I recently returned from a two-week vacation near the famous Music City, USA with my beautiful wife, who is a true GRITS (Girls Raised In The South). My experiences as a (gasp!) homosexual in the Bible Belt are the subject of next week’s post, but if you’re looking for fun in the sun and humidity, Nashville and the surrounding area offers tons of fun and quirky attractions and experiences for a memorable first, second, or thirty-seventh date.

It’s All Greek To Me

Not fans of country music? Into history? Luckily, Nashville has some! Actually, it has quite a lot. Fort Nashborough is on the banks of the Cumberland for a quick self-guided tour through the past, but one of Nashville’s most impressive landmarks is its Parthenon. The only full-scale replica of Greece’s Parthenon in the world sits in the middle of a sprawling public park. Originally built for the 1897 World’s Fair, back when Nashville was considered the Athens of the South, the Parthenon is accurate from the colossal gold-leafed statue of Athena down to the gryphons on the roof and the mosaics on the ceiling.

If that’s not cool enough (it’s pretty cool), the Parthenon and its surrounding park plays home to events like Shakespeare in the Park, concerts, and the occasional movie projected onto the side of the building itself. Bring a blanket and some popcorn and get ready to cuddle.

The Nashville area is steeped in Revolutionary and Civil War history. You don’t have to look far for reenactments, museums, restored homes, and other pieces of living history. If you’re willing to range, I recommend a daytrip up to nearby Franklin, KY to visit Octagon Hall, one of the only remaining octagonal houses in the country and slowly being restored to its Civil War glory. With plenty of mom-and-pop restaurants and beautiful old parks and buildings, Franklin can be an ideal date day.

But you are in Music City, USA, so there’s lots of shows and cowboy boots to be had . . .

The Grandest Showboat Afloat

If you’re looking for some of the best musical entertainment in the city, a unique piece of history, some gorgeous sight-seeing, and a delicious meal, take a cruise on the General Jackson, billed as the Grandest Showboat Afloat. A three-hundred-foot-long replica of the old steamships that used to trawl the rivers of the south, the General Jackson is still powered entirely by the huge paddle wheels of the classic riverboats. Starting on the outskirts of Nashville by the now-defunct Opryland, the cruise takes you up the Cumberland River for a while before turning and heading south again into the heart of Nashville. Between dinner and dessert, you can get a view of downtown Nashville and the skyline that is entirely unique. Usually they offer a couple different shows for different tastes, but I would recommend seeing the musical  acts. They don’t shirk on the talent, and the gorgeous theatre has all the bells and whistles. Also, spend the extra $5 to take a tour of the pilot house before the show. Not only do you get to board the boat early and a discount at the gift shop, you get a lesson in the mechanics of the boat, the history of riverboats, and some stories about life afloat.

Just want the romantic cruise? Try the Music City Queen, a much, much smaller steamboat that does tours up and down the river without dinner and a show.

Following the devastating flooding of the Cumberland two years ago, the sprawling Opry Mills shopping complex has sat empty, waiting for repairs. It is slated to reopen late next year, but in the meantime check out the Opryland Hotel next door. Even though the first and second floors were almost entirely underwater two years ago, they have rebuilt the hotel back to its former glories. Take a slow romantic stroll through the indoor jungles of the stunning atriums, grab a bite to eat, or take a gondola tour. Yes, a gondola tour. Inside the hotel. Or, if you’re as lucky as I was, you’ll catch the official annual Nashville Star Trek Convention.

Just Some Good Ol’ Boys

And across from the Opryland Hotel, if you’re looking for a fun trip down memory lane is a very unique (and free to the public) museum:Cooter’s Place. Headquarters for “all things Hazzard”, you can stroll down the lovingly collected and preserved memorabilia and merchandise of Dukes past, everything from General Lee-shaped soap to record players to toy guitars to tents to Underoos. They have four of the original cars from the series on display, and for $10 you can sit in all of them while your date takes your picture. You aren’t allowed to slide into the General through the window, though. I asked.

If you’re still in the mood for some Nashville-flavoured cheese after a wander through Hazzard County, right next door is Willie Nelson and Friends General Store and Museum. For a small fee, you can take a peek into Willie’s personal collection of country music nostalgia.

Wastin’ Away Again

Nashville’s historic Broadway Street slopes down to the waterfront and is lined with bars, saloons, and hooscows of all size and description, including Jimmy Buffet’s infamous Margaritaville. There’s karaoke at Wanna B’s, drinks at Dick’s Last Resort, and memorabilia aplenty at the Hard Rock café. And if you wander down to the waterside around nine in the evening, you might be able to catch the General Jackson on her trip downriver.

