3 Places for a First Date in Buffalo, New York

Ah, the first date. An event that is, by definition, a holy terror for most people. Nerves are shot, nails bitten to shreds: and all this during the planning stages! Yes, we all know how nerve-wracking setting up a first date can be. BUT - if you can choose the right location for your date, your night may be a more successful one. You might even have a good (or great!) time. If you're searching around the Buffalo area for something unique and romantic, look no further. I'm here to help.

1.) Artsy Date:

Is your date on the bohemian, artistic side? If so, maybe she'd enjoy a unique evening perusing contemporary portraits and sculptures. One of the nation's most celebrated modern art museums, Buffalo's own Albright-Knox Art Gallery opens its doors for free every Friday night from 3-10 pm. The museum's Gusto at the Gallery features a variety of lectures, hands-on activities and more. This first date destination is sure to spark conversation. And since you're saving on admission, hit up the vibrant Elmwood strip or nearby Allentown afterwards for dinner and drinks. Looking at art can work up your appetite! There's no shortage of funky, hip, unique restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to choose from: Gabriel's Gate on Allen Street is sure to please. Cole's on Elmwood is a personal favorite, mainly for their extensive beer menu. Following such a cultural outing, you should have plenty to talk about with your date.

Location: 1285 Elmwood Avenue
Website: http://www.albrightknox.org/

Additional options for the artsy date in Buffalo include: The Botanical Gardens (2655 South Park Avenue), other smaller art galleries in Allentown, or a performance at the Kavinoky theatre (320 Porter Avenue)

2.) Active Date:

Perhaps your date is the energetic get-up-and-go type. If it seems like the standard dinner-and-a-movie fare isn't going to cut it, try teeing up for some putt-putt! Always a fun choice, Adventure Landing in Tonawanda is sure to get your date giggling and having a blast. After an 18-hole round, grab a pair of sodas and some game tokens for the arcade room. Whether you're a stellar golfer or not, this fun activity is sure to break the ice. Mini golfing involves the perfect blend of conversation time with a little competitive action. It's just a simple, entertaining, and different way to spend a first date.

Location: 2400 Sheridan Dr. Tonawanda
Phone: 716-832-6248
Cost: 1 game ticket - $6.50

Additional options for the more active date in Buffalo include: midnight bowling at Transit Lanes, a hike to the Eternal Flame Falls in Orchard Park, a visit the Buffalo Zoo (300 Parkside Ave.), or a nature walk through Tifft nature preserve (1200 Fuhrmann Boulevard)

3.) Traditional Romantic Date:

When in doubt, there's always the comfort of a more traditional place to enjoy your first date. How about a visit to the peaceful Erie Basin Marina? You can grab a bite to eat at the very Buffalo-esque dive, The Hatch, and then enjoy some chocolate custard during a leisurely stroll along the water. From my own experience, this can be especially romantic during colder months when you may be the only pair brave enough to battle the sometimes brutal Buffalo temps. You can also sit along the rocks that jut into the lake and savor a breathtaking sunset with your date - the perfect way to end an idyllic, romantic first date.

Directions:

From North: Take I-190 heading South. Take Exit 8 to Niagara St. Follow Signs to the Marina
From South, East & West: Take I-190 heading north. Take Exit 7 to Church St. Follow Signs to the Marina

Additional options for the more traditional Buffalo date include: Free outdoor movie night every Wednesday throughout the summer at the Bacchus Wine Bar (56 West Chippewa) St.), a picnic at Delaware Park, or a romantic fondue dessert at the Chocolate Bar (114 W Chippewa)

Of course, you needn't limit yourself to these suggestions. I speak from experience - if you look, Buffalo offers a lot of cool joints to bring a first date. And with just a little creativity, you'll be sure to get that sought-after second date. Good luck!