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DATING: Six Fun, Inexpensive Summer Dates

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter.

Ladies, it is summertime, which is the perfect season to enjoy a possible summer romance, long term relationship or even just a friend with benefits.  Because we might not want to spend tons of money for a little bit of fun, I have compiled a list of fun, inexpensive summer dates that allow you to get to know each other, and really decide if he is second date-worthy!  

Coffee shop:

A nice frappuccino on a blazing-hot day from Starbucks never fails! You get to sit and relax and enjoy his conversation. Men who ask you for a date at the local coffee shop tend to exhibit some form of maturity or confidence.  This is a bold first date, because he most likely is trying to really get to know you without any interruptions.  This one-on-one type of setting allows you and him to both open up and build a strong bond. A coffee shop date usually will not lead to a one-night stand; instead, it will most likely lead to an emotional attraction, or even better, a second date.

Sporting date:

A sporting date can include a game of football, basketball, baseball, walking or hiking.  This date is a perfect opportunity to stay active and exhibit your personality to your guy. This type of guy wants to see how you react having fun, and if you are able to get out of your comfort zone. A sporting day is usually memorable, and how you act will usually leave him with a strong first impression. If you can laugh, try something new and enjoy yourself, then this will give him the chance to not only see you as girlfriend potential, but a friend first, which is important in any relationship. In addition, this is a great opportunity to rock your favorite sports team apparel.

The beach:

The beach is a free and perfect way to show off your hot body you have been working so hard for all winter. A guy who takes you to the beach might be laidback and just enjoy nice conversation and good company. This date can easily be fun if you pack a picnic basket and splash a little in the water.  Do not forget to carve your names in the sand to temporarily mark your territory!

Bonfire / Friend’s Party

This type of date allows you to get to know each other but still be around friends.  This guy does not mind showing you off at public events and most likely is just looking for a good time. You will not easily be able to tell if he is looking for a serious girlfriend on this type of date, but his intentions are clearly to go with the flow. Break out the s’mores and cuddle by the fire, or just sit, laugh and enjoy his company.

Local amusement park

The amusement park allows you to show your fun spirit! This type of guy is looking to have a good time and wants a carefree girl by his side to experience it with. There is plenty of get-to-know-you time while waiting in lines and experiencing those brief walks from one ride to the next. If he is a gentleman, he might even win you a teddy bear. And to top that, what is better than cuddling up to your guy on a Ferris wheel right when the sun is about to set? Make sure you bring your inner kid with you on this date!

Drive-in movie

The movies is a classic first date, but a drive-in movie date is even better when the sun’s about to set and it is still warm out. Unlike the typical moving setting, you can still make conversation, bring your own snacks, and even display a little PDA without it becoming an issue.  Though you cannot converse throughout the movie, this is an easy way to grab your man’s hand when you get scared!

I'm Yele Ajayi and I'm a freshman at Univ. of Illinois majoring in broadcast journalism. I love writing, dancing, and singing. :D