Listen here: No one gets eaten alive by a lion if everyone pays attention. Tame the wilderness that is Boston with the sage advice of blogger Cristy Maldonado of Get Out: Planning an Urban Safari in Boston. Read on for brush-cutting local dates that are guaranteed to maximize fun, highlight hidden gems and minimize impact to your wallet. – Christine Liu, Boston Community Manager

1. LA VIDA COCOA

The date: How about we… learn about the art of Mexican chocolate-making and sample delicious treats at a local factory.

Why it’s great: For only $5, you can tour a real chocolate factory. And it’s not just any factory—it’s Taza Chocolate‘s, one that’s artisanal, organic, and environmentally conscious. To continue the Latin theme, head to Machu Picchu in nearby Union Square for delicious Peruvian bites. Photo: Cristy Maldonado

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2. I’D TAP THAT

The date: How about we… step into springtime with a trip to a local maple farm.

Why it’s great: Nothing says New England better than maple syrup. Tap into some trees and see firsthand how maple syrup is produced with the Massachusetts Audubon Society. Photo: Massachusetts Audubon Society

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3. THE CRAFTERMATH

The date: How about we… visit the SOWA Open Market.

Why it’s great: Clothing, accessories, home decorations, furnishings (and everything in between) can be found at SOWA Market. Now entering its 8th year on Harrison Avenue, the SOWA Market is better than ever with unique vendors, a vintage market, and (gasp) street food. Get a great tour of South End architecture while visiting this great outdoor market. After perusing the vendors, stop at any one of the food trucks for a quick bite. Photo: SOWA

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4. BEER, BEHIND THE SCENES

The date: How about we… sample some of Boston’s finest beer.

Why it’s great: Many have heard of the Samuel Adams Brewery, but fewer have actually taken the free tour at the location in Jamaica Plain. Get a full picture of the brewing process, which includes the opportunity to sample up to three styles. To top off the trip, head to nearby Doyle’s Café to enjoy a casual meal. Photo: Cristy Maldonado

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5. BE A SEXY LIBRARIAN

The date: How about we… visit the first public library in the United States.

Why it’s great: Too many Bostonians pass this landmark every day. Take a step into the Boston Public Library on Wednesday evenings for a free tour. Amazing architecture, stunning art, and a romantic courtyard will leave a lasting impression on any date. Afterward, Head over to Piattini Wine Café on Newbury Street for a great glass of wine, light Italian fare, and cozy conversation. Photo: Cristy Maldonado

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6. SEE ART ANEW

The date: How about we… check out local art in a unique venue.

Why it’s great: Fusing modern art, technology, and a unique location, the Axiom Gallery in Jamaica Plain is one of the coolest places you haven’t visited yet. If you’re hungry, take a short walk over to Centre Street, the main artery of JP, and nosh on bar treats at Ten Tables. Photo: Cristy Maldonado

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Looking for more tasty dates? Cristy Maldonado, founder of Get Out: Planning an Urban Safari in Boston, is a single Bostonian blogging about getting out and enjoying this amazing city. By day, Cristy works in technology—but by nights and weekends, she blogs about her urban safaris, where an adventure is always waiting just around the corner. Recent safaris have included trips to vintage shops, museums, breweries, and a hunt for $1 oysters. Read up on what’s up, then propose a date here!

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