Dating in Toronto can be somewhat routine. Whether it’s après work patio drinks, a nice sit down dinner at whatever the latest it-spot just so happens to be, or a picnic in Trinity Bellwoods (read: drinking and tanning,) these ideas tend to be untitillatingly typical, discouraging those of us in the dating scene to actually go on yet another redundant date.
To us, the best kinds of dates are those that come with a unique experience, in turn creating a memory and shared bond. So jump out of that cliched dating box and into one of these venues to do just that. You’re welcome.
O’Noir
This dining experience, like none other, is not meant for those faint at heart. O’Noir (locations in Toronto and Montreal) is Canada’s only ‘dine-in-the-dark’ restaurant that has guests experience food, drinks, and conversation in pitch black darkness. This intimate culinary experience allows you and your date to focus on each other and the senses that surround you, as opposed to the typical looking at your phone, people watching/checking-out others, and the like. This made-to-measure, one-on-one time allows you to get to really know, and trust, the person sitting opposite of you. For the adventurous there is a chef surprise menu, where you can forgo the other options and let the chef surprise your tastebuds.
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Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
We’ve seen it in movies (such as Jim Carrey’s Cable Guy) and perhaps we have been there once before on a school trip when we were pint sized and easily-entertained, but Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament is a great spot to go for a double date. The adult-friendly venue offers an array of libations, and you can harness your playful (and competitive) side by cheering on your team. Plus, think of the Instagram pics! Instead of a typical dinner, you get to feast with a set meal, using your hands. We recommend making sexy bets with your other half just before the lights go out and the show gets started.
Legoland Discovery Centre
Whether you’re dating a dude with a daughter, or have some nieces and nephews that you want to have bond with your other half, Legoland Discovery Centre is the perfect place to do just that. I recently went with my boyfriend, sister, and her four adorable kiddies and it was one of the most memorable dates I’ve had. There are 4-D movies, fun rides, healthy eats, and a ‘kids only’ section if you want to have some alone time and steal some smooches while the kids are distracted. Plus, they capture candids when you’re least expecting it, providing you with a perfect take-home of your fun day out.
Glow-In-The-Dark Ping Pong
Every Tuesday night from 9pm to 1am SPiN Toronto turns on the black lights, turns up the old school hip hop, and gets galactic with glow in the dark pong – replete with $5 Black Light Gin + Tonics and free cosmic popcorn, to boot. Whether it’s your first time at the sport, or you’re a seasoned pro, this is bound to bring out the fun and make for memorable you’ll never guess what we did stories.
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Boat Cruise
Toronto boasts many a boat cruises that take off just before sunset on Lake Ontario. Whether you want to go with another couple, or just one-on-one with your other half, this is a great place during the summer to go and unwind. There are few things as romantic as the city’s skyline at sunset on a summer’s eve, plus, being on the lake, it’s slightly chillier giving you a great opp to lean in and and get close. You can buy tickets in advance and be whisked away with no worries (and no fear of running into others). Our recommendations are Mariposa Cruises and The River Gambler.
What are some of your favourite unique date spots? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.