Many couples enjoy spending their first date at a botanical garden, an arboretum, or a conservatory, strolling through pathways or aisles filled with interesting and exotic plants.  Expect beautiful landscaping and a calm, pleasant atmosphere.  Learn about the various plants and take home a specimen if they are available.  Visit an aquarium and watch the graceful dolphins, fish, and other creatures.

Another fun date if you like to walk around is a museum.  There are historical museums, science museums, art museums, and specialty museums that will hold your interest for hours - and museums are not just for school trips. There will be no lack of conversation while perusing the many exhibits that are to be found at these.

How about a stroll around the shops? Antique shops have all kinds of unique items from years gone by and you'll probably even find things that bring back childhood memories for you both. It's possible that your date will share many of the same memories and a stroll down memory lane is sure to start a conversation. Boutiques come in many sizes and types and are great for casual browsing. Discover period clothing, specialty items, furniture, or fine wines.  Try bazaars and flea markets.  Check out a food, wine or art festival or a street fair for something a little different. The entertainment will take the pressure of feeling the need to be an entertainer.

Boat rides and dinner cruises are exciting and novel, and likewise a visit to a waterside park with a picnic basket can be just as much fun.  When the season is mild and the weather permits, many parks will hold concerts outdoors, offering everything from jazz to classical to show tunes.  Check with your council to find out when community concerts are held.

Ball games are good if both enjoy the sport.  If there's a golf course nearby and you both enjoy the game, then hit the links for an afternoon of sunshine and relaxation.  If you're quite active, play a game or two of tennis.  Go roller blading, cycling or inline skating.  If it's wintertime or if you have an indoor facility, ice skating or tenpin bowling is sure to provide lots of laughter.

If you want to do something a little fancier, attend a dinner theatre.  Mystery theatres are a lot of fun because they require audience participation.  Comedy clubs are very popular as well.  Dress to the nines to go to the ballet, opera, or theatre.  Stop by a favorite restaurant beforehand, and go for an ice cream afterwards to top off the evening.

Whatever you choose to do pick something you can both enjoy.  If the date requires some organisation - such as a picnic, do some pre-planning so you don't feel stressed at the last minute. But be open-minded - it's always fun to go where the mood takes you, and you don't want to be disappointed if the weather is not right for what you have planned. Being flexible and allowing yourself to relax with each other while sharing fun memories will help turn that successful first date into many future dates.

Article by Rachel Goodchild

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