Dating: Different Atmospheres for Different Personality Types

With Valentine’s Day coming up it’s nice to know what’s out there to do with your significant other besides the same, old routine of dinner and a movie. Which, let’s be honest, isn’t the most creative idea out there.

Photo by Sarah Butcher

The Sophisticated Lady:
If you’re anything like me, then you love an evening that calls for a cocktail dress and some lipstick! Not every date needs to be a big deal, but sometimes it’s nice to feel like a sophisticated adult. Instead of going to dinner at Applebee’s or The Olive Garden and dashing over to the movie theatre to watch a movie that you’ve probably wasted way too much time deliberating over try something different.

I’m a big fan of FSU productions, especially by the incredibly talented theatre department. One of the perks of being a college student are all the discounts, and let me tell you that you won’t always be able to go see performances of this caliber for five dollars! So take advantage of the deals around you and experience some culture.

Scratch the “What movie do you want to see?” debate and start pondering which showing of Spring Awakening you want to attend (shows will be starting February 20^th). Gentlemen, you’ll win points with this one. Follow up the evening with a dining experience. Recently, I went out to A La Provence and it was perfection. The waiter was sensational, the food was even better, and the atmosphere was extravagant. It’s a little pricey so if you’re looking for something not as costly then you can also try The Wine Loft. Both of these places will allow you to dress up and sit and talk while enjoying the atmosphere.

The Active Adventurer:
We can’t all be theatre-going types (it’s okay, I won’t judge you) so try doing something active that will engage and interest your girlfriend or boyfriend. Another hot date spot near Tallahassee (only five minutes away from FSU campus) is The Rez (The Reservation) which is FREE for FSU students and only $2 for adults. Talk about a cheap date! The reservation is perfect for the active couple. With rock climbing, canoeing, volleyball courts, and other activities the possibilities are endless. It’s also great for group dates so don’t feel shy to invite other people along if you’re still getting to know each other.

Another nice spot to relax outside is Lake Ella. The walking trail and lake side shops are perfect for getting to know someone or just for a relaxing day together. Much better than a dark, quiet movie theatre! And don’t worry, I’m sure your date would rather have you hold their hand in the open air instead of a dark theatre.

The Too-Busy-To-Date Couple:
Do you struggle to find time to spend with your significant other while managing your work load, but you’re tired of always going to the coffee shop or Club Stroz to do homework together? Want a new atmosphere that’s less stifling? Try The Sweet Shop (located just off Jefferson across from Landis Hall). This tea shop is great for the always-studying couple. The free wifi and giant booths make it great for getting work done (you can be sure that I’ll be mentioning this place again in my article about study spots!) but it’s also a nice change of location and you can order a big pot of tea to share and grab something to eat as well. They have bands that play on weekend nights too, so don’t feel shy about putting your homework aside for a bit.

Going to see a movie can be fun, but you can’t hide in the dark forever. Get out there and exploit all the benefits of dating in a college town.