Community Corner
Yorktown Dating: A Resource Guide
A how-to on impressing a date locally by utilizing the cozy and the unexpected in the Yorktown area.
Whether they're getting to know someone special for the first time, or showing a long-term significant other how much they care, many folks are under the impression that there aren't many places in Yorktown to go on a date.
Wrong.
I decided to find the most romantic, adventurous, and delicious places in town. As a seasoned dater, I can recommend several local destinations.
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First, by following the few simple steps below, you'll have your lucky companion speechless at your thoughtful creativity.
Step 1: Make sure he/she dresses for the event.
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- While it may seem debonair to keep the details of the first date a surprise, make sure your lucky companion has enough information that she knows what to wear for the occasion. Otherwise, it will be a disaster from the get-go, and she'll be asking you how in the world she would ever know to bring her hiking shoes out on a romantic excursion. I found this to be especially important to consider when visiting the first spot I've recommended.
Step 2: Get Physical
- By going on a date that gets both of your bodies moving, you'll save money while keeping the conversation flowing.
Step 3: Experience the great outdoors
- Outdoor activities, such as fishing, row-boating, or picnicking are fun, unconventional ways to impress the lad (or lass) of your choice.
Step 4: Open the car door for her
- It's still a nice gesture for those ladies who want a perfect gentleman to sweep them off their feet. She may even be surprised that you took the initiative, scoring you brownie points for the night ahead.
Step 5: Take him/her out to a delicious meal
- This depends on the nature and importance of the date and personalities of the people involved.
- The locations for this installment of the wooing process may vary.
Step 6: Enjoy outdoor music together on a summer night
Step 7: Give into his/her sweet tooth
Row-Boating/Fishing/Picnic
This Yorktown landmark cannot be skipped during the summertime for its picnic grounds and swimming. Much less of an incline than Turkey Mountain, its spacious grassy landscapes are ideal for a picnic. If you are looking to take your date either fishing or row-boating, Mohansic Lake is the spot to do it.
On a clear, pleasant day, this is an ideal way to enjoy the outdoors. First, surprise the other person with a picnic, and later pitch row-boating or fishing.
Remember: bring two fishing poles, bait, and all other accoutrements packed in the trunk of the car. This way, when you suggest the idea, you can coolly your date and say: "I already knew you'd say yes, so I grabbed them before I left!"
Hiking/Picnic
To take a hike up this nearby mountain is both scenic and adventurous. This idea is definitely for a couple who are okay with the idea of scrubbing dirt off the bottoms of their shoes, because it's safe to say that high-heels would be a bad idea.
If you are not an avid hiker, don't fret. The climb to the summit only takes 20 minutes to reach, with many picturesque views along the way.
The large rocks along the edges are convenient places to take water breaks. (Speaking as someone who is not nearly as in shape as she should be, I didn't have a hard time reaching Turkey's pinnacle.)
Once you arrive at the summit, the view is great—so make sure you don't forget your camera. On a clear, sunny day, you can see the placid Croton Reservoir and the green bridge traversed by Taconic State Parkway travelers. The real treat though, can be found in the far distance—the New York City skyline including the Empire State Building.
There is plenty of room to sit at the top, so a romantic gesture would be to pack a picnic or light snack to munch on as you both relax and take in the panoramic atmosphere. (Showing you were thoughtful enough to bring something to share will mean a lot.) Homemade sandwiches or cookies would do the trick here along with two cold water bottles. Since you will both have worked up an appetite and thirst by now, your date will be grateful that you thought ahead.
Helpful tip: use a lunch-pack bag that has a well-insulated lining. Otherwise, your cookies will get soggy and your water bottles will be lukewarm.
North County Trailway Bike Path
Bike Ride
This pedestrian/bike path is a fun way to enjoy the changes as summer ends and autumn begins. A scenic place to take your date is the New Croton Reservoir—which also serves as a perfect spot to take a break to marvel at the beauty of nature. The path, which continues along Route 118, provides a great hands-on experience in not only getting to know your fellow bike-rider, but also the town where you live.
For parking, there is an area along Underhill Avenue near Town Hall with plenty of spots.
Right behind Town Hall, take a moment to visit the new garden selflessly planted by the hardworking students of the Yorktown Leo Club. It truly adds to the beautification of Yorktown.
914.245.1084
Side-by-Side Body Treatments
Show her you care with his-and-hers spa therapy for the day. Side by side body rejuvenation treatments, body scrubs, as well as a variety of mind-numbing massages will help both of you relax from your hectic lives and enjoy each other.
The spa offers half-day, full day, or ultimate packages. Each one offers a variety of delectable combination including facials, manicures, and massages—the perfect recipe for low-key bliss.
Many people say a spa is right up there next to heaven or the Caribbean in terms of paradise, so taking your date on an afternoon trip to euphoria will be sure to keep you out of the dog house for at least a couple of weeks.
914.248.6200
Dinner/Drinks
Since this Italian Fusion restaurant mixed the cuisines of several different cultures, there is no need to agonize over what kind of food he/she likes if you are taking someone out for the first time. Phew. Spain, Portugal, and Argentina are all represented.
The service and atmosphere of Piatto Grill are exquisite. The restaurant is fully adorned with windows allowing for natural sunlight, along with a friendly and attentive wait-staff.
For established couples looking to go out for a special occasion, this is the place. Your date will enjoy all aspects of the environment as you enjoy each other's company over delicious bottles of wine.
914.245.0920
Lunch/Dinner
On Saw Mill River Road, this cozy Italian location promises great food. For a dinner or lunch date for two, the mood is relaxed rather than stuffy. If you are a fan of Italian food, this is the place to take to go. The menu and wine list are equally extensive, offering something for everybody.
Portions for dishes are generous.
A bowl of homemade soup, such as the Pasta Fagiole, is enormous, so don't feel ashamed to take some home. As another type of appetizer, the Rice Ball, is also recommended for its delicious blend of vegetables, chicken, and meat.
Yorktown Summer Concert Series at the Gazebo
Outdoor Concert
Bring a blanket to keep warm and a cooler for cold beverages as you prepare to snuggle up with the date of your dreams. The combination of music and the warm weather will provide a uniquely shared experience of good tunes and friends. It's also a refreshing change from a stuffy, air-conditioned movie theater.
If you are attending your first concert, sit up front if you and your date are aiming to take pictures and/or trying to get the best sound quality. If you do sit farther away, your view won't necessarily be blocked by someone else, but you won't be able to get a one-on-one view of the action.
Ice Cream
Often after dinner and entertainment (i.e. the summer concert) daters are lost for what to do next. Stopping for a sweet treat will cap off the night on a high note.
Buy her ice cream. Reminder of childhood happiness, people do not grow out of craving, so have your favorite double chocolate-chip scoops with sprinkles. As an added bonus, chocolate contains endorphins, elevating both of your moods.
On a lighter note, take a trip down memory lane with a pride of the establishment—an old fashioned ice cream soda. I would recommend a simple vanilla flavor in a glass of root beer. Refreshing on a hot summer night, it is big enough for two to share.
