It takes the right kind of girl to go paintballing with you, and it helps to have the gear, but this can be a highly adventurous and fun activity. And you definitely need a group.

Most places don’t care as long as you’re quiet. It’s pretty easy to stroll in and park as if you are checking in and then sneaking back to the pool area. Have your swimsuit on under your clothes, then just strip down and hop in! Many “ritzy” resort style hotels have some really sweet pools.

Most people don’t think of this as a date, but it’s great for a group. If you know someone with a boat, you can go water skiing, tubing, wakeboarding, knee boarding, etc. etc. at a nearby lake.

This is best for groups of people, but nowadays everyone knows someone with a projector that can be hooked up to a DVD player or computer to show a movie outside. Make sure it’s not going to rain, then throw up a big white sheet on the side of your house and project your movie on to it. Don’t forget sound!

Our favorite is The Settlers of Catan, but there are tons of other good board games and card games that you can use. For a first date, this might be a little better in a group environment but it’s a good way to keep busy if your date is boring.

This was actually our first date! It’s not good if it’s the “only” thing you do all night (you don’t get to talk much while you’re running around in the dark), but it will help break the ice and give a good lead in to something else.

You remember this game from when you were little, right? The one where you knock the ball around through the little metal rings on the grass? The hard part is finding a set. Once you’ve got that, get ready for a trip down memory lane and (again) a chance to laugh and get to know each other.

Guitar Hero is one of our favorite date activities when we don’t feel like going out. If you’re competitive, you can battle for the highest score. Plus even if your date is a total dud, you’ll have a good time jamming out.

Many YMCA, Boys & Girls clubs and Institutes have community rooms where you can play these classic games for free. Bring some friends and have a tournament!

Many cities have arcades like the nickel cade where you can play old school arcade games for dirt cheap. Stay away from places that charge ridiculous amounts for a “premium” experience. Remember, you’re there to enjoy and get to know each other not actually play.