If it were up to me, I’d hang out a bookstore or coffee shop and chat up my date. But I know many of you are downright daredevils out there! You want something that will get your heart pumping as well as generate some excitement. For the active and daring among us, here are some “daredevil” date ideas.

Sky Diving
This can be a good date if both of you are truly into it. If one is doing it only to please the other, it can cause tension and negative feelings down the road. If one of you is really into sky diving, it might be something your date has always wanted to try. Be sure to schedule some time to grab a stiff drink after your experience so you can talk about it! Chatting about it later might just be the part that helps bonds you two together.

Tattoos
While I wouldn’t recommend getting a tattoo just because your date wants you too, this could be a fun date if you both have been wanting to get one. Just don’t do something cute like get your date’s name tattooed on your arm!

Mountain Biking
This is something anyone can do depending on their level of fitness. Someone more experienced can take a fit guy or gal along and show them the ropes.

Go Cart Riding
Well I had to have something on this list that I might actually do! This is the kind of date that can give you a thrill and get the sparks flying, but is also one that basically any level of fitness or experience can try.

Skiing
If you’re both really ambitious, try downhill skiing and challenge yourself. In a warm climate? Try water skiing – then you can show off your bods while also getting in some exercise. For those that want the joy of being outdoors without being too much of a daredevil, try cross country skiing.

Believe it or not, one of the most common questions I get asked is for suggestions for a “Paris theme” date. Well, why not? Paris is definitely one of the most beautiful spots in the whole world, and certainly known for being the most romantic. But if you can’t afford to hop a plane and fly there today, don’t fret. Here are a few ideas to bring a little Paris romance into your world.

Find a French Bistro in Your Hometown
Once upon a time, you could only get that great French food in Paris. Not anymore. You can find a great French restaurant in nearly every major city. Do an Internet search for French restaurants, or ask around for suggestions. Trying different French restaurants in your town can be part of the fun. Make it a mission to find the best place that makes brunch, dinner, and dessert.

Have a French Themed Movie Night
Rent some fabulous and romantic French films, and settle in to watch two or three in a sitting. Films like Cyrano de Bergerac, Beauty and the Beast (La Belle et la Bête), and A Very Long Engagement.

Have a French Appetizer Night
Making food together can actually be a wonderfully romantic start to a date. Why not test out your hand at making great French appetizers? Or better yet, make only appetizers? That way you’ll get to sample lots of different flavors.

Rent a Paris Travel Video
Getting a feel for the City of Lights is easy with some of the awesome videos around these days.

Take a French Language Class Together
Part of what makes Paris so romantic is the language. So why not learn the language together? Take a class together so you’ll always have someone to practice with. French could become the secret language that the two of you share.

Celebrate St. Patty’s Day with these date ideas.

© Cherie Burbach

Who says Valentine’s Day is the most romantic of the year? St. Patrick’s Day is rich with tradition and a sense of lighthearted fun. It’s the perfect day to get to know someone new or just enjoy a cheerful night out with your partner. And don’t worry if you’re not Irish! Everyone can claim a little Irish heritage on March 17th.

If you need some ideas on how to make your celebration a special one, read on.

Pub Crawl

Many cities offer a “bar tour” of sorts, which extends from one end of town to the other. Pub crawls are designed to get you into a number of different bars so you’ll never be bored standing around in one place for very long. Check out the various St. Patty’s Day celebrations at each establishment, and make an effort to strike up a conversation with as many people as you can.

This type of activity usually involves built-in transportation in the form of a bus or limo, so take advantage of it. Arrange for a designated driver or someone who hasn’t imbibed to come pick you and your date up at the end the night.

Traditional Irish Dinner

Not one for the bars? You can enjoy the Irish spirit just as much at home with a traditional Irish meal. Nothing suits St. Patrick’s Day like homemade corned beef and cabbage. It’s tasty and easy to make. If you’re really daring, make a loaf of Irish soda bread to accompany the carrots, celery and potatoes.

Dinner Out at an Irish Pub

Nothing beats a night out with a pint and a great meal, and the best part is, a traditional Irish pub is no longer hard to find. Every major metropolitan area throughout the country now has at least one. Do a quick Internet search to find the restaurant closest to you. A pub is a great way to experience the St. Patrick’s Day vibe without getting caught up in the crowds. Just make sure to go early to avoid the peak celebratory time.

Irish Breakfast

If you’d like to make your date a homemade meal but you aren’t exactly a whiz in the kitchen, try an easy Irish breakfast. Simply fry up some eggs and open a can of corned beef hash. Cook on medium high and add salt and pepper. Serve with toast. For an added touch, get a shamrock cookie cutter to punch out the bread centers.

