Three Excellent First Date Locations in Akron, Ohio

First impressions mean a lot it seems. Deciding where to go on a first date can be as painful as that awkward silence at dinner, given there are so many factors you must consider. Not knowing the likes or dislikes of your potential partner, it can be a very tricky process-with plenty of room for error. However, there are a few spots in Akron, Ohio worth some serious consideration. These three locations offer a wide variety of interests, and budgets-so all you have to worry about is being yourself and having fun!

Laser Quest: Alright, so this may seem a little immature, or geared toward a younger crowd. However, this is just not so. Many of us fall into the generic "dinner and a movie" trap-hustling to the Regal, not sure what movie to decide on, and spending a fortune on snacks at the concessions stand. Laser Quest is a break from this, and though perhaps a bit unorthodox, can be a great way to share some laughs with your date. Located in Montrose, not too far from Swenson's (why not stop there first?), Laser Quest allows you to travel around in a black-lighted maze, shooting and being shot at with laser guns. It is an activity that fosters a little healthy competition, while demonstrating a sense of youthful playfulness. It is interactive-which means no passive consuming of a film while your date stays on the peripheral. It is fun, and original. Taking your date somewhere so out of the ordinary shows that you put some thought into your first meeting, rather than just resorting to the usual. Cost per game: $8.

Visit: http://bit.ly/bIDfyJ

Akron Metro Parks: There are Metro Parks located all over Akron. Especially when the weather is warm in the spring and autumn, taking your date to the park can be a great experience. Hiking is a great way to spend time, as it allows you ample time to talk and get to know each other. The trails provide a great topic, or chance to enjoy those silences rather than feeling awkward or nervous about not having anything to say. All of the Metro Parks are free, so you don't have to worry about breaking the bank. If you wanted to incorporate a meal into the date, having a picnic lunch or dinner is a great way to show off your cooking skills. If you don't have any cooking skills, this is a great way to show your effort! If the weather is colder or we're having one of those Ohio winters that include two feet of snow, get out and play! Take a walk, build a snowman, and don't forget to find some hot chocolate afterwards. An hour of romping in the snow followed by quiet conversation at Angel Falls Coffee House is a great way to start a budding relationship, and warm up to one another! Find a Metro Park near you:

http://www.summitmetroparks.org/

Pad Thai: If you absolutely must do dinner and a movie, then you need to choose the right restaurant. While there are plenty of Akron restaurants that would be ideal for the first date location, Pad Thai is in my opinion one of Akron's best date restaurants. It is classy enough to look nice, but not so classy you have to dress formally. The restaurant's atmosphere is great-lights set at just the perfect amount of intimacy, and cozy booths available. This is a great place to sit and get to know your date, and it has excellent food as well! Its sophistication is certainly covered in the bill-with the average meal priced at $15. It is well worth it, however.

Visit: http://www.pad-thairestaurant.com

If you don't enjoy Thai food as much as I do, check out the Top 10 Restaurants in Akron, Ohio for excellent Akron area restaurants of all different types, price-ranges, and locations. Regardless of where you go, always understand that this is the first step to what could be a beautiful relationship. Be yourself, and above all have fun!