I met a girl that I'm interested in and enjoys comics like I do, would something like asking her out to a comic store be dumb? I have a hard time talking to girls so not sure if this would be a dumb idea.
It's a good idea. You may want to plan a second activity like lunch or a walk in the park as well.
And just be direct. Something like "Hey, do you want to go on a date with me? We can grab something to eat and go to the comic store."
If she says no, don't push it. Just say okay and wish them well.
I too was terrible at talking to girls. I still am but my girlfriend doesn't seem to mind lol
Whatever you do, just don't try any pickup artist or smooth talking tactics. It's gross and cringey, doubly so if you don't have the confidence to pull it off.
I would also disagree with a lot of the other comments, if you want to date this person, make it clear you want a date. Don't try to do the be friends then turn it romantic thing. It can work but not when you already know you want to date them.
I think the asking for a date right away strategy doesn't really work with everyone. You can be already sure you want to date her, but she can feel she doesn't know you well enough yet and asking directly like that could feel like you're too fast for her. And it could close the door for you. It's ok to get to know one another a bit before you go out officially.
Getting to know someone is what dates are for. If that closes the door they were never gonna work out. Don't force love on people by disguising it. Life is too short for games.
I think it's a cultural thing, if I meet someone in certain contexts it's better to start with coffee or drinks after work and feel each other out 1 on 1, and in others like an app or singles event, just ask them out. I also guess some people would call the first thing a date.
It is not like you start a romantic relationship if you ask for a date. The date is the opportunity to learn more about you two. Dont ask to meet at your or their place. Make it a public place so it is no problem to end the date and just walk away.
From what OP wrote, they aren't total strangers given he knows she likes comics. He sounds fairly young so I'm guessing she's in his social circle or someone from school. If they were total strangers or just met for the first time, then yeah I'd say it would be a good idea to strike up a casual conversation or two before asking them out. You just really don't want to develop strong feelings for them before you ask them out. It's a recipe for pain if she says no, and can make things pretty awkward if they're going to have to keep seeing each other regularly.
But also being wishy-washy can close the door for you too, such as if you end up in a friendzone from which you can't escape. The difference is that if you are forward with your intentions, you are being honest. If you mask them because you are trying to build some rapport first before to get what you want, you are trying to manipulate them.