Things You Should Be Doing With Your Girlfriend

Being in a relationship is nice, but for it to really last, the two of you can’t be hermits all the time. It goes without saying that both you and the missus should have some activities you like to do apart, but what about socializing together? Doing things as a couple with friends or other couples is a great way to strengthen your bonds, as well as change things up in order to keep your relationship interesting. These relationship drivers are all about finding ways to fill your social calendar with activities that include others in the fun

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No.10 Dinner Theater

For some, dining out in a large group represents the zenith of socializing. For others — like myself — it’s an almost unbearable experience. But things change when you add in a theatrical component. Instead of having to shout at one another across a crowded table, everyone can shut up and enjoy the show along with their meal. Some venues show normal plays, others do musicals and others specialize in edgier material, like burlesque shows.

No.9 Bowling

Bowling is one of those things where everyone can do it, even if no one’s especially good at it. It’s great because when hanging out in a group, it causes natural breaks in the conversation, which helps keep things fresh. Games are typically inexpensive and allow for some healthy competition without taking things overboard. Lots of alleys have special nights where — for a set fee — you can bowl unlimited games during a set time frame.

No.8 Water/Amusement Park

These aren’t just for kids. Since it’s summer time, obviously a water park would be ideal, but if you don’t have one nearby, a regular amusement park will do. If you haven’t been to one in a while, you might not realize how much they have to offer. In addition to rides, most parks have entertainment, games and indulgent — if not overpriced — food. It’s a great option for days when your go-to activities aren’t appealing, and if you’re going to have to wait in lines, you might as well do it with pals.

 

No.7 Get Out And Explore

It goes without saying that we don’t always do a great job of going off the beaten path when we have everything we need close to home. In fact, the larger the city, the less likely you are to leave your comfort zone — just ask a New Yorker how often they’ve been to Hoboken. Knowing that, planning to get out and explore your surroundings is a great way to spend a day. Look at the map and plan an itinerary that starts around two hours out from home. If you don’t have one, rent a vehicle large enough to accommodate several people. There might be activities to do, sights to see, or just scenery to take in.

 

No.6 Game Night

Getting out and socializing doesn’t have to mean going out and making the scene. For something a little more low-key invite a few other couples over and play cards or games. The classics — like Scattergories – are always good, and new games come out all the time. Mix things up by playing games with teams of guys versus girls, couple versus couple or shirts versus skins (the ladies might not go for that last one). Put up a trivial wager on the outcome, like “loser buys the beer” or something like that.

No.5 Take In A Sporting Event

It’s true that girls don’t always like sports as much as we do, but they’re a lot more likely to be interested if you’re watching in a group environment. Versus just watching on TV, live sporting events have a palpable energy to them that make it exciting whether you’re a fan or not. The key to making it fun for everyone is to focus on the entire event, not just the game itself. Dress yourselves in whatever fan gear you have. Partake in some pre-game beers and street food, or go all-out and tailgate, if possible. Take a lap around the whole stadium before things get underway. Baseball is obviously the go-to in the summer, but football, basketball, hockey and even golf tournaments can be fun depending on the season.

No.4 Do Something Outdoorsy

Depending on where you live, you probably have some lush natural resources within a few hours drive. Hiking, kayaking, rock climbing and camping are all things best done with friends, for safety reasons if nothing else. Find something that suits you, and spend the day enjoying fresh air and getting exercise the way man was intended to. Come back to civilization by showering off all that nature and grabbing drinks afterward.

No.3 Go Skiing

In the summer we do it on the water and in the winter we do it on the slopes. Either way, skiing is a great way to spend a day with friends. On the water, all you need is a pair of skiis and a boat, both of which can be rented. Winter skiing — while not traditionally thought of as affordable — can actually be quite reasonable if all you need to rent are skiis and a lift ticket. Of course, if you live in Southern California, you have the option of either variety more or less year round.

No.2 Barbecue

With temperatures rising off the charts, what could be better than taking a little charcoal grill and getting it hotter than the surface of the sun? Barbecuing is a great American summer pastime and for good reason. It’s a wonderful excuse to gather a bunch of friends, toss around a Frisbee and chow down on inhuman quantities of grilled meats. If it’s too hot out for you, you can always do the grilling outside and the eating inside.

 

No.1 Host A Cook-Off

Combining competition with overindulgence is one of the best parts of living in a free nation. A cook-off of some sort is fun for everyone involved. You and your lady get to plan it, set the judging criteria, play host and sample a bunch of delicious dishes. Your friends get to scheme and strategize while fine-tuning their recipes in order to increase their chances of victory. Really any kind of food is on the table, but if you don’t want people messing up your kitchen, you’re best bet is to choose foods that can be made ahead of time, like pie or chili.

SOURCE: http://www.askmen.com

Things You Should Be Doing With Your Girlfriend