These days, setting up a sweet, romantic date with your significant other isn’t so easy.

When it comes to organizing small group hangouts with your best friends, the coronavirus has other plans. With all the restrictions, limitations, and social distancing, it gets a bit sad wondering if memories can be made this school year.

Romantic feels or not, we all missing going places and having fun with others. Luckily, Penn State is big and beautiful enough to still get that one-on-one time in a safe, coronavirus-friendly way.

Here are a few Penn State-inspired dates for you, whether it be with your significant other or just a friend.

Catch The Sunset At The Arboretum

No matter the season, the Arboretum has a plethora of flowers and views to fall in love with. Set up on the hill before sunset with a blanket, some snacks, and stories to share. The open space creates an easy, safe 6-foot distance and time together. With autumn recently arriving, leaves are changing and the vibes will be even more immaculate.

Tuesday & Friday’s Farmer Market

Every Tuesday and Friday through November from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., there is an outdoor Downtown State College Farmer’s Market. On Locust Lane, between Beaver Ave. and College Ave., there are more than 10 large vendors selling homemade bakery items, farm fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, and more.

Whoever decides to attend can pick out a fresh pastry or a bouquet of flowers. There are so many options to choose from for every friend or loved one you may bring. Fall is now in action, meaning gourds and pumpkins are available to pick up, too.

Cozy Breakfast Trip To Sowers Harvest Café

A small walk downtown can take you to the warm and welcoming Sower’s Harvest Cafe. With outdoor seating available, this breakfast date can be paired with good thoughts and delicious hot chocolate. The menu offers options that are too good to be true while sitting in the blissful sun. You and your date are sure to have a nice time eating and talking at Sowers.

Old Main Lawn Picnic

You know that blanket we used at the Arboretum? Yes, it could easily be a part of an Old Main Lawn picnic! Order takeout from our suggested Sowers, the newly reviewed Crust & Crumb Café, or even a socially distanced order from the Berkey Creamery. Any picnic food on Old Main Lawn is a work of art and can catch your date’s eye.

Share A Movie Over Zoom…Or Even A Penn State Football Game

Our last suggestion can occur whether there is rain or shine. If a friend can’t attend due to the coronavirus, social distancing isn’t possible, or it is just a sucky day, stream a movie or show! Unlimited friends can sign in and there are no limitations on who can pop in.

That said, this time last year, friends were stopping by tailgates and get-togethers. We all miss the feeling of meeting up with friends at Gate A. Use Zoom as a way to share and livestream Penn State football’s reinstated season together starting October 24!