Marc: "For our first date, I took the woman I would eventually marry to a Dodger Game. Summer nights in L.A. are the best, and taking in views of the downtown skyline at sundown while watching America's favorite pastime is pretty close to perfection. Add the crucial first date element of being with someone who was already a great friend (but we both knew that there was something more than a friendship going on), and you've got the makings of a great date. Let's do the numbers: nine innings, four beers, two Dodger dogs and a couple of ice cream bars sealed the deal. [Side note: at the time she was a practicing vegetarian, but that night I coaxed her into trying her first Dodger Dog. P.S. she's been eating meat ever since.]"
Why it's a great date: A sporting event provides great people watching and a guaranteed source of conversation if you find yourself tongue-tied.
What's the takeaway: Even a ball game can be romantic if you're with the right person.
Vanessa: "I once spent Valentine's Day at the Huntington Gardens in San Marino, CA. [a 207-acre estate, museum, and botanical garden] with a date. Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate, and we ended up soaked and freezing cold from walking around in the rain. It might have been a disaster, but there was a surprise payoff: afterwards, we ended up in front of a fireplace, getting all warm and cozy."
Why it's a great date: Sometimes it's fun to be a tourist in your hometown. Instead of letting the out-of-town relatives have the local attractions to themselves, why not check out the tourist sites that are right under your nose?
What's the takeaway: Check the weather report.
Issac: "Go to an amusement park."
Why it's a great date: Scary rides provide ample opportunities for spontaneous cuddling. Plus, you might spot Micky or Goofy.
What's the takeaway: Singles aren't the only ones who enjoy amusement parks. Try to schedule your date on an off-peak day or time, or you risk ending up sweltering on a never-ending line, silently resenting each other.