Live from the Grand Ole Opry!

Last but not least, there is always the Opry. In the 1930s, the local classical radio began following up the grand old operas of Europe with the segment they called the Grand Ole Opry. Since then, it has grown into a cultural juggernaut that has launched the careers of a thousand voices. And it’s still being recorded three times a week at the Ole Opry House, which has also been rebuilt and renovated since the destructive flood. Tickets range from thirty to fifty dollars for a show, and everyone from Rascal Flatts to Alan Jackson to the Oak Ridge Boys to Kristin Chenoweth perform. You can check their site for the full schedule.

Great Dates in 50 States: New York, NY

by Christy Purington, CliqueinNYC.com

New York City is an intense place. Some days, it beats you down with incessant traffic, sludgy sidewalks and rude residents. But it’s the days in early spring, when the sun is shining, that you look up to see these magnificent, towering buildings and silently smile to yourself, I actually live here. The city only gets better when you have someone to share it with; someone to laugh at your nutty cab driver or indulge in the many enticing eats found around town. These are some favorites.

Flex Mussels

This place specializes in—you guessed it—mussels. The eatery offers up a bunch of different tastes, all centered around the delectable shellfish. From Thai to Mexican to the traditional white wine/herb/garlic classic, the resto just does not get it wrong. Be sure to order up a side of frites—perfectly fried to a crisp—to nosh on alongside your seafood feast. The décor is laid-back chic, making it feel like a date spot without being overly stuffy. Better yet: there are locations both in the West Village and the Upper East Side, convenient no matter where your abode lies. (http://www.flexmusselsny.com/)

Subway Ride Past the Old City Hall Station

This is a little-known secret nestled in New York: If you hop on the 6 train heading downtown, you’ll be prompted to evacuate the train at the Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall stop. BUT! If you stay on the train (don’t worry, no one will kick you off), it does a quick turn around, passing the old City Hall station. You have to pay attention or you’ll miss it, but it’s really neat to see—well preserved and intricately detailed; a little trip to yesteryear.  Snag some French fries at Pomme Frites near Astor Place before you go; that way you can nosh while you ride. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/City_Hall_%28IRT_Lexington_Avenue_Line%29)

Bohemian Beer Garden in Astoria

Now that the summer is here, this is a great spot to hang out in the sunshine. There are dozens of picnic tables and plenty of beers on tap; you could literally spend all day here if you wanted to. On weekends, they often have live music—sometimes of the apropos German variety!—which offers a kick-back ambiance while you chug your Hefeweizen. Once you’ve downed a couple of pints, grab a bite at one of the many Greek restaurants that Astoria is famous for. You’re guaranteed to find hummus unlike any you’ve tried before. (http://www.bohemianhall.com/en/Index.php)

Stone Street

Take a walk along the West Side highway—a gorgeous path runs all the way down that side of Manhattan—until you hit the marina. After ogling the many yachts that are docked here, stroll just a few blocks east to Stone Street. Partake in some awesome people watching as you sip cocktails at the tables that line the cobblestone drive. The best part is, all of the restaurants that line the street serve here, so you can have your pick of cuisine. Afterwards, wander over to Wall Street and snap a photo of your date next to the iconic bull outside of the New York Stock Exchange. That is definitely a Kodak moment! (http://www.yelp.com/biz/stone-street-tavern-new-york)

Governor’s Island

Spend a day on this kitschy island—the other island, as it were—where you’ll feel miles away from the city. The free ferry departs from the Financial District, and takes you directly over to this outdoor wonderland. The expansive land offers up various art exhibits, silly shenanigans from Big Apple Circus, and—get this!—free bikes to rent on Fridays. Be sure to get there early to snag a couple, and tote along a picnic to enjoy on the plush grass once your tootsies tire of pedaling. Note that Governor’s Island is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays; this season opens on May 27^th. (http://www.govisland.com)

Christy Purington (@cpurington) is one of the co-founders of Clique, a dating site that connects friends of friends. It’s like meeting people at a party, brought online.

Not looking? Join as a wingman and set your single friends up. Clique is in a free beta, so sign up now! You can also follow Clique on Facebook, Twitter (@cliqueinnyc), or on their blog.

When people think of Ohio, it’s generally with a dismissal of “Flyover Country,” or perhaps thoughts of the Drew Carey show. If they get past that to think of Columbus, the next image that usually comes to mind is a horde of scarlet and grey clad OSU football fans, and that’s usually where people run out of gas. It’s a shame, but on the other hand, it also means that we get to keep some of the really good stuff to ourselves.

