How to pick a great place for a first date

I agree with you - it's SO about choosing a common ground between the two of you and sticking to that. It's just not.. fun when the other person isn't interested in what you're doing. Of course, if there's enough chemistry between the two of you..It won't really matter WHERE you are so long as you're with each other. Even the dullest of places can seem fun when you're with the right person. For me, a first date.. HAS to be somewhere where we can TALK. As boring as it sounds, that's really how you get to know someone - through talking to them and getting a feel for their interests, life, and personality. So - bowling to me wouldn't be that great of an idea, only because you're constantly taking turns and don't really ever have a chance to be face-to-face. Maybe as a second-half of the first date, sure.

My perfect first date, then, would be.. Something like going to an outdoor festival/fair/carnival, going to dinner, going out for a drink, going to the casino (well..I just love gambling, so I had to throw that one out there). I do agree that finding common interests is important, and that you definitely should plan dates according to your interests, but at the same time, you need to LEARN what your mate's interests ARE before being able to coordinate an event with them!

The most important thing is that it's a place where you can really get to know each other. Also, make sure it is a relatively public place for the first date. The best thing is probably to ask your prospective date what he or she would like to do. Maybe start by going to dinner at a restaurant where you can talk. Take a walk or sit some place pituresque after dinner and continue the conversation. Something that involves sports may be good for later if you're nervous (mini golf, bowling as suggested above, sailing, ice skating, roller skating, taking a hike, Wii games, swimming, etc.). The important thing is just to get to know your date, so just play it low key and casual.

I like going to one of the adult gaming places like dave and busters its easier to relax and be yourself.

Since I am a mostly quiet and private person(NOT SHY) I would prefer to go see a movie and afterwards perhaps stop for coffee and then at least we can speak about the movie. I like to hear about other people but I do not like to talk alot about myself.