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.

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.

This is good as long as you’re sure you can beat the other person. I’ve been thoroughly embarrassed by Katie many times by making the mistake of taking her bowling. It’s worth a good laugh (especially if you need bumpers like I do)

Pretty self explanatory. The idea here is not to go “all out” but to create some time to laugh and play together. Make sure it’s windy (and if it’s not, you could watch the movie The Kite Runner)

Ice blocks can be purchased from a supermarket or (obviously) made with very little effort. Grab one of these babies and head to your nearest grassy (that’s important) hill and turn it in to a giant slide! It’s a good idea to bring a towel so you don’t have to sit directly on the ice block. And it gets old fast, so have something else planned.

Frisbees are very cheap and yet a great source of fun. If you’re really adventurous, look for a frisbee golf course near your house and give that a try! Also good for small groups of double-daters.
We haven’t documented this one yet. If you try it, please let us know how it went below!