In an age where dating is, quite literally, at our fingertips, there exist a few of us who still like the concept of getting dolled up to go someplace new—whether a first date or on the chance someone has fortunately made it to their second or third.
But in these rare circumstances of face-to-face dating, where is there to go? While I consider myself an avid movie buff, the fact is, a dark room, sitting elbow-to-elbow with strangers (while someone screams on a projector) doesn’t exactly garner the right ambience for conversation. By the time you leave the theatre, maybe the two of you go out for drinks. Or maybe the lack of adult stimulation leaves you drained and tired—the thought of your bed might sound way more appealing than sitting through another hour with the person you just sat next to for two and a half in complete silence.
Enter: a very scary notion of going outside. But have no fear! Here are a few tips to get you through:
Ask your prospective date a few open-ended questions—what do they like to do? What do they like to eat or drink? These simple questions have the power to help you decide on a fun date. If you’re interested in someone who seems to eat out all the time, you could suggest going to Sur La Table or The Kitchen in German Village for cooking classes. This could be a fun bonding experience that teaches them their way around the kitchen. Plus, you could use these newfound cooking skills for your next date (dinner at your place? you bet!).
Here’s another idea: “Paint and sip” classes seem to be popping up all over the US. This could be a fun way to tap into your creative side. No need to be an aspiring artist! Everyone eventually becomes Picasso after a few glasses of wine.
For the sports enthusiast, a night out at Top Golf should do the trick. You can even double-date with your bestie—a foolproof way to get each other’s opinions on your new boos. Top Golf has a wide range of beer and cocktails, along with a tasty variety of sharable plates.
If you and your date want to explore the city, there are plenty of electric scooters you can rent directly from your smartphone. If you’re local to Columbus, you could look up any upcoming festivals like Blooms and Butterflies, which goes through September of this year, The Columbus Arts Festival (June 7-9), Pride (June 14-16), The Blues and Jazz Fest (June 14-16), The Jazz and Ribfest (July 19-21) and many others.
When it comes to traditional dating, there’s so much more to do than just a movie! Take the time to explore options that involve being around each other and actually talking for extended periods of time. If none of those things interest you, perhaps staying behind a screen and having an online romance is what’s best for you! However, it never hurts to try something new. I suggest coming out of that dark movie theatre and getting some vitamin D—who knows, you just might like it!
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