Okay, this may sound a little controversial.
Admittedly, it may not be as popular as it once was, but still. Why do people choose to go to the movies on a date? Why waste all that valuable getting-to-know-you time staring at a screen? If you’ve been together for a while, why waste time you’ve managed to squeeze in – despite a hectic schedule – and spend it sitting passively, instead of choosing to reconnect?
Perhaps it’s because some towns aren’t as exciting as others, and people can’t think of anything else to do. Lucky you, you live in Sacramento. It has a lot going for it.
Here are a handful of inexpensive date ideas – some of which are virtually free – in the Sacramento area. These ideas are centered around fun experiences which foster connection. So, whether it’s a first date, or if you’ve been together for ages. Everyone will benefit.
Meet in Old Fair Oaks
When was the last time you were here? Old Fair Oaks is charming and unique. Plus, it has some incredible date spots. If coffee is your ideal first date spot, meet at Badfish Coffee & Tea. There are two locations – so make sure you pick the one in old Fair Oaks.
Sit outdoors in the warm sun, or take your coffee to go and head to the American River bike path. Cross the Fair Oaks Bridge, or Red Bridge as it’s more commonly called, and wind your way down and around onto the bike path. Enjoy chatting as you stroll, or find a quiet spot to settle and chat alongside the American River.
Feeling peckish after your walk, or perhaps you’re having so much fun you don’t want the date to end? The Fair Oaks Brew Pub has a delicious menu. Its atmosphere showcases the best of cozy casual rustic. Relax outdoors, enjoying the breeze from one of their picnic tables in the outdoor courtyard. Shaded by leafy oak by day, and illuminated by strings of café lights as the sun dips below the horizon.
Stroll Through Old Sacramento
Cheesy, you say? Here’s the reason behind this one. First, sometimes it’s fun to be a tourist in your hometown. Second, as a big tourist destination, Old Sacramento is an excellent spot for people watching. This is great for those who are prone to first date nerves.
People who grew up in Sacramento likely have memories of Old Sacramento. Memories that may be fun to share on the first date… or perhaps wait until the second or third.
For couples, Old Sacramento is a fun unexpected place to go. The restaurants are expensive, so order a sandwich to go – or bring some fun picnic fare from home and settle down at one of the outdoor tables to enjoy your meal.
Quandary Escape Room, Roseville
Calling those who are bold enough to see their dates true colors on a second or third date. Calling couples who work well together (or couples who are in couples therapy and want to test some of their new conflict management strategies). What better way to do that, then in an escape room?
Perfect for a double date or just the two of you, Quandary Escape Room in Roseville, CA is exciting and fun. A great way to see how someone handles what can be a stressful situation, even though it’s simulated.
Concert in the Park
In the summer, Cesar Chaves Park in downtown Sacramento hosts weekly free concerts in the park. Attendees cheer on their favorite local bands, or sit on the grass on picnic blankets and enjoy the atmosphere. With an assortment of food trucks on standby, ready to satisfy when hunger hits, this is a relaxing fun way to spend a warm summer’s evening.
Take a Hike
One of the best things about Sacramento is the variety of natural landscape. Enjoy a sunset hike along Folsom Lake. Already mentioned is the bike path, which stretches for miles.
Enjoy the Hidden Falls Regional Park loop near Roseville. There’s something about being outdoors, moving through nature that facilitates opening up and sharing on a deeper level.
Other fun ways to spend time together, laugh, and get out of your comfort zone is to sign up for a class. It’s so easy to get rooted in routine, and any chance to try something different and share that experience with someone you care about (or are getting to know) is a wonderful opportunity.
Make a list of places you want to go and things you want to do, and have fun checking it off. Oh, and if you’re not dating anyone, share these experiences with your friends!
Therapy in Roseville, CA, Fair Oaks, CA, or Online in California:
If you are ready to change your life for the better, we can help. To begin therapy at our Sacramento area locations or online, follow these steps:
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Contact the Relationship Therapy Center and schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation to learn more.
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Meet with one of our talented therapists
Services Offered at The Relationship Therapy Center in California:
Our Sacramento area counseling clinics located in Roseville and Fair Oaks, CA are pleased to offer a variety of mental health services. Our couples services include: Couples Counseling, Counseling after infidelity, sex therapy, co-parent counseling, family therapy, divorce counseling, intensive couples retreats, and premarital counseling. Our individual therapy services include anxiety treatment, therapy for children, teen therapy, depression treatment, codependency counseling and individual relationship counseling. Our therapists offer online counseling in California to treat a variety of mental health concerns. Please reach out to our Sacramento area therapy office to learn more about the many ways we can help you or your loved ones.