College dating is tough no matter the circumstances, but this year it’s gotten a lot tougher. Budgets and transportation were hard enough to figure out, but now you have to consider how to best minimize your risk of contracting a deadly virus. If you’re struggling to think of intimate outings for you and that hottie you Super Liked who’s way out of your league, we’ve got you covered.
The Wex
Cost: FREE
Show your date how artsy you are by staring contemplatively at some elaborate installation that you definitely don’t understand. In my personal experience, there is no better conversation starter than whatever bizarre shit the Wex has hung up on its walls. They just unveiled their newest exhibitions last weekend, and they look pretty damn cool.
I genuinely don’t understand why more people don’t hang out here. When admission is free and it’s right on campus, there’s literally no excuse not to go. Show your potential partner that you’re thrifty and intellectual.
Franklin Park Conservatory
Cost: $16 per student ticket
Why get your date flowers when you can take them to a whole garden? The Franklin Park Conservatory is hella romantic, and there’s always something new to see. They have a bonsai exhibition through the end of the month and tons of fall foliage that just went on display, not to mention the Pumpkins Aglow attraction opening Oct. 14 for a few bucks more that’s about the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.
The cons? It’s a little on the pricier side, and there’s no quick, direct bus routes to the conservatory. Still, it’s gotta be one of the best date options in the city right now that doesn’t necessarily put you in close proximity to a bunch of mouth-breathing disease vectors.
U-Picks
Cost: Varies
If you want to go full-send on the autumn vibes and create an Instagram story that will make everyone you went to high school with wildly jealous, this is the move. Experience Columbus released an awesome list of local farms that will let you come and pick your own fall fruits. Even if the date turns out to be a dumpster fire, you’ll have a cute pumpkin to decorate your room, so it’s a guaranteed win!
Haunted House
Cost: Varies
Due to my aforementioned hatred of all things spooky, I cannot personally vouch for this option, but apparently some of you weirdos actually enjoy feeling like you’re gonna die. Nothing says romantic bonding quite like digging your nails into your date’s arm while your sympathetic nervous system cranks your brain into fight or flight mode. There’s plenty of options around Columbus to choose from, but the only one I can say with certainty is COVID-conscious is 13th Floor Haunted House.