What are the best dating spots in College Park? Students and faculty at the University of Maryland share their favorite locales to make memories with the people they love.
Whenever sophomore cinema and media studies and journalism double major Adam Hudacek gets to see his boyfriend, they enjoy taking a stroll at Lake Artemisia.
“It is great because it’s one of the few natural spots within walking distance of campus, and the Gazebo is super nice,” said Hudacek.
If you are looking for a walk in the park with someone, Lake Artemisia is next to the Paint Branch Stream Valley Park. It is a little over a mile from campus, With a surplus of trails and a beautiful lake, so people can enjoy kayaking, biking, and fishing.
Restaurants are unique places to try well-crafted food and experience a change in scenery.
“Cornerstone Grill and Loft and The Hall are definitely good spots to go to. You always hear about how they serve amazing food and the variety of items they have on the menu,” said Sheila Thorpe, M&T Bank worker at Stamp Student Union.
A more low-key spot is The Board and Brew, a cafe that serves coffee and offers a wide variety of board games to play while you dine. They also host trivia nights, a fun opportunity to engage in friendly competition.
Some advice that sophomore criminology and criminal justice and psychology double major Juli Magud gave when choosing a spot is to decide if you are looking for a more fancy or casual vibe. This can help determine many factors such as clothing and what to wear, or where to go.
“You are going to be more prepared for prices and what to wear,” she said.
One more upscale place in College Park that Magud recommended is Burton's Grill and Bar, an American restaurant where people can enjoy all sorts of cuisine. Located in Riverdale Park, they offer appetizers such as creamy buffalo chicken dip and general tso cauliflower topped with cilantro, sesame, and ginger aioli. They have different types of steak for entrees, such as an 8 oz filet mignon and a 12 oz New York strip. If you're looking for dessert, their famous seven-layer cake is for you. This mouth-watering chocolate cake has chocolate frosting, hot fudge, and raspberry coulis to bring your meal to a tasty conclusion. If people are looking for a small, quiet dinner or a large party, they can reserve the private dining room.
Another place Magud suggested was the Marriott Hotel on University East Boulevard, which has a restaurant inside called The Common. Although it is a little pricey, they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. The Common's selections range from omelets to waffles, and there are unique dinner items such as a Chesapeake flatbread and a cowboy ribeye steak.
Is there any advice on finding the right dating spot? Journalism and Media Scholars professor Alison Burns has been married for several years, and one thing that she advises encourages people to try and explore new places outside of College Park, and find a place that would not only bring them joy, but push them out of their comfort zone.
“Go somewhere you think is the best place to spend time with someone and where you think fits the vibe of the night,” she said.
Ultimately, finding the best dating spot will not happen overnight, but it's possible to find. Give some of these places a try and maybe you will find a wonderful site!