If you plan properly, you can have a first date that leads to many more! A first date is really nothing more than getting to know someone you are interested in. It doesn't have to be scary or a big deal. In fact, you can sometimes let the "date" itself do the talking.
Determine the type of activity you think your date might enjoy. If friends or acquaintances set you up, do some digging about their personalities. If not, stay "safe" and go with a simple, easy-going date.
Keep in mind that sometimes your hobbies can be fascinating to someone else (and sometimes NOT). For instance, if you're into origami or woodworking, make your date something or offer to show them how it's done. Sometimes doing an activity together as part of a team or doing something with an adrenaline rush can add an element of excitement for you both. Physical activities get endorphins going. And it’s a fantastic way to break the ice.
A rule of thumb - if going to concerts, movies or plays, always make time before and after for conversation. Before the event is a good time for getting to know one another. After the event is good for coffee or drinks to discuss what you two just saw.
Here are a few first date ideas for different types of people:
Adventurous
Ice skating, roller skating, sky diving, attend a sporting event (be careful – make sure you know he/she likes sports first), rodeos, canoeing/boating, amusement parks, cooking classes, ghost tours, roller derby, sledding.
Artsy
Gallery opening, local theater performance, a weekend art class (like pottery, painting or drawing), tackle a creative project you can both work on, a trip to the museum (look for new exhibits coming to town), film festivals, lectures on artsy things (just make sure you two discuss it afterwards).
Athletic
Meet for a run, walk, bike ride, tennis or racquetball match, go for a hike & a picnic, take a yoga class, go dog walking, try rock climbing. Just be careful not to be too competitive.
Easy-going
Botanical gardens, zoo, aquarium, shop together at the local farmer's market, flea markets, visit the local planetarium at night to see the stars, buy two kites and go flying, play games (cards, video, board, etc.), take a short day trip to an area small town for a festival or event, go to the beach and build sandcastles – or build a snowman in the winter time and follow it up with hot chocolate together.
There are some things best avoided for a first date:
