How to Choose Places to Go on a Date + Suggestions

The setting matters. Learn to choose or refer to our list of places to go on a date.

Asking somebody on a date is one thing, and it’s a big deal in itself. But once you earn that sweet “yes,” the planning stage comes next. Part of that includes picking places to go on a date.

Choosing the right spot is as important as the date—especially if it’s the first. It’s not a make-or-break factor, but it does help up your odds.

You don’t want to bring someone who hates pumpkin picking, for example, in the middle of nowhere. Situations like that can ruin your chances.

Where are the best places to go on a date? How do you even pick a spot anyway? Hit all the right notes with our tips and recommendations.

Deciding Where to Go on a Date

There’s a way to choose a place. You don’t just throw ideas against the wall and see what sticks. Selections are on a trial-and-error basis, but you should still have a concrete idea.

If you don’t know where to start your search, these tips should help you:

#1: Pick somewhere you’re familiar with.

Our first instinct is to go somewhere we know. Why? The familiarity offers advantages. We know which hours are the best times to visit. We know where the good seats are. The staff are your friends at this point. The list goes on.

You already know what to expect, but it may not be the same for your date. This can bring excitement to an otherwise uneventful meet-up.

#2: Stay in your lane—literally.

By this, we mean sticking to your neighborhood.

Sure, meeting in the middle is fair. However, it won’t be fun for either of you. Commutes are unpredictable, and you may get lost in unfamiliar surroundings.

We suggest that one of you save yourselves from potentially long travel times. The other person (in this case, you) hosts the evening. This dynamic can make for a fun date.

#3: Don’t go somewhere just for the “vibes.”

Let’s say there’s this newly opened cafe. Everyone’s been there and sharing their experiences on- and offline.

You understand the buzz; it looks cute and cozy. But here are the important questions: Are their drinks any good? Is their food great? Is it worth the long line?

It’s natural to be curious about new places. But if you don’t want to be disappointed, don’t let the potential of good vibes be the sole criteria for your selection.

The best places to go on a date aren’t ones that are all vibes but no substance.

#4: Go somewhere where you can hear each other.

Going out means encountering a sea of people. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have privacy and intimacy. You can enjoy each other’s company while people-watching if you pick a place that isn’t too packed with customers.

Dates are opportunities for you to get to know each other. It won’t do if you can’t hear yourselves over noisy crowds. You’ll only leave with little takeaways about each other.

#5: Avoid crowds.

While we’re on the subject of people, avoid places where they come in swarms. You won’t be able to focus on each other because of the many distractions. The long lines are annoying, and the people queuing can also grind your gears. We suggest heading somewhere with manageable crowds instead.

Top Places to Go For a Date

Here comes the decision-making part of this program.

Whether it’s your first or 50th date, choosing which places to go on a date is challenging. And with that, we’ve made a list. This way, you can get to the specifics fast.

Museums

For some people, museums may be boring institutions. But hear us out: they’re pretty romantic.

One, they’re great avenues for conversations—the thing that makes dates stimulating. Hearing someone’s take on a piece tells you plenty about their interests, which is always useful information.

Two, museums offer peace, quiet, and privacy. Other people may be lurking around exhibits, but the surrounding silence gives you a slice of intimacy. You don’t need to be talking nonstop because you can take comfort in your hushed environment.

If you want to go for a museum date, we recommend visiting your local one. Most don’t have strict dress codes, but feel free to sport something nice. Just ensure you wear shoes that are comfortable enough for walking because you’ll be doing that a lot.

Restaurants and cafes

There’s a reason restaurants and cafes are many people’s preferred places to go for dating. Not only do they guarantee good meals and drinks, but they’re also great spaces for getting to know each other.

Since you get your specific seats, you can fully concentrate on your conversations. They can be about anything under the sun, from your food to your surroundings.

And while that’s happening, other segments of your match’s character. For example, how they handle the bill and treat the servers can reveal a significant chunk of their values.

Pro-tip: Sit at a corner booth if it’s available. The 90-degree angle lets you soak in your environment while being close enough to catch each other’s glances.

If you don’t know where to go on a date, you can never go wrong with restaurants and cafes.

Amusement/theme parks

Are you tired of the wine-and-dine setups? Switch things up by visiting theme or amusement parks. Some may think it’s childish, but trust us when we say this is a good idea.

Your visit will be anything but boring. The rides provide an adrenaline rush, and you’ll have countless options for food and drinks.

Don’t let the crowds rain on your parade, either. If anything, consider people-watching a form of entertainment.

Also, these parks may be full of people, but you can still get your privacy and intimacy. Sitting close inside a Ferris wheel, for example, lets you sneak in a bit of both. You can even cuddle because no one can see you.

Local events

Do you want to hit many birds with a single stone? Local events are the answer. Think of them as one-stop venues for food, retail, and entertainment.

Flea markets, bazaars, and the like offer people a good time and great bargains. Their energetic atmospheres can make for romantic backdrops. While you’re enjoying the booths, you can’t help but focus on each other. It’s as if no one else is there but the two of you.

Scope out these events by looking them up online. The next one may pop up within your neck of the woods.

Picking the right places to go on a date doesn’t have to be difficult. May our list help you carve out your own ideas.