Ah, first dates.
Sometimes they can get a little tricky and awkward, especially if you’re unsure of where to go or what to do, but in Tampa, there is no shortage of ideas. Break through the stereotypical dinner-and-a-movie mold and wow your date with some of these activities that will impress him or her so much, you just might get a second.
Here’s a list of some activities worth trying.
The Hyde Out
It’s your first date and one of the main purposes is to get to know each other by talking and interacting. A movie on a first date leaves no room for communication. But dinner at a new, classy restaurant is the perfect conversation starter.
Travel to SOHO’s newest hot spot, The Hyde Out, dubbed one of the coolest places to be in South Tampa. Enjoy an elegant, yet exciting nightlife ambience at the lounge featuring good music and low lighting. The music is the perfect volume, forcing you to get a little closer to hear each other, but not overwhelming loud.
With a varied menu and plenty of refreshing cocktail options, there’s something for everyone, and at a price that won’t hurt your wallet.
1809 W Platt St, Tampa, FL 33606
Stroll Through Hyde Park
Among the hustle and bustle of the frenzied nightlife that Tampa has to offer, escape to an “oasis of calm” by taking your date for a stroll through Hyde Park.
Explore beautiful bungalows, lounge on a park bench or bring a light lunch and blanket to create a romantic picnic. On Wednesdays this summer, the park features live music from 6:30-9:30. The streets are lined with a good selection of restaurants and high end retail stores, perfect for window shopping while you walk.
1602 W. Snow Avenue Tampa, FL 33606
Improv in Centro Ybor
Having a sense of humor is one of the most sought-after characteristics in a date. Get rid of any first date awkwardness by sharing plenty of laughs at the Improv in Centro Ybor.
Featuring tons of shows, you and your date will enjoy the relaxed ambience and casual dress code. The club also has a menu so you can enjoy a little something to eat, and try to keep it down, with all of the hilarious jokes being told.
1600 E 8th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
Splitsville in Channelside
There’s nothing like a little friendly competition to lighten up a first date. Head over to Splitsville in Channelside, and enjoy a bowling experience like no other with live music and a menu that is not standard bowling alley food, that has everything from sushi, to rice bowls, to calamari.
From Thursday to Sunday indulge in Happy Hour where all draft beers, house wines and well liquors are $3. But take it easy, make sure you aren’t knocking back more drinks, then pins.
615 Channelside Dr Ste 120, Tampa, FL 33602
Dinner on Harbor Island
In Tampa, there are a scarce amount of places where you can dine and be right on the waterfront at the same time. And what sets a romantic mood better than dinner on the water?
Visit Jackson’s or Cafe Dufrain in Harbor Island, both offering outside patios overlooking the marina with stunning views of the nightly light shows. At sunset, there’s nothing more beautiful then the sights of the boats passing through on the river.
Once you’ve enjoyed a delicious meal, take a romantic stroll along the Riverwalk or venture across the bridge to enjoy some live music in Channelside Bay Plaza or head to any of the nearby night clubs.
Learn to Salsa
Bust a move and build your confidence with Salsa dancing lessons for you and your date at Salsa Caliente Dance Studio. With the great social scene featuring many bars and clubs that Tampa has to offer, polish your skills and get some practice before braving the nightlife. It’s a great way to break the ice with your date, while having fun, as long as you don’t step on each other’s toes! Drop-in for a class on a Monday night.
3601 S. Manhattan Ave. Tampa, FL 33629
These are just a few surefire dates that you and your date will both enjoy while getting to know each other. Tampa offers the perfect setting for first-time daters, so you’ll never run out of date night plans.
What’s your idea of the perfect first date in Tampa? Sound off in the comments below or tweet us @diveintampabay.
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