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70 First Date Ideas That Aren’t Boring

Oh, you want to do dinner? Swipe left.

"A lot of people suggest just going out for dinner and a drink, although I don’t think that’s really that effective," says Marisa T. Cohen, PhD, LMFT, relationship scientist and therapist. "If you’re in a noisy, crowded place, you’re not going to be able to have these deep conversations that allow you to suss out whether or not you like this person."

Instead, Cohen recommends planning a date where you can show off your amazing personality. That might be lending your know-how during a pottery workshop, or showing off your navigation skills during a bike ride.

After all, the point is to stick out in the pool of potential suitors, right? Just like you might be queuing up all the Hinge hotties , the person on the other side is doing the same. "You want to do something that’s not the same cookie cutter experience that everyone else is having over a meal," Cohen says.

Meet the Experts: Marisa T. Cohen , PhD, LMFT is a relationship scientist and marriage and family therapist in New York. Megan Fleming , PhD, is a clinical psychologist and resident sexpert with Promescent , a sexual pleasure retailer. Terri Orbuch , PhD, is a relationship expert, therapist, and author of Finding Love Again: 6 Simple Steps to a New and Happy Relationship . Maryanne Comaroto , PhD is a relationship coach based in Marin County, CA. Meredith Golden is the founder of dating coaching company Spoon Meet Spoon.

Since the anxiety that comes with planning a memorable date is very real, here's a prepared a list of not-so-boring first date ideas to get your next fling off to an exciting start—even if it ends there. And as the saying goes, "It’s either a great experience or a great story." Let’s go date:

1. Check out a sports game.

Both Pats fans? Both hockey fanatics? Why not try to catch your fave teams on the field or ice? "Dates that incorporate a shared interest or passion are an amazing way to see one another in your element, while also creating a memory together," says psychologist and sex therapist Megan Fleming, PhD, resident sexpert with Promescent, a sexual pleasure retailer.

2. Tour a brewery.

More a brewski babe than a wine taster? Invite your date to explore your fave (or a new!) brewery with you. "Breweries usually allow you to order a flight of different beers, which can be a fun bonding experience," says Fleming. Another perk of breweries is that the people-watching is usually great.

3. Go on a run together.

Er, jog . If you both put "marathoner" in your dating app profile, why not use your shared love of lacing up by hitting your local running path together? Just be sure to make a pact ahead of time that you’re not gonna sprint. After all, if you’re breathing too heavy, you won’t be able to learn more about one another.

"When did you get into running?" and "What races are on your running bucket list?" are great starter convos.

4. Go thrifting.

Sustainability is sexy. Get thrifty and head to the antique shops with your date—it’s also a fun way to get a feel for your date’s fashion sense.

5. Make fancy cocktails (or mocktails) together.

Get in the kitchen and whip up some yummy cocktails—or mocktails , if that’s your thing !—together. You’ll get a sense of your date’s sense of creativity (and taste in drinks, of course). Whether someone likes vodka or tequila more can say a lot about a person.

6. Hit up a coffee shop.

Okay, okay, it’s not the most creative idea on the list… But a coffee shop really does make a good first date. "There’s a natural ending to a coffee date, when you finish your first cup you can decide to leave or extend the date," says Fleming.

Remember: The point of the first date is to get a sense of whether or not this is someone you’d have interest in getting to know further. It doesn’t have to be a marathon-date to be a good date.

7. Take a pottery class.

Recreate that steamy moment in Ghost and check out a pottery class with your date—as long as they’re okay with getting their hands a little dirty. If neither of you have been to a pottery class before, don’t worry! Trying new things with your date can be a great way to bond, says relationship expert and therapist Terri Orbuch, PhD, author of Finding Love Again: 6 Simple Steps to a New and Happy Relationship .

8. Go to a drag show.

Hey queer folks, this one is for you! Grab the hottie you met on Lex or the ex-girlfriend of your ex-girlfriend, and head to your local drag show. What’s a better way to spend the night than jamming to Lady Gaga and Mariah Carey surrounded by other peeps in the LGBTQ+ community? Nothing.

9. Hit up your local gay bar.

Support your local queer spot while getting to know a local queer (heh).

Pro tip: Go on a weeknight. These bars are usually less packed Monday through Thursday. Plus, the music won’t be quite as loud, so you’ll actually be able to hear one another when swapping life stories.

10. Go horseback riding.

Yeehaw! If you and your date are feeling a bit more adventurous, try horseback riding together. Maryanne Comaroto, PhD, a relationship coach based in Marin County, CA, always recommends outdoor first dates. “I generally recommend getting outside or doing something together where you can see each other move through the world,” she explains. (Oh, and this one is also majorly Instagrammable.)

11. Do goat yoga.

Don’t like the thought of looking at animals behind bars? You might like the thought of letting them bleat at you mid-sun salutation. Behold: Goat yoga. A fun activity that involves doing a group yoga class while surrounded by baby goats, goat yoga is a great first date for animal-lovers, adventurers, and yogis.

12. Visit the dog park.

"A lot of people go to a dog park as a first date because it allows you to meet one another’s animals," says Fleming. Assuming both of your pups are off-leash trained and good with other dogs, this is an easy pick.

13. Play trivia or bingo.

Going out to play trivia or bingo is a great first date option, says Orbuch. “Games are fun and lively and add some excitement to the first date,” Orbuch explains. “You might even be working together as a team for some of the games. Working together for a joint outcome [also] creates a bonding experience.”

14. Go out for dessert.

IMO, going out for dinner on a first date is a total cliché—but going out for dessert? That’s a different story. If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, grab fro-yo or another sweet treat with your date (Brownies? Cookies? Just spitballing here.) Better yet, stop by your local grocery store and grab a pint (or gallon) of ice cream to share.

15. Go on a hike.

"It’s wise to use what you know about somebody to plan a date that you’ll both enjoy," says Fleming.

So, if you both listed National Parks as a life highlight in your dating bio, or you’ve bonded over your shared love of Merrells, plan a dirt date. If all goes well, who knows, maybe you’ll be able to share a kiss at the top of the climb. Views on views on views!

16. Go to an escape room.

"I always say that dates that both excite and terrify can be great dates," says Fleming. "Escape rooms are something that allow you to experience both emotions, and most cities have them." Your move: Throw on your best detective coat and play Nancy Drew.

17. Play 36 questions.

Have you heard of 36 questions? It’s a series of personal questions that have been shown by science (really!) to speed up the rate at which people fall in love. "The idea is that these questions can promote mutual vulnerability," explains Fleming.

According to her, answering a handful of these questions could be a good first date activity. The caveat: Because it’s such an intimate activity, it’s best for people who already know each other in some context. Or, for those who have had a number of ~*deep*~ Facetime calls.

18. Play two truths and a lie.

Hot take: Organized conversation is the sh*t. If you and your right swipe aren’t able to meet up IRL, Fleming suggests planning a FaceTime date . "You can gamify the virtual date by playing a game like two truths and a lie or truth or dare ," she says. To invite someone to one of these virtual hangs, you might say: "Could I interest you in a FaceTime date this Friday? Let’s both come prepared with two truths and a lie."

19. Check out an art opening.

If you and your date are artsy types, consider checking out an art opening or gallery together. This can be a creative way to see how your date articulates the world around them, as well as how they behave in new social situations, says Comaroto.

20. Go to a farmers' market.

Strolling around a farmers' market is a great joint activity, says Orbuch. “Outdoors, fresh air—all great for a first date, if possible,” she adds. Grab a coffee and your tote bag, and you’re all set.

21. Watch the sunset together.

I promise this one isn’t boring. Watching the sunset is a classic for a reason, and better yet? It’s free. “The first date doesn’t have to be expensive,” Orbuch says. “It’s more important what you do and say on the first date, than how much money is spent on that first date.”

22. Take a sex education class.

Did you meet on FetLife, Feeld, or another platform known for connecting sex-positive singles? "Are you both specifically looking for a more explicit sexual encounter?" says Fleming. "Then you might decide to take a sex education class together." Do your research to find in-person and online offerings.

23. Play pool.

Take things old school by playing pool together at a billiard hall. (It really takes playing 8 Ball on your phone up a notch.) Don’t be afraid to get a little competitive, and most importantly, have fun! Lots of pool halls also have food and drinks, so you can grab a quick bite to eat afterwards.

24. Catch a performance in the park.

"I’m a big proponent of experience-based dates," Cohen says. Imagine a warm summer night listening to a jazz quartet over a shared bottle of wine. Live music is always a good move, but this strips away the pressure of committing to a full-on concert. This way, the more casual atmosphere allows you to see your date, chat, and leave when you want.

25. Go axe throwing.

Howdy, partner. Don your favorite plaid shirt and show off your badass side on this active date. A boost of adrenaline also bodes well for your budding connection. "Research shows if you’re able to get your physiological arousal level up, you wind up attributing it to the person you’re with," Cohen says. "You feel like you’re more into them." No wonder the Bachelorette dates are bungee-jumping bonkers.

26. Go to a yoga class.

Want to get your blood pumping and body moving? Comaroto recommends hitting up a yoga class with your date. “[It’s a great way] to find out how competitive, curious, playful, or open-minded they are,” Comaroto says. Yoga can also help nip those first date-jitters in the bud—after all, Comaroto’s go-to advice for a first date? “Relax if you can, and trust yourself.”

You'll need a cute yoga mat. Here are some options:

Best Yoga Mats

27. Go to a hot yoga class.

Up the ante, crank up the heat, and go to a hot yoga class with your date. Sweat out those nasty toxins and get your heart rate up—and if all goes well, hit the showers together afterwards (hint, hint).

28. Head to a gin or whiskey tasting.

Wine and beer not your thing? Orbuch says heading to a gin or whiskey tasting is a bit more unique than going to a winery or brewery—and it can give you and your date a lot to talk about. “[It’s] fun, and you can talk about all the different whiskeys and gins,” Orbuch says.

29. Plan a progressive dinner.

Here’s a twist on the typical dinner date: Instead of grabbing a table at your go-to date spot, agree on a neighborhood and visit different places for drinks, appetizers, dinner, and dessert. You’ll try out new restaurants and bars, but without the stiff interview feeling typical dinner dates bring. If all goes well, you can add a nightcap to the itinerary...

30. Get sporty (at a bar).

There are two types of people in this world: those who get heated over company softball league games, and those without an athletic bone in their body. Opt for a bar with ping pong tables, shuffleboard, and the like. Make a cheeky bet, and see what kind of competitive streak you’re working with.

31. Take a trapeze class.

Why not? Maybe don’t waste this one on any old Hinge match, but it's a great option for someone you’ve casually hung out with already, says Meredith Golden , founder of dating coaching company Spoon Meet Spoon: "Take the pressure to talk off the table and just have some light fun enjoying an activity together."

32. Visit a botanical garden.

Pop into a sauna of an indoor botanical garden, or wander outside at a Japanese garden to get in touch with your inner flora lover. Your Instagram Story will thank you.

33. Stargaze.

Okay, it might sound cheesy. And yes, while it might be a little cliché, it is romantic. Find a pretty lookout point in your city and enjoy the view. “Choose a place where you and your date can talk, observe, and interact,” Orbuch says. Once again, you don’t always need a bunch of frills (or a ton of money) to make your first date memorable.

34. Take a flower arranging class.

You don’t have to get your date flowers if you take a flower arranging class together! Learn something new together and arrange some pretty blooms and foliage. And as a bonus, if there’s no spark, classes provide you with a set end time—Comaroto always suggests knowing the easiest way out of a bad first date.

35. Head to a winery.

Now this one's Instagrammable as heck. Not only can you day drink in a gorgeous locale, but you can also snag a spot on a tour of the vineyards and fermenting facilities. Bring a bottle home to remember the day... even if you end up not wanting to remember the date. Either way, you'll have a delish souvenir.

36. Play laser tag.

You probably weren’t expecting this one, but heal your inner child and go play a game of laser tag at an arcade. “Think outside the box and make the first date unique and impactful,” Orbuch advises. “Make this date different and out of the ordinary!” Hey, I bet neither you nor your date has gone on this first date before.

37. Take a bike ride.

Rent bikes on a sunny afternoon and take turns deciding where to stop off, like a pretty park or a local coffee shop for a latte pick-me-up. As you pedal along, Cohen suggests checking in with yourself. Can you see yourself riding down the same path ~of life~ with this person?

38. Get afternoon tea.

A cuppa tea, madam? Reenact Bridgerton or Downton Abbey and sip afternoon tea at a tea parlour, if your date isn’t a coffee aficionado. Get gussied up, order some tea sandwiches, and nurse a cup of tea over some scintillating conversation. It’s a classy and sophisticated outing that’ll be sure to leave a great first impression on your date.

39. Have a picnic.

Now, a picnic might sound more romantic than it actually turns out. Have your way with the Whole Foods hot bar and grab a canned wine or two. Just don’t forget the blanket—no first date "my butt is wet" horror stories allowed.

40. Go to a poetry reading.

Want to take things with your date to a deeper level? Going to a poetry reading is a great way to gain insight into your date’s level of sensitivity and even their ability to listen, says Comaroto. Now that’s hot.

41. Visit an arcade.

Embrace your inner child and play some Skee-ball, laughing along the way. And, while you’re waiting for the air hockey table to open up, it’s a perfect time to get to know one another. "During that first date conversation, it's a lot about getting to understand one another’s [personalities]," Cohen says.

42. Get your tarot cards read.

Woo-woo or not, getting your cards read lets you into your date's mind. You can’t help but breach those vulnerable topics like love, your place in life, and everything in between that helps you understand one another on a deeper level, Cohen says.

43. Get your palms read.

If you’re not really into tarot but want to see if your budding romance is really meant to be, get your palms read together. Fun fact: Palm reading can actually tell you a lot about your relationships, hand analyst Helene Saucedo previously told Women’s Health .

44. Sing your favorite songs at karaoke.

Comfort zone? Don’t know her. Instead of asking, "What’s your go-to karaoke song?" on a first date, why not show it? Cohen says performing in front of other people can get your heart beating fast, an experience that will bring you closer to your date.

45. Go to a board game bar.

Board game bars are typically cozy and low-key, so you can nurse a drink in between games of Connect Four. Share stories from your childhood, or recent game nights with friends. You’ll fall into those intimate conversations Cohen says are so important.

46. Go apple or berry picking.

Depending on the time of year, Orbuch suggests driving out to the countryside to pick some fresh apples or berries with your date. “You can still chat and talk together as you’re doing something unique and fun,” Orbuch says. Afterwards, get to know each other better over some apple cider, or hitch a hay ride to keep the date going.

47. Have a beach day.

Like long walks on the beach? Same. Use your beach day to "let the other person into your world, and hopefully you share some of these interests together," Cohen says. Regardless of how it ends, you’ll get a healthy dose of vitamin D.

48. Visit a cat café.

Cute kittens and coffee? Sign me up. Bonding over cuddly animals and vanilla lattes sounds like the perfect first date to me. And, since most cat cafes require a reservation with a time limit, it allows for the perfect natural end for your date—no awkward, lingering goodbyes. “Keep it short,” Orbuch advises. “Two to two and a half hours is ideal for a first date.”

49. Go to a cabaret.

It’s impossible not to have a good time at a cabaret. Drinks are flowing, good vibes are in the air, you're cheering on the performer, and you can let loose with your date. It’s all about feeding off of each other's energy. What more could you want?

50. Go to a jazz club.

You like jazz? Instead of going to a normal ol’ club, try hitting up a jazz club. Enjoy some tasty cocktails, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and groovy live music. And hey, if you’re lucky, maybe your date will be into dancing, too, and you can recreate that one scene in La La Land . Where’s Ryan Gosling when you need him…?

51. Go on a boat.

Row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream of love. Too much? Okay, so you might not feel comfortable enough to hop in a kayak with a first date (understandable). In that case, a sightseeing boat tour is the move—as long as no one gets seasick.

52. Take an archery class.

Harness your inner Katniss Everdeen (or Cupid!) and take an archery class. Sure, it might be a bit out of the box, but that’s what makes a first date fun and exciting! Orbuch says anything that gets your adrenaline going makes for a spot-on first date. Just watch your aim.

53. Go to the zoo.

First date talk can be exhausting even for the biggest chatter of them all, says Golden. Date fatigue is real. So if things get stale? Focus instead on that lioness that's giving you the eyes.

54. Jam out at a concert together.

If you want to take browsing a record shop or seeing a performance in the park up a notch, why not go to a concert together? Like Cohen says, experience-based first dates are a winner for a reason. If you both love dancing to Lizzo or singing along to Post Malone, get some tickets and enjoy some live music. It’ll totally be a first date to remember, and it’ll surely give you both something to talk about afterwards on the drive home.

55. Visit a bookstore.

You can tell a lot about a person based on the books they read—and if they comfortably navigate a bookstore. Trade recommendations and get a peek into your date’s interests bookcase by bookcase. And if you’re lucky? You’ll catch a poetry reading.

56. Go skating (roller or ice, your call).

Rent out some skates and go roller or ice skating. You can laugh at how bad you’re both at it, or, if you’re both skating experts, you can teach each other some new tricks (wink, wink). “For a first date, I think activities that have you side by side and moving around are great ways to start to get to know each other,” Comaroto says.

57. Go rock climbing.

Belay, baby! Test your sense of trust right out of the gate, and take your attraction to new heights. "You’ll come away from it like, 'My heart’s beating so fast, it must be that this person is so wonderful,'" Cohen says.

58. Take a walk.

Just like a casual beach date, strut your outdoorsy self with a stroll through your favorite park in the city. "We often have deeper, more substantive conversations when we’re side-by-side rather than face-to-face," dating expert Bela Gandhi previously told Women’s Health . Bonus: Maybe you’ll stumble upon an ice cream shop (a real love language).

59. Do improv.

Stick with me here. Sure, it sounds like a company outing gone wrong, but it can actually be a fun way to get outside your comfort zone. "You’re sharing a new experience with this person, so you’re creating a common bond and a memory for the two of you to have," Cohen says. Now, swallow your nervousness (and pride) and add "Yes, and…" to your dating vocabulary.

60. Go to a comedy show.

Still not into the idea of embracing your inner Ali Wong? Hit up a local open mic night or comedy show. Cohen says sharing a small laugh together—even at a joke that fell completely flat—is a joint experience that communicates interest. Besides, you can figure out your date’s sense of humor and, if the vibe is right, post-show drinks keep the evening going.

61. Visit a speakeasy.

While grabbing a vodka soda at a random watering hole will take a first date straight to snooze town, walking into a speakeasy gives the evening an exclusive air. And face it: secret(ish) spots are sexy.

62. Make dinner together.

Teamwork makes the dream work. Say you and a friend decide to give your flirtation a real shot—test your compatibility over taco or pizza night. (Maybe think twice about inviting a random app date to your digs, just sayin'.) And if they can’t handle the heat? They gotta get out of the kitchen.

63. Go for brunch.

Flip the script and go for a day date, preferably where cinnamon rolls are involved. The ambiance will be more low-key, and you can chat without needing to yell about your life’s greatest passion from across the table. Then, it’s up to you if you want to extend the date into the evening or just bounce. "You don’t want to get stuck on a first date in an escape room or at a concert if you realize twenty minutes in that you aren’t interested," Golden says.

64. Browse a record shop.

As with a bookstore date, music taste reveals a lot . And it’s an easy way to weed out those annoying music snobs (if someone knocks my Harry Styles love, I’ll ghost). Flipping through records is also a great conversation starter: you can talk about your dad’s favorite tunes, what you grew up listening to, your first concert...you get the idea.

65. Take a cooking class.

This could be the difference between locking down a gourmand or a person who’s idea of "cheffing it up" is making grilled cheese. Cohen says cooking classes can get you out of your comfort zone. Even better? No need to make dinner reservations (as long as nothing goes terribly wrong).

66. Take a virtual cooking class.

Good news, long distance daters , you can take a cooking class, too. "There are a number of virtual cooking classes that people who don’t live near one another might choose to enjoy," says Fleming. Just be sure to PGA (post-game analyze) the cooking class with a one-on-one chat afterwards. Otherwise, it won’t feel much like a date.

67. Go mini golfing.

Working on your stroke? Get that green on the mini golf course where a little flirty competition will keep things exciting.

Just be sure to stop by the ice cream shop afterwards so you can get a sense of their tongue game. Kidding! But actually, sharing cones is a great way to ask pressing questions like, "What else are you good at besides mini golf?" and "Do you want kids?," etc. Ya know, all the typical first date questions.

68. Go golfing golfing.

Do both of you have a set of real clubs and a swing that can air-born the ball? Fleming suggests skipping the mini golf and going straight for the big leagues.

Whether you walk or drive the course is up to you. Assuming the person in the driver seat doesn’t crash the cart, driving will give you more time to talk between swings. But walking will be more of a workout and will make you sweaty enough to find out if your pheromones are compatible. Plus, you can always hit the snack bar afterwards for a snack-and-chat.

69. Visit a museum.

So many options. Pondering hidden messages in modern art? Gallery time. Into exploring the seas? See you at the aquarium. Time traveling type? Meet up at the natural history museum. You’ll come away with an understanding of how your date sees the world and what they’re drawn to.

70. Go bowling.

Hold the blue ball jokes—and let's hope your date does, too. Bust out your best moonwalk-in-bowling-shoes dance moves, drink some watery beer, and heckle your date. The bowling alley keeps the mood light, so you can simply enjoy the night. Have a ball, as they say.

Gabrielle Kassel (she/her) is a sex and wellness journalist who writes at the intersection of queerness, sexual health, and pleasure. In addition to being in Cosmopolitan , her work can also be found in publications such as Shape, Well + Good, Women’s Health , Health, Self, Men’s Health , Greatist, and more! In her free time, Gabrielle can be found reviewing one of the nearly 1,000 pleasure products she's tested, reading smut, or recording episodes of the podcast she cohosts called Bad In Bed . Follow her on Instagram @GabrielleKassel .

Zoë Hecht is a California-based writer and editor who enjoys writing about beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and pop culture. She graduated from Loyola Marymount University, where she received her B.A. in English. Other than Women’s Health, her work can be found on Byrdie, Teen Vogue, and more. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, sipping coffee, and scrolling through Pinterest.

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My Top 57 First Date Ideas That Always Work (As a Dating Coach)

Short answer.

Choose a comfortable, public setting for a first date for easy conversation. Cafes, casual bars, or outdoor activities like a walk in the park are the popular, inexpensive options. Avoid overly formal or noisy places so you can both relax and get to know each other. Pick a venue that reflects shared interests for a more genuine and enjoyable experience.

My Introduction

These kinds of articles are forcing me to write this long, detailed guide: 

I am not making this, read the article for yourself at Womens Health Mag

Tell me: 

Who takes a ‘sex education class' for their first date!?

At this point, we could recommend a date night at the laundromat.

It’s only three bucks a wash, and all the clothes gotta go in the machine! (I just hope no one gets stuck in the washing machine; that would be so unfortunate...)

Well, it’s not that much fun:

Personal note: laundromats appear on the 8th level of hell.

If you want a killer first date idea, go to a blacksmith shop and make a sword. 

And mind you:

Besides that one article recommending a sex ed class, nearly all other articles are just as useless and can easily summarized as such: 

You don’t want another boring, useless list.

