When you're dating someone, it is easy to fall into the date routine of dinners, drinks, the movies, or just "hanging out." Especially nowadays with Netflix and Chill (I'm seriously rolling my eyes), it is easy to do the mundane, go-to dates. But, if you're feeling like you want to spice it up a bit and go beyond the dates that are probably making your relationship staler than the crackers in my pantry-- that was super generous, no part of me has a pantry; it's just a regular cabinet--then you should try these out.

1. Getting Drunk and Looking at Art

So, I can't take credit for this idea since I was actually taken on this date recently, but this idea is great. I don't know if any of you have ever seen some of the "art" they hang at the MoMA, but go stand in front of the most abstract/ridiculous/not art thing you can find and make a fake art statement about it and you'll both be doubled over in no time.

2. Dinner and a Comedy Show

Comedy shows are great; there's nothing better than watching a bunch of funny people crack jokes for an hour while you're laughing so hard your sides hurt. Plus, there's nothing better than laughing with your date/boyfriend/girlfriend.

3. Picnic in the Park

Grab a bottle of wine and pack some picky food (hummus, chips, nuts, etc.) and a blanket and head to your favorite park. It's always fun to people watch, or lay side by side with books in your hands while munching on your favorite snacks. (Also, the picture I posted with this is hilariously ambitious).

4. A Weekend Away

This is obviously a little more pricey, but it's a fun way to mix it up. Fire Island, Cape Cod, Jersey Shore, there's a bunch of areas nearby (if you're in the New York area). Renting a house, or even a hotel room for a few nights and just relaxing, checking out cute restaurants and enjoying each other's company.

5. Going to the Beach to Watch the Sunset

This is super cheesy, especially for my taste, but let's be real, the sunset is beautiful. Even if there isn't a beach by you, but a better area to see the sunset, you should get in your car, or the subway, or Uber, and head over to watch the day end with the person you care about. As cheesy as it is, it's super romantic to be huddled together on a blanket watching the sky change colors as the day comes to an end.

It can be hard, especially in a big, busy city, to find the time or creative mind to go on quality dates, but when you mix it up every once in a while, it shows the person you're with that you care and that you're still thinking about ways to surprise them. Always pays to go the extra mile.