Because of Columbus’ status as a crossroads city, the state capital, and one of the fastest growing cities in the state, it’s almost easier to list what isn’t there than to list all of the different ways you can have fun here, but hopefully this will give you some ideas, and a chance to unlock more secrets on your own!

COSI – The Central Ohio Museum Of Science And Industry

The Central Ohio Museum Of Science And Industry, or COSI for short, is a fantastic geeky playground. Though part of the museum is kid and family oriented, many of the hands on science exhibits and demonstrations are just as interesting and engrossing for adults as well. In addition to dedicated exhibits on robotics, physics, space exploration, marine life, and gadgetry, the museum also hosts traveling exhibits such as The Science of Star Wars. COSI has also recently opened a new featured area called Adventure! –a 10,000 square foot exhibit that requires you (and your date!) to solve puzzles, hunt for clues, and navigate mazes as part of a quest for knowledge.

COSI

The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

In the mood to get in touch with your wild side? Or just looking for a nice way to get outside? The Zoo is a great way to spend an afternoon – or two – out. With exhibits featuring wildlife from all over the world, ask your date about their favorite bird, animal, or fish – you’ll probably be able to find it! In addition to the traditional attractions, the zoo also features a water park, Zoombezi Bay, that you can purchase admission for during the Spring and Summer. The rest of the zoo is open year round, and even features special events during the holiday season.

The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

Jeni’s Ice Cream

Either as the finish to a nice evening together, or a great place to start, you can’t beat Jeni’s. A Columbus institution that has grown by leaps and bounds over the last few years, Jeni’s ice cream features unique flavors with locally grown and specially sourced ingredients in unique combinations like goat cheese with tart cherries, apple butter, cherry limbic, salty caramel, and queen city cayenne. You can go for a cup, cone, or flavorful sundaes, and it never hurts to try a few different things so you have an excuse to share.

Jeni’s Ice Cream

Get Creative!

How about a date where you each get to take something unique home with you? Columbus features quite a few opportunities for fun and entertaining “maker dates”, ranging from creating a set of uniquely scented candles at The Candle Lab to laying down a batch of your own hand made wine at Camelot Cellars. If you’re in the mood to collaborate on another type of art project, Wild Goose Creative offers open creative space for local artists of all stripes, and features regular events that are easy to plan a date around.

On Stage

Columbus features many excellent live performance groups, from the more traditional Columbus Symphony Orchestra to the avant-garde Available Light Theatre. For more lighthearted fare, try MadLab, or the Shadowbox Cabaret for an entertaining time out.

Great Eats

Columbus is a town that loves to eat, and there are an incredible amount of opportunities for a first date, romantic rendezvous, or a truly special occasion. For those looking for a bit of everything, the North Market downtown provides a wide selection of local food and ethnic cuisine at a low price, plus the second level dining area gives you a chance to relax and talk as you enjoy some people-watching. If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, restaurants like Skillet and Barcelona offer a fantastic intimate dining experience. Last but not least, if you’re in the mood for an adventure, check out the fantastic trio of local food blogs Alt.Eats.Columbus, Street Eats Columbus, and Taco Trucks Columbus for some fantastic “off the beaten path” ideas…or grab a pair of tickets on a Columbus Food Adventures tour to treat yourselves to an immersive experience!

The Book Loft

Bookstores can be a great place to wander through, particularly as a break between grabbing a bit to eat and some coffee or a cocktail later on. That gets even better when you’re looking at a bookstore the size of a city block! Featuring a unique and cozy atmosphere, The Book Loft is in the heart of the historic German Village downtown, and features 32 unique rooms with all the books your heart desires – the only danger about going here for a date is that the two of you may not want to leave!

The Book Loft

The Arena District

Home to the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets, the Arena District was built around Nationwide Arena from the land that formerly housed the Ohio State Penitentiary. Home to restaurants, bars, and clubs, and all within easy walking distance of the arena and downtown, the AD is one of the better entertainment hotspots in the city, regardless of if the Blue Jackets are playing that day.

Con Season

Who doesn’t enjoy a good con? Thanks to the Greater Columbus Convention Center, the city draws some of the premier geek events, including MarCon in the spring, Origins Game Fair in the summer, and the Mid-Ohio Comic Con in the fall. Cosplayer, steampunk enthusiast, filker, board gamer, role player, comic collector, or just generally in the mood to relax and be yourselves in a crowd of likeminded geeks? Just keep an eye on your calendars!

