Tis the season for love or a summer fling or a really hot date. Hopefully I will get to experience one of the above before the leaves start changing colors. It’s this time of year that I am reminded why I love Dayton so much. From festivals to concerts to some of the best bar patios around, this city is filled with great things to do. This week I bring to you the best spots in Dayton for a great night out with that special person but if you’re into self love like myself you can also take yourself out to one of these places.
Play Ball! 
What’s better than peanuts, cold beer and baseball on a Summer day or night? Not much really. If you haven’t been to a Dayton Dragon’s game, I suggest you do. It really is the perfect setting for a date, especially a first one. A relaxed setting and sports tends to make it easier on the guys. So if he doesn’t suggest it, you should. If you’re a planner, here’s their season schedule. I’ve always found that my favorite dates are those at sports events. They’re fun and simple.
Patio Perfect.
On a summer night, what’s better than an outdoor patio? There are a lot of great places in Dayton to sit outside and enjoy conversation under starlit sky. Some of the places listed in my last column on dating by mood would apply here. Locally, Sidebar if you’re looking for fine dining, Blind Bob’s if you’re looking to just relax and have a cold one but there are more. Since I spend enough time there though, for a date there are other place I would suggest. I love Yellow Springs, especially this time of year and there is a little place I visit at least a few times in the summer, Ye Olde Trail Tavern. Nothing fancy about it, but the patio is great and if you’re a people watch you’re right on the street and can stare at passerbys. This maybe convenient if your date is a real dud. Also for a great patio experience and a great margarita there’s always Elsa’s on Linden in Kettering, though sip Bad Jauns gingerly. Being a drunk hot mess on a date could effect the chances of being asked out again, or not. While we’re on latin food, El Meson is one of my favorites and the patio, also great. 
Wine Tasting. Outdoor Excursions. Dairy.
Back to Yellow Springs, The Winds Cafe. If you have not been here yet I suggest you really take a drive and do so. Seasonal menu with wines to fit. It’s a great little place, casual yet a fine dining experience. I’d like to also add that it’s very close to local bike trails. If you’re into that sort of thing, cycling that it, bike paths and hiking in Glen Helen and John Bryan State Park would be a great way idea as well. I once rode a 30 mile trail on a date, it was great. If wine is not something you’re looking for after exercise .. cool off with ice cream. Young’s Dairy is close by. What’s better than a good old fashioned date over an ice cream cone? I was born in the wrong time, I think or just enjoy the simple things either way it still works. I also hear Peach’s Grill is great, it’s on my list to try.
Music and More.
Feel like keeping it indoors and staying cool. Tis the season for great shows! The Lion King is coming to town along with many other productions. The Victoria Theater Association has events listed on their site. Riverscape downtown always has something going on as well and really is one of my favorite spots downtown, especially this time of year. Sitting on bench for a few hours talking at times can be better than anything else you’d do on a date. Check out their Summer Concert Series as well. Also, if you’re into music I would also check out Gilly’s and Blind Bob’s for there upcoming shows as well.
Festivals.
I saved the best for last. One of the things I love most about Dayton in the summer time are the festivals. Music. Food. Art. Three staples in my life. This list below are some of my favorites, but if I’ve missed something feel free to add one in comments. I’m sure I’ve missed plenty, being a transplant and all. These are upcoming.
It’s sometimes hard to come up with ideas for a date because usually the first ones can be pretty awkward. I always like to go with anything that involves having fun, is simple, in a comfortable setting and local for a few reasons. The more comfortable and fun what you plan is the less it feels like a date, the part that makes you nervous. If that doesn’t work and the date sucks, if you’re local it’s easier to plan your getaway by meeting friend close by. Yes, I’ve done this. It is what it is. If you’re in a loving relationship, these ideas also apply to you. Mix it up and have a little fun.
Till next time, thanks for reading!
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