First Date: Sunset Picnic at Gas Works Park

PARK HISTORY:

Gas Works Park, located at 2101 N Northlake Way, is one of Seattle’s most well known parks. This 20 acre property on Lake Union used to be a manufacturing plant for making coal into gas and crude oil. However, the plant shut down in the 1950s and is now open to the public. Now, it offers grassy hills and a gorgeous cityscape view.

ADORABLE AND AFFORDABLE:

What makes Gasworks great for a first date is that although it is located within the city, you do get to be in the great outdoors experiencing nature. The traditional first date “get-to-know-you” conversations flow easily when uninhibited by busy restaurants, crowded streets, or other aspects of the potentially noisy city. Affordability comes in easily with the idea of a picnic. Cheese and wine, fresh fruit, deli salads—the possibilities are endless and local grocers can supply you with gourmet picnic fixings. Be sure to check out weekly specials for great ideas!

BE PREPARED:

Bring a blanket to sit on, and maybe another one to snuggle up with after the sun goes down—even in the summer the park can get chilly at night! Also, in Seattle, rain is always a possibility and can quickly put a damper on an outdoor picnic! If it happens to rain on the day of your date, try an indoor picnic on your living room floor instead. This unconventional setting lightens the mood and then, if things go well, you can hold each other accountable for a second date visit to Gas Works.

THE PERFECT FIRST DATE OUTFIT:

What to wear on the first date is a question that always comes up! Here are some stylish suggestions to help you out:

Ladies: Because Gas Works can be grassy and sometimes muddy, we recommend staying away from white, especially when it comes to your shoes! A cute dress or flirty skirt paired with leggings (keep in mind that you will be sitting on the ground) and a bright colored top allow you to look fun and girlish while still being functional. Be sure to bring some sort of sweater or jacket for later in the evening. We have compiled a reference below.

Men: Forget those stiff blazers and neckties, and there's no need to shine your shoes! Outdoor dates allow you to dress a bit more casual than you would for a first date. Try a nice pair of dark wash denim with a button down shirt. Extra points if you can get your shoes to match your shirt. Don’t forget to bring a jacket in case you—or your lady—gets cold. Shown here is famous celebrity James Franco who has this look down! She will love it if you are channeling his sexy look!