Ideas for Great Dates in Atlanta
What’s not to love about falling in love in Atlanta? There’s Atlantic Station, Buckhead, baseball and free things to do every day – if you know where to look. Dating fun that is anything but run of the mill is easy in Atlanta -where creativity rules.
1) Listen
The key to a great date is creating an experience that lets your date know you heard what s/he likes. Use cues from conversations to plan a date that sparks a connection. For example: your date mentions loving the movie E.T. Pack a picnic at Whole Foods (Your DeKalb Farmers Market is another great option) and head to Piedmont Park for a “Screen on the Green” showing of the lovable alien.
Whole Foods
650 Ponce de Leon Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30308
404.853.1681
Piedmont Park
400 Park Drive
Atlanta, GA 30309
404.875.7275
2) MARTA really is “Smarta”
Atlanta is a car town, but that’s changing - traffic is notoriously bad. Scooters are everywhere and MARTA transit ridership is up. You don’t need a car for a great date in Atlanta. In fact, you may even score green points from your date for choosing alternative transportation. A date is like an interview, so make choices that reflect who you really are. If you’re concerned about the environment, let your date know, not just from your words but your actions, too.
3) Head Outdoors
Whether it’s a hike at one of Georgia’s State Parks, picking blueberries at a U-Pick farm, or a live concert, there is no shortage of outdoor fun in metro Atlanta. Best of all, most of it is free or cheap. Here’s an idea, try Stone Mountain Park.
Stone Mountain Park
1000 Robert E. Lee Drive
Stone Mountain, GA 30083
www.stonemountainpark.com
4) Work Up a Sweat
Climbing Stone Mountain is an Atlanta tradition. When you get to the top (after a sometimes steep 1.3 miles) you’ll be rewarded by breathtaking views. Take the sky lift down after you sit together and rest in the cool breeze.
5) Plan Ahead
Aim for a date that shows you put some thought into it. Check out the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Access Atlanta. The weekly circular is available in the Thursday AJC as well as in boxes around town. The free, but priceless pages list metro Atlanta events including theatre, sports, museums, live music, dining, free events and more. The same great information is available at ajc.com and in another local weekly, Creative Loafing.
6) Don’t be Afraid to Include the Little Ones
Dating isn’t just for the young and childless. More than a few of the young at heart (many with kids) are also trying to make a love connection. The Access Atlanta and Creative Loafing include activities for kids and families.
7) Go to “Plan B”
Didn’t do your research? Head to ImagineIt! children’s museum or Centennial Olympic Park. Older kids may enjoy the Georgia Aquarium, Coca-Cola Museum or a movie at Atlantic Station – a cool place to be at any age.
http://www.imagineit-cma.org/
8) Dinner and/or a Movie – Redone
This least creative of dates can be remade into a unique experience by adding a little spice. Dine downtown and then enjoy a stroll over to the Westin Hotel for a view of the city from the Sun Dial, a revolving restaurant on the 73rd floor.
Westin Hotel
210 Peachtree Street
Atlanta, GA 30303
404.659.1400
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1023
9) Learn to Dance
Ask a friend or take some lessons. There are countless clubs and bars with dance floors in Atlanta. Put your best foot forward with a little preparation. Don’t have time for a lesson? Confidence counts. Just let the music move you and give yourself over to the groove. Here’s where to show off your moves:
Lava Lounge (trendy, business casual dress)
57 13th Street
Atlanta, GA 30309
404.873.6189
Hole in the Wall (trendy, stylish dress)
3177 Peachtree Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30305
404.233.9801
10) Relax
If it doesn’t fit, don’t force it. Above all else, dating should be a fun way to meet people and share new experiences. Be yourself for your best chance at finding your real soul mate.