The Gallery Hop

Want to show your date a little of everything? Gallery Hop is the way to go. The first Saturday of each month, rain or shine, Columbus’ Short North turns itself into a giant art show and party, featuring live performances, local art exhibitions, and lots of opportunities to enjoy a drink, grab a small bite, and talk before walking to another gallery, shop, or restaurant, and repeating the process.

Gallery Hop

Matt Wagner is a guy who spent the first 18 years of his life desperately trying to leave Ohio, and the next five years realizing he desperately wanted to go back.  IT guy by day and a foodie, gamer, and hockey nut by night, he can be found on twitter @BZArcher, or blogging about the Blue Jackets at The Cannon. He’d also politely note that as he is currently single, he’d love to show someone a few of these spots personally…along with a few others that he’s keeping up his sleeve.

Beautiful and Marvelous: The Gateway Arch

Otherwise known as the “Gateway to the West,” the arch is something everyone should see if they ever get the opportunity. Visit the museum, take a ride to the top to see the amazing view with your date and share a lasting memory. Apart from the spectacular view of the city, try to see if you can spot Chicago!

707 North First Street, St Louis, MO 63102-2526
Contact: 877.982.1410 or www.gatewayarch.com

Fun-Filled Frills: The Magic House

Yes, it is a children’s attraction but you don’t have to be a child to enjoy it.  There is something simple and fun about magic, even if explainable, that brings a flutter to our hearts as we allow our inner child to be entertained.

Take your date and bedazzle them with a few magic tricks.

What’s up your sleeve?

516 South Kirkwood Road, St Louis, MO 63122-5926
Contact: 314.822.8900 or www.magichouse.org

A Day Adventure: St Louis Zoo

The largest zoo in the United States and home to some of the most exotic pets, the St Louis Zoo is a day of fun and excitement for anyone. See the beautiful snow leopards perched up on a branch up high or the world’s largest anaconda in the Reptile House and so many more awesome creatures. Did I forget to mention that all this comes absolutely FREE?! You couldn’t ask for a better date idea than this!

1 Government Drive, St Louis, MO 63110-1332
Contact: 314-789-0900 or www.stlzoo.org

Follow-Up Science: Science Center

Make it two dates in one by going across the street to the St Louis Science Center after a morning of fun at the zoo and get yet another several hours of free fun. It’s not just your run of the mill science center, it’s one of the best in the nation.

Learn something together with your date and see the sparks begin to fly.

5050 Oakland Avenue, St Louis, MO 63110-1404
Contact: 314.289.4400 or www.slsc.org

Have A Drink: Anheuser-Busch Brewery

For the beer connoisseurs out there or just about anyone who likes to see how things are made, plan a trip to the beautiful Anheuser-Busch Brewery and take a tour of their wonderful facilities. You’ll get to see their brewery in process, the bottling of all those delicious beers and even get up close and personal with some of the most beautiful Clydesdales you’ll ever set eyes on! Afterwards, sit and enjoy a drink with your date as you regale over your favorite parts of the tour.

12th Street and Lynch Street, St Louis, MO 63118
Contact: 314.577.2626 or http://www.budweisertours.com/

To Be Continued…

There are just so many wonderful things to do in beautiful St Louis, Missouri, I don’t feel I can truly do it justice in one post! So check back later for the next edition of Great Dates in 50 States: St Louis, Missouri. In the meantime, plan your date today and get ready to have a great time with your special someone.

Everyone knows that New York is one of the most vibrant cities in the world but it’s also among the most romantic if you know where to go. Whether you are an occasional visitor or a seasoned local who just wants to mix up your dating destinations, then New York has lots of gems waiting to be discovered. Whatever your budget, tastes and personality there is something for every date from the utterly romantic to an action packed afternoon.

Carriage Ride in Central Park

A visit to Central Park may be an classic tourist cliche, but taking a horse-drawn carriage ride around the park is a truly romantic way to take in the sights while keeping things nice and relaxed so it has to be on this list. Many of the rides allow for views of the carousel, sheep meadow and pond. A standard 20 minute ride will cost on average $50. For romantic guys looking for proposal ideas, a 40 minute engagement ride is also available. Make sure you talk to the driver beforehand who will set the standard extra high to make the big moment even more magical. Check out romantic carriage rides.

