One of the most stressful things to do when you’ve just summoned the nerve to ask someone out is to figure out where the heck you’re meant to take them. Wasn’t the hardest part meant to be over? Not likely. This is the first step of a whole new kettle of fish, and you just have to be along for the ride. Don’t ask too many questions of yourself, but think about what your partner might want to do. Focus on fun new activities and let yourself get swept away. Here’s where to go and what to do on a first date.

1. Go on a hike.

This is an easy starter. It’s not high-maintenance and it’s a good way of getting the blood pumping before things really heat up. You can gauge how outdoorsy your partner is and see whether that’s something that’s important to you or not. You can see some great sights along the way and see how up for a challenge they are. Heck, you can even race them to the finish. A precursor for things to come, maybe? I never miss a pun.

2. Try a nice restaurant.

This isn’t the time to go hell for leather and try out the place your parents go to for their anniversary and pull out all the stops. That’s a little too much and frankly, a little overwhelming. However, it’s a fun time to try out a new, hip, slightly risky venue that you haven’t tried before. That might sound like an unnecessary risk, but it’s a high reward and a fun conversation starter. Focus on asking him the right questions that he wants to answer, rather than impressing him with what you think he wants to hear.

3. Visit a local cat cafe.

This is a spin on the old classic of the casual first coffee date. It’s for all the people who get asked out for coffee, knowing that it’s easy to escape from and limited to a max two-hour slot. It’s a nice low-pressure environment. Furthermore, with the added conversational aides of feline friends, plus the mad dash to protect your cake from their prying paws, the hours will pass by like nothing else. You can also relax and enjoy yourself knowing that you will have a fun time with cats, if not the person, and you can unwind. If you aren’t planning a date that you’d take yourself on, rethink it.

4. Have a picnic.

Another tried and tested classic but with a personal twist. You can pack all your favorite things and sweets and treats and mix them in with their tastes. Bring some alcohol, bake some fresh goodies and get going. You’ll find it’s a way sight cheaper too!

5. Find a drive-in.

These are the hidden gems of the English country estates. They’re still prevalent in the US all over the place too and they do old classics and new releases alike. You’re bound to find something you like. Just pick a theatre and clean your car and you’re all set. Just make sure to open the door for them.

6. Take them to a live show or comedy club.

This date shows that you’re cultured but also that you’re down for a laugh. You can get to know each other by how you respond. You can either take it straight and appreciate the art or be more chill and just have fun together and enjoy the moment.

7. Baking.

This is a great time to tune into the Great British Bake Off and get your act together. Get all the proper ingredients – yes, I mean the cornstarch, the baking soda, and the white wine vinegar. They’re all essential, and if you want to really impress someone, make a pavlova wreath for the holidays. You have a built-in get out of jail free card because even if it goes wrong you can pass it off as a meringue, and failing that, Eton mess! Just make sure you encapsulate all the energy of a hallmark Christmas movie’s requisite baking montage scene.

8. Cook your meal at home.

It’s logistically so much easier – and if everything goes well, you’re right at home. Near the bedroom… You also don’t have to worry about awkward silences because you’re always at work. Or studying the recipe. Or folding pasta into shape using all your body weight. Maybe even flicking flour at each other and getting sticky in all kinds of ways. Risky business. Even if it doesn’t taste great by the end of it, you will have had such a fun and memorable time either way.

Originally Published: www.bolde.com

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