Forget dinner and a movie – there are plenty of unique ideas for a fun first date. If you’re thinking about looking for love online, having something different up your sleeve could make all the difference when it comes to a first meeting. Here are some good ideas for an artistic first date.

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3DH

Image Source – Flickr

First stop for any art lovers in Birmingham has to be the Museum & Art Gallery, located in the centre of the city. A beautiful, iconic building, it’s a great setting for a first meeting and it’s large enough to give you plenty to look at as you wander around. The full collections at the gallery cover fine art, archaeology, ethnography and natural history with several changing exhibitions. Take a look at their website to find out what’s coming up when planning your date.

The Ikon

1 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, Birmingham, B1 2HS

Image Source – Flickr

If you’re looking for something with more of a contemporary twist, Ikon has been showcasing the best visual artists from around the world since the 1960s. On top of the exhibitions, there’s also a selection of events, workshops and seminars year-round which could make for an interesting date. The gallery is free to enter and there’s also a stylish café, ideal for a post-visit drink.

Barber Institute of Fine Arts

University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TS

Image Source – Flickr

Renoir, Monet, Magritte… the list of big names goes on. The Barber Institute houses the key works from the greats in an amazing Art Deco building. There’s also a regular schedule of events including classical music concerts if you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend your first face-to-face meet-up. Regular gallery tours around the amazing collection could also give you something interesting to talk about together.

Eastside Projects

Heath Mill Lane, Birmingham, B9 4AR

Eastside Projects is a free, public space housing several changing contemporary exhibitions as well as some permanent collections. It’s a lovely space to explore and a great way to get an idea of the city’s impressive local artistry. It’s also just around the corner from The Custard Factory should you want to head down for a wander round the shops or a drink at the Yumm Deli. If your online match is a modern art fanatic, this is the one to try.

Art Lounge

Mailbox, 61 Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 1RD

Image Source – Flickr

The Art Lounge is located in The Mailbox, right in the heart of the city by the river. The gallery houses the largest commercial collection of contemporary art in Birmingham. All of the pieces are for sale should anything catch your eye, but it’s also a great place to just have a browse. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants nearby for a great way to continue the date.

Online dating can give you a great excuse to visit a place you’ve never been to before – why not plan an artistic date for something you’ll both remember?