This Is Objectively The Best First Date Spot

My shortest date on the record took place in 21 minutes and I have New York City’s Central Park to thank for a seamless escape. Whether you’re a seasoned single or it's your first date out of the gate, I am not alone when I strongly recommend you meet at the park.

Lisa Holden / Via Lisaaholden.com

New York City, Central Park

Why The Park

When determining a first-date location there are plenty of factors to consider from safety precautions to the weather and of course one’s ideal outfit. But the single most important component of a first date is your ability to exit gracefully after no more than an hour.

The park has everything you need. Walkability, plenty of scenery to talk about, plus every direction is an exit, so at any point, you can simply ask, “So, which direction did you come from?” When they point, you point the other way and off you go. Cruel? Perhaps slightly but one could argue it’s far crueler to waste a fellow human’s time.

Have you had a date in the park? You’re in the majority. Date preferences data pulled directly from Match members indicate in 2020, the number one date spot for singles is a park, followed by a restaurant and then a coffee shop. Sure, in 2020 we had to meet outside, but this trend transcends pandemic times, it’s inexpensive, simple to orchestrate and nearly universally accessible.

What should you wear on a park date? Much like a beach body, the park will take whatever outfit you give it! The most important thing to remember is comfy shoes but other than that, focus on outfits that make you feel sexy, while offering walkability. For winter I like leggings, sneakers, a long sweater and a long coat, but for the warmer times, it’s perfectly appropriate to pair those sneakers with a floral print dress and a jean jacket.

Don’t forget a prop. I love this date because you can wait with something like a book, a coffee or even an incognito cocktail. If you’re the kind of person who likes to show up early, you can arrive whenever you like and find a nice bench. For me, I like to arrive 2-3 minutes late looking a little rushed, so I appreciate it when my date keeps himself busy while I orchestrate that whole charade.

Just remember, a first date is supposed to be fun and easy. If it’s stressing you out, you’re trying too hard. Keep the conversation light and gracefully exit after an hour. It’s as easy as a walk in the park.