Overlooked Date Ideas
Interesting Things to Do for Quality Time with a Sweetheart
When there's no holiday to spark creativity, it's too easy to fall into the habit of going to the same places every time. Suggestions for a no-occasion outing.
If you're looking to spend quality time with your sweetheart, great places can be found right around the corner and can be as inexpensive as they are fun. It's just takes a little planning ahead to take a date beyond dinner and a movie.
Visit an Animal Park
Zoos and aquariums are all too often relegated to the province of children and families. While visiting with children is a rewarding experience for all involved, visiting without them gives you an opportunity to view the park in a different way. You can spend more time with the animals you and your date prefer, and find new favorites together. For new couples, it's an excellent opportunity to learn more about each other with a ready topic of conversation at hand.
Contact the park before you go to find out about special events. Some have special evening hours with guest presenters.
Enjoy Music in the Park
Most cities or fair-sized towns have an outdoor auditorium which hosts events such as jazz festivals or summertime theater series. While often these are elaborate events with tickets on sale sometime ahead, keep an eye out for free events. Check the community section of the local newspaper. Be prepared to arrive early and bring chairs or a blanket. Many sites will allow a cooler so you can bring your own picnic dinner and sodas.
Explore a Neighborhood
Take a stroll through your neighborhood or one you'd like to live in. It's a way not only to quietly enjoy the day and time together, but also a way to get ideas for your own home or yard. Check the newspaper for yard sales or garage sales to visit. Bring water and snacks if you're planning an extended walk or will be a long way from home.
Play Tourist
Every city has its history, and as a local, you have the opportunity to take in the sights when the tourists aren't around. For example, you might take a guided tour through a famous museum, visit historic hotels for a look at the architectural details, or take ice cream treats to a city park. Buy a guide book or visit the tourist bureau for the specific things in your hometown. Special tours may also listed in your newspaper's community pages. Call ahead for reservations and to verify dates of any special exhibits.
Remember to check the weather if you're thinking of an outdoor event. Plan morning or evening outings if it will be hot. Have a plan for lunch if the outing begins mid-morning. While there are many things you can do spontaneously, just a little planning ahead, even the day of the date, will keep the date fun and enjoyable.