Forbes Galleries

If you are big kids at heart then visit the toy collection at the Forbes Galleries. From the very first editions of the Monopoly board game to an exhibition of nearly 500 toy boats there is plenty to see. Best of all, admission to the gallery is totally free so you can save your pennies for dinner and drinks afterwards.  Play at Forbes Galleries.

Trapeze School New York

The Trapeze School New York runs a range of workshops and classes for total beginners who wish to try their hand at this circus favorite. Situated within Hudson River Park, take in the sites of the Statue of Liberty while soaring through the air. Even if your date has lacked passion up til now this is sure fire way to get the pulse racing. Classes are run by expert instructors and feature the latest safety equipment. You could expect to swing 23 feet above ground during your class so not for the faint of heart. Swing over to Trapeze School.

Coney Island

If you want to escape the designer stores and upmarket restaurants for some amusement rides and carnival fun, Coney Island is the place to go. With more than 50 independent rides and attractions Coney is approximately 45 minutes from mid-town Manhattan. If you are heading to the Island on a Friday evening make sure you visit the beach to watch the regular firework display that takes place at 9.30pm during high season. Hot dog, anyone?

Kung Fu in Chinatown

If you prefer fun and action to romantic walks and eye-gazing marathons, try taking a kung fu lesson in Chinatown to recreate some of the moves you have seen in the movies. The classes are open to everyone from total beginners to advanced and there are often free introductory lessons available. Taking a class together is a fun ice-breaker and will give you something to talk about after the session. Just be careful though, nothing will kill the passion like a misplaced kung fu chop to your partner’s tender flesh! Click if you love Kung Fu.

Helicopter Ride

For an extravagant date, take a helicopter ride for breathtaking views of the Big Apple. Your flight will take you over some of New York’s most impressive landmarks including The Empire State Building, Hudson River, St. John the Devine Cathedral and the Washington Bridge. Expect to pay around $215 per person for a 20 minute flight.  Get to the (Liberty) chopper!

Oliver Jameson is the founder of the free dating website Cougared.com – where sassy older women who are proud to call themselves cougars meet younger guys.

So when you’re a geek in the heart of Atlantic Canada, what are you going to do on a date that’s a little bit more original than walking up and down Barrington Street? Well, this largely depends on your individual brand of geekiness, for a start, and on the season! As you probably know, an outdoor date might not go over so well in February if your date is more of the console gaming type.

Here are a few ideas that should carry you through any season!

1. Laugh the night away at a comedy club

There are a few great comedy clubs in downtown Halifax – try Joker’s or Yuk Yuk’s for some comedy that won’t disappoint. This can give you an astounding insight into your date, as the comedy we find funniest tends to reflect our personality. What’s more, if your date likes very crude jokes but you like sophisticated jokes that are difficult for anyone who doesn’t have a degree to understand, you’re not likely to last too long. There will just be awkward pauses all the time, and you’ll frustrate yourselves and each other. Do this crucial bit of recon into your date’s personality early on and make sure you click while having fun all night!

2. Explore the waterfront… by canoe!

Nope, this isn’t the usual advice to head to the boardwalk and explore, take pictures by Theodore Tugboat, and get ice cream at COWS, though that can be fun. If you’re looking for something different than the usual waterfront walk, you can even canoe along the Northwest Arm, thanks to the St. Mary’s boat club on Fairfield Road (off Jubilee in the South End). Assuming you can both swim, this could be a blast! At $8 an hour for a weekend rental, it’s cheaper than any dinner date, but it’s only available until late September, naturally.

3. Go to the farmer’s market together

It seems cliche by now, since you’re probably used to meeting up with friends there, but thanks to the recent addition of the second farmer’s market location, the crowds are much more reasonable. There are fewer stalls at the old Brewery location on Lower Water Street, but the rest are still kicking – just visit Pier 21 to find them. Delicious food from many ethnic backgrounds, handmade crafts, and hey – you can get your grocery shopping done together. For bonus points, plan out and cook a meal together if you’re going on a second or third date – buy the veggies from the farmer’s market, head to one of your places, cook, and enjoy!

4. Board games at the Paper Chase

You might have seen or visited the Paper Chase cafe on Blowers Street before – it’s a cozy spot for dates, with enough privacy to let you spill your life story and enough visibility that you can see the servers approaching with your hot chocolate or snack. The food is good, the drinks are better, and there are board games on shelves tucked in the back corner near the computer, so if your date is a geeky type, the two of you can enjoy a little friendly rivalry. Afterwards, walk to Strange Adventures on Sackville for some geeky comic indulgence together.

