So this is my absolute favorite time of the year. It's a combination of the warm weather, beautiful sunshine, lazy mornings, crazy nights that go til 5 in the morning, and the fact that you can walk outside the door in nothing but some denim shorts, tank top, and some good ol' flip flops. There's a different kind of energy going around this time of the year as well... everyone seems to be a little less stressed out and willing to have a lot more fun! :) I'm sure many of you ladies out there have no problem finding things to do, but I thought I'd throw out some ideas for summer date nights! For some reason, the idea of movie and dinner seems a little hoe hum. Take advantage of those gorgeous nights and have some fun!
Note- Whether you're in a relationship or flyin' solo, everyone can take part in these suggestions! Grab some girl friends (or even guy friends if you'd like) and let loose a little. Life is too short to be tense and stressed out all the time.
Idea #1: Hot Tub HoppingIt may not always work out, and there is usually a good chance of getting caught... but that's half the fun! Whether it's you and some friends or just you and your date, find a hotel near you with a pool (preferably one that has an easier entrance to access from the outside) and jump right in. I did this a few times and it was completely worth it. Just beware, sometimes the late night security crew don't have much of a sense of humor... they may not find it as funny as you do. If worse comes to worse and you DO get kicked out, go onto the next! Find the next hotel pool to crash.
Idea #2: Random Road TripFind your state somewhere on a map and find a random spot to visit for the day (and/or night... up to you) Sometimes it helps if you pick out a few choices, write them down, and then choose one from a hat. Don't start making plans, start stressing out if your car is going to make it, where you'll stay the night, how long it's going to take to get there, and if there's anything happening that night. Just get in the car and go. The fact that you don't know what is going to happen is by far the BEST part. You might surprise yourself with the unexpected :)
Idea #3: DancingI feel like no one ever does this anymore. I'm not talking about going to a club and start grinding on the dance floor in a room with the smell of cigarettes and sweat. I'm talking about classic dancing. It could be anywhere from a romantic slow dance under the stars in your backyard to an old jukebox to learning how to salsa dance at a local spot. If you're shy about it, that's perfectly fine. Try and opt for a more low key environment.
Idea #4: Restaurant HoppingPick 3-4 restaurants to go to for the evening. At the first one, only order a small appetizer dish. Nothing too filling, but something that is a little more interesting that mozzarella sticks. Then, go to the next restaurant. Order an actual dish. Again, nothing too filling but enough for you to be relatively full. As for the next restaurant... my favorite part, dessert :) The next one is optional, but ending the night in a cozy cafe somewhere sipping on a small cup of coffee and reminiscing on how the night went sounds pretty perfect to me.
Idea #5: Go to a ConcertEven though this one is clearly done throughout the entire year, try and find one that is outside. That way you can bring a blanket and lay down. There's something about summer concerts that separate themselves from all the others. When I was 17, I took full advantage of this one. It's a lot of fun!
Idea #6: Picnic in the ParkIt may sound very... I don't know, traditional. I've found that picnics can actually be very romantic though. That is if you're going for that sort of thing... ;) Clear a day with nothing to do and find yourself a good spot with lots of grass, some trees, and maybe even somewhere relatively quiet and private. I don't know about you but my idea of a romantic picnic does not involve the smell of dog poo, random frisbee's being tossed to the back of my head, and the sounds of constant screaming. It could be at a beach if you'd like, just prepare for the chance of sand in your sandwhich.
Idea #7: Movie MarathonMovie night is very common, and quite frankly... a little played out! There IS a way to make it a little more interesting though. Instead of just one movie... pick three, or five. Clearly you need to have a lot of free time on your hands in order for this one to work out.. and you should be willing to be relaxed and laying down the majority of that time. If you're looking for something cozy to do on a Sunday night, this is a great option. Just take the time to connect (or reconnect) with that other person. Pick out some of your favorite classics and press play. Blankets and popcorn are an absolute must!
Idea #8: Backyard Movie NightThis one is very much like the one above, only slightly different. It's for those who still love watching movies with their loved one but are a little over the whole... popular movie night thing. This one adds a little touch of spontaneity. Grab a big blanket, a bunch of pillows, some snacks, and your lap top. Set this up in your backyard so you can see the stars. It's cozy and private, just be careful with any sprinklers.
Idea #9: Go CampingThere is nothing better than being out in the wilderness all bundled up by the campfire or snuggling in sleeping bags with the one you care about. You can make it a weekend getaway or just for one night at a local campsite, it doesn't matter. Just remember to bring bug spray, lots of blankets, and toilet paper ladies!
Idea #10: Be a Kid AgainGo miniature golfing, hit some balls at the batting cage, go for a bike ride, race go-carts, or try winning one of those stuffed animals. All that matters is that you're having a good time doing it.