St. Patrick’s Day Gifts

Give your date a token to remember your St. Patrick’s Day date with a thoughtful Irish-inspired gift. Jewelry items, such as cufflinks or a necklace, are always appreciated. Remember to find something with Celtic knotting for a special Irish flare.

If you’re really stumped, just make sure your gift is a bright shade of green and it will still fit in well with the rest of your theme date. Items like horseshoes or bamboo also represent the luck of the Irish, and work well for use as a St. Patrick’s Day present. After all, they help remind your date how lucky he or she is to have you!

Need some date ideas that are also good for the environment? How about earth-friendly chocolate, an echo coffee meet up, or a movie night with a twist?

© Cherie Burbach

Celebrate your passion for the environment with your new-found love. Here are some date ideas that are fun, inexpensive, and kind to the earth.

Elegant Picnic Lunch

Forget plastic forks and plates! Pack a dressed-up picnic lunch with items you can wash and reuse. Choose your favorite china and silverware along with a beautiful tablecloth. Use the tablecloth as ground cover or for use on a picnic table. Wrap sandwiches in cloth napkins, then reuse as you eat. Bring salt and pepper shakers you can take back home and refill.

Get Creative With Candles

Save energy and set a romantic tone by turning off the lights and using candles instead. Plan your date for twilight time and watch how your voice and conversation suddenly becomes more whispered and intimate by candlelight.

Movie Night – With a Twist

Rent a movie and prepare a champagne brunch rather than dinner. For dessert, choose an art bar from Ithaca Fine Chocolates, which are organic and Fair Trade Certified. Get an added perk inside the wrapper with a mini art reproduction. Then, choose a romantic comedy and cuddle up for a happy ending.

Outdoor Play

Theater groups throughout the country offer outdoor performances of Shakespearean plays. Bring a blanket and watch the stars come out as you listen to the beautiful words of the world’s most famous playwright.

Walking Tour of Your Town

Save on gas and take in the beauty of existing architecture in your own city. While you walk, note those businesses that may need a reminder on how to improve their green quotient.

Bike

How about working up a sweat on your date? Choose an easy bike path where you and your date can peddle and take in some beautiful scenery. Remember to choose a spot where you can cool down afterward with some water and conversation.

Rummage Sales and Flea Markets

Print off a list of rummage sales in your area, then bike to the closest locations. Or, take the bus to the latest flea market. As an eco-conscious couple, you can share your ideas on how to reuse some of the items for sale. As a fun addition, purchase some fresh vegetables as a snack for your date.

Frisbee Golf

Even if you’re not into chasing a little white ball around, you can get some use from the local courses with a round of Frisbee golf. You’ll have plenty of conversation opportunities as you walk from hole to hole, while the gorgeous backdrop will allow any first date silences to feel just right.

If you’re into green living, why settle for a date that doesn’t support your eco-friendly approach? Even if your date isn’t as earth conscious as you are, showing him or her the best way to drink coffee or save on gas can inspire them to do the same. Better yet, perhaps your commitment to the environment will help spark passion between you and your new love.

Read more: Green Dating Sites

If you’re a pet lover and looking for the man or woman or your dreams, there are many date ideas that can include your dog.

© Cherie Burbach

Bringing pets along on the first date can be a fun way to get to know someone new. After all, if the conversation stalls for a bit, you always have your pet to focus on. If you’re feeling shy, your dog will help soothe your nerves and make you feel more at home. There’s just something about having a dog along to bring out the very best in you.

Here are a few date ideas that can include your dog.

Dog Park

Check your local park and recreation department for a list of dog parks in your area. Many places have designated spots especially for dogs and their owners to socialize. You and your date can stroll around while you watch your dogs run free. It’s also a great way to meet new people if you aren’t with a date.

Picnic

Pack a brown bag lunch or stop at a delicatessen for some homemade sandwiches. Choose a romantic spot complete with blanket, champagne, and dessert. Bring a long leash so your dog will have room to roam but you can still focus on your date. Incorporate the interaction you do with a dog to coincide with the usual first date conversation. See which of your dogs can do the most tricks or respond better when called. Don’t forget the doggie biscuits and treats.

Walk Through the Woods

Dogs are usually on their best behavior when they’ve had some exercise. So why not use that to your advantage? Rather than sitting with your date somewhere, make your outing an active one. Take a stroll with your dog through the woods or on a trail. Take in the beautiful scenery while you chat with your date. Your dog will have new smells to investigate and exercise to keep it calm.