5. A food adventure in downtown Halifax

One of the advantages of living in the largest Atlantic Canadian city is the great variety of cuisine available here. If you and your date share a love of restaurants and eating out, meet up on a Friday or Saturday and go for a day-long food adventure. Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner – restaurants exist to cater to just about every taste. For something traditional, try the Fireside for dinner; if you’d rather explore a little, try Indochine Banh Mi for Vietnamese cuisine and bubble tea as a late afternoon snack. Pick up fries from street vendors or get donairs at one of the famous donair shops that dot Halifax. There’s a lot to eat, so you’ll never get bored!

You, too, can avail of the plentiful interesting date locations and get out of the standard “Second Cup for coffee and a chat” rut. These are just a few ideas for the geek who happens to find himself (or herself) in downtown Halifax and searching for geeky Halifax date ideas… explore more on your own and have fun!

What unique and interesting date locations have you stumbled upon while wandering throughout Halifax? There’s definitely a South End bias here, because I don’t know much about the North End… where are the best spots to hang out there? Share your thoughts and experiences here to help your fellow Halifax geeks out!

Portland is The City of Roses, but its true beauty comes from the wonderful people you can meet here. Portland is full of charming, artistic people, and is a great place to find romance. I have lived here most of my life and I never get tired of taking my sweetheart out to explore our great city. Simply stroll along our waterfront at sunset for an unforgettable experience with someone special.

1st Thursday 1st Thursday is the monthly free art walk through the galleries of the Pearl District. This event happens on the 1st Thursday of every month, and is the perfect activity for a first date. You can stroll through the Pearl popping into galleries for a look at their current show, and indulge in some cheese or wine that’s being offered. This is an especially great date for the summer since the warmer weather brings more independent artists to the sidewalks. A great way to get to know someone; I met my future husband at 1st Thursday and the art was a great conversation starter. Check out their website for a complete listing of galleries.

Marrakesh For a truly sensual evening step into another world at Marrakesh on NW 21st and Northrup. Inside you will be transported to Morocco and be prepared to have all of your senses delighted. The food is unique bringing exotic flavors to your palette and tantalizing aromas to your nose. As you sit on cushions dining at their low tables you will hear the music of the region and if you’re lucky enough to visit from Wednesday to Sunday you will be delighted by the belly dancers. An absolutely memorable experience. Check out their website here.

Montage & Guardian Games If you want at great geeky date try starting at Montage, under the Morrison Bridge on 3rd in SE Portland’s Industrial area. This is a great fun place to share a meal whether you’re looking for some great macaroni and cheese or jambalaya. You can dine early or late at Montage and when you’re done you may want to get in on some of the fun at Guardian Games. Just 5 blocks North at 3rd and Pine you will find a true geeks paradise. They have a huge gaming space where you can play RPGs, Magic the Gathering, or WoW. Check out their calendar of events here. Of course you might just be in the market for the perfect set of dice for your sweetheart; you’ll find anything you need to satisfy your inner geek.

Rimsky Korsakoffeehouse Rimsky’s is the epitome of Portland’s unique eateries and coffee houses. This is an excellent place to go for coffee and desert. Located on 12th just past Morrison in SE Portland, 707 SE 12th Ave, you will find a large red craftsman house with a promise of fun just through the door. On the weekends you will find the coffee house full of the sounds of live piano or violin and a funky atmosphere that you have to experience for yourself. You will want to return again and again to try finding the best seat in the house, but be forewarned not every table in the house is just a table (some of them move). When I go to Rimsky’s I am always delighted by Charlotte Perkins Gillman peeking her head out of the yellow wallpaper and I always order the Raspberry Fool. They really do have some of the best treats in town. Check out their blog to see what’s new.

Andina Portland has a variety of international flavors and Andina brings the flavors of Peru to the Northwest. Located in The Pearl at 1314 NW Glisan it has an extensive menu of tapas that you can share, and a dinner menu with Peruvian inspired dishes. The restaurant usually has live jazzy music and wonderful service. They even offer private dining for larger groups. The atmosphere is warm and glowing with soft light. There are so many choices on their menu that, like me, you will want to return again and again to this classy restaurant to try all they have to offer. Check out their website here.

