Instead of feeling sorry for myself for not having someone to take me on dates and spoil me with attention, I’ve used my single status as a time to reflect on my past dates – the ones I’ve found fun, the ones I’ve hated and everything in between. More importantly, I analyzed what I thought made some of the dates fun and others turn out horribly. I’ve determined the next time a guy asks me out for the typical dinner and a movie date, regardless of whether or not he’s my soul mate, I will (without hesitation) say no. However, with the chance that he is my soul mate, I have thought of a few, more creative ideas for a date to suggest, instead. Redemption.
1. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelson-Atkins_Museum_of_Art#mediaviewer/Fil…
So maybe this isn’t the most creative thing to do, but at least you can look at others people’s creativity! First of all this is an awesome date idea because it is free – and who doesn’t love free anything? Secondly, you can see works of art, ranging from modern pieces from the likes of (my personal favorite) Jackson Pollock to the ancient Egyptian artifacts (which, truth be told, scare the living daylights out of me). This also gives you a million and one things to talk about afterwards (like comparing your favorite pieces) if this is one of the first times you have hung out and are worried about how to keep the awkward lulls in the conversation to a minimum.
2. Sunflower Fields
source: http://realhomegarden.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/sunflower-field-9pb…
Social media has recently blown up with ultra-hipster pictures of sunflowers and sunflower fields with every lighting, angle and filter imaginable, so why not join in on the fun? Get creative with your picture taking skills or simply wander around the fields for a while. If he’s truly a keeper, he might even pick one for you at the end of the outing! (Sorry if I got your hopes up).
3. The Louisburg Cider Mill
source: http://everythingemu.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Louisburg-…
With fall just around the corner, now is the perfect time to indulge in everything pumpkin-spice. Even better, fun and unique date opportunities have arisen! The apple cider is incredible at the Cider Mill, so that’s a plus. Even better, what could be cuter than wandering around the pumpkin patch, or getting lost in a corn maze together for a few hours (both of which are at the Mill, as well)? That’s right, nothing.
5. The Infinite Mysteries of the KU Campus
source: http://courtneymoore.me/category/writing/
Granted we all spend a majority of our weekdays going from class to class (then to the library), so it might take some convincing to try this one out. Luckily you have me. Truly, KU’s campus is one of the most beautiful places I’ve seen. There are so many hidden wonders to explore. Go wander around the stacks in Watson library, or check out the Natural History Museum. If neither of those sounds fun try the Campanile or the Oread! Need I say more?
6. Sea Life Kansas City Aquarium
source: http://www.bizjournals.com/kansascity/print-edition/2013/04/12/capstone-…
Maybe I’m a little biased because I’m convinced my spirit animal is a seahorse, but regardless of your age, aquariums are “stupid cool” (to quote one of my cousins). This is another great way to spend a couple of hours, and the pressure is all off you for trying to think of things to say. Compare your favorite fish, or see who can come up with the goofiest fish selfie!
Hopefully this has helped spice up your date activities, or at least, convinced you to raise your standards from the run of the mill dinner and a movie. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy your time together!