The first date is confirmed, now the killer question: what to do and where to go? Do we simply go for a drink in a bar we know well, close to a restaurant we also know… so that if all goes well after a cocktail, we can move on to the restaurant? Shall we go for a coffee or a walk?
The first outing with a new flame can seem anxiety-provoking. We’ve all been there: the awkward moments, the big gaps in the conversation. Fortunately, Montreal offers tons of unique activities to ensure the evening is a success… even if the date isn’t.
Here are our suggestions for perfect first dates in the city:
1. Laugh heartily at a comedy show
Take a tour of the Comedy Nest in the old Forum for a comedy show in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, every evening from Tuesday to Sunday. This comedy club is also an official partner of the Just for Laughs festival, so the shows are almost certainly top-notch. What’s more, the popcorn is excellent! Please note that comedy shows are in English only.
And if you come across an evening that’s a little less vibrant, just head upstairs to the bowling a classic first-date activity, we go down to the first floor to see a film. The Cineplex Forum also offers screenings in the VIP Lounge !
2. Attend a unique concert
Candlelight offers several concerts perfect for a first date in Montreal, from Coldplay to classical music’s greatest symphonies. Spend an evening in a candlelit church with a string quartet or pianist performing musical favourites. Very romantic and original! Click here for upcoming concerts.
3. Go sliding down the mountain
When you want to get away from the pressure of dinner & cocktail parties, what could be better than a unique outdoor activity? Montreal offers plenty of tobogganing options in the city, from neighborhood parks to the grand slope of Parc Mont-Royal, right next to picturesque Beaver Lake. What’s more, it’s just a stone’s throw from the Kondiaronk lookout, perfect for a romantic moment if the date goes well!
4. Share a cocktail in the Old Port
The Old Port is one of Montreal’s most romantic neighborhoods, with its stone streets and nearby Bonsecours Basin. If you take a walk along rue St-Paul, you’ll inevitably come across a cocktail bar or pub where you can chat and get to know each other in a pleasant atmosphere. We suggest, among others Wolf & Workman the Flyjin is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a relaxed yet elegant start to the date, or Flyjin if you’re hoping to keep the party going as the evening progresses.
5. Take a romantic stroll
If you’re looking for an activity without all the pressure of a city outing, why not get to know yourself by walking through one of the world’s most beautiful cities? Montreal offers many romantic places to stroll and discover monuments, attractions and incredible views. Here are our suggestions for romantic walks for your first date. Who knows, maybe the stroll will become a stroll and a cocktail…
6. Discover a hidden bar in Montreal
Which of course brings us to Montreal’s most romantic spots: its hidden bars. The ultimate destination for whispered conversations in a subdued, bewitching and secret atmosphere… Montreal’s hidden bars offer a unique and exciting evening for the first date.
7. Glide on a magical ice rink
In winter, Montreal is transformed into an incredible ice palace. You have numerous rink options all over the city, but we suggest the Old Port skating rink for a perfectly romantic date, or the Beaver Lake skating rink on Mount Royal. If you feel like getting away from it all, head to Parc Jean-Drapeau to discover the unique Sentier des patineurs. Share a delicious hot chocolate after… it’s a perfect way to cap off the first date!
8. Witness a unique light show
It may sound too grandiose as a first date suggestion, but if you’ve got the right vibe, it could be a very winning option! Illumi offers a magnificent 90-minute journey on foot or by car through 19 breathtaking light tableaux. If you’re going by car, it could be a great opportunity for a chat, while on foot you can discover these bright and very romantic worlds. Dress warmly!