Instead, as a dating coach with years of experience, I’ll give you what you’ve been looking for:

• I’ve taken over 100 pictures from Brussels (where I live) and other major cities. You'll see exactly where to take your date for an unforgettable experience.
• Based on my experience of dating both men and women (I’m bisexual) and insights from coaching numerous clients, I've compiled a practical list of what works best at each type of venue.
• I’ve asked my closest friends (guys and girls) what they think about first dates. (Expect honest, no-filter insights.)
• I’ve talked to owners of popular cafes and bars to get their view on the dating scene and where they see the top mistakes happen
• I’ve read several books, done tons of research, and sifted through forums to ensure nothing is missing from this guide. (See my list of Best Dating, Sex & Relationship Books for Men )

Let’s start 

The Simple Chill Cafe

Avoid these dangerous kinds of cafes at all costs! 

• Overly Crowded or Work-Focused Cafes: These are often filled with people rushing to get the caffeine before they shift or focus on their laptops, creating an anti-date environment. Same if the cafe is in a hectic, loud area or street. (Unless you're dating a girl from work! )

Starbucks is not a good place to go!

Do you see more than a couple of laptops (pictured below)? 

You are in the wrong cafe.

• Cafes with Bad or Limited Seating: Stay clear of any cafe where you constantly worry about fighting for your seats, sitting on your chairs feels like you’re perched on a cactus, or feeling pressured to give up your table.

Here’s an example of horribly uncomfortable seating at a cafe: 

• Cafes Lacking Cleanliness: Check the bathrooms. Weird smells are bad smells. 
• Cafes with a Very Limited Menu: You may offer your date a coffee, but they may be hungry, especially if they’re coming during a lunch break.
• No Outside Seating: The outdoor seating better be comfortable, too! I'm not a fan of stainless steel electric chairs. 

Mesh seats are the best imo

Note: For a coffee date, unlike a bar outing, the focus is comfort and getting to know each other. Therefore, many of the typical 'no-nos' (or ‘yes-yes’) that apply to bar dates aren't relevant here.

So, what kind of cafe do I start with? 

The Simple, Chill Cafe

You’ll find these everywhere.

And you can’t go wrong:

• It’s chill. 
• It’s cheap. 
• And you get decent coffee with cake...

Don’t want to poop, order a mint tea (might make you pee!)

Examples in other cities:

• Cornersmith Annandale, Sydney [ 1 ] 
• Afternoon Fruit, Seoul [ 2 ]
• Five Oars Coffee Roasters, Singapore [ 3 ]

Antique Cafe

If you want to make your date more exciting and memorable, take them to a cool antique-style cafe:

Location: Historic Marine Aviation Tea Room Antic Shop . They sell these little model airplane builds; my younger brother would LOVE them. Sometimes, you really can buy love. 

This antique-style cafe has three separate areas: 

• Antique interior
• Lighter area with sunroof
• Outdoor area

Location:  La Fleur en Papier Doré

Middle area:

Optional: Cafe offers board games to play:

Outside area:

A third example of an antique-style cafe is “ וינטאג' בון בון ” in Haifa, Israel.

With very antique tables to sit around:

Me sitting on my laptop with an old typewriter on my left and a bathtub on my right.

Why do I love this specific venue?

• Great reviews on Google
• Smoking allowed (I don’t smoke, but maybe your date smokes?)
• Coffee is excellent
• The vibe is ultra chill (can you put those two words together, ‘ultra’ + ‘chill’? I don’t know.)
• 3 in 1: Coffee, food, antique shop
• They have evening events with lots of dancing

Examples of antique-style cafes in other cities:

• Cafe Reggio, New York [ 4 ]
• La Croissanterie Figaro, Montreal [ 5 ]

Cozy Cafe Fireplace 

A snug cafe featuring a fireplace is ideal for the bitterly cold winter months.

• Cafe Nell, Portland [ 6 ] 
• Café Bicyclette, Edmonton 
• Hangout on Preston, Perth

Location:  Le New Chatouille

Caressing cats can be an enjoyable way to fill awkward silences, unwind from work stress, and naturally initiate physical contact with your date .

If cat cafes aren't available, consider a dog cafe.

• Romeow Cat Bistrot, Rome [ 7 ]
• Cat Cafe Buenos Aires Abasto, Buenos Aires , [ 8 ]
• Therpup - The Dog Cafe, Bangalore, India [ 9 ]

Worldwide Coffee Bean Cafe

If your date is from another country, could you personalize their experience by selecting coffee beans from their homeland?

Example:  Filbert Steps, Shibuya [ 10 ]

Bookstore Cafe

Not a boring library. Look for cool cafe bookstores with lots of magazines and board games. 

• Bar Ocho Y Medio, Madrid 
• MassolitBudapest Books and Café

Pros: 

• Great for introverts: Duh. 
• A Smorgasbord of Activities: read books, drink coffee, eat cake, play a board game, look at a travel geography book, and plan WW3; uh, I mean, plan your next vacation to Miami 
• Unlike a traditional library, bookstore cafes strike a balance where you can talk, but it’s not too loud (like a bar on a Saturday night) 
• The antique, whimsical vibe of a bookstore cafe adds an extra layer of charm to your date, creating a stimulating and comforting backdrop.
• While I generally advise against buying any gift on the first date, picking out a small, quirky book can be a memorable alternative to traditional gifts like flowers that’ll die and stink up the house in 2 days. 

Cons: 

• Unless you're both hardcore bookworms, most people start getting antsy after 20 minutes of flipping pages
• Finding the sweet spot between chatting and book browsing is a challenge I notice in many of my students 
• Introversion vs. Social Anxiety: Are you choosing a bookstore cafe because you're an extreme introvert? It might be social anxiety peeking through. If that's the case, consider a chat with a health professional. 

See more examples of 'things you better not do on a date' in my other first date guide: What Not To (Ever) Do On A First Date: 27 Examples

Smoothie Cafe

Why I love my date smoothies:

They're filling, so you can skip ordering a meal

They don’t make me poop like coffee does .

They're caffeine-free, meaning no jitters. 

They’re cold and refreshing, ideal for hot summer days 

They offer plenty of flavor choices for simple, fun conversation starters.

Unique Cafes

Other unique cafe examples: 

• Clifton’s Republic, LA : A forest-themed historic cafeteria with artificial trees, waterfalls, and themed floors.
• De Kas, Amsterdam : A greenhouse restaurant with organic produce offering seasonal dishes in a lush setting.
• Cereal Killer Cafe : Specializing in over 120 cereals worldwide, with customizable bowls and cereal memorabilia decor.
• Prinzessinnengärten, Berlin : An urban garden cafe serving fresh, garden-sourced meals amidst greenery and hosting workshops.
• The Attendant, London : A coffee bar in a former Victorian public toilet, retaining its original architecture with artisan coffee and snacks.

Here are the pros, cons, and summary of going to a cafe for a first date:

• Perfect for any season, with hot drinks (coffee, tea) for winter and cold ones (ice tea, smoothie) for summer.
• Urban cafes often open till 22-23h, with longer hours on weekends; suburban ones usually close around 18-20h.
• Suitable for daters of all ages
• Ideal for a quick, initial meet-up to gauge chemistry and ‘you’re not a serial killer, are you?’ safety check.
• Non-Alcoholic Benefits: A) Perfect for mid-day/week dates around work schedules. B) More budget-friendly. C) No post-date hangover, ideal for those with work or family responsibilities. E) Healthier choice than alcohol ( especially beer ). F) Avoids the casual sex implication some might want to steer clear of.
• Coffee dates are cheap
• Easy to politely end the date early if needed
• Choosing a unique café can create a memorable, stand-out experience.
• The relaxed environment is perfect for comfortable, deep conversations. (Not great if you have ADHD.)
• A calm, quiet setting caters well to introverts.
• Offers the option for a light snack like a smoothie or dessert if you're a bit hungry.
• Coffee shops are around every corner. No need to drive anywhere or take public transport
• Coffee dates can feel dull and cliche 
• Generally alcohol-free, though some cafes offer beers and other drinks.
• More suited for those seeking a relationship rather than casual sex.
• Limited in activities, mainly focused on conversation.

Coffee dates are cliche and boring, but everyone uses them because they work. 

Like your old Toyota Camry:

It's not impressive or thrilling, but it's reliable and affordable.

The Classic Bar

Not ideal for the first stop of your date:

Too loud and busy.

Let’s look for a calmer bar with ample seating and open space. 

Something like this:

Location: Halles Saint-Géry

Opt for outdoor seating, especially near water or a fountain, if it's nice outside. 

It adds to the ambiance. 

(Plus, you could always playfully tease your date that you’ll throw them in the water!)

On either side of the water fountains, there are nice bars, restaurants and cafes 

If it's winter, but you're set on outdoor seating or need a smoke-friendly spot, you can just search for a bar with outdoor space heaters and coverings (see picture below). 

It's better to be prepared than caught off guard in a 'cloudy with a chance of meatballs' situation!

Rooftop Bar

Another safe first venue option is going to a rooftop bar:

Stunning daytime views:

Location:  Soko Rooftop

And as evening falls, you can enjoy a romantic sunset: 

Consider these previous example bars as the upscaled version of ‘the classic cafe.’

Perfect for that first meet-up, blending comfort with a touch of elegance to ease into the date.

After that initial chill vibe, you’re ready to switch it up to somewhere darker and more intimate.

Other examples of rooftop bars: 

• The V Rooftop Bar, Lisbon 
• Nice To Meet You Restaurant & Lounge [ 11 ]
• Lookout Rooftop and Bar

Important note:

For more actionable first date tips, such as what to actually do in a bar on your first date, read Fir st Date Tips (As a Dating Coach)" target="_blank" class="" style="outline: none;">My Favorite 27 First Date Tips (As A Dating Coach) .

This gin bar (see picture below) has it all:

• The main area is full of energy and cool Halloween decor (an easy conversation starter).
• Behind me, you'll find a calm lounge area with couches – perfect for when you want to talk.
• Plus, at the end of the bar, there's a door to a dimly lit smoking section if you're inclined to sneak away for a more 'private chat.' 

It's the unicorn '3 in one' venue. 

Location:  De Haus

Heads up: Gin and Tonics can be pricey, typically around 15 euros per drink.

Quick story:

I once took a personal trainer/bodybuilder girl on a date here. When I went for the kiss in the main room (the area pictured below), she didn't feel comfortable, so I offered to go to the smoking room, and we kissed there. She was not a good kisser and got her lipstick all over me. 

Cocktail Bar

While I prefer gin bars, cocktail bars are an option.

Examples: 

• Old Mates Place - [ 12 ]
• Betty Lou's Library
• Barfly's [ 13 ]

Jazz, Rock Bar

For music lovers, this is a good option:

Location: Rock Classic

The main room invites you to dance to live music, with a side space for foosball and drinks. There's also a laid-back couch area for when you want to chill and chat.

It's another versatile '3-in-1' venue. 

One example:  MOCA, Miami [ 14 ] 

To find similar places in your city, search for “Bar live music [city name],” and you should see a list like this:

Source:  Jam sessions and live music in Brussels

Or this list for live music bars in Houston:

Source:  The Best Live Music Bars in Houston - PUNCH  

Wine bars are a calmer option but equally good. 

Relaxing, fireplace Bar

A cozy bar with a fireplace is an excellent option for the winter. 

• Hudson's Bar and Grill, Vancouver [ 15 ] 
• Tiki-Ti, LA [ 16 ]
• Black Rabbit, Nashville

Karaoke Bar

Karaoke can be a blast on a first date—it's fun and can break the ice like nothing else. 

And luckily, we don’t need to rent a private karaoke booth; many bars offer free karaoke nights. 

The key is to pick the right spot. 

You want to avoid places where you're the solo act with a passive audience (see picture below). 

Instead, look for lively spots where the crowd is engaged, everyone's singing along, and you can share the mic and the moment (see picture below).

To be more specific, here’s what I look for:

• Two mics, one for you and your date
• Everyone is singing and dancing along
• Lyrics are on display, so you can sing along even if you don't remember all the words or the rhythm.
• Background vocals to help guide you through the song. (I’ve been to bars that only play the songs’ music without any of the artists’ vocals, and when I tried to sing, I quickly realized I didn’t know the song as well as I thought I did. Oops!)
• You can ask the DJ to play your song next (although in busy bars, you may have to wait up to an hour for your turn, so do it right when you enter the bar).

Another example is  Concerto VIK Karaoke Box [ 17 ]

Antique Bar

I like antique cafes and bars. 

It’s the vibe. 

The super comfortable couches. 

The romantic atmosphere.

The old portraits who seem to pray together, hoping to God you finally get laid.

Here’s an example:

Location:  Goupil de Fole

What I love most is they light candles. 

They brought over candles while I was on a date

Find bars that offer games you can play: board games, foosball, ping pong, or even a trivia night. 

Be anything but boring. 

Sing it with me:

Be anything but boring!

Board games (see picture below) are great for a classic date and even better for a double date when you need four or more players.

Pro Tip: Flick the other players' pieces off the board to win. 100% Guaranteed. 

Of course, unless you’re on my A+++ level, I wouldn’t recommend you play games like Monopoly, Settlers of Catan, or Risk. 

They take too long and are too stressful, with one Reddit user reporting:

[Board games are a good first date option…] Unless you are highly competitive. He blocked my monopoly enterprise, and I tried to shove the wheelbarrow up his nose.

Here are my recommended games: 

• Taboo! (It's one of my favorite childhood games. Crying from laughter. Look for the adult version of the game “Midnight Taboo Game.”)
• Ticket to Ride
• Pinch n’ Pass
• Bananagrams (I bought the game and quickly discovered that I suck at word games)
• Czech Games Codename
• Game of Life
• Gangsta (went to an outdoor board game event and discovered this underrated gem)

Why I love these date-friendly games:

• It doesn’t take long to finish playing
• The games are straightforward. No need to spend 15 minutes (or a quarter of your date) explaining the boring rules of the game. (Although that’s one way to test your date's character!)
• Most don’t require more than two players 

Board game cafes and bars are easy to find with a quick search. As mentioned, scout for public outdoor board game events in your area.

• The Uncommons, NYC
• Thirsty Dice, Philadelphia [ 18 ]
• Better Days, Miami [ 19 ]

Foosball table

Keep some coins handy, as most places charge around a dollar per game, which typically goes to 11 points.

As a guy diagnosed with ADHD, this is one of the best ADHD first date options: playing ping pong.

Lots of moving around and will up the energy. 

Don't get too excited at the sight of an empty table. 

Many bars will have a table but no ping-pong balls because they’ve all been lost. 

Play Pool 

Is Pool a chill version of ping pong?

I don’t know, but an equally good option. 

Trivia is a great option for older folks looking at first date options. 

• de Valera's, Brussels [ 20 ]
• Duffy's Sports Grill, Altamonte Springs [ 21 ]
• Wunder Garten, Washington [ 22 ]

Salsa Dance Bar

If you can dance, dance - especially if it’s salsa. 

Perfect for escalating intimacy, plus it’s impressive and very romantic. 

Just watch this:

(I’ll start dance classes soon, but I don’t think I’ll be learning salsa. Probably hip-hop.)

Example: 

Here are some example salsa bars:

• Salsa Bar Cartagena, Brussels 
• Ball & Chain, Miami [ 23 ]
• Cafe Salsera, Dallas

If you’re unsure where to go, avoid boring bars at all costs.

Find a place with a cool entrance like this one:

Or here's a cool example from Prague: My People Bar/Gastro Bar 1401, Prague .

It’s got live music:

The walls are covered in stickers, each one an "I was here" mark from past visitors:

Here's another spot I discovered in Prague, where I took a cute Argentinian girl : Durty Nelly's Irish Pub

This bar has a bottomless pit right at its center:

Other examples:

• The Painted Lady, Toronto - ( Instagram ) [ 23 ]
• Mr. Kanso Honten, Osaka [ 24 ] 
• The Brazen Head, Dublin - [ 25 ]

Here are the pros, cons, and summary of going to a bar for a first date:

• Easy venue to choose to avoid the friend zone
• Alcoholic drinks available (do I need to explain why that’s a good thing?)
• Suitable for those interested in starting a relationship or hooking up.
• Plenty of activities
• Good ambiance, even for non-drinkers.
• Easy to exit the date politely
• Can be moderately pricey, depending on the establishment.
• Age-restricted in the US, not an option for those under 21.
• May not be as accessible or conveniently located as a cafe.

Like cafes, bars are another date venue that everyone goes to. Sure, they’re more expensive, but they offer much more, especially if you’re not looking for anything serious. 

Looking for first-date tips? Read My Favorite 27 First Date Tips (As A Dating Coach) or just click on the thumbnail!

I do not recommend any of my coaching clients to go out to eat on your first date. 

But what if you’re hungry?

Well, first,

Don’t eat like me!

A massive pizza and bottle of wine is:

• Too filling. (It’ll make you sleepy, not very romantic!)
• Too expensive.

But simultaneously,

Cheap fast food with cars driving everywhere is unpleasant… 

“But I’m STARVING!”

What are our options?

The simplest, cheapest option is to stop by a food truck, order your hot food, and sit down in a nice area. 

Want something more filling? 

Walk to a nearby food court, often found near malls or large public areas.

Unlike traditional restaurants, I like the variety offered by the numerous food vendors and the fast preparation times. 

Here’s what they look like:

Another example:

Food Market 

Are you craving something fresh and local? 

The local food market.

Food markets focus on high-quality, local foods in an open, friendly atmosphere, often set up outdoors or in charming market halls.

Here’s what you can expect to see at the entrance: 

Location:  Flagey Market, Brussels

As you go through the market, you’ll find food stalls offering delicious options: seafood, vegan/vegetarian options, local specialties, and more. 

Other examples: 

• Pike Place Market
• Findlay Market
• Viktualienmarkt
• Albert Cuypmarkt
• Maltby Street Market
• La Boqueria Market
• Tucker Square Greenmarket
• Greenmarket at Rockefeller Center
• Columbia Greenmarket
• The Houston Farmers Market
• Azteca Farmers Market
• Westchase District Farmers Market

Flea Market

Flea markets have many cool things to look at or buy, such as antiques, second-hand goods, handcrafted items, and some stalls offering food. 

The atmosphere is fun, and an all-around great venue to pass by on a beautiful sunny day. 

• Scott Antique Markets, Atlanta  [ 26 ]
• Renninger's Flea Market & Antique Center, Mount Dora, FL
• Springfield Antique Show and Flea Market, Springfield

Small Intimate Restaurant 

Some of my students stubbornly insist they must go to a restaurant for their first date. 

OK, well, we tried. 

Here’s what you should look for in your first date restaurant: 

• Candles on the table
• Cozy atmosphere
• Fireplace 
• Comfortable to sit down 
• People are sitting down to eat, not just to pass by 

Here’s an OK example: 

There’s a lovely fireplace: 

And comfortable seating with candles on the table.

Location:  Hotel Mozart, Brussels

I love chocolate, especially dark chocolate. 

Here’s how to add a chocolatey flavor to your date: 

• Visit a chocolate store (pictured below)
• Go chocolate tasting
• Try a chocolate workshop (I would only do this kind of workshop with a date I knew prior; otherwise, it’s too much for a first date)

Here are some restaurant-date mistakes to avoid:

Local Deserts

Local deserts are also a cool option:

Try not to get cream on your face!

Ice cream is excellent for hot days, but if it’s too hot, it’ll melt your cone before you finish it. 

Is ice cream too sugary for you?

Try frozen yogurt. 

Park, Lake, Picnic & Walk 

Not the greatest outdoor area to meet up:

'Hi beautiful, meet me near the lamp post that looks like an alien with 2 glowing eyes. Kisses!'

Likewise, avoid any forest (no matter how pretty they may be) for a first date. 

Too creepy. 

Instead, look for beautiful public parks like this one. 

Location:  Parc de Bruxelles, Brussels

This park also has two mini bars and restaurants with nice covered outdoor seating. 

At night (and when it’s not raining or cold), there’s also a DJ here. 

Short story:

I once had a successful daytime first date in this park with a Brazilian girl who worked late hours as a waitress. (I'll share more about this story in an upcoming blog post.)

If there's a calisthenics workout area (pictured below), use it to seem more attractive as a muscular guy .

Here are a few ideas:

• Do some pull-ups.
• Assist your date in trying out pull-ups
• Lighten the mood with a playful piggyback ride around the area. (Or go backward to really scare them!)

Or you could just have fun at the playground area:

I may or may not have fallen in the next second or two...

Some local parks have some cool areas to explore, like this arch:

A cute couple on a date in Bois de la Cambre

If you're lucky enough to find a park with a lake or even just a local lake, it can be an ideal date spot to visit or have a picnic. 

If it’s legal (and make sure to check the local laws), feed the birds by the lake:

Tell your date that you’re also just trying to start a family like this poor bird

Small lakes can be especially peaceful at night - although maybe too serene.

How do you set up for the picnic?

Stop by a shop and grab two nice beers to keep it simple.

For an official picnic date, pack your bag with something like this:

• Bottle of sparkling wine or juice as a non-alcoholic option 
• Bread 
• Cheese 
• Peas ( healthy to feed the ducks )
• Something homemade and quickly eaten, like mussels (Avoid ordering delivered food because that’s too expensive.)

If you want to make this even more memorable, here are some other tips:

• Plan a path for a short walk after the picnic (can be anywhere, even explore downtown, not limited to the park)
• Get ice cream 
• Pick a flower for your date (although I usually do the opposite to tease by picking a weed or dead twig and pretending that I’m offering a flower)
• Bring a little Bluetooth speaker and play some soft indie/folk music
• Meet before sunset and watch the sun go down
• Play with the leaves; watch out for ticks, spiders, and other bugs
• While you’re walking, try holding hands (read: how to hold a girl's hand )
• Bring bug spray, sunscreen, and a towel if necessary.  
• Ensure you or your date don’t accidentally step in mud. (This happened to a girl I went on a date with in Lisbon, Portugal, and she got her sandals covered in mud. Not fun.)
• Try people watching
• Building a blanket fort is tons of fun, and I’ll always love pretending the floor is lava, but it’s too much for a first date. 
• Ask good first-date questions 
• Bring games along to play (think of my list of board games above LINK) - you shouldn’t want a board game that requires a table or will blow away in the wind
• Try butterfly catching. All you need is a net and a guidebook.
• Take the dogs out: It's best if you both have dogs. Gives you both something to do. Plus, caring for your dog makes you look like an extra good person in your date's eyes. 
• Know when it’s safe to be in your park. Some parks invite weirdos in the night. (I have too many stories…) 

More examples of a good first date park:

• Palace on the Isle, Warsaw [ 27 ]
• Brooklyn Heights Promenade
• Rouge-Cloître, Brussels  [ 28 ]
• Damstredet and Telthusbakken, Oslo   [ 29 ]
• Lodhi Garden, Delhi  [ 30 ]
• When you buy your own beer or sparkling wine, you save lots of money compared to if you got drinks at a bar.
• Fits a very romantic picture. 
• Easy. Just a walk in the park!
• Public everyone feels comfortable (if you’re going during the day)
• Works for any age.
• Won’t work when the weather's terrible 
• No stimulation, so it may be awkward. You can’t just talk about the scenery unless you’re in a massive, world-famous park.
• Not the greatest option for a date at night
• Many parks are dangerous at night [ 31 , 32 ]

Boat rides are also a very romantic date idea and don’t have to be expensive. 

