First Date Ideas For Over 70s

Got a first date coming up and no idea where to go? Not to worry. Nobody expects you to book a week in Banff. The best dates at our age are the ones where you can actually hear each other, sit down when your knees ask nicely, and get home before the roads ice over. Here are six ideas that work from Victoria to St. John's.

1. A Cozy Lunch

Lunch beats dinner for a first date over 70. The restaurant is quieter, the light is better and nobody has to drive home in the dark, which in January can mean four in the afternoon. Choose somewhere handy for both of you, so one of you is not stuck on the 401 while the other walks round the corner. A family run bistro, a pub with a good chowder or a winery in Niagara or the Okanagan will all do nicely. One tip from experience: save the poutine with extra gravy for the third date.

2. A Stroll Through The Gardens

A gentle walk takes the pressure off, because you are side by side instead of staring at each other over the ketchup. The Butchart Gardens near Victoria, the Montreal Botanical Garden, Stanley Park or simply the park down the street all make a lovely setting. In summer go early before the heat and the mosquitoes, and in fall enjoy the colours. Finish with a coffee, and if the conversation stalls, the Canada geese will happily start one for you.

3. Be A Tourist In Your Own City

When did you last visit a museum in your own town? Most of us have never been, because it was always there. A city bus tour lets you see the sights without fighting for parking, and the commentary gives you plenty to talk about. Smaller towns have their gems too, from a local heritage village to a historic fort. Many attractions offer a seniors rate, so it never hurts to ask.

4. A Matinee And A Coffee

A movie is a perfect first date, because for two hours nobody has to think of something witty to say. Pick a matinee: it is quieter, often cheaper on seniors days, and you are home before supper. Afterwards, find a coffee shop and have a friendly debate about whether the ending made any sense. A community theatre show or a concert works just as well.

5. Out On The Water

Few things are as romantic as an afternoon on the water. Depending on where you live, that might be the Toronto Island ferry, a cruise through the Thousand Islands, a harbour tour in Halifax or a trip on one of the BC ferries. Bring a sweater, as it is always cooler on the water than you expect, and hang on to your hat.

6. A Visit To The Garden Centre

It may not be rock and roll, but a good garden centre with a cafe is a winner. Wander through the perennials, compare notes on what last winter did to your roses, and finish with a butter tart and a pot of tea. If you both love gardening you will never run out of things to say, and if your date can tell a hosta from a heuchera, you may have found a keeper.

Wherever you go, meet somewhere public, let a friend or family member know where you will be, and make your own way there and home again. Most of all, enjoy yourselves.

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