The Worst "First Date" Locations

What is a Date? A date is where you hopefully dress a little nicer and go out in public to enjoy your time with your girlfriend, husband, boyfriend or interest. Where you go can mean a lot to your other half and even make or break a date. There are those, however, who insist on the oddest dates and generally these, on a first, don't land you a second date unless the other person has a sense of humor.

Arcades

May I just say that taking someone to an arcade on a first date is rather.. childish. Now, if you're a 13 year old boy, maybe the girl will understand that mom and dad said no place else but an arcade. However, I'm speaking to the older crowd. Arcades are often crowded and in smaller ones, very limited in the games to play. Sure, some adults find arcades to be amusing, but to make it the sole date - that's mildly cheap. However, I'm not saying that dates have to cost a vast amount of money, but they should involve some sort of conversation and not involve lots of noise, children running about and single player games. Dates are for sharing common interests and getting to know people, at least, that's what I was taught growing up. Have you ever tried talking in a loud, music blasting all around arcade? It's near impossible to even figure out what your date wants to play next. However, I've also heard that there are arcades around that solely cater to adults, so unless you have this option - might I suggest straying from the arcade option.

Fast Food Places

I understand wholly that people don't always have the financial ability to afford a four star restaurant for their first date. This is completely understandable and honestly, some people aren't too keen on the shirt and tie sort of dining that comes with those restaurants. Sure, they may be perfect for an anniversary or proposal, but for a first date it can be a little much. However, please avoid fast food places. May I just say right now that there's nothing cute about hitting a fast food joint OR swinging through the drive-thru for dinner. In fact, I'd consider it an insult and I'm most certain I'm not alone. Your date might think that is all he or she are worth, that you're extremely tight with your money or you just consider that fancy dining. (Side note: Just because the packet says fancy ketchup, that does not a fancy restaurant make) Remember these also have playgrounds and birthday parties which can get awfully loud. Who wants a date in a place where children may be screaming, crying and running about between food and playground?

A Motel/Hotel

Unless you're a big time rock musician, I wouldn't suggest taking any guy or girl back to your hotel room on a first date - or renting a hotel room for the night. Let me say that in most instances that type of relationship extinguishes entirely too fast and leaves you going, "huh what was I thinking?" Not to mention that while what goes on behind the doors may be innocent, it's a safe assumption that things probably won't if it's been rented specifically for a night. Now, don't misunderstand me, married couples or couples with children do rent hotel rooms for a night so that they can have time together without the worries of children disturbing them. But as a first date I would advise almost ANYTHING over this.

Shopping

Girls, this one is more for you than guys - since most guys dislike shopping. Now I know it can be fun to buy things and have a guys input on shirts, skirts, tops or even boots, however if you invite a guy out on a date - please do not take them shopping. Even moreso if one is willing to go out, don't use him for his money. I actually know a girl who repeatedly takes her first dates shopping at the local mall. Needless to say when they see her idea of fun they retreat with their tails between their legs. Honestly, most guys I've talked to think this makes a girl appear severely materialistic and preoccupied only with herself. (id est: "how does this look on me?") While once in a while it's okay to take a small shopping trip, don't make it a date. Also, don't throw a fit if he objects to this idea - take into consideration how you'd feel if he took you somewhere that only guys generally like to go?

There are numerous places that would be bad ideas for dates, not just first ones. However, just take into consideration that the date isn't about you but about two people wanting to get to know each other and spend time enjoying each others company. Come to an agreement about a place both will like, because if neither is thrilled then the date probably won't be that memorable. In fact, it may end up on a 'worst dates I've ever had' list.