In honor of my best friend going on a first date, here are five Michigan-specific first-date ideas to try out this fall so you can be in matching PJs by Christmas.
- Feed the Diag Squirrels together and kiss under the “Kissing Arch”
We all love the Diag squirrels! They’re too cute not to give a little treat to. I suggest some healthy options like fruits and veggies (cantaloupe, strawberries, apples, broccoli, or carrots are the best). After you and your beau adore the little fellas, and if the mood is right, head to the iconic “Kissing Arch” (or Engineering Arch for the uninitiated) to seal the deal. Michigan legend says that if you kiss under it at midnight, you’re destined to say “I Do” to your lover one day.
- Picnic in the Law Quad
We all know the Law Quad is a true gem of our campus, so use it to your advantage! I suggest a mid-week, mid-day picnic to secure a nice spot in the yard when everyone is hopefully too busy to interrupt your grassy date. Pack some good snacks and drinks (alcoholic only if you’re >21, of course) and get a nice blanket to set the mood. Of course, the success of this idea really depends on the weather and if the grass is not wet so plan accordingly!
- Attend Martha Cook Tea Time
If you’re lucky enough to be invited (or to live in Martha Cook), attend Tea Time as a great first outing with your date! Though it is a fairly closed activity, Friday afternoon Tea at Martha Cook is a truly Michigan experience. Be sure to dress appropriately (ask your Martha Cook connection about the dress code) and be ready for some hot water and small sandwiches! Make lovely conversation while feeling transported back to the early 1900s with your paramour.
- Ride a bus route of your choice
Who doesn’t love our bus system?! Though a simple and rather mundane activity, riding one of the longer bus routes on campus gives you the opportunity to get to know your sweetheart pretty well. Going during a less busy transit time will allow a more private experience for your romantic endeavors. Pick the route of your choice (I suggest Bursley-Baits for a longer route), sit next to or across from your date, and get to know them! And of course, if the vibes aren’t right, all you have to do is get off the bus!
- Play video games on the 4th floor of Shapiro
If you and your bae are gamers, then look no further than the array of video and board games hidden away on the 4th floor of Shapiro for a first date. A well-kept secret until now, the Computer and Video Game Archive offers a variety of gaming options for you and your lover to explore. Pick a competitive game if you’re feeling brave, but make sure neither of you are sore losers! But, if you’re more trepidatious, a cooperative game could be just the thing to break the ice.