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Boston's Best First Date Spots

First dates are always a bit nerve-wracking. And in a town known for its boisterous Irish pubs, it can be hard to find a new, fun date idea. One can only drink so many Bud Lights. Instead, try one of these out of the ordinary, but not too wacky, date ideas for summer in Boston!

Flatbread Somerville Bowl Haven
(Photo Credit: Flatbread Somerville Bowl Haven)

Flat Bread Pizza Company And Sacco's Bowl Haven
45 Day St.
Somerville, MA 02144
(617) 776-0552
www.flatbreadcompany.com

Flat Bread Pizza Company in Davis Square is a great spot for a first date because it has a fun, casual atmosphere, great food and drinks and a fun activity: bowling! Bowling is a great game for a first date because it gives you the perfect amount of time to get to know each other, about 30 minutes for one round. And hey, if you hit it off, stay for another game or grab dinner at the dining area. If you are planning to go on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday, definitely call ahead to reserve a lane. Flat Bread and Sacco's is a popular spot and books up fast.

The Landing
One Long Wharf
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 227-4321
www.bostonharborcruises.com/the-landing

The Landing is the perfect place to test out a summer love. It is an all-outdoor bar conveniently located next to the New England Aquarium and Marriott Long Wharf, making it an easy spot to meet up after work. Enjoy the sun and cool evening breeze over a Corona at this great waterfront bar. Extend the date by taking a walk along the nearby harbor-walk. The aquarium's seal tank is along the harbor-walk and can make for a fun post-date activity.

ICA Fiber exhibit
(Photo Credit: Photo by John Kennard/ Institute of Contemporary Art)

The Institute Of Contemporary Art
25 Harbor Shore Drive
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 478-3100
www.icaboston.org

An art museum sounds like an intimidating first date, but don't be fooled; Boston's Institute of Contemporary Art, better known as ICA, is so much more than a museum. The ICA, in addition to its rotating art exhibits, hosts free live music outside on Boston Harbor every Thursday evening. A free concert with a cash bar is a great first date. Or check out one of the museum's lectures or first Friday parties. There is also plenty else to do in the neighborhood, so after getting your fill of music and art, it is easy to walk to one of the nearby cafes, bars or restaurants.

Related:  Ask a Boston Expert: 5 Tips for Owning Your First Reptile

Lawn On D
(Photo Credit: Lawn On D)

Lawn On D
420 D St.
Boston, MA 02210
(877) 393-3393
signatureboston.com/lawn-on-d

Lawn on D is another great summer date idea. The trendy seaport area park has great programming that includes outdoor movies, concerts and other great parties. Play lawn games and grab an affordable dinner from the food trucks for a fun casual date. There is also a bar on site if you are the kind that needs a little liquid courage. Check out the website for upcoming events and make sure to plan for the weather.

Vittoria
(Photo credit: Vittoria Caffe)

Caffe Vittoria
290-296 Hanover St.
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 227-7606
www.caffevittoria.com

If you prefer a more traditional date idea, Caffe Vittoria in Boston's North End is perfect. The small venue is classic and will appeal to everyone. For a more casual date, just grab a coffee or espresso, or spice things up with a cocktail and dessert. The desserts are delicious and romantic; think tiramisu, cannoli and gelato.

Related: Boston's Best Comic Book Stores

Cameron Bruns is the founder of BostonGreenBlog.com and co-author of Just Us Gals Boston. She lives in Boston's North End, where her goal is to promote ethical, stylish, and sustainable lifestyle choices to all Boston residents. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
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