Pet Store

Many pet shops, such as Petco, allow you to take your dog into the shop with you. Do some fun browsing for dog toys that both your date and pet will enjoy. Better yet, pick up a dog toy as a special gift for your date’s pet. Your date will appreciate the gesture.

Coffee Shop

Coffee shops are a great first date idea and many have tables outside where you can take your dogs. Several places will even provide water for your dog at no charge. Make sure your dog is completely socialized so you and your date can relax and enjoy your meeting.

Outdoor Cafes

Don’t skip lunch just because you’re with your dog! Many outdoor eateries allow you to bring your pet, as long as you keep it on a short leash right by your table. Make sure your dog is used to having people come and go in this type of setting, because you don’t want to irritate the other patrons with an out of control pooch. Enjoy the outdoor weather while you have a relaxing meal with your dog. Make sure to bring along doggie treats to keep your pet happy, too.

Bringing along your dog on a first or second date can help you relax and enjoy your time even more. It’s always best to ask your date if they like dogs or are allergic to them, because you wouldn’t want to offend your date upon the first meeting. If your date also has a dog, make it a “double doggie date” while you enjoy each other’s company and that of your pet.

Read more: Dating Sites for Pet Lovers

Meeting another couple for a night out can be a fun way to spend the evening. How does a carpet picnic for four sound? A game night? Or even a day trip?

© Cherie Burbach

Double dates are a great way for your friends to get to know your significant other. Rather than the typical dinner and a movie night, however, opt for something different. Perhaps the following ideas will help spur some ideas of your own.

Carpet Picnic

Who says a picnic needs to be for only two people? Change the atmosphere from romantic to fun by inviting a couple friends along. Bring a bottle (or two) of wine and some cheese and crackers. Have your friends bring an indulgent dessert, cloth napkins, and a large tablecloth you can use as a blanket.

If the weather won’t cooperate, settle in with your picnic supplies on a porch or living room floor. Then, cuddle up with your sweetie while you enjoy great conversation with your friends.

Game Nights

When is the last time you had a game night? New games for four people or more are being created all the time. Games are a fun and inexpensive way to spend an evening. You’re bound to have a nice time even if you play the same game all night. Who knows, perhaps you’ll find one that really connects the four of you and you’ll want to play on a regular basis.

Dinner and a Movie, With a Twist

Invite your friends over for a DVD night. Choose a movie with lots of great talking points to hold your interest. Instead of a full-blown dinner, opt for appetizers that relate to the movie. For instance, if you’re watching a scary movie create “Halloween” foods such as cheeseburger pie or pumpkin bars. For a French film choose Parisian-inspired appetizers. If food is part of a scene in the movie, make the very same recipe.

Trivia Night

Many bars and clubs offer a night to test your knowledge of pop culture, sports, or even history. Compete as one large team, or go head-to-head. You may even win prizes (or at least bragging rights.)

Day Trip

Who says a double date needs to be a night out? Choose a nearby town or attraction and spend the day instead. See the sites, shop for antiques, or have a terrific lunch in a new location.

Cheer on Your Local Sports Team

Professional hockey, basketball, baseball, and football teams are located throughout the country. Make it a foursome next time and invite your pals along. Better yet, support the up and coming players by checking out your local minor league team. They’ll appreciate your patronage and you will have a fun way to spend an evening.

Get Your Sweat On

Stay in shape while you catch up with friends. Opt for a racquetball or tennis match as your get-together event. Or perhaps a nice game of dodge ball to bring you back to your childhood years. Don’t forget a few rounds at the juice bar afterward so you can catch up and talk.

Double dates are a great way to spend a night out and yet still make time for your pals. You can maintain the bond you have with each other while still adding the variety that a great friend or two can offer. Remember, life is sweeter when you share it with friends.

New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest date nights of the year. Regardless if you’re single or attached, many people feel the pressure to make the night fun and special.

by Cherie Burbach

Many singles are stumped for an activity idea for New Year’s. Remember, what you do isn’t as important as who you are with for the night. It’s close friends and a great relationship that will mean the most at midnight.

However, if you are scratching your head for something different to do than the usual boring party or night out at a bar, here are a few suggestions to make your evening memorable.

Theme Movie Night

Who says you need to hang out at a bar on New Year’s Eve? Plan a quiet night with friends by hosting a theme movie party. Poll your friends to see what kind of “theme” they are interested in (scary movies, French titles, movies featuring a certain actor, etc.)

Then, build on that theme. If your choice is to watch scary movies, for example, serve Halloween-inspired foods. For French film viewing fill up with appetizers you’d find in Paris. For more ideas, find out which foods are in the movie (for example, jambalaya in Any Given Sunday) and serve those.

