First Date Ideas
by Kat Richter

Dinner and a movie may seem like the ideal first date, but trust us on this one: it's not. Sure, it's easy. And it takes the pressure off (you can just lean back and enjoy your popcorn if the conversation dies off) but the whole point of a first date is to get to know one another, and that's hard to do when you're trying to follow the plot of the latest Jason Bourne flick.

Fortunately, we've put together an entire list of first date ideas to get your started. And if you thought football games were your only option, think again.

Take a Look

Just because you're no longer in the fifth grade doesn't mean you and your date can't enjoy a nice field trip together. So head to a local art museum, or take a trip to the zoo, nature preserve or aquarium. The good thing about an exhibit-oriented date is that you'll never run out of things to talk about, whether it's the fascinating use of color in Van Gogh's Starry Night or the fact that the crazy-looking baboon swinging from the rafters reminds you of your Aunt Mildred after too many drinks last Christmas (actually, maybe you should keep that to yourself for now).

Museums and zoos also make for great people watching and some museums, especially art museums, are generally open late one night a week so keep an eye out for special date-friendly events.

Go Shopping

Farmer's Markets are another way to get to know someone. Check your local paper for a listing of upcoming events and invite your date to meet you for a stroll. Most likely, you're not ready to start hosting luxurious dinner parties together just yet but you can always skip the produce and grab some baked goods instead. Plus, you'll be able to determine whether your date is pro-broccoli or anti-broccoli and depending on your tastes for greens, this might very well be a deal breaker.

Take a Walk

If organic produce isn't your thing, try for a festival or a street fair. With Oktoberfest just around the corner, you might even find one that serves beer. Alternatively, you can pack a picnic and head to the park or - if you're feeling especially intrepid - suggest a hike. Bear in mind, however, that if you're just getting to know your date, he or she might be reluctant to head off into the woods with you (there are just way too many horror films that start off that way).

Just Dance

Lady Gaga said it best. Dancing can be a great first date as long as you're both equally equipped (or equally ill-equipped as the case may be). Try a salsa class together or, if you're both seasoned pros, hit the club. Dancing can be a great way to get a bit closer to your date, in every sense of the word. But you need to be sensitive to the fact that he or she might feel intimidated if their footwork doesn't measure up so start slow with something that's new to both of you.

Grab Your Skates

Sure, it's a bit cheesy but let's face it: there's a reason why ice skating has been around for as long as it has. It's fun! And, like dancing, it comes with the perfect excuse to cozy up to your date. Don't worry if your skating skills are sub-par; falling down is half the fun and you can always take a break to hit up the snack bar for a cup of hot chocolate.

It's Just Brunch

Dinner might be the most common first date but it can also be one of the most expensive (and awkward, especially if things aren't going well). We suggest you opt for brunch instead. Why? Well, brunch gives you the best of both worlds: breakfast and lunch. And if your sweetheart-to-be has a sweet tooth, he or she will be sure to find something to their liking.

The other good thing about brunch is that it gives you plenty of time to continue getting to know one another if you so choose (perhaps a stroll to your favorite book shop is in order?) but if you decide to bail, you'll still have plenty of time to meet your posse for drinks later that evening.

Homework

• Grab your local paper and start researching things to do. Keep an eye out for farmer's markets, special exhibitions or late night events.
• Register for a dance class. Then, ask your crush to come with you.
• Ask around for restaurant recommendations. Once you find one you like, find out if they offer brunch and book a table for two.

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