Here’s one I took in Amsterdam with my boyfriend:

Here’s what the boat ride looks like from the inside:

After your boat ride (or before, if you prefer), rent electric scooters for a scenic ride along the river (pictured below) to drop your date off at their home or to the nearest bus or metro station.

Another similar example is  La Peniche, Dublin [ 33 ]

While some port areas can be unsafe, like in Marseille, France, assessing each city on its own merits is essential. 

For instance, in my Amsterdam story with my boyfriend, walking along the boat-lined canals was a pleasant part of the date.

“Wanna sail home with me, baby...?”

Choose a beach date only if it's convenient for both of you, like if you're in a beach city and you both live nearby. 

A walk along the shore is a great idea, but it's best to skip swimming or going into the water on a first date – it’s too much. 

And then stop for a couple of beers or ice cream:

Going during the colder season can be lovely - fewer people around. 

Plus, it’ll be easier to hold hands to keep each other warm. 

Just be sure that it won’t rain. 

Bike Riding

A casual ride, not a ‘100km-ultra-biking-marathon-ironman.’

Renting an electric bike and riding around the beach or park areas are ideal.

No need to sweat. 

You'll likely find bike rental shops easily (pictured below), especially in cities popular with tourists.

Mini-scooter

Bike riding is enjoyable, yet if the vibe is right, zipping around on a rented mini-scooter can be even more of an adventure. 

• Avoid motorcycles; they're too intense for a first date. 
• Scootering doesn't have to dominate the date like biking—it can be just one fun part.

Please read my story of dating a bisexual Brazilian in Portugal (click the thumbnail below). We did this exact thing, rented a cheap, electric mini-scooter, and it was amazing. 

Here's a snapshot of a former friend and me enjoying a mini-scooter ride during a trip: 

Christmas Market

Christmas markets are your best winter first date option!

So many things to do:

• Try mulled wine
• Try the ice skating rinks 
• Looking at all the holiday decor
• Finding things to do in all the mini stalls set up throughout the city 

Pick Fruits

I don't recommend this one if you live in a big city.

But fruit picking can be a lot of fun (and your only option) if you live in the middle of nowhere. 

(Note: Gardening is too much.)

Botanical Gardens

I wouldn’t stay in a botanical garden for my whole first date. Still, it’s a nice place to stop:

Location: Jardim de Santa Bárbara

• Brooklyn Botanic Garden [ 34 ]
• University of Ferrara Botanic Garden
• Royal Botanic Gardens
• Denver Botanic Gardens
• Phipps Conservatory
• Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
• Butchart Gardens
• Montreal Botanical Garden
• Bahá’í Gardens Haifa (Bahá’í Holy Place)

You look out your window and you see this:

Here's a photo my aunt captured in Ottawa, Canada, during a snowstorm last year

Do you still want to go outside?

I wouldn’t survive outside for more than 15 minutes.

But while you’re there, have fun:

• Bring hot cocoa 
• Snowball fight 
• Ice skating at the local rink 

Volunteering

The best way to implement volunteering into your first date is by going to an animal shelter and walking the dogs - this pairs well with a picnic.

The atmosphere at these shelters is uplifting: People are there to help, contribute and give.

Here are a few pointers:

• If you aren’t the kind of guy who volunteers time to help others, don’t do this. It’ll seem insincere. 
• Choose a shelter that's conveniently located.
• Always call ahead instead of dropping in unexpectedly.
• Most importantly, enjoy the time! 

High Local View

' Toronto Heli Tours ,' ziplining, or a hot air balloon ride are too much. 

Instead, try to find a local spot to relax and see the whole city - even better at night when you can see all the city lights. 

(Sometimes, you’ll need to pay a small fee, but that’s OK.)

Here’s an example for Haifa, Israel:

And here’s one from Prague:

Location: Vyhlídka Na Opyši

More examples:

• Monument to the Revolution, Mexico [ 35 ]
• ONE Dine at One World Observatory, NYC  [ 36 ]

Ferris Wheel

Another excellent option for a brief, scenic view of the city, especially recommended during sunset. 

Check out this example from The View, Brussels . 

• Bayside Marketplace, Miami 
• Atlantic Water World, Delhi
• Independence Blue Cross RiverRink, Philadelphia  [ 37 ]

Tourist Bus 

I always see these tourist buses and have wanted to do them myself, but I’ve never had the time. 

I’m sure you see them in your city as well. 

It can be a fun experience together.

Be the Tour Guide

If your date is not from your city or part of town, be the tour guide:

Don’t go to dangerous neighborhoods (duh!), and avoid the popular, touristy areas. 

Find the hidden gems. 

Example: The Annex and Roncesvalles Village in Toronto, Canada. 

Of course, not every city is super cool, as, for example, Jerusalem, Israel:

Location: Jaffa Gate

But you’ll always find cool places to stop along the way in any major city.

Here’s the great bathtub of Amsterdam.

(Some say it’s the Stedelijk Museum , but I don’t buy it.)

Or, here’s the Manneken Pis - the most underwhelming sculpture of all time. 

My date was taking a picture of me taking a picture of the Manneken Pis. Sometimes, I'm more interesting than a baby statue. 

A more impressive option: Mont des Arts Garden, Brussels

In Cologne, Germany: The Cologne Cathedral

As the tour guide, show your date hidden graffiti and murals around your city:

Or this one on the gay street in Brussels:

Tintin inspired gay mural in the center of Brussels

And this one, almost like a public art museum. 

Local Events

Local events can be cool, cheap, and accessible.

Here are some examples:  Flower Carpet Brussels

It’s even prettier at night with all the building lite up 

My favorite: Brussels Light Show

Here’s a video:

Timing is everything, so here’s how to look out for them:

• Local Newspapers and Magazines: Check the events section in local newspapers, both online and print versions
• Event Websites and Apps: Platforms like Eventbrite, Meetup, and Facebook Events list various activities. You can filter events by location, type, and date.
• Social Media: Follow local businesses, artists, and organizations on social media platforms to stay updated on their events.
• Bulletin Boards: Public bulletin boards in cafes, grocery stores, and community centers often have flyers for local events.
• University Campuses: If you're near a college or university, check their public event calendars for lectures, performances, and other events.

You will find something new weekly: festivals, art shows, fairs, concerts, food tastings/pairings, museums, etc.

Local Comedy

Any official comedy show (see picture below) is too much. 

I went to this one Irish comedian with an Irish friend, and I did not enjoy the show. The comedian was trying too hard not to offend anyone. 

Instead, let’s look for:

• Cheap shows or open mics where you know the comedian will pick on the audience (crowd work) and get seats in the front row. Just make sure you can roll with the punches. It’s very attractive. High risk, high reward.)
• Make sure you can also talk with each other without distracting the comic. 

Plus, laughing will remove all the anxiety you may have. 

Andrew Schulz is a perfect example of the kind of comedian you’re looking for: 

• Go Bananas Comedy Club, Cincinnati  [ 38 ]
• Kickstand Comedy, Portland  [ 39 ]

And I have to show you this clip:

Music Date 

Concerts are a lot of fun, like this one with Against The Current. 

But each ticket is 25 each - too much!

And even if you can get cheaper tickets, most concerts like this Neffex concert are too loud to where you won’t be able to hear each other:

Again, it’s too much.

So, if you’re a hardcore music lover like me, how can you incorporate music into your date?

• Look for a local music festival (For extra cheap tickets, check Ticketswap or Craigslist the day before the concert.)
• Find a street performance
• Look for live music in restaurants (or bars, as discussed):

Example:  The Finch Mumbai, Mumbai  [ 40 ]

Art Date 

Explore the world of art in two ways: 

Either by appreciating art in galleries and museums or by creating art yourselves.

If you're fans of Magritte, visit the Magritte Museum , followed by The Magritte Walk – "In the Tracks of Magritte." 

• Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, Miami 
• Cincinnati Art Museum
• Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath, India [ 40 ]
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• The Museum of Modern Art
• Do Division Street Fest
• The Art Institute of Chicago
• Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival
• National Museum of Mexican Art
• Musee du Louvre
• Van Gogh Museum
• State Hermitage
• Tate Modern

Not all are into simply viewing art. 

If that's you, try these ideas:

Pick a museum painting, research it, and share its’ story.

Or, get creative and invent humorous backstories for the artworks, like imagining a painting as "the struggle of post-Taco Bell constipation."

If observing art isn't your thing, consider painting:

• Join a ‘Wine and Paint’ bar or workshop.
• Paint portraits of each other.
• Relive your elementary school days with fun, casual drawing – bonus if there's wine!
• Collaborate on a single painting, blending your styles and ideas.

I may or may not be pretending I can paint by borrowing a friend's painting and all her art equipment. 

Local, Cheap, Minor League Sports Game

Most sports are too much for any date. 

The first time I went bouldering with my boyfriend, I couldn’t untie my shoelaces by the time we were done; my arms were shaking!

Instead, watch other people play sports. 

• Much cheaper than major league events
• Conversations are easy in the casual setting
• Freedom to walk around during the game
• Abundant food and drink options
• Fun atmosphere.
• Sometimes you get fireworks
• Enjoying a game is a bonus; date aside
• Kiss camera
• Chance to catch free items from crowd giveaways.
• Some find watching certain sports, like baseball, borrrinng!
• It is difficult to leave before the game ends. To prevent this issue, tell your date that you might not make it to the end of the game. Relieves a lot of pressure.
• Not always easily accessible, depending on the stadium location.
• The Brooklyn Cyclones, Coney Island 
• Dunkin' Park, Hartford
• Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, South Florida

Golf = too much.

Mini golf = perfect.

Especially on a sunny day.

“Wanna grab my putter?”

• Affordable at $10-15
• A mini golf game is the perfect length at around an hour. Pro tip: skip the boring tracks or finish them on your second date .
• Whoever loses buys the coffee or ice cream after. 
• Not very accessible
• It can seem too friendly, not romantic or sexual

Skating Rinks

Ice and roller skating can work as a first date venue, each with pros and cons. 

Ice skating

• Great option during the winter
• Skating can be free in northern countries during the winter, for example,  Rideau Canal Skateway in Ottawa, Canada , or Winter: Skate and Snuggle on the Waterfront in Philadelphia   [ 41 ]
• If you both know how to skate, it can be extra fun
• Get to hold your date to make sure they don’t fall
• Very romantic 
• If you’re not in the north, indoor ice skating is expensive 
• If neither of you can skate, you’ll fall and won’t be able to sit comfortably for two weeks -  a (not a very) nice way to break the ice
• Skating rinks are not commonly within walking distance

Roller Skating

• Easy for beginners
• Social, with music and interaction.
• Many of the same pros
• Not freezing 
• Less romantic 

Example:  The Rink at D12, Dublin

Neither are ‘amazing’ options, but if skating works for you, go for it. 

When I think of non-conventional date ideas, some are ‘meh,’ but bowling is not one of them. 

Lots of benefits:

• You always have something to do
• If you want to talk, you can play at your own pace
• You can get drinks at the bar
• Usually good music playing in the background
• Arcade games are available 
• Bowling isn’t cheap, but not expensive either (usually around $20/session with shoes)
• You can play as long as you like or cut the date short easily because each game lasts only 15-25 minutes.
• It’s even better if you always win… 
• SMAAASH Rajouri Garden, Delhi
• Yes Minister Bowling, Bar & Kitchen, Delhi  [ 42 ]

Best when you pair playing at an arcade with bowling or another activity - especially if you’re not conversationally gifted:

Here’s me playing air hockey at the speed of light with my boyfriend:

The first time we played, I beat him again and again, only tying a couple times. Then we went last week, and I lost every single game. Let’s keep this a secret between me and you. OK?

And if you don’t like air hockey, there are always loads of other games to choose: 

You may also want to consider arcades geared for adults. 

More examples: 

• Cobra Arcade Bar, Phoenix 
• Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade and Bar, Portland  [ 43 ]

Some will love going to an aquarium. Some will think it’s weird. 

I’m not sure. 

It is a niche idea. 

Make your own choice. 

Example:  Aquarium de Paris  [ 44 ]

I love going to the zoo; the last time I visited, I became a prehistoric T-rex:

And I looooove my cute penguins: 

Penguins>Dogs>Cats

You can have lots of fun talking about why each of the animals are in jail:

• Now you see this one's in jail because it refused to come back to my place after the first date.
• This monkey is serving time for stealing too many bananas and running an underground fruit market.
• See the flamingo? It's time for public indecency. Refused to put on pants and kept standing on one leg, showing off.
• This owl is in for stalking – it just couldn't stop turning its head to watch everyone.
• That llama's serving time for spitting at an officer. Claims it was just blowing a kiss. ( My complete guide to kissing a girl on a date )
• You can discuss which of the wildest animals you’d want to take as a pet…

(And other things to talk about on a first date that won't turn your date into a zombie.)

Just because it’s fun doesn’t mean it’s a good first date option! 

So again, just the aquarium, the zoo may be too much (some are surprisingly expensive). Still, I won’t remove it from this list because it may be a good option for some of my audience. 

I also love my steam engines:

Or, even better, a dinosaur museum:

Or a music, science, history, or any other kind of museum that would interest both of you. (Just in most cases, avoid a sex museum, please.)

• Look for museums with cool things to do in the museum and nearby 
• Look for free or cheap museum tickets on the first of each month
• Be careful about watching a boring IMAX on those comfy chairs; I know people who have fallen asleep! (We’re all tired from work, and if it’s not as stimulating as a double shot of espresso, people will fall asleep.)
• Avoid Museums where you’re not allowed to talk
• Play the game where you have to caption old paintings

Read my complete list of funny first date questions .

The last item on this list is having your first date at your place:

Soooo...I live in the top floor. But don't worry, I've got a nice balcony! 

This option isn't for 99.9999% of my readers, but it’s perfect if you’re both explicitly seeking a straightforward, no-drama hookup.

Now that you have my comprehensive list of date ideas, I'd like to dive into my personal checklist, top advice, and an insightful Q&A to make sure you're fully prepped for a great first date.

Choosing the Right First Date Venue

Selecting a venue for a first date hinges on two critical factors:

A) How You Met

• If you've known each other for a while (through college, work, etc.), you have more flexibility in choosing the venue. More private or unconventional spots, typically reserved for later dates, like hiking trails, hobby-centric locations, or even home-based dates, become viable.
• For a first-time meet-up (like from online dating or a cold approach - pictured below), opt for safe, public spaces to establish trust and comfort, such as coffee shops, bars, or parks. 

The way you'd go out with a girl you've been half friends with vs. a girl you approach as I did are not the same. 

B) Your Dating Goal

• If casual sex is on the agenda, avoid venues that may come off as too platonic, like a cafe, park, or a botanical garden. These are better suited for those seeking a long-term, stable relationship. Instead, focus on intimate, darker, romantic settings that serve alcohol, typically bars, to set the right tone.

Read the guide for you:

• If you're a guy , read Where Can I Meet a Girl? Top 25 Venues to Meet Women Easily
• If you're a girl , read Rich, Single & Hot! 73 Best Places To Meet Men [Tips Included]
• If you're a gay guy , read How You Can Get a Gay Boyfriend: 25 Tips That Work

Find ‘My Google Maps’ for your city

How can you quickly find date venues in your city or any city you visit?

Find public ‘My Google Maps’ that have been shared online.

Brussels Date Map

Paris Date Map

Houston Date Map

Berlin Date Map

Amsterdam Date Map

New York Date Map

See where I’m going with this?

All these maps are made by locals, showing you the coolest places to visit in the city, usually making them great places to go on a date!

Want to make your date map more personal?

Just click copy (upper-left corner), and now you can edit.

How can you find more maps other than in the cities listed below?

Search the following:

Site:reddit.com "My Maps" OR "custom map" "bars" OR "pubs" OR "drinks" "share" "[city name]"

Or, more simply:

My Google Maps best bars [city name] Reddit

If you don’t see any online for your city, make your own and post the link in the comments below. I’d be happy to add it to this guide!

Use Travel Sites, Local Forums, Instagram, and Reddit

Search Yelp for “date spots” and add your city. 

Here’s one example using Chicago :

Other good resources:

• Trip Advisor 
• Local forums
• Reddit 
• And Instagram (follow the Instagram accounts of popular bars around your city to learn about live music or other events they'll be hosting)

Explore Your City 

Even if you’ve lived in your place since the Big Bang, there are always new, cool places to explore in your city. (Even if you have your date venues, you may find a cheaper place to save you tons of money over the years.)

If you’re living in the Bairro Alto area in Lisbon, you’ll discover hidden gems like this cute romantic restaurant ‘ Loucos & Sonhadores ’

Regular old city guides can be very useful as well:

Date in a Popular Area

Why choose the busier areas? 

With all the restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops, you’re guaranteed to find several spots perfect for both of you. 

For instance: 

The area near Parv. de Saint-Gilles, Brussels :

The story is similar in central Brussels, especially near hotspots like La Machine .

Daytime in these areas often brings street performers:

But compare all this to a café in a quieter boring street in Knokke-Heist, Belgium.

Additional examples of famous areas include:

• Church Street, Bangalore, India [ 45 ]
• Oxford Street, London
• Oranienburger Str., Berlin

This is why dating in a small village or town can be challenging. 

'EEE' – Easy Exit Etiquette

Neither of you will know who you’ll meet on most first dates. 

You could be meeting some super weird maniac. 

Only go to places where it’s super easy to immediately leave (bar, cafe) and do not agree to meet in any of these scenarios: 

• Long drives: Sure, they sound romantic, but it's just you two, alone, in an unknown direction. Total 'serial killer in a car' vibes.
• Your place or theirs: Not in public, and way too easy for them to make leaving awkward.
• Private boat rides: It's the aquatic version of the long car ride.
• Fancy restaurants: These places can trap you in a multi-hour dining saga with formalities and hidden expectations.

Remember, safety first, always. 

Keep it public, keep it casual, and keep an easy out.

Essential information: 59 Moves: How To Tell Someone You’re Not Interested And Reject a Guy or Girl [& Countless Examples]

Too Much: Keep It Simple, Stupid (If You Want to K.I.S.S.)

This is your first date. 

You don’t know each other. 

This ‘meeting’ is only to test if there’s chemistry. 

And to be sure your date is not a serial killer. ( Spoilers: you probably won't meet a serial killer off Tinder )

No need for over-the-top plans and spending lots of money.

Just because it’s fun, sounds fun on social media, and is an excellent second, third, or fourth date option doesn’t mean it’s a good first date idea. 

Going too big can explode in your face: 

You seem overeager, needy, and ultimately less attractive . 

So, here’s my list of places to avoid for a first date :

• Paintballing: It's painful and not in the BDSM sense
• Swimming: Messes with makeup and hair. (Maybe you’re both bald?)
• Rock climbing: Little chance to talk, plus it's challenging.
• Gym or Marathons: Nope. 
• Bonfires with Music: Overwhelming for a first meeting.
• Deep Forest Hiking: Super-duper creepy. Never!
• Repelling or Ziplining: Fun, but brief and pricey.
• Long Cooking Sessions: Overly time-consuming.
• Go-Karting: Exciting, but maybe too much.
• Safari: Crazy overly-adventurous. (Feed your date to the lions if they won’t stop talking about themselves) 
• Fishing: Requires a specific interest and patience, neither of which I have.

Instead, stick to 'The Big Three' for simplicity and fun:

• Cafe: Relaxed, easy-going, and offers the chance to chat over coffee.
• Bar: Perfect for a casual evening with drinks.
• Picnic: A laid-back, charming option outdoors.

These choices are popular for a reason:

• They're accessible and nearby.
• Cheap 
• Fun without requiring specific activities (having coffee with the option of playing a board game at a cafe, unlike a trampoline park, where the fun is in the activity itself).

Reality Check: 

Most first dates happen in bars or coffee shops. Anyone who demands more for a first date is unreasonable (and could be seen as a red flag).

…But Let’s Avoid Boring Places 

Let’s keep things simple, but don’t go bird-watching, please:

My version of birdwatching: back in 2020, I lived at the top of this apartment building right across from tall palm trees that hosted a lovely pigeon community, and they wanted me to join their community whenever my window was left open… 

As the saying goes: 

Be anything but boring.

• Avoid bars where the average age dates back to the age of the dinosaurs
• You know the rule: If you’re fun, anything you do is fun - money can’t make things fun!
• If you’re not great at talking (I know who you are), put yourself in an environment where, even if you don’t have anything to say, there’s something to do - like bowling. 
• Don’t think you’re taking them on a ‘date.’ That’s boring. No one likes going on a date. It’s too serious. Thinking along the lines of “hanging out, teasing, chasing each other , flirting, playing hard to get , and learning about someone new.” That is a better way to frame it. 
• As a general rule: Error on the side of a crazy first date vs. a boring first date. 

It should be noted: 

As a couple, you're doomed if you can't get along in a boring environment.

But you shouldn’t worry about that on your first date. 

See my post below for even more ideas of what to never, ever do on a first date:

Communicable Atmosphere

For a first date, the right ambiance is crucial. 

Too much noise, like in nightclubs or concerts (as shown below), can drown out conversation, making it hard to connect and ask each other questions .

On the flip side, a setting that's as quiet as a library isn't ideal either. 

You're aiming for the gentle, ambient buzz of a bar or cafe. 

This background 'white noise' creates a relaxed and comfortable environment perfect for chatting and getting to know each other.

The Three Venue Rule

This rule isn't about hitting up three different locations; it's about transforming your date into an exciting adventure by trying out three new activities. 

Cough, ahem…

“Be anything but boring.”

Plus, the Three Venue Rule gives you backup options:

Overcrowded?

No worries.

You've got two other backup venues, ideally just a 5-minute walk away.

Personalize Your Date

We’ve been talking about dozens of rules, blah, blah, blah…

Yes, rules are helpful, but tailoring your date to your date’s interests makes it unique. 

Here’s how:

• Type of food: If your date loves Italian cuisine, consider a cozy, authentic Italian restaurant.
• Type of drink (alcoholic or not): Visiting a local brewery can be a great option if they're a fan of craft beers. Many breweries offer tours and tastings, which can be both informative and enjoyable. For non-alcoholic preferences, a coffee date at a café with specialty coffees and teas can be a delightful choice.
• Something from their nationality: A Japanese sake bar or a Brazilian churrascaria. (Consider cooking a meal together that celebrates their heritage for a second or third date.)
• Topic of interest: If your date is passionate about art, visiting an art gallery or museum followed by a discussion over coffee can be intellectually stimulating and enjoyable.

The Themed Date

Instead of doing three random venues, try a themed date.

Both love music.

• Meet at a record shop
• Pass by a public music performance 
• Go to a jazz bar 
• Karaoke bar 

The theme is Asian.

• Explore Chinatown
• Stop for bubble tea or even a traditional tea ceremony 
• Try some sushi
• Watch a traditional Asian dance performance 
• Look for a local cultural festival such as the Chinese New Year celebration, Japanese cherry blossom festival, or Diwali lights display

You’ve transformed your boring first date into an adventure story that your date will tell all their friends. 