Historic Columbia River HWY If you’re seeking a little adventure and scenic beauty take a leisurely drive on the Historic Columbia HWY. To plan the trip that’s just right for you go to their website. I recommend accessing the highway in Corbett, OR by taking exit 22 off of I-84. You can stop at the Crown Point Vista House to take in the view and then make your way East stopping at the waterfalls along the way. Of course one of the highlights is Multnomah Falls which is the 2nd tallest waterfall in the US. If you want more than scenery I recommend any of the trails that can be found at the individual falls there are several wonderful hikes that will give you new views of the falls. For a great adventure and a little romance I recommend Horsetail and Ponytail Falls. Ponytail falls is unique because the trail cuts behind the waterfall. It’s a refreshing way to stay cool on a hot day.

Kelly Burbidge is a local Portland artist and teacher. You can see her mosaics at Triskel Studios and can follow her on twitter. When she has the opportunity she teaches art classes or works on improving her skills as a photographer.

Washington DC is known for many things (fat cats, legislation and bad traffic come to mind) but romance is not really one of them. However, there are lot of fun and unique things to do in the DC area that are interesting, fun and yes- romantic!

AFI Theater The American Film Institute Theater and Cultural Center is actually in Silver Spring, Maryland, but metro accessible via the red line. In addition to quality new releases they show a variety of older movies and host multiple film festivals during the year. Instead of catching the latest lame Tom Cruise thriller take your date to see something different like a selection from Noir City DC: The 2009 Film Noir Festival or a screening of Office Space (with guest appearances by Milton and Lumbergh), two recent possibilities.

Eastern Market A Saturday and Sunday Morning favorite, Eastern Market is a perfect low-key day date. Grab a crepe or some fresh cider from one of the vendors and wander the crafts, antiques and fresh produce. It’s easy to spend several hours soaking up the culture and ambiance of the vibrant Capitol Hill neighborhood. When you get bored you can slip into Capital Hill Used Books, one of the very best used bookstores in the city.

National Arboretum The Arboretum calls itself “a living museum where trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants are cultivated for scientific and educational purposes.” What this means for you is a huge, free, absolutely beautiful park to take a date for a picnic or an afternoon of wandering. Come in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom for a vivid escape from the city.

Nighttime Monument Walk Of course since you are in DC it never hurts to take advantage of the brilliant landmarks which dot downtown. Better to go in the evening when the tourists disappear and the ivory monuments are beautifully lit up. My personal favorite is the Jefferson Memorial. Sit down by the tidal basin on a steamy summer night for some iconic magic.

Politics & Prose If you are of the persuasion of someone who finds bookstores terribly fascinating and romantic, this is the date spot for you. Politics & Prose is one of the few unique independent bookstores in the area. They have a great book solution and host a different author every night of the week. If you get tired of browsing you can retire to the adjoining coffee shop.

Kennedy Center Millennium Stage Want to impress your date with a night at the Kennedy Center but can’t afford a fancy show? Every day at 6 you can see a different band perform for free on the Millennium Stage. Performances vary wildly- from big band to folk to children’s youth choirs. Check the website to see who is on soon.

Stephanie Yoder runs Twenty-Something Travel, a travel blog dedicated to assisting new or young travelers with the skills, resources and opportunities available to them for travel abroad. When not traveling the world she lives in Washington DC.

Here are a few of my favorite date nights in Kansas City, Missouri:

Romantic Date

A little hidden gem in Kansas City is known as Pot Pie, (www.kcpotpie.com). This restaurant has amazing character, is subtly intimate and offers delectable dishes. The menu is written on a chalkboard in the back of the restaurant. In addition to their signature pot pies, the restaurant offers meat and fish specials and a nicely priced wine list. Finish the night at Boozefish wine bar (www.boozefish.com). Only a few blocks away from Pot Pie, Boozefish has a great atmosphere for conversation and cuddling up with your special someone!

A Date of Culinary Delights

If you are feeling a little adventurous, start the night at Manifesto, a self-styled speakeasy in the Crossroads Arts District. The underground lounge features cocktails such as “The Tempest” and “Rose Rouge,” sure to set the mood. Within walking distance is Chef Michael Smith’s Extra Virgin, (www.extravirginkc.com). The extensive menu of innovative, yet simple Mediterranean tapas taste fabulous and are a great conversation piece. If available, sit outside on the beautiful patio and sip champagne or one of their signature cocktails.

A Jazzy Date

A trip to Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza can make for the start to a special evening. Stroll through the plaza and admire the beautiful scenery and shops.

Have dinner at Café Trio’s, (www.cafetriokc.com) new location just off the Plaza. After dinner, make your way to Jardine’s, (www.jardines4jazz.com) for live Jazz and a spectacular wine list. Jardine’s has performances every Friday and Saturday night.

