For those of you who clicked on my post, you’re probably just as much of a hopeless romantic as I am. Or, you’re just looking for some advice on where you should take that cute girl/guy you’ve been snapping with for a few weeks. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

Since high school, I’ve dreamed of college dates—no parents, no curfew, and no limit to where we could go. But even more so, I’ve dreamed of a college date where he takes charge and plans the date for us. What can I say, I have expectations!

So, if you’re looking for some ideas on what to do, I asked a handful of first-year boys where they would take a first date. Hopefully, one of these resonates with you and gives you an idea on where to take that special someone.

“Pullmans and Yotopia afterward.”
-Niko

“Pullmans for breakfast or brunch.”
-Kyle

“Yotopia for sure.”
-Will

Downtown Iowa has plenty of places for a cute first-date backdrop. Inside Pullman’s, however, there are crimson booths, dim lighting, and great food—excellent for a romantic first date! And if you can’t get a seat inside, Pullman’s also offers takeout. So, you and your date can find a colorful picnic table outside or seating near the string lights hung up around Iowa City to have your meal.

And once you’ve had lunch/dinner at Pullman’s, Yotopia offers a handful of original, self-serve frozen yogurt! The interior has mini couches, bright walls, and is placed right next to the ped mall where a handful of benches, tables, and even a water fountain could make for a great place to relax and get to know one another more.

“Sitting by the river.”
-Kyle

“Any of the coffee shops. And then afterward, a walk by the river.”
-AJ

“Light dinner and then a walk by the river.”
-Max

If you’re looking for something a little more sweet and cheap for your date, coffee and a walk by the Iowa River is perfect! Just make sure the weather agrees with you!

There are plenty of coffee shops in downtown Iowa. Some of my personal favorites include Javahouse, Cortado, Prairie Lights Cafe, The High Ground Cafe, and of course, Starbucks! Sitting and taking the time to talk to your date truly makes a difference and makes the time worthwhile since you’ll be learning about each other.

P.S: If you are the one to ask them on a date, pay for their coffee. I can assure you, your date will go home and make sure to tell their roommate about it, and you’ll be rewarded a few brownie points for that.

“The Vue rooftop.”
-Dane

This one is a bit more expensive, but if you really want to treat your date, this place will do the trick. The Vue is a rooftop restaurant with some of the best food (at least I think) in Iowa City. The view of Iowa City after dark is breathtaking, matched with the string lights and the warm music, it’ll definitely be a night your date never forgets!

“Praire Lights Cafe. We can walk around and pick out books for each other.”
-Griffin

As a bookworm myself, I LOVE this date idea! Praire Lights is a super cute bookstore/café that can appeal to any reader. It’s a great way to learn about a person’s interests and books are always a great conversation starter. Praire Lights also has readings done by famous authors which could be just as fun as browsing the bookshelves.

P.S: If you’re on a date with a bookworm, if you can, buy their favorite book. Even if you don’t read it, taking the time to dwell on a small, special detail they shared with you, will make a big difference in their mind.

“Formosa, because who doesn’t like sushi”
-Julian

Enough said. Sushi is the vibe and Formosa can very much supply.

But most importantly…

Where you go depends on who your date is. Make sure you cater to what you’re doing with who you’re doing it with. As long as you take the time to think about your date, their needs, and their preferences, that shows effort, and the most anyone really wants is for someone to put effort into them.

I hope this gives you some ideas and have fun on those dates!!!