Examples of First Dates

• Meeting Spot: Under the Eros Statue at Piccadilly Circus
• First Venue: Café at the National Gallery
• Mini Venue: Watching a Public Music Performance at Covent Garden
• Second Venue: A Short Boat Ride Down the Thames with Thames Clippers

New York City

• Meeting Spot: At McSorley's Old Ale House in East Village
• First Venue: The same bar, McSorley's
• Mini Venue: Play Pool at Amsterdam Billiards Club
• Second Venue: A more romantic bar, The Raines Law Room

Lisbon, Portugal 

• Meeting Spot: Ice Cream at Gelados Santini in Cascais
• First Venue: Enjoying the Ice Cream by Cascais Beach
• Second Venue: Rent a Mini Scooter to Explore Cascais
• Mini Venue: Chill by Carcavelos Beach

Dallas, Texas

• Meeting Spot: Outside Happiest Hour in Harwood District
• First Venue: Inside Happiest Hour
• Mini Venue: Walking Through Klyde Warren Park
• Second Venue: The Tipsy Alchemist in Uptown
• Mini Venue: Playing Pool at The Tipsy Alchemist

Seattle, Washington:

• Meeting Spot: Outside Oddfellows Cafe + Bar on Capitol Hill
• First Venue: Inside Oddfellows Cafe + Bar
• Mini Venue: Walking Through Cal Anderson Park
• Second Venue: Canon on Capitol Hill
• Mini Venue: Playing Billiards at the Garage in Capitol Hill

We’ve all learned a lot from this guide, and I’m glad you’ve made it to the end. 

Share your thoughts, questions, or ideas in the comments; I read all of them and love hearing from you. 

Need help with dating? 

Don't hesitate to reach out via the contact form - I have a few spots available for consultations.

While I’m not the most charismatic guy, I’ve figured out how to stop being so damn lonely, so I’m confident I can help you too!

To brighter dating adventures,

Coach Colt 

Looking for similar articles to read?

About the author 

Coach Colt here, the founder of Dating Armory, your go-to source for no-nonsense, practical relationship advice. I'm a bisexual male in a same-sex open relationship and a researcher in sex, love, and relationships with 7+ years of experience. I specialize in helping both men and women navigate the crazy world of dating.

Are Coffee Dates Good? It (Kinda) Depends

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80 fun date ideas to take your romance to the next level

When was the last time you had a memorable date night out with your sweetheart?

If it's been a minute, you might want to consider putting one on the calendar, because whether you two been together forever or are a brand new duo , carving out couple time is essential to keeping the flame alive.

However, coming up with new ways to spend time together can sometimes be a challenge , which is why we've tapped the experts to help pull together a list of the best date ideas.

After all, romance is the glue that keeps you and your beau together and even the strongest of relationships can benefit from regular one-on-one time.

"Couples should go on dates regardless of how long they have been together. One of the most important keys to a lasting relationship or marriage is never to stop dating," says Jaime Bronstein , licensed relationship therapist and author of the book "MAN*ifesting."

"A relationship or marriage can become stale if a couple doesn’t try to keep the spark alive. Relationships take work on both parts. You need to nurture your relationship and give it the respect and dedication it deserves if you want it to last," Bronstein tells TODAY.com.

According to Bronstein, an easy way to keep things fresh is to try or do new things together.

"When a couple has new experiences, they benefit emotionally and physically because their neurotransmitters start shooting, which results in the couple feeling excited and bonded," she explains.

When it comes to planning date nights, Bronstein recommends being intentional about spending time together.

"Set aside time dedicated to focusing on the two of you – no work, no kids, nothing else," she says. "Prioritizing your relationship can be a game-changer and will help you reconnect instantly . When both people feel loved and cared for, they feel more motivated to be an active participant in the relationship."

Here are some of Bronstein's suggestions:

• A surprise date . It’s important to have fun while dating, and part of keeping up the spark is to be surprised. Designate one person as the “surpriser” and the other as the “surprise-e.” The surpriser must plan a date from start to finish. A fun addition to this date is to blindfold the “surprise-e” until they reach their destination. 
• Pretend it’s your first date . This is for a couple who has been dating for a while. Over a romantic dinner, play the role of first daters. Ask each other questions you already know the answer to about one another, but do it in a flirty way. For example, “Do you kiss on the first date?” I promise that when you kiss at the end of the date, it will feel as if it was the first time again! 
• Body art date . Depending on how many dates you’ve had, you can either do this at a studio that offers this service or get some paint and cover your floor with a sheet. The purpose of this date is to have fun while getting closer. Ideally, both people would be wearing bathing suits, which automatically puts you in a vulnerable position, and it’s a way to check out how each other looks without not having a lot of clothes on. Dip your hands in paint and create a masterpiece on each other’s bodies; as you can imagine, this can simultaneously be sensual and playful. 
• Cook a meal and feed your blind-folded date . This date is playful and romantic, “50 Shades of Gray-esque.” Designate who will be the cook and who will be the one blindfolded and trying the food. Depending on your comfort level, you can do a lot with this date. You can make it as sensual or as playful as you want it to be. After one course, switch positions so both people can be fed while blindfolded. 
• Philanthropy date. Find a cause that resonates with both of you and volunteer your time together. It feels good to be philanthropic, and watching your date do something nice for people in need is attractive.
• Go to a Toastmasters class together . Public speaking can be nerve-wracking for some people, but once you do it, you feel a rush of adrenaline and a sense of accomplishment. It could be a turn-on if two people were to go out of their comfort zones together and cheer each other on. Go for celebratory drinks or dinner afterward. 
• The “restaurant hop” date. Go to one restaurant for appetizers, the next one for the main course, and a third restaurant for dessert, and if both people are into port or espresso martinis, they can go to a fourth restaurant for that.

______________________________________________________________________________

“Couples should be dating each other throughout their entire relationship,” Stephanie Mintz , a licensed marriage and family therapist, tells TODAY.com. “But how and why we date can change at different stages in the relationship .” 

Don’t put too much pressure on yourselves to come up with the perfect “date night” scenario, though. A date doesn’t always have to involve dressing up and getting tickets or a restaurant reservation. “[Those types of dates] are great for celebrating or relaxing, but they shouldn’t become the majority of your dates,” Mintz says.

Here are Mintz's date night suggestions:

• Visit a pop-up museum. Make do on that promise to see it before it closes.
• Attend a local art or music festival. Indulge in some local culture as a couple.
• Take a cooking or baking class. Preparing meals or desserts together can bring you closer as a couple.
• Go to a wine and paint evening. Hang your handiwork somewhere as a souvenir.
• Have a picnic. Fill a basket or purchase a pre-assembled charcuterie board, perfect for date night.
• Take a sailing lesson, if you live by the water. Sailing is very much a collaborative sport.
• Try out a virtual reality game. Play as a team or against each other in lighthearted competition.

“Scheduling date night is an investment into the longevity and quality of your relationship," psychiatrist Dr. Rhonda Mattox tells TODAY.com. “Think of date night as the gift that keeps on giving.”

Here are her suggestions:

• Get tickets to a comedy show. “Nothing breaks down barriers and brings people together better than laughter,” Mattox says.
• Pair an outdoor activity with a picnic. Go horseback riding, sailing, hiking or kayaking, then follow it up with a light lunch you’ve packed.
• Take a walk on the wild side. Up the ante with your activity and go bungee jumping, snorkeling, or something else that’s been on your bucket lists.

“Creating fun and meaningful dates doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money or partake in lavish experiences,” Elizabeth Earnshaw, LMFT, relationship expert and co-founder of OURS, a premarital counseling platform , tells TODAY.com.

Here are some of Earnshaw's simple date ideas:

• Plan a new date based on past great dates. Think of the greatest hits among your past dates, then plan new ones that combine the best parts of them to create new memories.
• Plan a date within set boundaries. Use parameters to narrow down the planning for your next date. For example, choose an activity that costs less than $50 or takes place within a 5-mile radius of your home. 
• Share your vision of a perfect date. Earnshaw offers this prompt: “Before I met you what I imagined a perfect date was …” Take turns planning your dream dates.

Cheryl Grace is a relationship and lifestyle coach and founder of Powerful Penny , a transformative lifestyle brand. She believes it’s important to find something you both like doing, even if it means learning something new together. Bonus points if the activity makes you laugh and feel energized.

“I love dating my husband! We’ve reached an age where we both appreciate new experiences that turn into fond memories,” Grace tells TODAY.com. “We discovered each other late in our lives and value spending time with each other.” She notes that one of their favorite standing dates is an early morning cycling class followed by breakfast together.

Here are some of her date suggestions:

• Take a portable speaker outdoors. Grace and her husband enjoy watching the sunset over a lake as they listen to tunes.
• Read a book aloud to each other. Grace giggles whenever her husband grabs the romance novel she’s reading and narrates it to her using different voices. Try it out with one of your own reads.
• Take a regular walking or bike route together. Grace suggests taking a selfie to show the passage of seasons on your route.

“The happiest couples I know are the ones who keep the romance alive, the ones that make an effort to put deposits into the relationship account when life so often is taking withdrawals from the account,” Andrea Dindinger, a San Francisco-based licensed marriage and family therapist, tells TODAY.com.

Here are her date ideas:

• Take a stroll hand-in-hand. Put those phones away and have a meaningful conversation with one another on a beach, in a park or anywhere else out in nature.
• Host an at-home cooking competition. Dindinger suggests “Iron Chef,” but you could choose any cooking show you like and try it out at home. 
• Go dancing. Even if you both have two left feet, Dindinger says grooving together is a great way to connect. “Dancing gets you laughing, playing and touching,” she tells TODAY.com. “It’s one of the fastest ways to fall in love.”
• Go on a role-play date. Dress up as a character, give yourself a new name, make up your background, and re-meet each other for a fun date. “Try to stay in character for as long as possible, but what’s most important is to listen, share and be present,” Dindinger says.

Amber Lee, CEO and co-founder of Select Date Society , says dating is key to maintain chemistry overtime. “I’ve seen couples hit a difficult time in their relationship who have been able to get back to a great place simply by making it a priority to date each other like they did when they first met,” she tells TODAY.com.

Here are some of her top date ideas:

• Host a taste test at home. Blindfold your partner and taste a few different wines, liquors or any type of beverage you like, then compare your favorites.
• Go on a hike or bike ride. Exercise will release endorphins, and who better to feel good with than someone you love?
• Book an overnight stay in your own city. Reserve a hotel room and go out to a nice dinner or order room service. You’ll feel miles away from the day-to-day routine at home even though you might be just around the corner.

“No matter how many years you have been with your partner, keeping the spark alive is both hard work and essential,” Laura Doyle , author and relationship coach, tells TODAY.com. Doyle recommends that a weekly date helps couples stay connected by creating "a deeper bond and more intimacy.”

Here are her date suggestions:

• Visit an animal shelter. Shower each other and some adorable fur babies with affection.
• Explore your town or city like a tourist. Hop on the train or get in the car and explore your neighborhood. Bonus points if you get lost — sometimes, it’s more fun that way.
• Recreate your first date with a twist. Enjoy a trip down memory lane, but add some wackiness by heading to the thrift store and picking out each other’s outfits and accessories.

“Couples who have regular date nights appreciate each other more, allowing them to have fun and laugh together,” Sam Whittaker, Relationship and Style Editor at Mantelligence , tells TODAY.com. “Going on dates helps couples remember good memories at the start of the relationship.”

His top date idea:

• Play the date version of rock-paper-scissors. Whoever wins each round gets to choose what activity to do next for a total of three in the same day. 

“The person you’ve been with for two, five or 10 years isn’t the same person they were a year ago,” Dr. John Delony, author, mental health expert and host of The Dr. John Delony Show, tells TODAY.com. “People are growing and evolving all the time, and that means my wife basically gets a new version of me as we get older, and vice versa.”

Here are two of his date suggestions:

• Go on a scavenger hunt in the neighborhood. 
• Dress up like superfans and go to the game. 

Hilary Silver , therapist and CEO of Ready for Love, recommends active dates, especially if one partner excels at that particular activity. “It helps the other partner remember and tap back into the enamored feeling they have about seeing someone they love being in their zone of genius,” she says.

• Teach each other something new. Pick an activity where one of you excels and have fun sharing your skills.
• Take dance lessons. Choose a genre where you’re both learning it at the same time
• Go ziplining. Pick something fun and outside of your comfort zones.
• Enjoy a Groupon or Airbnb experience. Local businesses offer tons of fun activities, everything from food tours to whitewater rafting excursions.

“Dating is important because it allows the couple time to focus on each other without distractions and they help to build intimacy,” says Jessica Alderson , co-founder and relationship expert at So Syncd . “It’s important for both people in a relationship to feel desired, understood and heard.”

• Go on an alphabet date. For example, start out with "A" for aquarium and plan a date. Each week is a new letter and thus, a new corresponding date.
• Try an escape room. It’s a fun and exciting challenge that encourages collaboration.
• Take a personality test. Ask each other the questions, perhaps over the course of a romantic dinner for two, and try to guess each other’s answers. You might think you know your partner well, but discussing your personalities with each other can deepen your connection. 

“It’s easy for established couples to fall into routines and forget to carve out time for one another, so it’s particularly important to have dates,” says Taly Matiteyahu, founder of Blink Date . “What the couple does during that time doesn’t matter nearly as much as the fact that they’re doing something together.”

• Shop for each other. Head to a big-box retailer with a budget and a timer. Find a few small gifts for each other and spend the rest of the day enjoying them.
• Get crafty. If paint-and-sip nights aren’t your thing, pick a different craft. You’ll both leave the date with a souvenir!

One thing's for sure: The experts agree that dates are always a good idea. Want even more cheap date ideas? We've got you covered.

• Volunteer. Giving back to the community feels good.
• Run or walk a charity 5K. Stretch your legs for a good cause.
• Explore a bookstore or library. Remind each other of the authors you love and read a passage or two from your favorite books.
• Plant a garden. Enjoy the fruits (or vegetables or flowers) of your labor and love.
• Host a dance party. Make a playlist of your favorites or pick a tunes from different era — bonus points for appropriate attire — and boogie down.
• Book a day spa appointment. Enjoy a self-care ritual like a couple’s massage together.
• Hit up a farmer’s market. Gather other fresh ingredients and go home to make a meal together.
• Take a tour of a local winery or brewery. Relax, sip and enjoy each other’s company.
• Go on an ice cream or dessert crawl . We won’t tell if you skip dinner.
• Play chess in the park. Or bring along a board game of your choice.
• Sing a fun duet at karaoke. Who cares if you can’t hold a tune?
• Make sushi at home. You can purchase kits with all the ingredients and instructions.
• Go on a weekend getaway. Adventure can be found close to home. Book a short staycation in a nearby town you have yet to explore.
• Go to an independent movie theatre. Rewatch a classic movie on the big screen. 
• Rent a canoe or a kayak. Calm waters are fine, but hit the rapids if you’re up for it.
• Check out the stars. Grab a blanket and stare up in wonder.
• Chat at a cafe. Don’t take your coffee or tea to go this time — just sit and talk.
• Visit a favorite spot from when you were kids. Even if it means just sitting on a park swing.
• Browse a record store. Discover new music or find some oldies but goodies to enjoy together.
• Go ice skating or roller skating. No Olympics-level skills required.
• Take a pottery class. Channel "Ghost" and sculpt your own keepsake.
• Try your hand at archery. Learn to shoot an arrow just like Cupid.
• Visit an arcade and play a two-person game. Air hockey or foosball, anyone?
• Enjoy an outdoor concert. Hit up a food truck before or after for a casual meal al fresco.
• Go out for pizza. Delivery is cool, but so is sitting down and enjoying a slice. Try a new topping while you’re at it!
• Play 1-on-1 basketball. Head to the court and shoot some hoops.
• Do yoga or meditate. Keep the calm and balance in your relationship going.
• Snag a spot on the beach. Summertime is best, but the beach is awesome even if you have to bundle up to enjoy it.
• Build a snowman or snow fort. Release your inner children and play in the snow.
• Play a round of mini golf. Get out on the green with your partner for a tee-rific date night.
• Visit an amusement park. Have a fun day together, whether you’re there for the rollercoasters or cotton candy.
• Go to a state fair. Hold hands as you walk the midway together.
• Explore an art gallery. Discover a new type of art together.
• Binge watch your favorite sitcom. The couple that laughs together stays together.
• Watch the sunrise or sunset. If your partner makes a comment on its beauty, don’t ignore it. “Your partner is not just commenting on the sun but requesting a response, a sign of interest or support, hoping for connection in a shared experience,” Dr. Daryl Appleton, a licensed psychotherapist and Fortune 500 executive coach, tells TODAY.com.

Keep the conversation going

• Interesting questions to get to know someone better
• 8 conversations that'll strengthen and deepen your relationship
• First date? Ask these questions to see if you're a good match

Barbara Bellesi Zito is a freelance writer based in New York City. She covers home & lifestyle topics for a variety of digital publications. Her debut novel is due out later this year and she’s at work on her second.

Sarah is a lifestyle and entertainment reporter for TODAY who covers holidays, celebrities and everything in between.

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The Best Places to Go on a Date in the U.S.

Yelp and OkCupid offer the most romantic date spots across eight popular cities.

A setting can be just as important as the company you keep when it comes to having a good date .

Whether you're looking to have brunch or try a themed bar, OkCupid and Yelp have put together a collection of the top spots to try across nine different categories in eight popular U.S. cities, with each spot chosen based on over 200,000 votes from OkCupid's users.

Some cities, like Boston, incorporate the larger metro area to include places like Cambridge, since a large majority of OkCupid's users are based there.

Below, you'll find a breakdown of the top date spots across each city as part of OkCupid's 2018 Dater's Choice Awards .

• Best Morning After Brunch— Snooze an Am Eatery : Originally started in Denver, this breakfast-focused spot puts a twist on American staples, offering dishes like a chile verde benny made with green chili topped tortillas, pulled pork or barbacoa style beef, eggs, and a green chili hollandaise.
• No Judgment Make-out Spot— Cheer Up Charlie's : This lively bar offers vegan eats, a colorful interior, and a large outdoor music venue in the back for dancing the night away.
• Fitness and Wellness Date— EpicSup Paddle Boarding : Take your date paddle boarding or kayaking along Lady Bird Lake, where you'll get views over the boardwalk and can explore nearby islands and coves.
• Best Hotel Bar— The Driskill Bar : This bar at the Driskill Hotel is modeled to take you back to the olden days of Texas, with cozy leather sofas and drinks that include everything from housemade jalapeño-blackberry juice to barrel-aged maple syrup.
• Cheap Eats— Torchy's Tacos : Grab one of these large tacos, whether you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, without breaking the bank. Tacos come with intriguing ingredients that range from ahi tuna to jerk chicken topped with mango and sour cream.
• Photo Friendly Spot— Jo's Coffee : This pastel green coffee shop started in 1999 has "I love you so much" written on its colorful walls outdoors to make for a romantic photo op.
• Spot that Sparks Conversation— Blanton Museum of Art : Spend some time chatting over the close to 18,000 works that line the walls of Austin's primary art collection hub, whether you're into Greek pottery or abstract expressionism.
• Spots Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner— Whistler's : This spot is located in a 100-year-old building and houses a Mezcal bar where you'll find more than 100 bottles and rare varieties. Grab some Thai street food specialties when it comes time for dinner.
• Best Themed Bar— Midnight Cowboy : This lustrous speakeasy includes a menu of rotating seasonal drinks that incorporate innovative ingredients like ricotta honey.
• Best Morning After Brunch— Lulu's Allston : Whether you like sweet or savory bites in the morning, this spot offers selections that range from mini donuts and Cajun tater tots to drinks like a pineapple coconut mimosa. The best part is their full menu is served until 1 a.m.
• No Judgment Make-out Spot— Lolita Cocina and Tequila Bar : This might be a cantina, but your décor here comes with a dark twist. Think red glass chandeliers, candle-lit tables, and plush couches.
• Fitness and Wellness Date— Lawn on D : At this outdoor interactive space, you'll find an array of rotating events throughout the year, from art exhibits to games like ping pong, plus walkways you can explore year-round.
• Best Hotel Bar— Noir : Watch a noir film while sipping on cocktails, wine, or beer at this bar located inside the Charles Hotel.
• Cheap Eats— Charlie's Kitchen : This multi-floor space offers '50s-style treats on its ground floor, burgers to enjoy outdoors, and a playful jukebox upstairs.
• Photo Friendly Spot— Top of the Hub : Take in the views of Boston's skyline from 52 floors up in the air.
• Spot that Sparks Conversation— Museum of Fine Arts : You'll find close to 500,000 works of art in this museum.
• Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner— Eastern Standard : Indulge in drinks made with fennel and strawberry Campari and stick around for late-night bites like short rib sandwiches.
• Best Themed Bar— A4cade : Bring out your inner child at this arcade-themed bar offering grilled cheeses in the front, and plenty of games in the back.

In Chicago:

• Best Morning After Brunch— Lula Café : This breakfast and brunch spot focuses on seasonal ingredients, giving you dishes like almond corn cake with yogurt or potato crepes topped with short ribs.
• No Judgment Make-out Spot— Slippery Slope : Enjoy drinks, music, dancing, and skeeball all in one place at this bar.
• Fitness & Wellness Date— Urban Kayaks : See Chicago through its historic river onboard these kayak cruises.
• Best Hotel Bar— Cindy's : Located in the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Cindy's offers you seasonal drinks and punches to enjoy while overlooking views of Millennium Park from its vaulted glass and steel rooftop setting.
• Cheap Eats— 90 Miles Cuban Café : This B.Y.O.B. spot also incorporates a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar, flamenco and paella nights each Tuesday, and an all-you-can-eat pig roast every Thursday.
• Photo Friendly Spot— Punch House : Punches are the specialty here, and they're available by the cup, carafe, or bowl.
• Spot that Sparks Conversation— Adler Planetarium : Learn all about the universe at this date destination dedicated to space.
• Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner— The Violet Hour : To find this spot, look for a mural on the outside that has a light bulb indicating the entrance. Inside, you'll find three different salons outlined with leather chairs and candlelit tables.
• Best Themed Bar— Three Dots and a Dash : This tropical tiki lounge is a hidden retreat offering concoctions made with fruity ingredients like passion fruit, watermelon, and starfuit.

In Los Angeles:

• Best Morning After Brunch— Nighthawk Breakfast Bar : Breakfast for dinner is the motto here, with elevated breakfast foods like benedict fries and cocktails like a Spiked Cereal Milk made with Cinnamon Toast Crunch-spiced rum taking the stage.
• No Judgment Make-out Spot— The Varnish : Located in a refurbished storage room, this bar offers a mix of both classic and modern cocktails and live jazz Sundays through Wednesdays.
• Fitness and Wellness Date: Moonlight Rollerway Skating Rink : Head to this historic building once used to make parts for planes during the 1940s and enjoy rollerblading throughout the night.
• Best Hotel Bar— Skybar : Located at The Mondrian, this open-air bar offers mesmerizing views over the city.
• Cheap Eats— Smorgasburg : Head to this weekly outdoor market on Sundays to taste an array of sweet and savory delicacies from a range of food vendors.
• Photo Friendly Spot— Griffith Observatory : Take in the city views outside or head inside to explore telescopes, exhibits, and live shows at the space's planetarium.
• Spot That Sparks Conversation— The Broad: This contemporary art museum is home to two floors of exhibits that include Yayoi Kusama's famed Infinity Mirror Rooms.

• Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner— The Edison : Take a step back in time at The Edison, which was made out of architectural artifacts pulled from the city's first private power plant.
• Best Themed Bar— Tiki-ti : With only 12 stools and a few tables, this small bar offers you a tiki space dating back to 1961 that's tiny but lively all at once.

In New York City:

• Best Morning After Brunch— Sweet Chick : Weekend brunches here include indulgent dishes like smoked pork hash and black bean cake scramble.
• No Judgment Make-out Spot— House of Yes : This venue hosts themed events throughout the week that range from '70s rollerway parties to '80s-themed summer parties.
• Fitness and Wellness Date— Chelsea Piers : Choose from over 25 different sports, from rock climbing to golf.
• Best Hotel Bar— Standard Beer Garden : Underneath the High Line, this outdoor drinking spot offers plenty of beer, ping-pong tables, and taps that you can pour your own beer from right at your table in the summer.
• Cheap Eats— Ramen-Ya : Whether you're looking for thin noodles, thick varieties, or ones made out of kale, you'll find them here.

• Photo Friendly Spot— Mother of Pearl : This Polynesian restaurant and cocktail bar offers island-like white décor and colorful cocktails that add brightness to your evening.
• Spot That Sparks Conversation— Museum of the Moving Image : Learn everything there is to know about film, television, and digital media at this space housing exhibitions, programs, moving-image works, and artifacts.
• Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner— The Happiest Hour : This cocktail bar and restaurant is known for elevated dishes and cocktails that include sweet concoctions like strawberry and tequila drinks and savory sips like a red pepper and habanero mix served with your choice of mezcal, tequila, or gin.
• Best Themed Bar— Otto's Shrunken Head : This funky tiki-themed bar and lounge features live bands and DJs for whatever kind of night you're in the mood for, and you'll also find nights that feature spoken poetry, literary readings, film screenings, and karaoke.

In Philadelphia:

• Best Morning After Brunch— Sabrina's Café : Sample bites like the Scooby Snacks — buttered potato rolls stuffed with caramelized onion hash browns and pork scrapple — or the Courage the Cowardly Dog Sandwich — a Po' Boy served with cornflake-crusted shrimp — at this B.Y.O.B. spot.
• No Judgment Make-out Spot— Tattooed Mom : Grab local beers, food, craft cocktails, or late-night snacks at this 20-year-old watering hole.
• Fitness and Wellness Date— Schuylkill River Trail : At almost 130 miles long, this trail offers plenty to enjoy, whether you want to walk or cycle.
• Best Hotel Bar— Stratus Rooftop Lounge : Have a drink 11 stories above the city's historic quarters while you sit surrounded by maple trees and a cozy fireplace.
• Cheap Eats— Loco Pez : This cash-only spot inspired by Los Angeles' food trucks serves tacos, burritos, and quesadillas as well as local beers, more than 25 tequilas, and tequila cocktails.
• Photo Friendly Spot— Spruce Street Harbour Park : At this outdoor playground, you can swing on hammocks, check out floating gardens, sip on craft beers, or try out foods from some of the city's most popular restaurants.
• Spot That Sparks Conversation— Franklin Institute After Dark : Head here for its after-hours programs and you can catch games and events, from cocktail-making sessions to time-traveling workshops.
• Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner— Friday Saturday Sunday : At this elegant space, you can start your night with cocktails like the Cheap Suit, blending gin, lemon-coriander shrub, and Cocchi Americano and continue the night with oysters and caviar.
• Best Themed Bar— Garage : Cans are all the rage at this bar, which allows you to bring your own food. You'll find cold beers and whiskey and pickle backs.

In San Francisco:

• Best Morning After Brunch— Nopa : This restaurant focuses on organic wood-fired cuisine, with its weekend brunch offering dishes like coconut pecan granola served with roasted peaches and a wood-grilled hamburger served with a basil aoli.
• No Judgment Make-out Spot— El Rio : Started back in 1978, this space serves up fun margaritas alongside a Bloody Barry bar with infused vodkas and hosts events throughout the month.
• Fitness and Wellness Date— Dogpatch Boulders : This indoor bouldering venue offers 17-foot-high walls you can climb and a total of 17,000 square feet of climbing terrain.
• Best Hotel Bar— The View Lounge : Located in the San Francisco Marriott Marquis, this lounge incorporates small bites with dreamy views over the city to make for an unforgettable date.
• Cheap Eats— La Taqueria : Expect long lines at this eatery that serves burritos and tacos. A live mariachi band is on-site to accompany you while you wait for your meal.

• Photo Friendly Spot— Foreign Cinema : From fresh seafood selections like oyster and shellfish to meat dishes like a sirloin carpaccio and vegetarian plates incorporating seasonal ingredients, this eatery offers a dish for every palette.
• Spot That Sparks Conversation— California Academy of Sciences : Whether you're looking to spend your day in an aquarium, planetarium, or a natural history museum, you can do it all in once place at the California Academy of Sciences.
• Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner— Trick Dog : This venue's award-winning cocktail menu is filled with drinks that look as good as they taste, whether you're in the mood for a whiskey drink infused with coffee, beets, and cherry, or a rum cocktail made with pepper jam and thyme. Light bites include guacamole, roasted vegetables, seafood ceviche, and more.
• Best Themed Bar— Smuggler's Cove : With the largest rum selection in the U.S., this rum-centered bar even incorporates the drink into its décor, with nautical touches that make for a playful setting.

In Seattle:

• Best Morning After Brunch— 5 Spot : Pair a Bloody Mary or mimosa with choices like a biscuit split and stuffed with sausage gravy and eggs or scrambled eggs topped with avocado, scallions, cheese, and red potatoes.
• No Judgment Make-out Spot— Lava Lounge : This casual spot hosts shuffleboards, arcade games, and tropical drinks.
• Fitness and Wellness Date— Seattle Bouldering Project : Another bouldering space, this venue offers climbing classes and activities like yoga and weights to get you active.
• Best Hotel Bar— Stoneburner : Located on the ground floor of Hotel Ballard, this restaurant and bar will get your evening off to a fresh start with cocktails ranging from sweet choices like cinnamon bark syrup and bourbon, to zesty selections like gin served with absinthe, orange bitter, and lemon.
• Cheap Eats— Katsu Burger : Japanese fusion means you can expect burgers with a twist here, whether you order a curry-powered pork loin burger or a miso-marinated tofu burger.
• Photo Friendly Spot— The London Plane : With a café, a specialty foods grocery, and a floral workshop all in one, there's plenty to keep you entertained at this multi-use venue.
• Spot That Sparks Conversation— Seattle Art Museum : Explore a series of rotating visual exhibits and programs that feature art from across the globe.
• Spot Where Drinks Could Turn Into Dinner— The Pink Door : This Italian-American restaurant boasts a hefty wine list that pairs perfectly with its classic Italian dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
• Best Themed Bar— Unicorn : A carnival-themed bar means whimsical fun awaits, whether you're looking to play on its claw machine, engage in a mimosa cabaret, or snack on your favorite carnival-themed staples.

100 Fun Date Ideas to Really Up the Romance

Couples can step out of the box with these easy, cool and affordable options.

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Sometimes, coming up with a date activity that's as exciting and unique as your relationship can be just as difficult as finding the right person to take out on that date in the first place. Whether you're driving the carpool, commuting for work or you've got just 20 steps between your bed and your desk and back again, most of us just don't have a lot of creative juices left for planning at the end of a long day. And let's face it, dinner-and-a-movie gets a little stale after awhile, especially if you've been in the dating game for some time.

Whatever your dating personality, there's bound to be something to fit the bill on this master list of create date night ideas . Whether you're looking for indoor date night ideas for inclement weather, long-distance dates for when you and your main squeeze are apart or even first date ideas to break the ice, there's something for every type of couple, activity preference, level of DIY skills and budget. We've got enough to last you a few year's worth of weekends.

• Restaurant hop. If you've got your favorite spot's menu just about memorized, check out a few new places instead. Visit a food hall if you've got one nearby or head to an area with a few different restaurants and try one place for appetizers, another for dinner and a third for dessert.
• Play tourist in your hometown. When was the last time you took advantage of the things everyone asks to see when they visit? Probably the last time you had out-of-town guests, that's when. Take an afternoon or an evening and hit up your local landmarks or must-see attractions like you're seeing them with fresh eyes.
• Make a fun new recipe. Even if you're not much of a cook, trying out a new dish can result in lots of laughs. And when you're done, you get to eat the results.
• Go on a picnic. If it's nice outside, there's nothing more romantic than packing up some al fresco food and favorite beverages, spreading it on a blanket and enjoying the great outdoors. If the weather outside is frightful, move the party to your living room.
• Take a hike. Something about exploring nature with your main squeeze really gets the heart going in other ways, if you know what we mean.
• Hit the beach. Sun, sand, surf and lots of skin. Come up with a better afternoon. We dare you.
• Go skiing. Not beach weather? Hit the slopes instead. If you don't get hot cocoa afterward, it didn't count.
• Play a board game. Drag out the classics or try a brand new one, for a healthy dose of competition. Toss in a friendly wager to spice things up a little.
• Throw a casino night . If they call you Lady Luck, see if your partner can roll snake eyes and win your heart. That, or play cards with that week's chore list on the line.
• Build a campfire. Ignite the flames of passion in a Smokey-approved way by gathering around a campfire in your backyard. If your municipality doesn't allow fires, huddle by the fireplace instead or even make s'mores in the microwave.
• Have a spa night. Hit up the drugstore for face masks , mani-pedi supplies and massage oil for a DIY pampering sesh that will improve your bond and your skin.
• Take a day trip. Hop in your car and see where a tank of gas can take you. Even checking out the next town over can feel like an adventure, especially when you're doing it with your favorite person.
• Go grocery shopping together. Need eggs and bread? Turn a boring chore into a fun couple activity. Split your list in half and race to see who can finish it first, or just wander the aisles hand-in-hand.
• Learn a new skill. You don't need to invest in a lot of fancy equipment to try something new. Give origami, drawing or even card tricks a shot. You'll have a blast laughing over how bad you both are, at first.
• Play hide 'n seek. It's not just for kids anymore.
• Look through old photos. Pull out the albums and get ready for an awwww-fest. Share stories of your childhoods and your awkward teen years to learn something new about your sweetheart and grow to love them even more.
• Go antique hunting. You'll be amazed what kinds of gems you can find at an antique store, not to mention the creepy AF tchotchkes you'll run into.
• Take a dance class. Even (or especially!) if you have two left feet, taking a dance class can make a unique date. You'll be the talk of the dance floor at the next wedding or party when you bust a move.
• Volunteer together. Sign up to serve at a soup kitchen, a clothing drive or other local initiative to make a difference in your community and see how hot your honey looks when helping others.
• Visit the zoo or aquarium. Come on, even fish are cute. Show your sensitive side and squee over some new fuzzy or finned friends.
• Read to each other. Grab some steamy reading from your local library or used book store and take turns reading to each other. You'll be in the mood before you can say "once upon a time."
• Explore a museum. If you haven't been to your nearest museum since your class field trip, it's time to make a trip. Learning is sexy, don't you think?
• Go out for dessert. I don't know about you, but I'm always too full to get dessert after a nice dinner. Skip right to the sweets, and see what you've been missing.
• Commandeer the jukebox at a bar. Ensure you've got danceable tunes all night long by taking control of the jukebox at a local watering hole. Don't forget to sing along.
• Make a craft together. Creativity feels even more satisfying when you do a project with your sweetheart. Don't worry if you're not a pro artist; there's beauty in imperfection.
• See a comedy show. Laughing gets endorphins flowing, and comedy often comes cheaper than other forms of live entertainment. Even really bad standup can be fun, in its own way.
• Go to an open house or estate sale. Even if you have zero plans to buy a home, looking inside someone else's is the best (and least creepy) kind of voyeurism.
• Tackle a home improvement project. If you've been meaning to hang some shelves or finally cleaning out your closet, enlist the help of your main squeeze. Doing it together will make the task go by faster.
• Go berry or apple-picking. Depending on the time of year, there's probably something edible growing out there. Pick apples, berries, pumpkins, whatever. It's a seasonal, Insta-friendly outing that ends with yummy snacks.
• Hold a baking competition. Make like Paul Hollywood and challenge your beau to a baking contest . Once you're chowing down on the spoils, everyone wins.
• Wander a new neighborhood. Drive or walk to a new locale and see what's around, for a free and unique date. Pick out your favorite houses and make up tall tales about who lives inside, or choose the one you'd want to live in.
• Go horseback riding. It's a better workout than you expect, not to mention an offbeat way to get a good dose of nature.
• Try rock-climbing . Thanks to its newfound trendiness, many cities have at least one climbing gym. Don't belay , chalk up those hands (sorry, not sorry).
• Take a cooking class. Level up your kitchen know-how and get to enjoy a delicious meal, all in one.
• Try a new fancy coffee or tea. If you usually take it black or with just sugar or cream, branch out! Hit up a local coffeeshop and try the most offbeat offering they've got.
• Fly a kite. This is one instance in which "go fly a kite" isn't an insult. Really, try it.
• Stay in a bed and breakfast. Whether you go old-school or rent an AirBnB for the night, bed and breakfasts feel like sneaking into someone else's house, except you're totally allowed to be there.
• Go to a water park. Make like a kid again and splish splash to your heart's content. Water slides really are worth the hype.
• Go to a farmer's market. Supporting local merchants, eating delicious healthy foods and enjoying a stroll in the sunshine – yup, that's definitely date material.
• Try a new workout. If you're a Spin person, drop in on a kickboxing class. If you're usually a free weights fan, step it up with some Zumba. Giving a new class a shot is less intimidating with a pal, and you can even use an app if you don't want to shell out for a live one.
• Tour a brewery or winery. You'll learn what goes into making your favorite beverage, and there are usually samples. Win-win!
• Stargaze together. There's just something inherently romantic about staring up at the night sky. Bring a blanket to the backyard or a local park and see how many constellations you can find.
• Do karaoke. Everyone's a star at karaoke, especially if you can find the kind with private rooms. The sappier ballads you belt out, the better.
• Go ax-throwing. As soon as you let the first one fly, you'll understand why ax-throwing is so popular. It's also a great way to unload some stress.
• Put together a puzzle. There's something so satisfying about finally clicking that last piece into place, plus it's good for the ol' noodle.
• Go bowling. This is one instance in which you actually want to strike out.
• See a drive-in movie. Many drive-ins still play double features, so you get twice the films for your buck. Besides, it's delightfully retro.
• Go skating. Whether you go the ice or roller route, skating is just as perfect a date night as it was when you were 12.
• Take a wine tour. If you live near wine country, enlist a designated driver and get your grape on. If not, buy a few bottles of varietals you've never tried, print out some deets from the Internet and DIY it at home. Don't forget the cheese.
• See a concert. Even terrible cover bands make a fun night out, especially if you dance like fools the whole time.
• Cowork together. This is for the busy bees: If you and your sweetie work remotely, try out a cozy new coworking space together. Don't forget to build in breaks to grab snacks and lunch together.
• Try a dinner cruise. A candlelit dinner on the water? I'm sorry, did somebody say "most romantic night ever?"
• Rent a kayak or canoe. Your arms may get tired and your lap will definitely get soaked, but steering a double kayak or a canoe will give you new insight into your cooperation skills.
• Make your own pizza. Yes, including the dough . Top it with all of the classics, or go with personal pies and challenge each other to come up with the tastiest new combo.
• Take a dollar menu date. Go to a fast food restaurant and order everything on the dollar menu for a fresh take on the traditional dinner outing.
• Visit your hometown. Showing your main squeeze where you grew up (or went to college if you're from the same town) is surprisingly romantic and it's sure to elicit some mushy feelings. Go ahead, share those embarrassing childhood stories.
• Challenge them at an arcade. Go a few rounds at Ms Pacman and Big Deer Hunter for a unique night out that will bring out your competitive side.
• Plan a future date. If your wallet's a little light right now, crack open a bottle of wine and spend a cozy night in planning an extravagant future date. Romantic, whether you actually go through with it or not.
• Throw a dinner party together. Invite a few other couples over and go all out making an apps-to-dessert meal. Place cards and centerpieces optional, but if you're gonna do the thing, you might as well do it right.
• Choose library books for each other. For a free and quirky date, head to your local library and choose books for the other to read. Hand your sweetheart your most awww-worthy childhood favorite, or introduce them to a current literary obsession .
• Thrift new outfits. Visit a secondhand store and dress each other in the zaniest clothes you can find. Goofy photos mandatory.
• Have a themed movie night. But make it a theme. Choose a flick and add snacks to match. Think The Godfather and cannoli or Ratatouille and, well, you know.
• Make a romantic playlist. Remember when you used to exchange mix tapes with your crush back in the day? Thanks to streaming services, it's easier than ever to create a musical journey through your relationship, no sitting by the radio for hours required.
• "Shop" for adoptable pets online. Cooing over cute puppies and kitties will bring out your softer side, even if you can't have a pet where you live.
• Paint and sip. If you've got a paint nite program nearby, it's a fun and easy date. If not, get some canvasses (or coloring books), pour some bevvies and throw your own.
• Try tie-dye. You may have noticed that all kinds of things are tie-dyed lately. Get in on the trend by making your own. Even if it doesn't come out perfectly, you'll have a fun memory.
• Watch a sports game. Even high school sports can get your adrenaline going if you get really, really into it. And you definitely should.
• Taste some cheese. Some cheese shops hold tasting events but if you don't have any near you, buy a few new-to-you varieties and DIY it.
• Play laser tag. Recreate your 10th birthday party, except now you can have a beer with your pizza afterward.
• Go skydiving. Yes, it's a little pricey and not for the faint of heart. But this is one of those special occasion dates you'll never forget. Try it for an anniversary or other big event.
• Drive go-karts. Mario Kart experts and those who drive anything other than the carpool minivan can both rock a go-kart arena.
• Train for a 5k. Having something to work toward will motivate you both, and you can keep each other accountable as you lay down those miles.
• Go to a burlesque or drag show. Raucous, rowdy and a little bit risque, both drag and burlesque shows make super-fun dates.
• Swap houses with a friend. Enjoy a staycation for free by exchanging houses with a nearby pal. Living in someone else's shoes for the night or weekend feels like stepping into someone else's life, even if you just bunk down next door.
• Build a snowman (or a sand sculpture) . Make the most of the weather by creating a new friend.
• Shop for charity. Food pantries, homeless shelters and community organizations need supplies all year round. Spread the love while spending quality time with your partner.
• Watch the sunset. There's a reason so many romantic movies end this way.
• Take public transit somewhere new. Ride the subway to the end of the line or take the bus to a different part of town for an adventure that's easy on the wallet.
• Order each other's meal. See how well you know your loved one's tastes by ordering for the other at dinner. No swapping back when the food arrives!
• Listen to podcasts. For a twist on the usual movie night, cuddle up and turn on a podcast instead.
• Do couples' yoga. Getting bendy together can really heat things up, plus you're doing something good for your body and mind.
• Play "never have I ever." Asking each other to get deep can reveal some new things about your loved one.
• Make a video together. The only thing more fun than watching reality TV is making your own. Use your phone to shoot a cooking video, do a tutorial or even give each other makeovers.
• Go low-tech. Pretend the power went out and have a no-tech evening. Yes, that includes your phones.
• Relive a past vacation. Put on your swimsuits, shake up some margaritas and look at photos of your last beach getaway. You'll almost feel the sand between your toes.
• Play a role-playing game. Former theater kids, this is your moment. Try a classic like Dungeons and Dragons or an online game to step outside yourselves for awhile.
• Write each other love letters. Getting your feelings down on paper can ignite some real sparks, plus create a keepsake for years to come.
• Climb your family tree. Sit down with Ancestry.com and learn about your backgrounds. Or even better, interview an elderly family member to get personal stories about where you came from.
• Go for ice cream. Nothing tastes as good as a cone on a hot day, but we scream for ice cream on chilly afternoons, too. Set up a sundae bar for a real treat.
• Stroll a street fair. Chow down on some fried dough, bask in the midway lights and win each other a stuffed toy – if you've got the skills.
• Have a photo shoot. Make like influencers and take photos of each other around town. You may even come up with your next holiday card.
• Listen to a lecture. Many local colleges, libraries and community centers have evening events that are open to the public. Plus, you'll get all sorts of tidbits for future cocktail party conversation.
• Take an improv class. Embracing the concept of saying "yes, and" is a lesson that also works well in your offstage life.
• Cultivate a garden. Even if you live in an apartment, try your hand at growing a window garden . Plants make any dwelling feel like a home.
• Build a bucket list. Sit down together and think big: No item is too out-there or mundane to plan ahead for the rest of your life as a couple.

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85 First Date Ideas You’ll Actually Find Fun

By Liv McConnell

There’s something that I — as a partnered person, probably annoyingly — like to recommend to friends looking for cute first date ideas. And that is this: Choose an activity you’ve been wanting to do anyway.

Maybe you don’t need these kinds of first date tips (but maybe these first date questions could help). Maybe you’re in fact someone who loves going on fun first dates and requires no incentive other than the prospect of maintaining “I’d definitely rather be here than home!” eyes at a stranger in a mediocre restaurant of their choosing. If so, more power to you!

For the rest of us, a bonus perk or two can sweeten the deal if we’re going to put on real pants for a person of unknown dud-or-not status . First dates can get draining, after all, if all you ever do is a rinse and repeat of the same dinner and a movie formula. Even worse, enough hours spent chatting up strangers across from interchangeable restaurant tables, and your dating life can start to feel like a series of job interviews.

Enter: the best first date ideas for people who want to get more out of their Thursday or Saturday night — and, in the process, potentially form a more exciting connection with someone, too. From adventurous daytime dates to less-expected nighttime rendezvous options, you’re sure to find something that floats your (perhaps literal) boat below, regardless of what ultimately happens with Alex from Tinder .

But hey, if they play their (again possibly literal) cards right — several of these would make great second date contenders, too! (You can also check out questions to ask a guy and/or questions to ask a girl .)

The most important question in planning a first date

Let’s just say this comes from a bit of experience. While planning where to go on a date, it’s likely one person is handling more of the planning than the other. If you’re the person handling the logistics: Is there anything you hate doing or would never do again? While most first date ideas aren’t going to venture into the risky or even adventurous, you never know if someone has an especially horrific memory tied to a failed game of mini golf or a deep fear of water. It’s a simple question that will help you learn a bit more about the person, and help that date go off without a hitch.

Ok, moving on to the best first date ideas…

In this article you’ll find:

Adventurous first date ideas

Fun first date ideas, cute first date ideas, unique first date ideas.

1. Go rock climbing.

There are plenty of rock climbing gyms around the country, and chances are there’s one within driving distance. Make sure and keep it to a gym, though, especially if either of you have never rock climbed before. Safety first!

2. Ride a rollercoaster.

Sure, anyone can go to an amusement park, but it takes some guts to hop on a rollercoaster. Make a point to tackle the most adrenaline-inducing rides in the park, and finish the day off with some ice cream or funnel cake.

3. Take a trapeze class.

Workout classes are fun, but opt for something neither of you has done (this is where the adventure comes into play). Trapeze is a beautiful artform and it’s likely neither of you will master it in one class—all the more reason for a second date.

4. Challenge them to a go kart race.

Much like roller coasters, it takes someone with a sense of humor to really get into a go kart race.

