By Lisa Lagace
Finding dates isn’t easy.
So when you do, it’s important you have a cool place to take them. And by cool, we don’t just mean the next little Ossington bar. (Though we’re sure it’s probably pretty great.)
If you want to impress someone, sometimes you don’t just have to think outside the box – you have to go there too.
1. Backyard Axe Throwing
While this might seem a little, um, violent for a first date, if you and your sweet pea have an adventurous spirit there’s no better way to impress them than by booking some time to try your hand at axe throwing. It’ll bring out your competitive nature and leave you both with a good story to tell. Pro tip: it’s BYOB and also a really great spot for group dates.
2. O’Noir
You wouldn’t normally think to dine in the dark but for those of you who’ve been sleeping without a night light for at least a decade, this unique restaurant experience is a must-try. You can either choose your meal ahead of time before entering the pitch-black dining room or you can choose to literally go in blind with the chef’s surprise menu. Guessing what you’re chowing down on with your date is half the fun. It’s also the perfect date spot because it forces you to be 100% present and in the moment with your mate – no cellphone use allowed.
3. Boat Cruise
There’s something incredibly romantic about Toronto in the summer, and while you may know the glory of Lake Ontario from brief trips across the water to the Island, the ferry is too brief to truly enjoy with your boo. Book an evening cruise under the stars where you can drink, dance, eat, and make out (adult-style) while the skyline lights up in front of you.
4. Medieval Times
While we all remember attending this dinner and tournament as a kid, it’s now truly the perfect date night for grown-ups. You’ll get to enjoy the nostalgia of your innocent youth while boozing, eating off of metal plates with your hands, and rooting for your knight to win it all. If a little late-night jousting doesn’t get you going, we don’t know what will.
5. SPIN Toronto
Another activity to bring out your competitive side, SPIN lets you get over the awkwardness of a first date by battling each other for a few rounds of ping pong between drinks. This is the kind of fun date that makes it really easy to get your flirt on – and build up a little tension for later. Just don’t show up in all-whites wearing a sweatband. Might be a little much.
6. Helicopter Tour
While you might want to save this one for an anniversary surprise, it’s easily one of the most memorable and impressive dates you can take your partner in crime on. See Toronto from up above in a private flight – Bachelor-style (no singing allowed, though). Just make sure your date isn’t afraid of heights before your book it.
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