First dates are often regarded as the toughest, and if you’re the one planning them they’re even tougher. Do you go all-out romantic, or something more casual? Do they like Indian or Chinese food, or would a traditional American eatery be best? One can drive themselves insane contemplating all the choices. In order to help out some, here are five alternative ideas for a first date.
Poetry reading
It may not sound as exciting as an explosion filled movie, but that’s kind of the point. Poetry readings are calm and relaxing (usually) and expose you and your date to the arts. You can also usually find one for free if you live in a town with a college or university. The downside is, of course, that like a movie you can’t really chat while at the reading. However, it does serve as the perfect segue into getting a cup of coffee afterward to discuss what you just heard.
For men who may balk at spending an evening at such an event, just remember that women generally embrace a man who can show he possesses some deepness and culture.
Youth baseball game
America is littered with little league baseball fields and they can make an excellent destination for a date. While it may not be too much fun to watch the real little ones play, the tween and teen age groups can produce a very enjoyable baseball game. Such games never have an admission price, and even concession stand prices are usually much less than what you’d expect at a movie. Plus, you have the added bonus of being outside and enjoying some fresh air.
Art museum
It may not sound like the hottest hot spot for a Friday night, but art museums can be fantastic for dates. First, they show you have a bit of class and culture (obviously a big theme in these picks). Second, most art museums can be gotten into relatively cheap, if not for free, and routinely host swanky affairs on weekends. Sure, you might be a mild-mannered accountant by day, but at night you’re black-tie-event mingler. Show your date that being with you will allow them to rub elbows with the cultured and they’ll be impressed.
Yoga class
This one is a bit tricky, if only because not everyone can do yoga. Please be aware, this is not the place to take your slightly overweight date, because you’ll likely make them feel self-conscious the entire time. However, if your date is the type that spends at least a few days a week at a gym, this might be a fun change of pace for them. It allows you both to get a decent workout, plus it gives you something to talk about afterward. Follow it up with a nice lunch or dinner at a fairly healthy restaurant and you’ll seem the health concerned type. For anyone watching their own waistline this is appealing to think they might have met someone to commiserate with.
Feed the animals
No, do not simply set up in an alleyway planning to feed the strays. This will only frighten your date and ultimately make them consider you a little creepy. Instead, there are many free, public locations where there are animals you can feed. Many city parks feature ponds with ducks or geese, not to mention squirrels and other animal life. Buy a cheap loaf of bread and you have yourself a cost-effective hour of feeding the animals, plus plenty of time to talk and get to know one another. Keep in mind that some parks prohibit feeding the animals, so be sure to check in advance. Feeding the animals will show your date you’re an animal person, which is key to many with beloved pets.