5. Go zip-lining.

What better way to see some beautiful scenery than while flying through the air screaming your face off?

6. Try to set a world record.

If you’re not as set on looking for places to go on a first date and you want to make sure the activity is memorable, here’s one you can do from home. Maybe you’re looking to beat the record for the most socks put on a single foot in 30 seconds (the record is 28). Perhaps arranging the alphabet from a can of Alphabet Spaghetti as fast as possible is more your speed (try to beat 3:21). There’s a world of opportunity here.

7. Visit an indoor trampoline park.

You’re definitely going to work up an appetite with this date idea, so make sure you’ve got lunch or dinner plans in the works. Some trampoline parks have hours set aside for adults, meaning you can jump around without running into a kids’ party.

8. Make an appointment with a fortune teller.

For a different kind of adventure, take some time to look into the future. Whether you believe it or not, it’ll serve as some great dinnertime conversation.

9. Head to the roller rink.

The only thing that’s better than getting into a groove on rollerskates (don’t worry, everyone looks funny for the first 30 minutes or so) is the roller rink playlist. This is pure fun where no one worries about looking like a professional skater.

10. Book a hot-air balloon ride.

This one may be a bit tougher for those not located in areas where this is available, but if you are… This will be one first date you won’t forget.

11. Find your way out of an escape room.

Escape rooms are as fun as you make them. If and when things start to get tense, remember: It’s just a game.

12. Plan a mushroom foraging afternoon.

If you’re both into food but you don’t want to do the usual dinner and a movie plan, look into an afternoon mushroom foraging in a park with a guide. It’s best to go with someone experienced, as they will know what is and isn’t edible. If you’re located in a big city with large parks, you can even reach out to the parks service to see if there’s an approved tour on the calendar that you can join.

13. Break some stuff at a wreck room.

There’s nothing more romantic than surrounding yourself in a room of old tech and a pair of hammers or mallets. Right? Right.

By P. Claire Dodson

By The Birthplace of Country Music Museum

14. Slip on some snowshoes.

Going on a hike is always a good idea, but it’s not the easiest thing to do during the winter months. Make it a double date and rent some snowshoes. Make sure to dress warm in layers and bring a pair of binoculars for winter birdwatching.

15. Learn a magic trick.

Even if there isn’t a magic school—or a willing magician—nearby to teach you a few tricks, you can each look one up online (this is great if you’re looking for cheap first date ideas). After you’ve mastered your trick, meet at a park to show off your new skills… and then teach others what you’ve learned.

16. Fly a kite together.

Ok, so this isn’t super adventurous necessarily, but it gets you out into the elements. Find a beach, a field, hey, even a backyard, and you’re good to go. The most fun part will be choosing which kite to fly.

1. Go to an arcade.

It’s fun, it’s casual, and it’s a perfect opportunity to see how this person holds up to you absolutely creaming them in pinball.

2. Visit an aquarium.

When’s the last time you actually went to one? That’s kind of what we thought. A first date could be your perfect excuse!

3. Outsmart them at trivia night.

Trivia can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it takes some of the pressure off a first date since there’s pretty much guaranteed to be banter material supplied. On the other hand, if you’re not feeling your date and want to call it quits early — that’s a little harder to do mid-trivia round. Choose wisely.

4. Take a hike.

If your dating app filters are open to cis-het men, they’ve probably got a photo of themselves hiking anyway. (I don’t make the rules.) See if their money is where their mouth is!

5. Challenge them to a karaoke-off.

Not everything’s a competition (despite my use of “cream them,” “outsmart them” and “challenge them” this early into the list). But taking bets on who gets the better crowd response to their karaoke song can add a fun layer to the night.

6. Break out your ice skates.

Or, you know, go to a rink that rents them.

7. Listen to live music.

Make plans for a second date based on nothing other than the fact you couldn’t actually hear each other for your entire first date.

8. Take them dancing.

You get to choose what that means. Salsa? Swing? The Shrek -themed dance party inexplicably happening this weekend in my neighborhood? Anything could happen!

9. Head to the zoo.

Maybe it’ll revive your childhood enthusiasm for zoo outings. Maybe you’ll notice for the first time as an adult just how small the habitats and cages are.

10. Go to the ballgame.

I suppose I mean baseball here, but any sporting event that involves balls and/or nets works!

11. Go to a hockey game.

Having just thought of a sport that involves not a ball but a puck, this is going on the fun first dates list, too.

12. Go on a big bike ride.

Throw some picnic supplies into a backpack and off you go!

13. Try out a new cafe.

A cozy new cafe can provide the perfect atmosphere for some get-to-know-you banter..

14. Head to the dog park.

Don’t have a dog? Don’t need one! I’m pretty sure Abbi and Ilana did this in Broad City and it went well for them.

15. Go to a drag show.

This should really be topping any list of fun first dates. Go support your local queer scene (and the queens who perform in it). Whoever's song pick gets performed first buys dinner later.

16. Play “ Would You Rather ?”

Yes, yes. We know this is something you’d likely play for a few minutes rather than the span of a whole date. But why not take the conversational pressure off for a spell by breaking out a throwback game of Would You Rather, Truth or Dare , 21 Questions or Never Have I Ever ?

17. Strike a flirty mood while bowling.

But maybe spare your date from your extremely bad bowling puns.

18. Ride a rollercoaster.

A ferris wheel is an acceptable alternative. During your ride, one of you can exit the ferris wheel car, dangle in front of the other and demand a second date, since we can all recognize that as romantic and fully hinged behavior .

19. Rent jet skis.

While maybe not the most practical of suggestions for all reading this list — my roommate-slash-best-friend and I have been trying to rent jet skis for at least a year, and we live by the ocean — imagine being the person to suggest this for a first date and pull it off! Magic.

20. Meet at a bookstore.

Go full Rory Gilmore on them.

21. Check out a thrift store.

Make a game of finding each other the best (or wackiest) outfit for under $25.

22. Play putt putt.

Evoke the date Shauna and Adam go on in Yellowjackets and hope for a happier ending!

23. Try a cuisine neither of you has had before.

While it’s not not your typical dinner date, this still adds at least a little adventure to your evening (and your palette) while allowing for ample get-to-know-you time, too.

1. Go antiquing.

Even if your date’s a dud, you’re still going to come out of this one with something new for your walls! Make a game of finding each other the kitchiest under-$20 item you can.

2. Pick out library books for each other.

This one has definitely got to be a multi-stop date, since you can’t really, you know, converse at length in a library above a certain decibel.

3. Go on a picnic.

A picnic is gold-star date material for a reason — even more so because you don’t have to put a ton of thought or effort into it for it to feel elevated from your standard movie date. Plus, if you’re one of the many who invested in better picnicking supplies during the pandemic, you’re kind of just pointblank required to suggest this.

4. Visit a botanical garden.

Ah. A classic among cute first date ideas.

5. Go for a long walk.

Another low-effort suggestion that can score you “I don’t need a capital-P Plan to have fun” points. Plus, you’ll get your steps in.

6. Plan a night at the carnival.

Even if you don’t live near a permanent carnival or amusement park, traveling parking-lot carnivals are pretty ubiquitous. Get cotton candy. Win a stuffed bear. Live your best is-it-a-first-date-or-corny-music-video life!

7. Go stargazing.

Download a constellation-spotting app and you’re set.

8. Check out a nearby flea market or tag sales.

Antiquing certainly doesn’t always veer upscale, but can. This one’s for the real rummagers out there.

9. Go for pie.

Or cheesecake. Or tiramisu. Or cookies. Pick a dessert category and, if things are going well, head to a few different spots for a progressive dessert tour.

10. Go for ice cream, with a view of the water.

While getting ice cream could totally be its own standalone thing, kick it up a notch with a water view — any water view!

11. Head to the drive-in.

We do realize: this one’s maybe a little more intimate than your usual first-date material. You wanted cute places to go on a first date, though! (In sum: maybe save this one for first dates with people you’ve already spent in-person, off-app time with.)

12. Meet at a record store.

Go full Before Sunrise with it and sneak a kiss (if you both want to!) in the listening booth.

13. Volunteer to walk shelter dogs.

A lot of shelters rely on volunteers to ensure their canine residents get enough exercise and fresh air, and that combo of sweet and genuinely helpful makes this outdoor activity an ideal first date.

14. Do breakfast for dinner.

There’s something pretty timeless about a diner date. Plus, the chance to get pancakes? You’ve already won.

15. Stage your own chocolate tasting.

At a park or on a roof, DIY it for a low-key date that still shows you put some thought into the occasion.

16. Seek out the best sunset spot.

Probably this involves finding one of the higher vantage points near where you live. Scout out some spots in advance and you’ll have a few different first date contenders!

17. Build a fire.

Let the ambience and the s’mores you’re undoubtedly making do the most of the work for you.

18. Check out your local farmer’s market.

It’s cute, and it’s basically running errands. Perfect!

19. Go sledding.

Obviously there’s some seasonal specificity to this one, unless you’re Nathan Fielder on The Rehearsal , in which case winter could be whenever.

20. Go somewhere with a jukebox.

And if that’s simply your nearest Waffle House, good! A jukebox and pancakes means you’ve jumped up a level.

21. Make a meal together.

This one, too, might be a little too chummy for some people’s first-date threshold. Which is A.O.K.! But if you’re at least somewhat acquainted with the person and both like to cook, why not bypass the whole interviewing-each-other-at-an-overpriced-restaurant vibe entirely.

1. Go to a wrestling match.

The theater of it all! Even if the thought of purposefully watching wrestling makes you scoff, there’s always a chance the high-octane crowds will agree with you more than you’d think. (Definitely not speaking from experience here.)

2. Get your palms read.

Make your date wait outside so they can’t hear whatever this person is about to tell you about your love line.

3. Have a board game tournament.

Line up your favorite games and challenge your date to a match.

4. Go bird watching.

I include this only in the highly probable event that the next person to ask out my best friend Adam reads this. If that’s you, take Adam bird watching. Thank you.

5. Play shuffleboard or skeeball.

See also: pool, darts, foosball, bocce or whatever your nearest games spot is hawking.

6. Go to whatever the most random, wackiest-themed museum in your area is.

Every city’s got one.

7. Rig up your own outdoor movie.

Have a yard, a white sheet, and roughly $75 for an outdoor projector you’ll definitely use outside the context of this one date? You’ve got a whole evening planned. \

8. Get a tarot card reading.

Slip The Lovers card to the top of the deck like the card shark you secretly are.

9. Find a walking tour.

If you live in a mid-sized or slightly larger city, there’s bound to be one — whether it’s a street art tour, a ghost tour, or a local history tour.

10. Head to a rock-climbing wall.

Or, if you’re feeling especially adventurous, try bungee jumping.

11. Visit a cat cafe.

Revel in the perfection of your choice.

12. Go to a live podcast recording.

While these are a bit likelier to happen in bigger cities, a lot of podcast hosts today go on the road to do live recordings from new locations. Keep an eye on where your favorite podcasters are headed!

13. Play poker.

Do your best impression of Halle in The Parent Trap (circa 1998) and call whatever’s in your hand a royal flush (in their honor, of course).

14. Find a pool.

Whether it’s a neighborhood or community pool or one of the hotel variety — a lot of hotels will sell day passes for pool access only! — beat the heat together with this honestly ideal first date.

15. Plan your own food tour.

Is this effectively the same thing as doing a progressive dinner? Yes. Yes, it is.

16. Take a class.

Any kind of class! Intro to ceramics. A cooking class. Acrobatics. You name it.

17. Go ziplining.

Live near a lot of trees? There’s probably a ziplining course nearby. That’s just how this works.

18. Go on a scooter or Vespa ride.

By this we most likely mean: rent one. A lot of cities are getting ride-share e-scooter options.

19. Do the No. 1 most touristy activity in your area.

In my hometown, this would mean visiting a giant, golden disco ball that was featured in exactly one episode of The Simpsons . What’s your town’s equivalent?

20. Pick out flash tattoos for each other.

Bold. We know. Unique first date ideas were promised, after all! And it could make for a good story?

21. Watch the worst scary movie you can think of.

And there are some bad ones out there. Make a hate-watch night of it.

22. Play paintball.

Go for a round of paintball 10 Things I Hate About You -style. Read passive-aggressive poetry to each other after.

23. Take them line dancing.

Do I only think of this as something people have access to because I’m from the south?

24. Get on a boat, someway, somehow.

Maybe that’s a canoe. Maybe it’s a kayak, a ferry ride, or a sailboat. Figure it out. Make it happen.

25. Hex the Supreme Court together.

Now that ’s grounds for romance.

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By Teen Vogue Style Team

By Angie Jaime

By Kara Nesvig

105 Simple Date Ideas That You’ll Actually Want to Try

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Table of Contents

The best date-night ideas that you should try this year

Ever thought about keeping it simple but special on your date nights? Well, you’re in for a treat! I’ll tell you about simple date ideas that bring you closer without any fuss.

From indoor picnics to virtual reality fun, I’ve got simple yet awesome suggestions to make your dates unforgettable.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you click on a link and purchase something I recommend, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

15 cheap date ideas

Food truck fiesta.

Sample a variety of affordable and delicious dishes from local food trucks. It’s a culinary adventure without breaking the bank.

Matinee movie date

Catch an afternoon movie when ticket prices are usually lower. Share popcorn and enjoy a budget-friendly cinematic experience.

Picnic in the park

Pack homemade sandwiches, fruits, and snacks. Head to a local park for a simple yet charming picnic date.

DIY pizza night

Buy inexpensive pizza ingredients and have fun creating personalized pizzas together. It’s a tasty and budget-friendly activity .

Thrift store challenge

Set a spending limit and explore thrift stores for quirky finds. The challenge is to buy the most interesting item within the budget.

Art gallery hop

Many galleries offer free entry. Explore local art scenes and discuss your favorite pieces together.

Byob painting class

Attend a bring-your-own-beverage painting class. It’s a creative and affordable way to enjoy each other’s company.

Nature hike

Explore nearby trails or parks together. Enjoy the outdoors, and it won’t cost you a dime.

Game night in

Dig out board games or card decks for a cozy night in. It’s a nostalgic and cost-effective way to have fun.

Community events

Check out local community calendars for free or low-cost events, such as concerts, markets, or festivals.

Coffee shop crawl

Visit different local coffee shops, sharing a cup at each. It’s a low-cost adventure for caffeine enthusiasts.

DIY spa night

Create a spa atmosphere at home with homemade face masks and relaxation. Pamper yourselves without the spa price tag.

Bookstore date

Spend an afternoon browsing books at a bookstore. Share your favorite finds and maybe even read a chapter together.

Mini-golf madness

Enjoy a round of mini-golf. Many places offer affordable rates, and it’s a playful and entertaining date.

Stargazing night

Head to a quiet spot, lay out a blanket, and enjoy the stars. It’s a romantic and free way to spend an evening.

15 adventurous date ideas

Zip-lining excursion.

Experience the thrill of zip-lining through treetops for an adventurous and adrenaline-pumping date.

Hot air balloon ride

Take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a breathtaking and romantic aerial adventure.

Rock climbing challenge

Visit an indoor rock-climbing gym for a fun and adventurous date. It’s a great way to test your teamwork and trust.

Kayaking expedition

Paddle through serene waters on a kayaking adventure. It’s an active and adventurous date for water lovers.

Caving exploration

Embark on a spelunking adventure. Explore local caves and marvel at the underground wonders.

Hiking to a waterfall

Find a scenic trail leading to a waterfall. The journey and the destination make for an adventurous date.

Surfing lessons

Learn to ride the waves together with a surfing lesson. It’s a challenging and exhilarating experience.

Bike trail adventure

Discover local bike trails and explore nature together. It’s a thrilling and active date idea.

Parasailing experience

Soar above the sea while parasailing. It’s an adventurous date that provides stunning views.

White-water rafting

Navigate through challenging rapids on a white-water rafting trip. It’s a thrilling, team-building adventure.

Off-roading excursion

Rent off-road vehicles and explore rugged terrain together. It’s a bumpy but exciting date night idea.

Hang gliding adventure

Try hang gliding for a unique and thrilling experience. It’s an adventurous date for the daring.

Skiing or snowboarding trip

Hit the slopes for a winter adventure. Whether skiing or snowboarding, it’s a date filled with excitement.

Indoor skydiving

Experience the sensation of free-fall in a controlled environment with indoor skydiving. It’s an adventurous and safe thrill.

Astronomy night

Combine adventure with stargazing. Head to an observatory or a dark spot for a celestial exploration.

15 simple date ideas that are free

Scenic sunset watching.

Find a picturesque spot to watch the sunset together. It’s a simple yet romantic way to spend an evening.

Museum free days

Take advantage of free admission days at local museums for an educational and cost-free date.

Outdoor movie night

Set up a cozy outdoor movie night in your backyard or a local park. All you need is a blanket and a projector .

Visit a farmers’ market

Explore local farmers’ markets for a free, vibrant, and food-filled outing.

Geocaching adventure

Try geocaching , a modern treasure hunt using GPS coordinates. It’s a free and adventurous activity.

Bird-watching day

Grab binoculars and identify local bird species in a nearby park or nature reserve. It’s a peaceful and free activity.

Photography expedition

Capture the beauty around you on a photography date. Explore your city or nature and document your findings.

Beachcombing day

Spend a day at the beach collecting shells, stones, or simply enjoying the waves. It’s a relaxing and cost-free date idea.

Open mic night

Attend a local open mic night for free entertainment. You might discover new talent together.

Home movie marathon

Have a movie marathon at home with films you both love. It’s a cozy and budget-friendly date.

Community yoga class

Check out free or donation-based community yoga classes. It’s a healthy and cost-free way to spend time together.

Botanical garden stroll

Enjoy the beauty of nature by strolling through a local botanical garden. Many have free admission days or hours.

Local art walk

Explore local art galleries during their free admission hours or art walk events. It’s a cultural and cost-free date.

Reading together at a bookstore

Spend an afternoon reading together at a local bookstore. It’s a quiet and free way to enjoy each other’s company.

Cooking challenge with pantry ingredients

Challenge each other to create a delicious dish using only ingredients from your pantry. It’s a fun and free culinary adventure.

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15 fun first date ideas

Escape room experience.

Test your teamwork and problem-solving skills in an escape room. It’s a fun and interactive way to break the ice.

Visit a comedy club

Share laughs at a local comedy club. Comedy shows are entertaining and provide a relaxed atmosphere.

Mini golf and ice cream

Combine a round of mini golf with a sweet treat afterward. It’s a playful and lighthearted first date idea.

Art and wine night

Attend a paint and sip event. It’s a creative and social activity, perfect for a first date.

Attend a live music venue

Experience live music at a local venue. It’s a casual and enjoyable way to spend time together.

Visit a board game café

Explore a board game café for a fun and interactive first date. It’s a great way to learn about each other’s competitive sides.

Explore a food festival

Attend a local food festival together. It’s a delicious and vibrant first date idea.

Take a dance class

Learn a new dance style together. It’s a playful and intimate way to break the ice.

Visit an amusement park

Enjoy the thrills of roller coasters and games at an amusement park. It’s a lively and exciting first date.

Karaoke night

Sing your hearts out at a karaoke night. It’s a fun and entertaining way to showcase your personalities.

Cooking class for couples

Take a cooking class together. It’s interactive, and you get to enjoy a delicious meal afterward .

Attend a trivia night

Challenge each other’s knowledge at a trivia night. It’s a playful and intellectually stimulating first date.

Visit an arcade

Relive childhood memories at an arcade. Play classic games and have a blast competing against each other.

Explore a night market

Wander through a night market, trying different street foods and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Playful bowling night

Have a casual and playful bowling night. It’s a classic yet enjoyable first-date activity.

15 cute and romantic date ideas at home

Indoor picnic.

Set up a cozy indoor picnic with blankets and cushions. Enjoy a homemade meal together in a romantic setting.

Home movie night with a blanket fort

Build a blanket fort and have a movie night inside. It’s a nostalgic and intimate way to enjoy films.

Candlelit dinner

Cook a special dinner together and enjoy it by candlelight. It’s a classic and romantic at-home date.

Stargazing from the backyard

Lay out a blanket in the backyard and stargaze together. It’s a serene and romantic activity.

Create a spa-like atmosphere at home with massages, face masks , and scented candles. It’s a relaxing and intimate date.

Bake and decorate together

Spend an afternoon baking and decorating cookies or cupcakes. It’s a sweet and creative way to bond.

Paint and sip at home

Get painting supplies and enjoy a paint and sip night at home. It’s a fun and artistic way to connect.

Couple’s book club

Pick a book to read together and have a mini book club discussion. It’s a literary and bonding date.

Write each other love letters

Take the time to write heartfelt love letters to each other. Share them and cherish the romantic sentiments.

Cook a fancy breakfast together

Start the day with a joint effort to cook a gourmet breakfast. It’s a delightful and romantic morning date.

Memory lane photo album

Create a photo album together, reminiscing about special moments and milestones in your relationship.

Dance night in the living room

Clear the living room, put on your favorite music, and have a spontaneous dance night. It’s a playful and romantic activity.

Puzzle together

Work on a puzzle together. It’s a calming and collaborative way to spend quality time.

Create a playlist for each other

Curate playlists of favorite songs for each other. Share the stories behind the chosen tracks and enjoy a musical journey.

Virtual travel night

Plan a virtual trip together. Explore destinations online, cook food from that region, and dream about future travels.

15 unique first-date ideas

Murder mystery dinner.

Attend a murder mystery dinner theater. It’s an interactive and unique way to engage on a first date.

Visit a virtual reality arcade

Experience virtual reality together at an arcade. It’s one of those simple date ideas that’s also modern and immersive.

Outdoor yoga session

Attend an outdoor yoga class. It’s a refreshing and unique way to connect in a peaceful setting.

Visit an escape room café

Try an escape room café where you can enjoy puzzles and games while having coffee. It’s a novel and engaging first date.

Sip and paint night

Attend a sip and paint night where you can enjoy beverages while creating art together.

Helicopter tour

If possible, take a helicopter tour of your city or a scenic area. It’s an adventurous and unforgettable first date.

Hot air balloon ride at sunrise

Soar in a hot air balloon during sunrise for a romantic and breathtaking experience.

Visit a botanical bar

Explore a botanical bar where you can enjoy exotic and unique drinks. It’s a flavorful and sophisticated first date.

Take a comedy improv class

Join a comedy improv class together. It’s a playful and entertaining way to break the ice.

Archery lesson

Try an archery lesson for a unique and skill-building first date. It’s an activity that’s both fun and a little unconventional.

Historical walking tour

Take a guided historical walking tour of your city. It’s an educational and unique way to explore together.

Interactive museum date

Visit a museum with interactive exhibits. It’s an engaging and thought-provoking first date idea.

Attend a live podcast recording

Attend a live podcast recording. It’s a unique and intellectual first-date experience.

Pottery-making class

Take a pottery-making class. It’s a tactile and creative way to spend time together.

Outdoor concert in a park

Attend an outdoor concert in a park. It’s a lively and communal way to enjoy music on a first date.

Why should I go on dates with my significant other?

You know, diving into the world of personal growth is an incredible journey, and one aspect we often overlook is the magic of regular date nights with our significant other.

Trust me, it’s more than just a cute gesture; it’s a game-changer for your personal development .

First off, let’s talk about connection. In the hustle of daily life, we might find ourselves caught up in routines, forgetting to nurture that special bond.

