Summer is in full swing and so is “dating season.” During the summer months, when people spend more time outdoors, the dating game moves into high gear. You don’t have to settle for taking your date to a bar, restaurant or the movies (although on a hot summer day, the air-conditioning of the movie theatre is a nice respite.) Summer time activities give you a whole new opportunity for creative, fun and romantic dates. Below are ideas, ranging from traditional to some you might not have thought about.

Wash Cars – Take advantage of a sunny day to take both your cars to the car wash or set up the hose at your house and wash both of your cars, making sure to have fun squirting one another.

Yard Sales or flea markets – Saturday mornings are great for scouring yard sales or flea markets for interesting treasures. To make it more interesting, give a budget and each go off on your own to find the perfect gift for the other person.

Water parks – There’s nothing better on a hot summer day than cooling off in the water and a water park gives you a chance to do just that while having fun trying the different slides.

Drive in movie – Although there aren’t too many of these left, if you can find a drive in theatre in your area, this is a perfect date. Pack up some goodies and watch a movie outdoors.

Hiking – Most people can find a hiking trail close to home, if not, take a walk in the park. Be sure to pack plenty of water, bug spray and a picnic lunch.

Outdoor concerts – Whether your favorite band is coming to town and playing at an outside venue or you are checking out local, free concerts, sitting outdoors and listening to music is always a fun date.

Amusement parks or local fairs – Ride the roller coaster, take a spin on the rides, enjoy the view from on top of the ferris wheel. Amusement parks offer activities for every person and if you don’t have one in your area or are short of cash, check out the local fairs.

Picnics – Picnics are always a good option. Pack your favorite foods and ask your date to pack hers. Enjoy sharing what you enjoy and learning about the other person. Don’t forget about moonlight picnics where you can lay back and star gaze.

Search for waterfalls – Check out your area for waterfalls and create a map. Spend the day checking out the different waterfalls and pack a bathing suit (or not) so you can wade in the water or take a swim. Bring a camera and frame the photos of the waterfalls to remember the day.

Go to a baseball game – Any outdoor sporting event works fine. Major sporting events offer a fun time but check out the minor league games which are usually much more affordable and still a great time.

Bike riding – As with hiking, find a bike trail or nice country road to bike ride together and again, don’t forget the picnic lunch.