Costume Party

Who says Halloween is the only time to dress up? Make your New Year’s party extra fun by having attendees dress up in their all-time favorite costume. For extra incentive, center activities around the costumes. Suggest that people talk and act like the person or thing they are dressed like. Be sure to give out a prize for the best outfit.

Game Night

Games always help make a night fun, so why not pull out a few on New Year’s? If you have an even number, peruse some of the games available for couples. If not, games like Scattegories, Apples to Apples, and Charades will keep your guests entertained.

Pub Crawl

Bars go out of their way to make New Year’s Eve fun. But why spend an entire night at just one place? See if your city offers a pub crawl along with bus service. Hop on the bus and go from bar to bar all night. You’ll meet lots of people and never get bored! Be sure to call a cab for the ride home.

New Year’s in Another City

Think you’ve hit all the hot spots in your home town? Why not travel to another city for New Years instead? Spots like Chicago, New Orleans, and Las Vegas are always busy on the last day of the year. Best of all? Most of us have off of work on New Year’s Day, so you won’t need to use as much vacation time.

Vacation in Your Own Home

Can’t afford to travel? Bring your favorite destination home. Find decorations and food available specifically in your favorite spot. For example, if New Orleans is a favorite place to go, purchase a king cake and beads for the night. If you’re hankering for a sunny vacation on the beach, decorate with a tiki bar, pool furniture, and a sandbox (so you have something to sink your toes into). Serve “boat drinks” to set the tone.

New Year’s Eve is a night filled with high anticipation. No matter how you decide to spend the evening, be thankful for the year you’ve had, and look positively on the one to come. If you have a great relationship, give thanks. If not, take comfort in the fact that a great guy or girl is waiting out there somewhere to meet you.

Rather than the same old dinner and a movie date idea, next time choose a fitness date.

by Cherie Burbach

Activities that help increase your heart rate can help you bond with your date. Following are a few ideas that can help you break a sweat while still providing a fun way to spend time with your loved one.

Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is a great activity for couples who have gone out a few times, because it’s all about trust. When you have to work together to get a goal accomplished, you can’t argue and waste time. Sharing the rope (and climb to the top) makes you focus on the task at hand. At the end you might be inspired to feel a sense of camaraderie with your date.

Even if you haven’t rock climbed before, you can still spend a few hours learning how at your local gym or fitness center. This activity challenges your mind as well as your body.

Walking

Fitness doesn’t have to be about intensity all the time. Sometimes a nice stroll through the park or hiking trail will help keep you both in shape while sharing quality time together. Walking is a great way to engage in conversation, so it works well as a first date or for a couple that has been together a long time.

Bike Ride

Bike riding gives you a wide variety of choices for a date. If you’re in awesome shape and want to push yourself, opt for an intense ride that will give you and your date a great workout. If you are looking for some conversation and bonding time, choose a lower intensity ride in which you can chat with your date while still getting exercise. Bike riding accommodates varies fitness levels.

Golf

If you and your date both love to golf, there’s no better way to spend a few hours than on a course. Whether you choose to walk the entire course or use a cart, golfing provides beautiful scenery and plenty of time to chat and get to know each other. If you have to wait for other golfers ahead of you, use the time to bond with your date.

Not into doing nine or eighteen holes? Opt for some time out on the driving range instead. You will still get a sense of nature while practicing your swing. Besides, there’s something very alluring about watching someone hit a golf ball. Could it be the turn of the hips in the follow through?

Dancing

Want a fun activity that also gets you in great shape? How about a dance class? Sign up for a few sessions at your local dance center and your love life is bound to get a boost. The movement of your bodies while dancing to the music will inspire you to cherish the person you’re with. Dance classes are best suited for couples who have been together for a long time.

If, on the other hand, you and your partner are newly dating, hit one of the local dance clubs in your area. You’ll still get a great workout and can alternate between the upbeat tunes and those all-important slow numbers.

Breaking a sweat can be a good way to get rid of the tension of a first date, or it could add a little spice for a couple who has been together a long time. Regardless of which fitness-related date you try, make sure to allow time for rest and conversation afterward.

When money is tight, it means you have to be that much more creative to make February 14th special. How about lunch rather than dinner? Or a “partial” restaurant meal?

by Cherie Burbach

Want some inexpensive Valentine’s Day date ideas? Figure out what really matters to you and build your date around that. Instead of a full dinner, for example, modify it to fit your budget. Here are a few frugal date ideas to make your February 14th special.

