Seattle First-Date Planner

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Updated: November 09, 2009

First dates can either bring a euphoric rush of romance or a silent desperate wishing for the whole thing to be over. The key is to go places and do things that you’ll enjoy any way. Seattle certainly provides its share of creative activities, restaurants, and bars to grease the wheels of amore, and if the spark just isn’t there, at least these picks will provide a memorable way to spend some time.

Date Ideas

  1. 1 4 Star Rating: Recommended Granite Curling Club
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    1440 N 128th St, Seattle, WA 98133 (map)

    Try breaking the ice with someone while on the ice. One of the truly unique (and somewhat goofy) sports that Seattle offers is curling, and the Granite Club schedules many open houses where you can try sliding the rock and sweeping with brooms. $15 per person. Check the website for schedule.

  2. 2 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Pike Place Market
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    1508 Pike Pl, Seattle, WA 98101 (map)

    Sure, it’s a major tourist attraction and that’s what makes it fun on a first date. Pick up a bag of hot mini donuts at the Daily Dozen and roam the market commenting on the out-of-towners. Drift in and out of the quirky shops, and if the mood is right, end with a drink at the classic old bar at the market's Athenian Inn.

  3. 3 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Seattle Asian Art Museum
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    1400 E Prospect St, Seattle, WA 98112 (map)

    A relaxing first date can start with a walk through the watercolors, figurines and other artworks at the Asian Museum, followed by a stroll through the exotic plant life at the Volunteer Park Conservatory next door. If the conversation is rolling, you have all of Volunteer Park to amble through. If you’re still connecting after that, stop for a bite at Volunteer Park Cafe.

  4. 4 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Shorty's
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    2222 Second Ave, Seattle, WA 98121 (map)

    Go low-rent but fun with a night of cheap beer and pinball at Shorty’s. This is pinball mecca, with classic games in the back arcade and tables up front that are made from old pinball machines. If you get bored, you have the clubs of Belltown surrounding you.

  5. 5 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Frank's Oyster House & Champagne Parlor
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    2614 NE 55th St, Seattle, WA 98105 (map)

    For some first dates, you want to turn up the class from the get-go, and Frank’s in Ravenna delivers while still being casual. Warm wood paneling and retro 60s-era chairs make a cozy atmosphere to talk while drinking champagne and noshing on oysters and deviled eggs.

  6. 6 4 Star Rating: Recommended Cactus Restaurant
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    4220 E Madison St, Seattle, WA 98112 (map)

    Stylish and hip, Cactus in West Seattle delivers squash enchiladas, carne asada and other Mexican dishes, along with margaritas and the latest music. In the warmer weather, the garage-like doors open to let in the ocean air. After eating, take a walk along Alki beach and get to know each other a little better.

  7. 7 4 Star Rating: Recommended Agua Verde Cafe & Paddle Club
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    1303 NE Boat Street, Seattle, WA 98105 (map)

    This is the perfect spot for a budget meal of Baja-style tacos, burritos and quesadillas while looking out at a waterfront view. If the weather’s nice, have a beer on the deck. Plus, Agua Verde rents kayaks, so you can both paddle off past the houseboats, through the nature-filled arboretum and take in a view of the city skyline from the lake.