It’s date night and the ever ominous question of, “where should we go?” hangs like a threatening cloud over you and your date’s head. You don’t want to go to the same bars and restaurants you’ve cycled through dozens of times on date nights past, but what else is there? If you’re looking to shake up your standard routine with some fun, fresh and exciting activities check out these 5 secret spots around El Monte that make for an amazing date night.
1)Vineland Drive In
For the price of one movie you can catch two of Hollywood’s latest blockbusters on the super big screen at Vineland Drive In theater. Movie, popcorn, you and your date in the privacy of your cool ride—the romance is practically built in! And you can make things as romantic as you like with no nosy neighbors to insist you keep it down. So steam up those windows or bring pillows and blankets to watch outside under the stars. (You can rent radios at the concession stand if you don’t want to leave your car running.) If you and your date are movie buffs, this drive in throwback experience is not one to be missed!
2)Archery Division
Looking to really bust out of your comfort zone on your next date? Then why not try a game of arrow tag at Archery Division! Never heard of arrow tag? No worries, the friendly staff will explain everything, though it’s pretty much how it sounds—tag with foam arrows. This out-of-the-box game combines the fun and thrill of dodgeball with medieval style combat. What’s not fun about that? If you and your date are the competitive type or are just looking for something new, arrow tag just might be the thing that’s been missing from your life!
Single? Find someone to take to these cool spots!
3)Silver Dollar Saloon
Bar dates are pretty much the gold standard when it comes to first dates and it makes sense why. It’s low commitment, low pressure and that sweet, nerve-numbing alcohol is readily available. However, even the gold standard can grow tiresome, which is why it’s important to rotate new bars into your dating life. Silver Dollar Saloon isn’t new in the standard definition of the word, but it could be new to you! This dive bar offers cheap drinks, all the dart boards you can toss a sharp pointy object at and even a free comedy show the first Tuesday of the month. So the next time you find yourself uttering the phrase, “Let’s grab a drink” suggest the Silver Dollar Saloon. It’s off the beaten path, but a guaranteed good time.
4)Whittier Narrows Recreation Area
There’s nothing like a little fresh air to put some wind in your romantic sails. The Whittier Narrows Recreation Area is a lovely spot of greenery that makes for an ideal picnic location. You can show off your cooking skills with a homemade casserole or just your good tastes if you opt for a pre-made feast. Either way, your thoughtfulness and level of presentation is bound to impress your date. After you dine you can take a leisurely constitutional around the lake or stop by the shallow waters to feed the ducks. Your afternoon will be so darn quaint you’ll think you’ve fallen into a Rockwell painting. This date idea is perfect for anyone who wants to see their date in the daylight hours and bask in that California sunshine.
5)Tizon Bistro
If you and your date are foodies through and though, you might be perfectly happy with the typical dinner date. In that case, check out hidden gem Tizon Bistro if you’re looking for a casual, romantic meal. Their checkered tablecloths fit perfectly with the Italian bistro ambiance. They’re known for their pizzas, but have a full menu of other Italian delicacies to delight in. So order a pie to share or some spaghetti and meatballs and recreate that iconic scene from Lady and the Tramp. After all, the quickest way to the heart is through the stomach.