Love is in the air this winter, with plenty of things for new lovebirds to see and do in Vancouver.
But it can be stressful trying to figure out where to go for a first date, especially if you’re just getting to know someone.
We’re here to help you out with a list of fun places around the city where you can take your new special someone this winter to ensure you both have a fun time.
Whether you’re geeky, outdoorsy, or a foodie, this list will help ensure that there will be a second date (or at least that you had fun on the first one)!
Explore a museum together
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre/Facebook
There are a bunch of awesome museums to check out in and around Vancouver. From space to anthropology to grisly murder cases, there’s practically a museum for all interests.
Make your best moon puns while discovering H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, or get nautical at the Vancouver Maritime Museum. You can even get really deep at the Britannia Mine Museum.
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Try your hand at skating
Robson Square Ice Rink (Daniel Chai/Daily Hive)
There are few things more romantic than ice skating hand in hand. That’s why we love that Metro Vancouver has two free outdoor ice rinks to bring a first date: the Robson Square Ice Rink and Skate Plaza at The Shipyards.
The Downtown Vancouver and North Vancouver rinks are free if you bring your own skates, and pairs can also be rented on-site. Just make sure to grab some hot chocolate afterwards to warm yourselves up.
Level up your love in an arcade
Capital City Arcade/Facebook
Metro Vancouver is home to a bunch of great arcades that you and your date will love spending hours in. There is The Rec Room Burnaby, which also serves tasty food and drinks in the Three10 Bar and The Den, or check out the recently opened The Rec Room Granville. You can also play some games at Capital City Arcade, with dozens of retro cabinets. And Castle Fun Park even has mini-golf and batting cages.
Wine and dine around the city
Mikhail_Kayl/Shutterstock
They say that a way to a person’s heart is through their stomach. So why not treat yourself and your date to a unique and delicious meal for your first date? Dished has got you covered with great foodie ideas around Metro Vancouver.
Breakfast, lunch or dinner. Sushi on a train or Indian street snacks. Whatever your stomach (and heart) desires, there’s sure to be a hidden gem that will satisfy your hunger. Bon appétit!
Go for a stroll and connect with nature
Deer Lake Park (EB Adventure Photography/Shutterstock)
Winter is the perfect time to go for a romantic walk in one of Metro Vancouver’s beautiful parks.
Not only is it a great way to connect with someone during the chilly months, but you’ll also get a chance to discover some of the finest green spaces around the region.
Find your purr-fect match at a cat cafe
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
If you’re feeling cuddly this winter, then you need to bring your new match to one of Vancouver’s wonderful cafes that will let you snuggle with adorable animals while sipping a delicious drink.
Beaus can book a time to visit Catoro on East Broadway or Catfe in the International Village Mall. And if kitty’s aren’t quite your thing, then you can hop on down to the Bunny Cafe in East Van.
Laugh your way into love
The Improv Centre/Instagram
Laughter makes the heart grow fonder, and Vancouver has some of the best comedy shows to choose from. From stand-up to improv, sketch to open mics, there is something for every funny bone to enjoy.
Invite your funny Valentine to a star-studded Just For Laughs Vancouver returning in February, with Jerry Seinfeild, Kumail Nanjiani, Margaret Cho, Roy Wood Jr., and more. There’s also The Improv Centre, Instant Theatre, Yuk Yuk’s, The Comedy Department, and more to help put you in a romantic mood!
Rev up the romance with go-karts
Speeders Vancouver/Facebook
Looking to get the pulse pounding on a first date? Strap yourselves in for a trip to the go-karts.
Richmond is home to two indoor kart racing tracks — TBC Indoor Racing and Speeders Vancouver — with many types of racing to choose from. Sometimes love may be about the thrill of the chase, but you better strap in for this one!