Summer is here, and so is double date season! Going out on the town as a small group instead of a twosome can not only take out some of the awkwardness that comes along with meeting new people, but can be a great way to catch up with your couple friends and participate in some fun group activities!
But where to go and what to do? Well we’ve done the work for you, with a diverse list of must-do double dates to try this summer! While these locations are limited to the New York City area, you can still apply these ideas locally as well!
1) Mini Golf
What better way to celebrate the increasingly warmer weather than an exciting day of mini-golf at Pier 25? All the info you need to plan your perfect date with just the right amount of healthy competition can be found here: http://pier25.com/mini-golf/. The phone number is 212-766-1104 ext. 228. Their summer hours are from 10am to 10pm weather permitting. Costing only $5 per game per person, this is a great inexpensive way to get to know your date and squeeze in plenty of conversation.
This fun outdoor activity can be enjoyed by mini-golfers of any skill level. The 13,000 square foot, 18-hole professional grade miniature golf course features a waterfall, stream, pond, a cave, footbridges and sand traps.
2) Bowling
Knock down some pins together at the bowling alley! Bowlmor lanes has locations in Time Square, on 44th St. between 6th and 7th Ave., Union Square, and Greenwich Village. This is a fun upscale environment, with great food and drink. Keep in mind when heading to your date night at Bowlmor there is a dress code. You can find information about all of the locations and the dress code on their website at http://www.bowlmor.com/
3) Coney Island
Don’t miss the extremely unique experience of the world famous Coney Island. For information on some of the attractions at Coney Island go the official website at http://www.coneyisland.com/ . Take in the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, impress with your carnival game skills, and indulge in some great eats. The four of you will never run out of fun activities here!
4) The Beach
Take things down a notch with a classic beach day spent at Long Beach. Starting with a 60min Train ride from Penn Station giving you a great opportunity talk and get to know each other. Once you arrive there are a variety of activities you can take part in from walking on the boardwalk and enjoying the views and the company, to visiting the historical shops in Long Beach, or even sitting on the beach enjoying the sand. To find information on the Long Island Rail Road go to http://new.mta.info/lirr and for information attractions at Long Beach go to http://www.littleviews.com/home/newyork/long_beach.cfm
5) Outside Movie Viewing
Consider the HBO summer film festival in Bryant park. Admission to the festival is free with seating on the lawn. Showing great classics such as Invasion of the Body Snatchers and Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. For information of what films will be shown on what day go to http://www.bryantpark.org/plan-your-visit/filmfestival.html. This is a great option for a nice evening that is a great alternative to a movie theater.
6) Walk in the Park
You are hard pressed to go wrong with a walk along the beautiful historic High Line railroad park. The High Line park website is http://www.thehighline.org/. The park is open from 7am to 11pm all summer. This would be great romantic date with awe-inspiring views. Walk along side the old railroad elevated above the streets of Manhattan. You can plan your High Line excision on a day that that they are hosting an event such as the Community Dance Parties or beautifully planned High Line Art Performances.
7) Explore a new Neighborhood
Looking for an experience that is sure to be satisfying mentally and sensationally appetizing? Here is a site where you can find information on free walking tours in the New York City area: http://www.freetoursbyfoot.com/new-york-tours/ – these tours include tasting the most famous pizzas and desserts in the area. Giving you the opportunity walk off the calories between shops so you don’t feel guilty about enjoying so many great indulgences. On the website you can also find information of historical tours of the area. The tours themselves are free however you do have to pay for any of the food you enjoy.
8) Rent a Boat
Searching for an authentic activity that many New Yorkers don’t even know about? The New York Downtown Boathouse offers free use of kayaks during fair weather in the summer. You can find locations on Pier 40, Pier 96 and 72nd Street. The nonprofit is providing use of kayaks, and safety equipment to the public. You can find more information on the website http://www.downtownboathouse.org/kayaking.html . There are lockers and showers on site and while they do have some locks it is highly recommended to bring your own lock.
9) Tennis
Try your hand at a game of tennis right on the waterfront of the Hudson River. Use of the tennis courts is free to the public. This is a Great physical activity to enjoy with your partner offering both singles and doubles courts. Open year round from 6am until Dusk (until lighting is restored)
10) Picnic in the Park
Organize a perfect picnic in the park filled with board games. Bring a blanket and board games to a park and play games together. It’s a great way to start a natural conversation, especially if it’s a game that involves team competition. If you live in NYC, Sheeps Meadow is the best place to organize a picnic in the park. With the Manhattan skyline and gigantic trees, you can find a spot in the shade and make a date of it. You can find more information here. http://www.centralparknyc.org/visit/things-to-see/south-end/sheep-meadow.html
