Nervous looking couple sitting next to each other at the movie theatre on their first date / Shutterstock
First dates are often a great deal of fun, especially when two people instantly click. On the other hand, they can be a nightmare for nervous folk, or those that simply find the ordeal unnatural and awkward.
And while it isn't always possible to predict how well a date will go, picking the right place will help a great deal.
Have a look at some fun ideas in the Metro Vancouver area.
First Date Ideas
Bowling
Bowling alley/Shutterstock
Bowling is an excellent first date idea because it allows you to see someone's fun side. Rather than sitting in a movie theatre not speaking, the activity provides ample opportunity to talk, laugh, and play. Of course, you might look a little silly, but that is often a great way to break the ice and have a great time.
Vancouver Aquarium
Vancouver aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium offers a unique experience for a first date. It allows you to break the ice by providing endless things to talk about. From the cute to the bizarre, the beautiful to the scary, theses aquatic animals are a fascinating focal point. What's more, they offer alcoholic beverages at their after hours events, which can help to relieve some anxiety, too.
Bloedel Conservatory
Bloedel Conservatory Howard Sandler / Shutterstock
Bloedel Conservatory is a lovely oasis in the heart of Vancouver and the perfect place to get to know someone. The tropical attraction is home to more than 120 free-flying exotic birds, as well as 500 exotic plants and flowers.
Baking Class
Lindsay William-Ross/Vancouver Is Awesome
Nothing brings people quite like food, and a baking class is a great way to create something yummy with someone special. Of course, not everyone loves cooking, but for those who do, or those who simply want to have fun and eat delicious treats, it is a great experience.
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre/Facebook
Do you want your date to know that you think they are 'out of this world?'
The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre offers a breathtaking perspective on the star-speckled celestial wonder that is the evening sky, as well as many fun activities, too. So, if your date is really into outer-space, or you simply want to try something fun and informative with them, this is the place to be.
Volunteer
Greater Vancouver Food Bank.
It may not be the first thing you think of for a date idea, but the cold months are incredibly difficult for people living in poverty in Vancouver. What’s more, it is a great way to bond with someone new or do something great with your significant other. Sadly, homeless shelters fill up during the coldest months, and many people do not feel safe staying in them. You can donate blankets, or volunteer at the food bank. Last year, food bank volunteers donated about 75,000 hours of time – the equivalent of about 38 full-time staff.
Coffee Date
LOT185 will open in Vancouver with a giveaway of free coffee and pastries (@purplechives/Instagram)
A coffee date might not seem like the most exciting option, but if you've never met your date before it might be the best one. For one, it isn't rude to expect that this date will run a tad shorter than other options, if not a great deal more. As a result, you will be able to leave if you think things aren't going that well, or if they are a complete disaster. Alternatively, if things are going well, you can suggest moving on to another location afterward.
Vancouver Art Gallery
August 05, 2018 – Vancouver, Canada: Vancouver Art Gallery built in Roman style on Robson Square / Shutterstock
The Vancouver Art Gallery hosts an impressive collection of art, as well as beautiful featured collections. Similar to the aquarium, a stroll around the gallery will give you something to talk about, as well as something to look at. As such, the focus won't all be on you or your date, which will help relieve some stress.
Science World
Photo: Youth Are Awesome.
Science World isn't only for kids, and they even hold special events that are only for adults. With that in mind, a regular day-trip to this dome-of-discovery is a great deal of fun, too. It provides an opportunity to learn some cool things about science as well as explore the downtown area and its scenic harbour views.
Comedy Show
comedy show / Shutterstock
There are few places that you can be guaranteed to laugh, but a comedy show is one of them. Sharing some laughs with someone new is a great way to ease tension, as well as have a really great time. What's more, Vancouver is home to a number of comedy venues, and many comedians visit the city on tours, too.