Dates provide the time and space to reconnect on a deeper level. It’s like hitting the pause button on life and savoring moments together.

But it’s not just about togetherness; dates spark joy and excitement . Trying new activities or revisiting favorite spots triggers those feel-good chemicals in your brain.

Remember the rush of a thrilling date or the laughter during a quirky adventure? That’s not just a fleeting moment; it’s an investment in your happiness.

Now, let’s talk about personal growth. Every date is a chance to learn —not just about your partner, but about yourself.

Facing challenges together, trying new things, or even having deep conversations can open up new dimensions of understanding, both for your partner and yourself.

It’s personal growth in action, wrapped up in the guise of a fun night out.

And hey, let’s not forget about stress relief. Life can get overwhelming, right? A well-planned date is like a mini-vacation from your worries.

It creates a safe space where you can relax, enjoy, and just be. Besides, the positive energy from a great date can linger, acting as a mood booster for days.

What are your favorite simple date ideas that you’d like to try?

I’m a personal growth and self-care expert, as well as an avid motorcycle enthusiast and coffee and sweets lover. Through Lauraconteuse, I provide insightful and practical advice on topics such as self-care, self-love, personal growth, and productivity, drawing from my very own extensive experience and knowledge in the field. My blog has helped countless people achieve their goals and live more fulfilling lives, and my goal is to continue to inspire and empower others.

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Trending Post : 75 Cute Date Ideas

101 Date Ideas

101 Creative Date Ideas

Here’s the only list of date ideas you’ll ever need to make a great date night happen! 101 tried and true date night ideas including only the best fun date ideas couples love! 

Are you ready for a great date night? Ditch the routine and give dinner and a movie a few nights off. We’ve gone on a date every week for over a decade, and done thousands of dates. Here are 101 fun date ideas perfect for your next date night!

(Those with a * indicate free date ideas or cheap date ideas that prove date night doesn’t have to cost a lot of money!)

Active/Outdoors Date Ideas

Go rock climbing..

Most rock gyms have everything you need and are happy to offer a lesson and instruction before your climb.

Paddle Boat Date Night

There’s nothing quite like a romantic paddle boat date while the sun sets!

Have an aquatic date night.

Go for a swim, just the two of you, or grab tubes and float a local river or lake.

Here’s how to pull off a great  hiking date  with details to help you find trails in your area.

Go on a camping date (just the two of you).

This may mean a mini road trip and it definitely means s’mores. But a night under the stars and time in nature makes a camping date a truly memorable date night!

Rent or borrow a jet ski.

This is the ultimate in summer date ideas! Plus, you can take a playbook from the movie Hitch with this date idea!

Set up a tent in the living room or backyard and order takeout*

We love a fun camping in the living room date. It’s even more fun with takeout! If you need some inspiration or ideas to take it up a notch, check out our camping in the living room date night.

Electric Scooter Date

Do an  electric scooter rental  to explore a major city landmark near you

Batting Cages

Take a swing and get to know your date better!

Go Roller-skating.

There’s nothing lacing up some skates and visiting a roller rink to bring back some childhood nostalgia and encourage a little flirty hand-holding. It’s one of those great first dates that seasoned couples also enjoy!

Bonfire Night

Roast some s’mores and snuggle up in a designated bonfire or fire pit location.

Places to Go on a Date

Head to a popular brunch spot and enjoy a slow morning together.

( try renting a tandem )*

Ice-skating date .

Ice skating is perfect for holding hands, sipping hot chocolate, and really connecting. It’s a great winter date idea, but we think it’s even more fun when you’re ready to cool down in the summer months.

Go to an amusement park.

There’s nothing like riding a roller coaster for some thrills, cuddling up with a sky view, or winning a stuffed animal with carnival-style games. It’s the ultimate in fun date ideas!

Have a bowling date night.

Book a lane at the bowling alley for two, or turn it into a group date.

Put on some boots and go country line dancing

You can do this date at most country-themed bars or dance venues. They’ll typically offer dance lessons with an hour of dance class to learn some of the basics and line dances. After, you’ll spend hours of fun practicing your new skills to country hits or even with live music!

Pick fruit together at a local farm

This is one you have to do at the right time of year: typically spring or fall. Check with local farms and orchards and see if you can book a u-pick fruit slot for a fun outdoor date.

Coffee Shop Date

Visit a coffee shop and bring our  would you rather dating questions for couples  printable.

Drive-in Movie Date

Mix up movie night: try a  drive-in movie date  or “dive” in movie

Learn to skateboard or longboard together*

Kick it old-school with a skateboard or longboard. Try to borrow these from a friend so it’s a free date, but you can also rent them from board shops. Head to a local park and watch a few Youtube video instruction movies. If you’re great at it, it’s a good time! And if you’re terrible at it, it’s a guaranteed laugh and a great memory-building date!

Romantic Date Ideas

Have a 5 love languages date night.

Read  The 5 Love Languages   and discuss what you can do better to help your spouse feel loved. We have a free printable activity to help walk you through this date!*

Make Fondue Together

A  fondue date night at home  is so much easier than you’d think and so romantic!

Go Stargazing

A  stargazing date night  is a perfect free romantic date! Find a meteor shower, a night with a clear sky, or a night you can get out of the city and enjoy the stars.

Watch the sunset*

This free romantic date pairs perfectly with a picnic or cheese board. You could also grab take-out dessert to enjoy while the sun sets.

Watch the sunrise*

Get up early and find a scenic location

Plan a Picnic Date

Pack a picnic basket and go to a unique location for a romantic picnic*

Make a nice dinner together

We love using the  Adventure Challenge Dinner Dates Book  with a scratch-off date night challenge included. Between the activity, the good food, and maybe dinner with some romantic candles, it’s the perfect romantic date night!

Try a New Restaurant

Look on Yelp, find a highly rated restaurant and recommended meal for a type of food you’ve never tried before. Share dishes for a new culinary experience

Take a Cooking Class at Home

There’s nothing like trying a new recipe together! And it’s even better when you have a guide to teach you how to prepare ingredients and master the dish! Have your own cooking class at home with YouTube or Food Network video demonstrations so the cooking class is free!

Have dinner with a view!

Book a rooftop dinner with romantic city views. This is popular for first date ideas, but it’s also one seasoned couples love! If you need a budget version, try a rooftop picnic at home or a building you have access to*

Give each other massages at home*

Search for some massage techniques and grab some  massage oil  and get ready for some romantic vibes.

View the City Lights

Find a hill or mountain in your area and go to the top at night to look at the city lights. Enjoy a “dessert picnic” while you look at the lights. *

Have a Concert Date Night

You could grab your favorite artist’s tickets, attend a music festival, hit up a jazz bar, or go see a local and! There are so many options for a great date to  see a concert of any type  *Many are free

Intellectually/Culturally Enlightening Date Ideas

Go see a play.

Go big with a Broadway show, or find a local theater production

Go to the symphony

It is romantic, classy, and usually a cultural experience.

• See a concert of any type  (favorite band, school, etc) *Many are free

Enjoy a TEDTalk together

Watch TED lectures on your computer and discuss your thoughts on what you learn  (I love  this one  and  this one )*

Learn Something New Together

Take a city class together; most city websites list offerings (photography, dance, etc.)

Couple’s Bucketlist Date

Make a bucket list of things you want to do together , with kids, independently, and share*

Attend a Lecture

Find a lecture at a local university or community college and attend*

Watch a foreign film together

These are easy to rent from the library for free*

Scary Story Date

Download a vintage radio program podcast, go listen to it in a unique location (think horror story in the woods at dusk)*

Rent a documentary

Try Fast Food Nation, Waiting for Superman, or Grizzly Man for a lot of interesting conversations*

Book Club Date

Read a novel/short story/play together*

Learn to Play an Instrument

Borrow a guitar or other instrument, watch YouTube videos teaching you how to play, take turns and be sure to perform a song for each other.*

At-Home Date Ideas

Play board games for two..

Here’s a huge list of  couples games  to get you started!*

Blindfold Baking Date Night

Create something together with a twist! Check out our  blindfold baking date night  for all the details!

Binge Watch a TV Series

If you have a night with plenty of time to kill, pop some popcorn and a blanket and enjoy a tv show marathon. If you need some inspiration, check out these  10 Binge-Worthy Shows You’ll Both Enjoy Watching Together (And 10 Honorable Mentions!)

Have a Paint Night Date Night .

Grab some canvas and a  paint night date night  tutorial and enjoy painting together!

Get a sushi rolling kit and learn to roll your own sushi together.

Try a  date night box .

It’s a complete date night with several fun activities, menu suggestions, and a playlist delivered to your door! We have a thorough post  rating and give all the details about the top date night subscription boxes  to help you find one. We’ve personally used the  Happily Date Box  this year, they’re our current favorite! You can get half off your first box to try it out with our  Happily Date Box promo code: FRIDAYWEREINLOVE  to get 50%

Make popsicle stick creations.

Buy a bunch of popsicle sticks at a craft store, have a competition who can build the best structure out of the popsicle sticks, and glue*

Gingerbread Creations

Build “gingerbread houses” out of graham crackers and frosting (be creative) *

Cookie Date Night

Bake sugar cookies and decorate them to look like people you know (deliver them after)*

Romantic Fort Date

Have a romantic fort date night in your living room. Grab your favorite blanket, and some sheets, and set up a movie night viewing space that gets you off the couch. For an extra romantic touch, add some twinkle lights. You can check out our  romantic fort date night  for some inspiration!

Channel Your Inner Child

Draw a cartoon of how you met in sidewalk chalk on your driveway*

Enjoy Some Gaming

You can use any game system you like, but there’s something about old school games that make a date feel extra fun and approachable. I’d highly recommend trying to rent or borrow a Wii and play games together*

Themed Dinner and a Movie

Do “Dinner and a Movie” with a theme (like watching Harry Potter and making Butterbeer and feast)*

Paper Airplane Competition

Build paper airplanes, make sure to get fancy and look up several different types, then have a flying competition*

Make a Meaningful Playlist

Create a Spotify playlist of your favorite songs from high school. Take a trip down memory lane and share your favorite songs while telling a memory attached to each one. *

Group Date Ideas

Host a dinner party.

A dinner party is one of the best double date ideas out there! Feel free to make it themed, formal, or casual. You can always go potluck to keep costs low.

Do an Escape Room.

An escape room group date is a fun way to compete against the clock and solve clues to unlock the next clue to help you get out before time runs out. It’s a fun adrenaline rush that’s a perfect group date!

Complete an Amazing Race City Solve

The Amazing Race tv show has inspired many city solve races that create riddles and tasks for the couple to complete at various locations. Once you solve one clue, you learn your next destination. It feels a bit like being tourists in your own city- with a timed game involved.

Host a Murder Mystery Party

Choose a theme, find a great murder mystery game, and host your own  murder mystery  party.

Have a Couples Game Night

Couples game night  (charades, catchphrase, whatever group  couple games  you enjoy)*

Tune Up the Friendly Competition.

Grab some  Nerf guns , have a fight

Play “Bigger or Better”

If you don’t know what this is, there are entire TikTok channels about it! Start with something small and head to ask for bigger or better trades. It’s wild to see where you start and where you end. Separate into small groups and compete which team returns with the best item*

This is a fun group date to do out on the town at a local bar that hosts a karaoke night, or for free at home*

Plan a Car Date

Take date night to your car! We have a ton of  car date ideas  to help you plan some fun!

Do a Picture Scavenger Hunt

Have a scavenger hunt taking pictures in front of items from a list of objects or ideas. See who can complete the list first!*

White Elephant with a Twist

Have a white elephant gift exchange  (no need to wait for the holidays)*

Hit Up Trivia Night

Go to trivia night and register as a group team.

Places to Go on a Date Night

Art galleries are a fantastic place to hold hands and stroll through. Also, there’s often free one day of the month*

Art walk s are usually held as summer festivals in college towns or state capitals. They are unique and interesting experience, and often free!*

Axe-Throwing Date

Book an  axe-throwing date  night space for your group. You’ll be surprised by how much fun all parties of all skill levels have!

Musical Instrument Museum

A  Musical Instrument Museum  is a unique experience with a ton of culture!

An NHL hockey game date night provides the perfect mix of entertainment and time to chat.

Support Your Local Team

Attend a local high school sporting event. They’re usually cheap or free!*

Attend a Rodeo

Visit the nearest small-town  rodeo  and enjoy the unique cultural experience!

Go to a Cirque de Solei Show

Next time a  Cirque de Solei show  is in town, enjoy a one-of-a-kind date night!

Go-Cart Racing Date

Fulfill the need for speed and ride go-carts at a raceway.

Plan a Dream Space

Visit a home décor store (like Pier 1 or Crate and Barrel) and takes a turns designing a dream room in your house or apartment separately. Make sure to pretend money is no object. Meet up and give each other a “tour” of the items in your room.*

Pottery Painting Date

Paint pottery at a  paint your own pottery  shop (like Color Me Mine or As You Wish)

Miniature golfing date night

This classic standby date is always a winner! A  miniature golf date  makes a great first date idea or second date. But after over a decade of marriage, I still love this date!

Visit a car show (like  Barrett Jackson ) when they are in town (score points with your husband)

Walkthrough IKEA, it’s an experience all its own!   But also, there are cheap Swedish meatballs that make a great dinner of lunch to fit the theme*

Bookstore Date

Go to a bookstore and share your favorite books with each other. You can even read your favorite children’s books to each other, and some excerpts from your favorite novels*

Travel Planning Date

Go to a bookstore and look at the travel section.   Plan your dream vacation on your own and then present yours to your spouse and listen to their ideas too .*

Volunteer for Date Night

Volunteer  at a soup kitchen, nursing home, or women’s shelter.*

Movies in the Park

Visit your local “Movies in the Park” during spring or summer.  These are usually free!*

Planetarium Date

Visit a planetarium and learn about the solar system

Attend a Baseball Game

Grab a hotdog and have lots of great time talking while you enjoy a baseball game.

Visit An Open House

Go look at model homes or open house  home shows  and pretend you’re in the market*

See a 3D Movie at a Movie Theater

There are movies, and then there are 3D movies.It’s a completely different experience and a lot of fun to laugh about for a date night

Christmas Lights

Go see lights at Christmas, just the two of you*

See a Concert in the Park

Watch a local band’s show at a concert in the park (often free)*

Have a Dave and Buster’s Date

We love some good arcade games, and  Dave and Buster’s Date  is one of the best places to play old-school arcade games for date night!

First Date Redo

Relive your first date together with the same activities

Ice Cream Date

Go out for ice cream at the cutest, most picturesque ice cream shop in your area

Dessert Taste Test

Order one of every flavor of dessert at a local bakery and have a taste-testing night complete with rating cards

Hopefully, these creative date ideas help you plan your next date night with ease- happy dating!

Fun Date Ideas Frequently Asked Questions

– Go out for a themed dinner – See a concert – Attend a sporting event together – Try axe throwing – Rent a tandem bike – Go paddleboating – Pack a picnic * check out our full list of 101 date ideas above

The best rule of thumb is to have a conversation making sure you’re both on the same page and it’s an official exclusive relationship. But most couples agree around five dates is a great time to ask if you’re ready to be exclusive.

First and foremost, know it isn’t your job to try to make a date go perfectly. If you’re just starting to date, sometimes boring is a sign that the relationship isn’t meant to be. However, if you’re in a commited relationship and trying to spice up a dull activity or date, here are a fun ideas to help make a boring date fun: – Leave a boring date location and find something more interesting – Pull out some conversation cards to jumpstart the conversation. Check out our Would You Rather Dating questions for a good time! – Use the lull to ask some deep, important and connecting questions. – Find a place to be alone for a little more romance and chemistry. – Play a game. It can be as simple as “Find someone wearing red” while you’re in a crowd. Play a simple game to jumpstart your activity.

Like these 101 Date Ideas? You may like these date nights too:

52 Completely Free Date Ideas to Do this Year

25 Date Ideas for Newlyweds

50 Summer Date Ideas

Year of Dates Gift: A Folder of 12 Dates to Enjoy All Year

52 Dates to Do This Year

Get 365 Date Ideas!

We want to help you have the best date nights ever! Grab this FREE printable with 365 date ideas, a date for every day of the year so you never run out of ideas!

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5 Reasons Museums Are the Best Place For a First Date

Oh, first dates. We’ve all suffered through some pretty terrible first dates: the uncomfortable silences, the awful movies, the overly expensive restaurant reservations. First dates can be make-it-or-break-it for a budding romance, and a terrible first date venue can plant you firmly in the “break-it” category. That’s why we’re suggesting a revolutionary new first date idea: museums!

Yes, you read that right. Museums .

We may (admittedly) be a bit biased, but we think museums (and art galleries) are simply the best place you could have your first date. Museums encourage laughter and awesome conversation, and they’re great places to explore and learn.

Still don’t believe us? Read on to learn why museums are the best first date idea.

1. Museums are a great first date idea because museums are freaking sexy

Do museums make you think of long, boring talks about ancient artifacts and silent hours spent observing paintings that all look the same?

Think again.

Museums are really freaking sexy. From the way museums are lit on evening tours to the salacious history behind different objects, museums are a great place to turn up the heat between you and your date.

If you’re looking to keep the vibe more romantic and less school field trip, plan your first museum date at night. Many museums are open in the evening at least once per week and often have a totally different vibe at night than during the day.

There are tons of romantic paintings and objects in every museum, too, like the Lovers in the Snow under an Umbrella at The Art Institute of Chicago or Le Printemps at the Met in New York City, that’ll encourage you to cozy up to your date.

2. Museums are a great first date idea because museums are affordable

Been to the movies lately? These days, two movie tickets, popcorn, and drinks could cost you well over $50 for an experience that may end up being terrible.

Museums, on the other hand, are surprisingly affordable. Many museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City , have suggested donations instead of hard ticket prices, so if you’re hard up for cash, you can pay what you can afford. Many museums, like the Museum of Craft and Design in San Francisco , also have free nights that are open to the public. Some museums, like the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia , are even 100% free all the time.

Our tip? Take the money you saved on admissions and spend it on a treat at the museum cafe or gift shop. You could enjoy a glass of wine together, or a dessert, or find a memento in the gift shop to remember your date.

3. Museums are a great first date idea because museums give you a chance to show off

Want to look worldly and knowledgeable on your first date?

Here is our #1 tip for a museum date: Most museums have in-depth websites that discuss their galleries online. You can preview the galleries ahead of time and come to your date armed with fun facts and unique stories about the history of different paintings or artifacts. It’s sexy and impressive to know a lot about art – just make sure you’re sharing the information as part of a conversation, not lecturing to your date. You want to come across like Indiana Jones, not like your boring 10th-grade history teacher.

4. Museums are a great first date idea because there’s no shortage of things to talk about

Wondering how to act on a museum date? Nothing sparks a conversation like stopping in front of a piece of artwork and asking, “What do you think this means?”

You don’t need an extensive background in art to talk about it with your date. Simply stopping in front of a painting and asking “What does this make you feel?” can start a conversation. Art can bring up different emotions, so you’ll likely learn a lot about your date and his or her history in an organic way simply by talking about what you associate with different pieces.

Plus, it’ll virtually eliminate the pressure to come up with something cool to talk about on your first date.

Don’t be afraid of disagreement. You may interpret a painting in a completely different way than your date, and that’s okay!

5. Museums are a great first date idea because museums basically guarantee you’ll fall in love

Going to a museum on a first date basically guarantees you’ll fall in love. Just ask our founder, Nick Gray.

Even if your date is a bust, we guarantee you’ll find something you love at a museum, whether that’s a new painting you’ll want a print of for your apartment or an entire gallery that you’ll want to bring all your friends to see.

Having your first date at a museum isn’t just about establishing a romantic relationship between you and a potential partner. It’s about creating a long-lasting relationship with a cultural institution you can visit again and again.

Been on a first date to a museum or art gallery lately? Tell us about it in the comments.

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100+ Ultimate Date Ideas Bucket List for the Perfect Date

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My ultimate date ideas bucket list can help you plan a date you’ll both enjoy, cherish, and never forget.

I’ve tried to cover as many scenarios and occasions as possible. I personally love romantic dates and cozy nights in. There are plenty of people who are the opposite and love wild adventures together.

Date Ideas Bucket List

Don’t let the pressure of a date going well for both of you work you up into a tizz. It doesn’t matter if it’s a first date or landmark goal, or an inch or thousand miles between you. Dates are super important for healthy relationships.

My ultimate date ideas bucket list has over 100 ideas. It is packed with positive vibes to help plan something the both of you will love and remember.

If you’d like to try lots of ideas, keep reading and scroll to the bottom of this article. You’ll find the download link for my printable. Check each date idea off once you have tried it, and see how many you can do!

Try something a little different and out there, and dive into new experiences and adventures with these unique date ideas.

1. Go Ziplining

Enjoy the thrill of this super fun activity together, and be sure to take plenty of selfies as you whiz from one side to the other.

2. ’Say Yes’ Day

Nothing is off the table on a ‘say yes’ day! Let positive energy take the wheel, and see what fun and exciting things you end up doing together.

3. Do an Escape Room

Put your minds together, and see how quickly you can solve puzzles and escape. You can either go to one of many escape rooms or get an at-home kit like this one (available on Amazon) and solve puzzles from the comfort of your home.

4. Visit an Aquarium

Enjoy the tranquility and awe of marine life at a nearby aquarium, and maybe even take a dive with a scuba instructor if the aquarium offers such an experience.

5. Road Trip to a Random Place

Either pick from a hat or throw a dart at a map, load up the car with snacks and supplies, and go see a new place together. You could even make it an overnight trip with a hotel stay for a romantic date weekend.

6. Casino Night

Don a fancy tuxedo and gorgeous dress, and go into full James Bond mode by spending an evening at a casino.

7. Invisible Ink Calligraphy

Write some love messages to each other with an invisible ink set, then enjoy revealing them together and reading what they say to each other.

Supplies needed: an invisible ink set .

8. Vintage Board Games Night

Enjoy a super fun throwback evening by playing a classic board game (or several) from your childhood. Have a look at our board games for couples’ ideas to get inspired.

9. Visit a Waterfall

Head out in nature on a memorable road trip and spend some time taking in the sights and enjoying the aura of a waterfall in a forest or national park.

10. Ride a Ferry Somewhere

Take your date on a romantic ride across the water, and book a ferry tour to an exciting island or secluded getaway.

11. Murder Mystery Night

Invite other couples of friends around, and enjoy being Poirot for the evening by hosting a murder mystery night. Be sure to dress up and complete the night with delicious food and fancy cocktails.

12. Rent Your Dream Car

Live like a celebrity couple for a day, and use a sports car rental service to hit the road in your dream car. Go somewhere new or rent a car to drive around a race track for an afternoon.

Can’t resist the allure of classic romance? Pull a date straight out of a beloved rom-com with one or more of these romantic ideas.

13. Rooftop Dinner and Drinks

For a vintage date idea, find a rooftop bar or restaurant in your local town and city and book in for a lovely evening together with a view like no other.

14. Rowing Boat on the Lake

Take a leaf out of the Pride and Prejudice book, and enjoy this super romantic date idea by renting a rowing boat and immersing in the tranquility of a nearby lake or body of water.

