How to Plan an Easy Same-Sex First Date

Nobody said first dates are easy, but there's no reason to make them any harder than they need to be. Here's how to plan an easy same-sex first date.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Keep it simple. Simple works.

2. Choose something you both like. If the other person shows the slightest hesitation when you suggest something, try something else.

3. Stay with success. Dinner and a movie has worked beautifully for millions of couples.

4. Vary that theme just a bit and go to a play instead. Choose a small, out-of-the-way theatre where you can talk during intermissions and not get caught in a massive crowd afterward.

5. Stay away from potentially embarrassing situations, such as eating pizza or spaghetti, or playing a sport you're not good at.

6. Play miniature golf. It's not really a sport.

7. Try to find time to take a walk, even if it's through a mall. People often open up when they go for a walk.

8. Consider a picnic, perhaps at a park near your date's place. You might even be able to walk there.

9. Stop in at a museum if you think your date yearns for some culture. Museums are usually quiet and give you a chance to stand close to each other while whispering about the art - but don't choose an exhibit you don't understand.

10. Go to one of those mega-amusement parks, such as a Six Flags or Disney park, if one is nearby. Get to know each other while you're standing in line for each ride.

11. Take advantage of the season and visit a haunted house or take a tour of Christmas lights.

12. Try not to be nervous. Remember, you're auditioning the other person as much as he or she is auditioning you.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that you want to get to know the person but people are sometimes more open when walking or playing a game rather than sitting across a table and staring at each other.
• Have a backup plan. For example, if your date is set for outside and it rains, have an equally interesting indoor activity chosen in advance.
• Avoid bars and noisy restaurants for the most part. They are for picking up people and for going to alone or with a longtime friend. They're usually too loud for get-to-know-someone dates.
• Don't go anywhere too private. Remember, you probably don't know the person, and he or she could be someone who you don't want to be alone with.