are interactive and easy to get into, especially if you bring a date.”

You don’t have to wait for a special event or program to become an active art lover. DeCordova hosts guided tours for curious visitors who want to hear a professional’s take on the museum’s noteworthy pieces.

The museum has come up with a lot of ways to stir interest and engagement in the works of art. DeCordova’s adult tours can give couples new insight, history, and perspective on beloved art pieces in the gardens and museum.

When the weather permits, deCordova’s curators invite guests to tour the snow-covered sculptures.

In the wintertime, special Sculpture Park Snowshoe Tours invite guests to see deCordova’s sculptures in a new light — under the mantle of fresh fallen snow. Visitors grab their snowshoes and head out into the cold on unique group tours.

You can stick close by your loved one’s side for warmth as you make your way through the sculpture garden’s winter wonderland. Maybe you could bring a thermos of hot chocolate to share afterward. Now, that’s a date neither of you will forget anytime soon!

“It makes you think about the world differently,” Emily told us, “and the experience brings you closer together.”

With a glass of wine in your hand and someone special by your side, you can’t help but have a lovely time at deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum. Since 1950, these halls and lawns have displayed poignant works of art from talented artists of all backgrounds.

You’ll find plenty to entertain you at Boston’s famed deCordova. Couples can join a film series, art tour, or ceramics workshop — or they can explore the grounds on their own and make a lasting memory touring the sculpture garden. DeCordova’s programs delve into a variety of creative interests — from weaving to photography — to excite visitors seeking something original, stimulating, and extraordinarily beautiful.

“Going to an art museum or gallery starts a conversation,” Emily commented. “When you come to deCordova on a date, there are a whole variety of things to talk about. You can connect on a deeper level by discussing how the art makes you feel and what you think about what you’re seeing.”