Summer in WNY has so many great activities to offer, and since spring has just passed and love was in the air, you might have a significant other. If you're looking to spend time with your significant other and have no idea what to do and are tired of searching online, stop right here. This is your one stop shop for 15 date ideas that won't cost too much to do with your significant other in WNY!
1. Niagara Falls
The Falls are just a short drive away. The Falls are one of the natural wonders of the world, and there are many activities to do. There's the Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, the Observation Tower, helicopter tours and trails you can follow. Some of those might cost a little money, but the views are worth it.
2. Niagara Falls Aquarium
While you're at the Falls, stop off at the Aquarium. The aquarium is small, but watching the animals is fun and you get to learn a lot.
3. Seneca Park Zoo
Located in Rochester, New York, this zoo is home to over 90 species including mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish and arachnids. The park was opened in 1893, and animals started being displayed in 1894. The first major addition to the zoo was the Main Zoo Building in 1931. It might be located outside of Buffalo, but the ride and the trip will be worthwhile.
4. Eternal Flame
Chestnut Ridge is in Orchard Park, and in this park you can find Eternal Flame Falls. Located in the Shale Creek preserve, a small grotto at the waterfall’s base emits natural gas, which can be lit to produce a small flame. This flame is visible nearly year round. To get to the flame, there are a few trails that are all pretty easy to follow. Completely free, this is a pretty fun way to waste a day!
5. Botanical Gardens
Created from the visions of extraordinary men, this building opened in 1900. Lord & Burnham, premier designers of Victorian glass houses, brought their vision to life with their unique design that was based upon the famous Crystal Palace in Kew Gardens Palm House in England. The Botanical Gardens is a national historic site, education center and tourist destination full of exotic horticulture treasures from around the world.
6. Canalside
Canalside is at the heart of Buffalo’s waterfront revitalization. It’s located in the city’s downtown corridor, at the intersection of Pearl Street and Marine Drive. Canalside has awesome things to do over the summer: concerts, water bikes, sunbathing, taking a picture with SharkGirl and even events like yoga.
7. Transit Drive In
On their Facebook page, they describe themselves as, "Movies and Fun Under the Stars since 1952!" The drive in has four screens, which means you have at least eight movies to choose from. The drive-in often pairs movies that compliment each other, so you're bound to have a good show. They play movies rain or shine and they even have a snack bar.
8. Beach Day
There are multiple beaches in Buffalo and the surrounding areas. Buffalo is absolutely beautiful in the summer, and it’s so worth going to one of these beaches. Just remember to wear sunscreen!
9. Frolf at Como Park
If you're more athletic or just really into Frisbee and golfing, this could be for you and your significant other. Como Park also has tennis courts, basketball courts and a trail you can walk/ride your bike.
10. Letchworth State Park
Letchworth is a 14,427-acre state park located in Livingston and Wyoming counties. The park prominently features three large waterfalls — the Upper, Middle and Lower Falls — on the Genesee River, which flows within a deep gorge that winds through the park. The park also has hiking, the William Pryor Letchworth Museum and the Portage Viaduct.
11. Picnic
12. Dinner at Home
An opposite from number 11, you can make a nice dinner at home! Look up your favorite recipe, or theirs, and cook it up. Set the table with some candles and wine and enjoy a quiet evening with your significant other.
13. Surprise Road Trip
I also like to call road trips adventures. Road trips are always fun. Find a destination, whether near or far, and pick up your significant other. Have them bring some snacks so you don't have to pay for a huge meal later on. Don't tell them where you plan on going, put on a great playlist, and let the surprise take care of itself!
14. Bike Rides
Bike rides are always fun and super easy. Find a local bike trail or park and take your significant other on a nice ride.
15. Photo Shoot
You don't need to be a photographer or model to have fun with this. You can even use the camera on your phone! Tell your significant other to dress nicely, take them to a scenic place in your area and start shooting. It'll be something fun for the both of you, and you'll have pictures to last a lifetime.