Lunch instead of Dinner

You can still go out for a lovely meal on Valentine’s Day. Just make it earlier in the day. Even the best restaurants are less expensive when you go there for lunch rather than a full dinner.

Star Gaze

When was the last time you looked up to the skies for inspiration? Check out a book on astronomy from the library and see how many constellations you can identify. Bring hot chocolate and a blanket to make your star-gazing experience even more romantic.

Ice Skating

Even if you live in a warm part of the country, there are plenty of places for indoor skating. If you live where it’s cold this time of year? Even better. Work up an appetitive with a few laps on the ice and then sit down with a thermos full of soup for a light dinner after.

Scavenger Hunt Date

Create a list of places and unique things that you and your partner can search for under the guise of a scavenger hunt. Be creative in the things you need to find. For example a “moon” could be a heavenly body or something a bit more risqué! Remember to take your camera so you can document your night in a scrapbook later.

Home Dates

There’s no shame in staying at home on Valentine’s Day. Rent a favorite romantic movie and brainstorm as a couple to plan the meal. Be sure to prepare the meal together rather than just having one person do all the work. Eat at a beautifully decorated table by candlelight. Then snuggle up with a blanket and watch your flick.

Thrift Shop or Dollar Store

Who says shopping can’t be a fun date? Have you seen some of the goods you can find in your local thrift shop? You’re bound to find a few things to remind you of your childhood. What better way to get closer to your mate than by having him or her open up about their life?

Walking Tour

If you and your partner are history buffs, take a walking tour of your town. Many convention or visitors centers will even plan a “romantic-themed” route, which highlights marriages, couples, sex, and romance of famous folks in your local town.

Museum

Some museums plan special exhibits geared toward the romance of Valentine’s Day. Check your local museum to see if they have such a showing, or do some research yourself. Find out information on the paintings or exhibits in your area museum and create your own February 14th-themed tour.

Take a Restaurant Home

Often times the most expensive parts of a meal out are the drinks and appetizers. Instead of eating an entire meal out, order the main entree alone as takeout. Many restaurants will pack up an entree and sides to go. Then, crack open a bottle of wine at home and enjoy your favorite restaurant meal – with a frugal twist.

Remember that it’s the time you spend together that makes for the best date. Don’t worry about spending a fortune just because the calendar says it’s February 14th. Take a moment to tell your partner how you really feel about him or her, and enjoy your night together.

Not into crowds and socializing? You can still get to know your date with a fun activity you’ll both enjoy.

© Cherie Burbach

When you’re the shy type you’ve still got to make conversation in order to get to know your date. While many introverts meet online, resist the urge to hide behind email. Your comfort level may be with the written word, but in order to truly connect you’ve got to do it face to face.

Here are a few date ideas for the first few outings.

Coffee For the First Date
The coffee shop is best friend of the introvert. If you’re meeting your date for the first time, choose a coffee shop with lots of traffic, yet a quiet comfortable spot for the two of you to talk. The abundance of people coming in and out of the shop will allow you to blend in while you wait for your date. A quiet corner will give you the space to converse with ease.

Literary Event
Indulge your love of literature with an author appearance, poetry reading, or lecture. The key to finding the right date activity is to choose something you both enjoy. So if you happen to enjoy literature, feel free to partake in an activity that will please your mind and intelligence. However, remember to allow time for conversation afterward.

Movie
Contrary to traditional advice, movies can be great dates for introverts. The key is to choose a flick with enough material to converse about afterward. Make sure you plan something after the movie so you can get to know your date a bit. A drink at a local bar or even a cup of coffee works just fine after a movie.

Dinner at a Small, Quiet Location
When you’re the shy type, finding the right activity to match your comfort level can be challenging. But a quiet dinner at a favorite spot could be just the ticket. Choose a place you’ve been before and one where you are comfortable. Arrange to meet at the restaurant separately and agree to leave directly after your date. That way you won’t have to worry about going out of your comfort zone for any post-dinner activities.

Walk in the Park
Introverts love to exercise alone. So why not take your favorite physical activity and incorporate it into your date? If your love interest is as into exercise as you are, ask him or her to join you on a jog, bike ride, or run.

Make a plan to exercise for a much shorter distance than you’d normally go. After all, you’re there to get to know your date and enjoy an afternoon together, not qualify for a marathon. Choose a park bench or other nearby place to grab an ice cream or juice while you chat after your workout.

Dating doesn’t have to be difficult for the introvert. Keep your initial dates short to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and don’t be afraid to try something new. If your date is worth your time he or she will take things at the pace you need in order to get to know each other. Most of all, stay true to who you are and don’t try to change your personality.