When I moved to Seattle, I realized that I would be living with three basic realities: I shouldn’t be surprised to see rainbow flags everywhere, basically everyone is obsessed with coffee (have you seen the line for the first Starbucks?), and nobody does anything “normal.” So why would you, with sweaty palms and knees weak (no Mom’s spaghetti), risk taking that special person to anywhere but somewhere that would absolutely blow their minds?
No, I’m not talking about flying them out to Paris for the night because you’re probably a BROKE college student. As much as you would like to impress your crush, you’ve got a budget to work with. These seven date ideas will give you the best of both worlds and will still leave you with enough money to hit Starbucks after, because I know how much you love your coffee.
1. Jet City Improv
Instead of the “normal” movie first date idea, take that special guy or gal out to a Twisted Flick at the Jet City Improv; a classic movie with the soundtrack removed and replaced by a live cast of improvisers. Twisted Flicks are available the last weekend of every month at 8:00 p.m. with tickets as low as $12. You can also check out their regular improv shows every weekend for $17.
2. Southgate Roller Rink
For eclectic old souls who want a blast from the past, the Southgate Roller Rink is the place to be. On Fridays, the roller-skating rink holds a family evening skate from 6:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. It promises a night full of music and games for only $8.00 with a free skate rental.
If you want to get a little more rowdy, on Saturdays from 10:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. the rink holds an 18+ adult night that features a variety of music ranging from old school hits to today’s top songs, with a 21+ bar for the same flat fee of $8.00.
3. Flip Flip, Ding Ding
Although the name might confuse your date momentarily, Flip Flip, Ding Ding will prove itself as soon as you walk through the door. Although it is a 21+ bar, it also doubles as a game arcade with pinball games for cheap prices. Take the opportunity to show your competitive side as you compete with your date for a high score, and check their Facebook page to be updated on their special tournaments and events. Their hours are 2:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. every day.
4. Flatstick Pub
This date idea combines three of the best creations on this Earth: dogs, mini-golf, and alcohol. Although this is another 21+ location, it is inclusive to dogs of all ages, and bringing your loyal companion can simultaneously win over your date and save you money.
During their "Yappy" Hour Monday through Friday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m; you get $1 off all pints as long as man's best friend makes an appearance with you. If you don't have a furry pup to tag along, there's also a regular Happy Hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday through Friday. If you are under 21 and still want to get your putt on, Flatstick Pub also has a second location in Kirkland that is open to all ages until 7 p.m.
5. Dick's Burgers
Oran Viriyincy on Flickr
Voted "America's Most Life Changing Burger" by Esquire magazine, Dick's Burgers is not only close to campus, but it provides a whole meal of a cheeseburger, fries, and a milkshake for only $5. You and your date can decide whether the burgers are worthy of their title, and for a special bonus, test an In N Out lover to see if this burger blows the little red palm trees out of the water.
One thing to keep in mind however: you can't customize your burger, so you'll have to take all the ingredients in stride, even if you don't like mustard on your cheeseburger.
6. Pike Place Market
For Seattle newcomers or even Seattle experts, the Pike Place Market is an iconic date idea location that has tons of activities to offer. Whether it be watching the famous fish throwing or searching through an antique shop, it can be a chance to explore and find hidden gems in a usual tourist attraction. An extra bonus, most of the beautiful flower bouquets sold there also cost under $20 too, if you want to make your date feel extra special.
7. Safeco Field
Lastly, a way to get a VIP experience without having to spend VIP money, you and your date can get a behind the scenes tour of Safeco Field. You can explore the dugouts, Press Box, the Owner's Suite and more for only $12 each. If you have a chance to catch a game, some nosebleed seats bought in advance could cost you only $17.
Whether it be between holes on the mini golf course or mouthfuls of life changing burgers, I hope these date ideas give you a chance to show your not so "normal" side and really get to know your date. Just please, be careful at the skating rink, I don't want to be liable for your hospital bill for writing this article.