A Day at the City Market

A less traditional but still exceptional date would be a day at the City Market, (www.thecitymarket.org). The City Market is open from 6:00am-3:00pm on Saturday and from 8:00am-3:00pm on Sunday. We suggest starting the morning with one of Lollicups’s (www.lollicup.com) 170 unique drinks including flavored teas, coffee and blended beverages. Take a stroll through the market and enjoy the wonderful aromas of fresh vegetables, fruits and spices. On most weekends there are a variety of festivals and activities to choose from. Walk through the cute boutique shops and enjoy the live entertainment sprinkled throughout.

An Extravagant Date

The husband and wife team of Megan and Colby Garrelts, regularly cook up a culinary masterpiece at Bluestem (www.bluestemkc.com).  Click the link to see the beautiful pictures of the menu items – the thumbnail on the left is just a teaser!

We suggest the cocktail lounge as the perfect romantic ending to your evening.

Natalie Vick is the President of Cynergy Match, a personalized, discreet and exclusive matchmaking service.   Visit her and check out her services at: www.cynergymatch.com.

San Francisco is one of our favorite cities.  Here are some of the best places to experience with a date…

The Tamale Lady and the Crème Brulee Guy

Start by hanging out at the Zeitgeist bar in Mission:

199 Valencia St
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 255-7505

Cheap drinks and a funky atmosphere make it a good place to begin with a drink (perhaps an award-winning Bloody Mary?).

If you’re lucky, the Tamale Lady will make an appearance at some point!  Pounce on her while you can, she’s a hot commodity in those parts!  If she doesn’t come through, you won’t be disappointed with the $6 burger from the bar.

As for dessert, it doesn’t come much geekier – the best of the world of dating and social media rolled into one! The Crème Brulee guy has a Twitter account @cremebruleecart – and it’s the only way to track him down! He’s not always around, but you should get a day or so’s warning for planning purposes. The flavors are also ever-changing, but seem to feature favorites like dark chocolate, Baileys and Lavender quite consistently.

http://www.myspace.com/zeitgeistsf

Road Trip!

San Francisco has made it easy for you to see all the sights with the 49-mile scenic drive. Get your hands on a car, pick up some road trip snacks, sing-along CDs and a camera for cheesy tourist-style shots in front of all the landmarks!

Spend the day following the beaten track past such gems as The Bridge (you know which one), Japantown, Alcatraz and The Palace of Fine Arts. Mosey through at your own pace and make lots of stops to drink in the scenery.

http://www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com/maps/49miledrive.asp

The Golden Gate Park Carousel & Flower Conservatory

Whimsical, romantic, nostalgic… what’s not to love about riding a big wooden cock around in circles on a quaint old carousel? At only $2 a pop, we can’t imagine better value!

(e’s note: Cock pictured on the left.  Get your mind out of the gutter! Besides, splinters! Ouch!)

And just to round out your day, make sure you pack a picnic and a rug, feed the ducks, and take a stroll over to the Flower Conservatory while you’re at it.  A wonderful day for two in the park!

http://www.sfgate.com/neighborhoods/sf/goldengatepark/

Queen of Sheba

Take your date to sample Middle Eastern cuisine at its most authentic. The divine hostess, Miss Galia, is well-loved by her regulars, and the food is good, reasonably priced and most importantly – something different to the usual! Great labna, pita and Turkish delight… all at fantastic prices. You can even buy some yummy jars of flavors to take home with you!

Neighborhood: Nob Hill
1100 Sutter St
(between Larkin St & Polk St)
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 567-4322

Archery

An ancient art of weaponry, much romanticized through the ages, and what true-blooded geek wouldn’t love to get all Zelda on yo’ ass and shoot some bow and arrow? Get the endorphins and the adrenalin going and learn something new all at once!

Head to Golden Gate Park to find the archery ground. Find a nearby café afterward to share a coffee and a snack.

http://www.bysel.com/sfarch/main.html

Denis and Emma Merkas are Australian-based newlyweds, and the creators of ThirtyDollarDateNight.com. Both are budding geeks, with Denis turning from his acupuncture and massage background to self-taught web programming and design and Emma following hot on his heels from the marketing industry into geekdom with the help of her iPhone – the girl stalks blogs, tweets constantly and recently custom-built her first ever website for a friend! Truth is, geekiness has forever been alive and well in them both. Emma always wanted to be a librarian when she grew up (there’s still time!), and when Den isn’t working, he’s spending the rest of his day on his PSP (because Emma refuses to lose the household TV to a game console) playing chess, Dead Head Fred and Grand Theft Auto.