Top 3 Places to Take a First Date in Indianapolis

Planning a first date can be a daunting task as you consider where to go, what to do, what to eat, and who to invite (well, hopefully you already have that one figured out!). What constitutes a perfect first date depends on your personality and tastes, as well as those of your paramour, but there are some common characteristics that you should strive for in planning your day. A first date should allow the participants the opportunity to get to know each other better, so any activity that gives you the chance to talk and look each other in the eyes for extended periods is a good candidate. Also, since the prospect of a first date is nerve-racking in its own right, extravagant outings or highly charged social situations should be avoided. Think picnics and festivals, not fancy clubs and movies.

If you're fortunate enough to live in or near Indianapolis, then your city affords you several great avenues for putting together a great first date. Here are a few of the best.

The Canal and White River State Park

As part of Indy's revitalization efforts over the last couple of decades, the city has totally made over the image of and access to the White River. The once downtrodden near-West side now features the Indianapolis Zoo, the Indiana State Museum, and a host of other wonderful attractions. Weaving them all together into a cohesive unit is the canal area, which allows visitors to amble from place to place and revel in the beauty of the Indianapolis skyline. This venue gives you and your date the chance to leisurely explore the canal by foot, boat, or pedal carts. It's a beautiful and peaceful environment in which to get to know each other better, and the cost is minimal (parking and optional boat or bike rental).

The Indianapolis Museum of Art

You don't have to be an art aficionado to enjoy the wonders of the IMA. Sporting an impressive array of artistic styles and works from some of the most famous artists the world has ever known, the Museum is an inspiring place to visit. Because art evokes such personal responses, it's also a great way to get better acquainted with a new friend. Strolling through the galleries and discussing the various pieces is a great ice breaker. As a bonus, admission is free!

Victory Field

With warm weather approaching, a minor league baseball game can serve as a nearly perfect first-date venue. Even if neither one of you is a sports fan, a trip to Victory Field to see the Indianapolis Indians in action is a great way to get to know each other. Minor league baseball fields are much more intimate than their major league counterparts, and Victory Field is hailed far and wide as one of the best small ballparks in the country. The leisurely pace of the baseball game, the fun food treats, and the beautiful views of downtown Indianapolis are sure to inspire a romantic, yet light-hearted first date.

These are but three of the great opportunities that Indianapolis offers for creating a memorable first date. Choose one that's to your liking, and then the rest is up to you. If things go well, maybe you'll get the chance to explore Indy's other great attractions as you plan your next date.