Finding the ideal date spot can be difficult, but for West Ottawa students the search is a joy. Holland’s vibrant area offers many captivating spots for couples to explore, scattered throughout Holland and sure to allure any pair of lovebirds.
Thrift Shopping
I know what you’re thinking: Thrift shopping, really? But let me tell you, it’s not your average date idea–it’s an adventure waiting to happen. Picture this: you and your partner exploring hidden treasures together, rifling through racks of varied clothing, finding quirky knick-knacks and nostalgic relics. The shared excitement of stumbling upon unique finds fosters laughter and conversation. Whether trying on vintage clothing for a laugh or debating the charm of retro decor, thrift shopping provides a backdrop for bonding and creating memories. “The date was a bit strange but amazing! My boyfriend and I love secondhand shopping, so it was fun finding the most random things when we went,” said Jr. Naylea Ramirez. With over twenty thrift stores, Holland provides the perfect date spot for a date filled with surprises.
Paint A Pot
Imagine this: You’re on a date, but it’s not your ordinary dinner-and-a-movie affair. No, you are diving into a world of creativity and connection at Paint A Pot. You and your date stroll into the studio. Together, you browse through designs, laughing and joking as you pick out the perfect pieces. Armed with brushes and pots, you take on an artistic date. As you paint, the room fills with laughter and conversation, each brushstroke is a shared moment, a snapshot of your connection etched into clay. By the end of the night, you’ve crafted something unique. “I painted a ceramic turtle and she painted a small ceramic bowl, ”said Soph. Gabriel Arvizu. But beyond the finished pieces, it’s the experience that truly matters. So don’t settle for the ordinary when you can make your date truly extraordinary with a splash of paint.
Picnic on the Beach
As the sun casts its warm glow upon the golden sands, the rhythmic melody of crashing waves creates a soothing soundtrack. The air, mingling with the sweet aroma of freshly prepared snacks. “We had a picnic on the beach during the sunset,” Soph. Lillianna Cruz said, “It literally felt like a movie.” Sharing laughter, conversation, and delicious bites amidst the splendor of nature, you can forge a deeper connection with your partner as you bask in the beauty of the beachscape, creating cherished memories that linger long after the picnic ends.
The zoo
The zoo: a chaotic mess with kids screaming and strange smells wafting around, but it’s a pretty awesome spot for a date, surrounded by all sorts of fascinating creatures from around the globe. Sure you might dodge a few runaway strollers and endure the occasional whiff of who-knows-what, but once you’re in, it’s a whole different story. Whether you’re hand-feeding gentle giraffes or admiring the acrobatics of monkeys, a date at the zoo is a blast. Hope College Jr. Confiance Mbuyu said, “The girl I went with loved animals. The zoo was a wonderful place to take her.” Together, a couple can immerse themselves in the magic of the animal kingdom, forging bonds as enduring and vibrant as the colorful inhabitants themselves.
Downtown Holland
With beautiful lights, wonderful food, and music playing in your ears while strolling hand in hand along the streets lined with historic buildings, downtown Holland creates a perfect date. From admiring the streets adorned with colorful tulips in the spring and beautiful festive lights in the winter to exploring the array of unique shops and boutiques, there’s an undeniable sense of adventure in the air. Indulging in delicious local foods at cozy cafes adds a wonderful touch to the evening. “We walked around to every store and looked at things together,” said Soph. Vinh Tran. “It was during the holidays, so we got hot cocoa and looked at the pretty lights.” With its blend of old-world charm and modern delights, a date downtown Holland creates laughter, connection, and unforgettable memories.
It’s clear there are more options out there to go on a date than a movie.
