Just ask directly. Walk up and say "I'd love to go on a date with you." Using the word "date" makes your romantic interest clear so there's no confusion about whether this is a hangout or something more.
How do I ask someone out? And I always say to the student, exactly what you just asked me. Just do it. Just walk up to somebody and say, I'd love to go out for dinner with you. I'd love to go to a movie with you. And there's nothing wrong with saying, I'd love to go on a date with you. Say the word date so they understand, no, I'm interested in you, right? That tells you I'm interested in you. Even if you don't want to say the word date, let them know, you know what, I'm attracted to you. I'm really interested in you. I'd love to get to know you more. Could we go for a movie? Could we go to this? But saying those statements, I would love to get to learn more about you, get to know you better, and being honest, I'm attracted to you. That the person knows what they're saying yes to. Sometimes you're not that detailed. They think they're saying yes to 2 friends hanging out. That's not what you're seeking in this situation. So be honest if that's not what you're seeking. Now, if you're okay with 2 friends just hanging out, that's fine, but be transparent about that too if you don't have an interest.