15. Write your Couples Bucket List

Clear an afternoon, get some drinks and snacks in, and get creative planning future adventures and must-do things together. Download one of our bucket list printables to help you plan.

Read more: Couples Bucket List

16. Watch the Sunset from a Hill

For a great way to spend a romantic evening together, head out just before the sun goes down and find a great spot to watch it.

Chat, cuddle, and pack some picnic foods for the evening.

17. Spa Day and Couples Massage

If work and life’s challenges are making you both feel tired, give yourselves some much-needed self-care and book in for a spa day at a nearby spa or hotel.

18. Kiss atop a Ferris Wheel

Give this classic romantic moment a try for yourselves, and spend the evening at a theme park or fairground within driving distance.

19. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Very much a bucket list activity in its own right, surprise your date with this awesome idea and enjoy some spectacular views and romantic moments.

20. See a Famous Musical

If New York or London are within traveling distance, you can make a super romantic weekend out of this idea.

But if not, there are so many theatres in towns and cities you can visit and watch a classic musical or theatrical performance.

21. Champagne and Bubble Bath

Head to the supermarket for a nice bottle of champagne, run a bubble bath with essential oils, and enjoy a fun, intimate evening together. Chat, splash, or put on a movie and relax.

22. Ice Skating at an Outdoor Rink

In the winter, is there anything more romantic than holding hands and skating around an outdoor ice rink together?

Head to a winter wonderland during the holidays, as so many of them often have an ice rink.

23. Learn a Dance Together

Get inspired by Dirty Dancing and countless other romantic movies, and learn a new dance together.

Go to a class or learn from home with an online course.

24. Overnight Luxury Hotel Stay

Enjoy an evening of gorgeous views, relaxation, and a little taste of the good life, and book a fancy hotel in a nearby town or city for one night together.

25. Recreate Your First Date

Take a trip down memory lane, and recreate your first date. Reminisce about that afternoon or evening and talk deeply about how far you’ve come.

26. Read Favorite Books to Each Other

Enjoy a relaxing evening reading each other’s favorite books to each other.

Make the afternoon or evening complete with yummy food and delicious drinks.

Free and Cheap

Dates don’t have to be extravagant and expensive to be intimate. Keep things simple and inexpensive but memorable with these free and cheap ideas.

27. Volunteer at a Dog Pound

Have a lot of fun with a newfound furry friend, and volunteer your time for a good cause. If you can’t or don’t own a dog, that doesn’t mean you can’t spend time with them.

28. Have a Pizza and Wine Night

It’s so easy to order a big, cheesy pizza and pick up an inexpensive bottle of wine from the local supermarket. Complete the night with movies, games, or cuddles on the sofa.

29. Watch Your Favorite Childhood Movies

Get nostalgic together, and have a movie night where you both watch a favorite childhood movie back-to-back, complete with snacks, drinks, and onesies.

30. Complete a Coloring Book

You can lose yourselves for hours with an adult coloring book. Engage in some great conversation, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon together.

31. Free Outdoor Concert

Have a look on Eventbrite or Meetup for free concerts in your area or local town or city, and head down to enjoy an evening of music and dancing in the great outdoors.

32. Bar Crawl

Hit the local sports or pool bars, and embrace your inner teenagers as you play pool, darts, watch sports, and enjoy a few casual drinks.

33. Movie Marathon Weekend

You don’t need to pay for expensive cinema tickets to enjoy the magic of the movies. Line up some classics or new releases on some online streaming services, and get the cheesy nachos and sodas in.

34. Bike Ride

Either dust down bikes from the garage or rent some for the day, and explore your local area in a fun, active, and relaxing way.

35. Evening at the Fairground

The rides at most fairgrounds are relatively inexpensive to ride, and if you don’t fancy the thrills, you can simply walk around and enjoy the energy and atmosphere.

36. Photography in the Park

Pick a gorgeous nearby park, and spend an afternoon taking photos of the scenery and each other, either with a camera you have or your phones.

37. Try on Clothes at the Mall

Get a feel for what it’s like to be a rich and famous celebrity, even if for an afternoon, and have fun photographing each other trying on new and luxurious outfits at the mall.

38. Drinks at the Barcade

Barcades are packed with old video games that you can play together for plenty of nostalgia vibes, and you can enjoy a drink or two while you’re there.

39. Blackberry Picking

Head out into nature, soak up some sun, and pick some blackberries or other berries from nearby fields or hedges. You could make jam or a pie when you return home with your haul.

40. Go to a Barn Dance

Get ready to shake those hips and get involved with one of the most fun and enjoyable activities you can do with lots of other people without having to spend a lot of money.

First Dates

Help quash the nerves and make a good impression by throwing yourselves into one of these super fun first date ideas , and hopefully have so much fun a second date simply has to be on the cards.

41. Play Mini Golf

For a cute date idea, enjoy a few holes of mini golf together. You can enjoy some casual conversation and put your putting skills to the test.

42. Visit a Planetarium

Get lost in the aura and magic of space in a planetarium show, and afterward enjoy some ice cream or coffee and chat about what you learned.

43. Rent Electric Scooters

See your local town or city in a fun and enjoyable way, and possibly discover a new thrift store, coffee shop, or hidden gem along the way.

44. Go Bowling

Give this old-school date idea a proper go, and enjoy an evening of casual chat, drinks, and hopefully a few strikes.

45. Frozen Yogurts on the Pier

Get to know each other a little better over one of life’s most epic desserts, and enjoy a gorgeous sea view while you’re at it.

46. Watch a New Band

Music is a great thing to bond over, and if you like similar bands or just want to see some live music, head down to a venue to listen to some new music for the evening.

47. Cocktails Masterclass

Get to know each other while putting your bartender skills to the test, and try a cocktail-making class at a local bar or restaurant.

48. Go to a Farmer’s Market

Explore a local farmer’s market on a lovely weekend afternoon together. Enjoy some delicious food, see what cool crafts and items you can find, and get to know each other in a casual way.

49. Coffee and Cupcakes

Take the classic coffee date to the next level by ordering some cupcakes, and enjoy an afternoon of coffee shop ambiance, fun conversation, and delicious coffee and cake.

50. Dancing at an Arcade

Head to your local arcade, locate the dance master and see if you’re a Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey couple in the marking by putting your feet to good use.

51. Photobooth Challenge

Embrace your silly sides, find a photo booth, and take a reel of funny poses and facial expressions. You’ll have a lovely memento from your first date, that will hopefully lead to more.

52. Scenic Train Ride

Riding the train gives you plenty of time to get to know each other, while also traveling through beautiful countryside and taking you to new towns and cities.

Long-Distance

Even if you can’t physically be together, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a date that both of you enjoy so much. Give some of these long-distance ideas a try.

53. Virtual Game Night

Whether it’s the thrill of console first-person shooters or some classic strategy games, there’s a world of virtual games waiting for you both to play and bond over.

54. Cook the Same Meal Together

You could take a cooking class together online, or agree to a particular meal and, with a video feed set up, cook the meal together, side by side. Enjoy your delicious dish at the end of it over a video call, complete with a well-earned drink.

55. Candlelit Dinner over Zoom

Take the dinner date to the next level by creating some fancy restaurant ambiance. Light candles, dim the lights, and make sure you serve your food on your finest plates, then enjoy delicious food and great company together.

56. Movie Night

Either choose a nostalgic childhood classic or watch a new release on a streaming service. Enjoy watching the movie at the same time, and feel free to pause at certain times to discuss or to get to know each other a little more.

57. Learn a New Language

Take a language class together, and enjoy the fun and challenge of learning a new language with each other.

58. Play ’20 Questions’

’20 questions’ is perfect for playing virtually. One of you thinks of a famous person, and the other must ask a series of ‘yes or no’ questions and try to guess who you are thinking of. Take it in turns, and use the game to help ease the pressure of constantly needing topics to talk about.

59. Happy Hour Cocktails

Both of you can whip up a classic cocktail or mocktail together, either from memory or with an online class, and then enjoy them with some engaging conversation.

60. Online AirBnB Experience

From virtual tours to sangria making, there are so many Airbnb experiences you can both book and enjoy for your date night. Try new things, learn, and have laughs and fun together.

61. Painting Evening

Channel your inner artists and enjoy an evening of painting. A paint-by-numbers kit is a great way to do this so that you can both paint the same image and enjoy the therapeutic nature of painting while being able to chat together on your date.

62. Online Board Games

From chess to Monopoly, there are endless options when it comes to online board games you can play virtually. Sign up together and let your competitive streaks take the wheel.

63. Adopt an Animal

Many charities allow you to adopt endangered animals overseas. You can do this together, and spend time on your date learning about your adopted animal, keeping tabs on them, and maybe even watch some video footage of them.

Want some more inspiration? Keep the romance electrified in your long-distance relationship with more virtual date ideas here.

If you’re both looking for fun, laughs, and adventures, ditch the cliche date ideas and try some of these activities and experiences for a super fun time.

64. Go Salsa Dancing

Salsa is a dance of such flair and passion, and an in-person dance class with your partner is such a fun way to truly experience the magic of salsa. If you can’t get to a dance studio or the host venue, try an online salsa class together.

65. Tubing Down the River

Unleash your inner child, get yourselves some inner tubes, and head down to the river on a hot, sunny day for a super fun date activity, if safe to do so.

66. Paddleboarding at the Lake

If tubing is a little too adrenaline-fueled, why not try an afternoon of paddleboarding at a nearby river or lake? It’s a little less frantic, and a great way to spend time outdoors in the sun.

67. Sunrise Silent Disco

Nothing quite beats dancing your heart out to a gorgeous sunrise, no matter how old you are. Have a look online for an organized sunrise disco near you, or get your own equipment and do it yourself.

68. Dress Each Other in Costumes

Have lots of fun with this one, and see how silly or crazy you can make your date or partner look. Head out to a fancy dress party or head around town in your costumes for a fun date night like no other.

69. Play Twister

Ideal for both indoors and outdoors, Twister is an amazing way to get to know each other while having some serious, laugh-out-loud fun. You could even double date with this one.

70. Go Zorbing

Experience the thrill of rolling down hills and through winding courses in a giant inflatable ball, and have a date together neither of you will forget any time soon.

71. Stargazing from a Rooftop

Straight out of a rom-com, pack some picnic foods, and think of a great spot you know to watch the stars in the sky. From apartment buildings to hilltops overlooking the city, there are many romantic places to spend the evening with your date, if safe to do so.

72. Play Laser Tag

A high school classic, laser tag also makes for a super fun date idea. Pair this fun activity with some arcade-themed antics, and you have a fun date both of you will love.

73. Graffiti Art Bicycle Tour

Street art tours are such a great way to explore your local or nearby town or city. Have a look online for a guided bike tour, and if there isn’t one plan a route on Google Maps, rent or take your own bikes, and host your own tour.

74. Monster Trucks Show

Embrace that inner need for more than a little carnage, and enjoy an afternoon of monster truck madness, complete with hotdogs, drinks, and plenty of chanting with your date or partner.

75. Make a Time Capsule

A thoughtful and very enjoyable activity to do together, our list of time capsule ideas will give you plenty of inspiration for what to put in your time capsule before you bury it. Just be sure to remember where you buried it!

If you’re still looking for ideas, there are plenty more super fun d a te ideas to inspire your next date night here.

Outdoor & Adventure (Spring & Summer)

If the sun the shining and the feel-good factor is high, make the most of the season and use these date ideas to get inspired.

76. Wine Tasting at a Winery

Enjoy gorgeous scenery, and delicious wines, and learn a thing or two on a wine tour to a nearby vineyard or valley.

77. Water Gun Fight

Cool off amid the heat of summer by getting yourselves some water guns, putting on some old clothes, and letting your inner children come to the forefront.

78. Be Tourists in your Local Town

So many times we forget how much fun and beauty is in the places we live. Be it a botanical garden or a famous landmark, make a list of everything in your local town or city you’ve never visited and tick them off your bucket list together.

79. Kite Flying at the Beach

Flying kites can be so much fun, and doing it at the beach gives you plenty of wind and a beautiful, relaxing environment.

80. Beach Sand Sculptures

While you’re at the beach flying kites, why not get a little creative and make some sand sculptures together? Photograph your sculptures at the end and see who gets the most love online.

81. Play Frisbee in the Park

Simple and fun to do, frisbee is a great way to enjoy an active outdoor date in a casual way. Bonus points for any one-handed catches!

82. Sand Dune Sledding

Either book a tour or simply get yourselves some simple sleds and take a road trip to some sand dunes within driving distance. You’ll have hours of fun with this easy and simple date idea.

83. Visit a Ghost Town

There are so many abandoned towns across the US and Europe you could visit. Either book a ghost tour with a guide or drive there yourselves and enjoy an afternoon of exploring some unique and eerie places.

84. 5k Color Run

Add plenty of fun to running by signing up for a color run together. You’ll get to partake in the color-fueled madness, maybe raise some money for charity, and stay active together.

85. Bonfire at the Beach

If safe to do so, start a beach bonfire, roast s’mores, and enjoy each other’s company in a romantic setting under the stars to the sound of the waves.

86. Picnic in the Park

Use our picnic foods list and picnic essentials to make sure you pack an awesome picnic hamper, ideal for a chilled outdoor date in a scenic park or outdoor area.

87. Nerf Gun Wars

Who says nerf guns are for kids? You could even wear t-shirts with painted targets on them, and award points for hits.

88. Take a Canal Boat Ride

Embrace the beautiful scenery and warm weather by spending an afternoon together on a canal boat, and enjoy the peace and tranquility with some engaging conversation.

89. Day at a Theme Park

An amusement park has thrills galore in store for you. Ride the rollercoasters, hold on tight on the pirate ship, and let loose on the water slides. This date idea has all the makings of an epic and romantic day out.

If you’re still looking for some date ideas to get you both into the great outdoors when the weather is nice, get inspired with some more summer date ideas here.

At-Home (Autumn and Winter)

If the weather outside is a little too cold, you can still plan a date filled with fun, joy, and laughs indoors with these at-home date ideas.

90. Make Piles of Leaves and Jump in Them (Carefully)

Embrace the fallen leaves during fall and enjoy having fun with your date and partner by being kids once again. Be sure to take plenty of photos too.

91. Bake Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkins are in season during fall, so for a date idea that’s oh so yummy, buy some pumpkins from the supermarket or a farmer, and spend the afternoon baking a delicious pie together.

92. DIY At-Home Spa Day

Turn your humble abode into a place of relaxation, and use our DIY at-home spa day ideas to give you plenty of inspiration and products you can buy for your spa date.

93. Cook a New Recipe

Get creative in the kitchen together, pull out a cookbook or a popular cooking blog, and spend an afternoon trying a new recipe.

94. Make a Den

Blankets, cushions, and the back of the sofa are all you need for you and your partner and date to make a fun den together.

95. Quilt Stairs Slide

If safe to do so, lay down a quilt over your indoor stairs, and place a big pile of cushions at the bottom. Have fun sliding down the quilt like kids.

96. ‘Marie Kondo’ the Garage

Do a healthy spot of decluttering and reorganizing together, and reap the benefits of a cleaner, less cluttered home.

97. Face Masks and Netflix

Enjoy a show or movie on the sofa complete with nourishing facemasks for a truly relaxing date night.

98. Scrapbook Photographs

Print off all those photos you’ve been collecting over the years and have a fun date night sticking them into a blank photo album to look back on in the future.

99. Home Obstacle Course

Get creative with chairs, cushions, and household items, and see who can get around the obstacle course in the fastest time.

100. Yoga and Meditation

Either go to a yoga studio or gym, or book an online class at home, and get yourselves some yoga mats you can use in the living room or a spare bedroom.

101. Backyard Volleyball

Order in a volleyball net and ball, and enjoy playing this fun sport together in the backyard if the weather permits.

102. DIY Home Project

From putting up a shelf to building a birdfeeder, DIY is a great way for you to spend time together doing something creative.

Want a little more inspiration? Here are some more at-home date night ideas to inspire you.

Download our ultimate date night ideas bucket list printable here.

Whatever your situation and whatever you love doing, there’s always a date night that both of you can enjoy and help you grow closer.

Hopefully, our ultimate list will inspire many dates to come. And feel free to let us know if you have any super ideas you think would be awesome on our list!

Once again, you can download our ultimate date night ideas bucket list printable here .

You Might Also Like to Read

• 100+ Fun Summer Bucket List Ideas

Get inspired to plan a future date by saving this listicle to one of your Pinterest boards for safekeeping.

The Only Guide To A Museum Date You’ll Ever Need

our guide to the ultimate museum date

Museum dates are tough. Figuring out what to do on a museum date, where to go for a museum date, and what to wear on a museum date might make you second guess whether or not this is a good idea (spoiler alert: don’t worry and don’t listen to the naysayers, museum dates can be a lot of fun).

Ever since moving to Nashville, my partner and I have slowly slipped museum dates back into our weekly routine. I’ve quickly fallen for the beauty of these Friday night activities. After a brain maddening work week, I don’t have to think of evening conversation starters (the displays do a brilliant job of that for us). Our words, banter, and debates flow naturally. No awkward pauses. No weird silences.

So today, I wanted to share this guide: the only guide to a museum date (I hope) you’ll ever need. Let’s dig in.

Table of Contents

Museum Date Tips

First things first, museums are not great places for blind dates. I learned this the hard way: a lot of people hate museums ( especially art museums ). They find museums boring and anxiety-inducing and ho-hum. So if museums aren’t your thing, don’t feel pressured to go on a museum date . Everyone has different interests and that’s totally fine!

That being said, there are many wonderfully niche types of museums . Pick a museum that taps into both you and your date’s interests. I know this tip is more helpful if you live near a big city (where there are more museums to choose from), but you can also find unique local exhibits by researching temporary and traveling exhibitions in your area . See if anything strikes you as interesting.

And when you visit a museum on a museum date, don’t try to see the whole museum . Instead, just get lost in the atmosphere. Gravitate towards a handful of pieces (that interest or elicit a reaction from you or your date). Spend time talking about those pieces. Settle into a seat (usually museums have seats for two in front of major works) and chat. This is a date after all!

Lastly, be yourself . Don’t pretend to know something you don’t to impress a date ( been there, done that, it’s not worth it ). But if there is something you do know (or have heard) about a piece or time period or topic, bring it up! This is a great time to share interests.

Museum Date Advantages & Disadvantages

One of the biggest advantages to a museum date is the atmosphere. Most museums are set up to create discourse and dialogue , which is perfect for a date night. And hearing what a person has to say about art or history or science will tell you a lot about what they’re interested in and what they tend to notice.

I also love how museums give you space to be quiet if you want to . As someone who is an introvert, this is one of my favorite activities because pauses and silences are built into the nature of museum dates. I don’t feel constantly pressured to engage in a stream of conversation.

Security is another big advantage to museum dates . Museums are public spaces that are monitored by guards and cameras. I mean, some museums even check bags! So if you like scouting for safety-oriented date spots with plenty of exit strategy options ( just me? ), museums make a great choice.

Museum Date Tip: To save money on your museum date, visit a free museum or visit a museum on a free day. You can usually find a museum’s pricing on its website.

The downsides? Basically everything Sophia Benoit mentions in this GQ article .

Best Time For A Museum Date

A couple hours before a museum closes is a great time to start a museum date. Two hours gives you plenty of time to wander through the exhibits and avoid museum fatigue. The museum’s official closing time also provides the perfect natural stopping point for your museum date.

If you want to extend your museum date, kick off with some coffee and a light bite or finish up with dinner afterwards.

What To Wear On A Museum Date

Okay, let’s talk clothes. Wear whatever you want to ! The nice thing about museums is that you can dress up (if that’s something you’re interested in) or keep it casual. Pick shoes that you feel comfortable walking in. At most, I’d suggest layering on a light jacket or pullover sweater (museums tend to be cold and I want you to be prepared for that).

Museum Date Tip: If you’re visiting a museum in winter and wearing a heavy coat, ask the information desk (or call up in advance and find out) if you can carry your coat with you. Some museums require you to keep your coat on at all times inside (to protect the displays). You can also drop off your coat at the museum’s coat check point.

A lot of museum lookbooks showcase cute, dark academia-esque outfits (houndstooth skirts, crop tops, big blazers, sheer leggings, booties). If that’s your style, go for it. And if that’s not, don’t worry. In all my years of being a travel writer and visiting museums, I have rarely seen anyone wear this style of outfit to a museum (my little reminder that Instagram is not reality).

What I do tend to see: jeans, basic white tees, long-sleeve tops, unbuttoned blouses or jackets, oversized sweaters, sneakers, small crossbody bags .

Museum Date Outfit Ideas

Things to do on a museum date.

• An art museum variation of marry, kiss, cliff . Choose an exhibit. Ask your partner to pick one piece of art they would buy and take home if they could, one that they would return to see in the museum but not necessarily take home, and one that they would erase from the gallery. Don’t touch the art at any point during this conversation – this is just a fun discussion topic!
• Get the audio tour (if there is one).
• Engage with the interactive exhibits .
• Use “I feel” sentences when describing artwork or displays. Don’t tell a person how they should feel on a museum date, but do share how you feel!

What are your top tips for going on a museum date? Have you ever been on a museum date? Let me know in the comments below! As always, I love hearing from you.

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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This excellent website definitely has all of the information and facts I needed concerning museum dates and didn’t know who to ask.

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BEST Date Ideas for Couples – Complete Epic Guide

We collected  over 120 of the BEST date ideas ever in one epic guide! Everything from first dates to romantic date ideas at home, we’ve got you covered.

We also feature themed dates that include menus, music, conversation starters & decor that are perfect for your date night.

Each section of this guide can be reached buy clicking the heading that you are looking for.

Many of the sections overlap  and we are adding more regularly so make sure to check all of them out! 😊

This post contains Amazon affiliate links at no extra cost to you! Visit our disclosure policy here for more information.

Visit our Best date ideas

Fondue Date Night- Getting cozy on a cold night

Best Date Ideas Guide

Best Camping date night at home

Romantic picnic date ideas for couples

25 Best date ideas for Long distance relationships

First Date Ideas + First Date Questions 

What are the best date ideas?

We have created the best date ideas list for every reason and season. The first thing that you need to figure out is what stage your relationship is in and what  it is that you both enjoy?

We have chosen some of the best first date ideas and second date ideas below. If you have been on a few dates, then visit the other areas below to see what date idea fits best .

Ask your date what they would like to do and give them two or three choices. You can also look at the list together and pick out the best date ideas for the upcoming month.

You will never have to look for things to do. Download our Free Date night planner to help you stick to making time for dates in your relationship.

Receive our Date Ideas Planner “Freebie”

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Importance of quality time in a relationship

Why is date night is so important in a relationship? So often when we are in longer term relationships or married, we get caught up in day to day life.

Work, chores & responsibilities can take the majority of our time, especially when kids are involved.

It becomes easy to take our relationships for granted and for it to be put on the back burner.

It is so important to stay connected and have date nights on a regular basis, either weekly or at the very least once every two weeks.

We all need to stay connected 

Getting away from the typical “what needs to be done” conversations helps retain the friendship in the relationship. When you are out on a date or having a date night at home, your focus changes to who you are as a couple.

Date nights help to rekindle desire for each other that is so important for your long term relationship goals.

We have date ideas for when the budget is low or for when you want to have a date night at home. The goal is to make sure that you have couple alone time!

Plan the date and schedule the time, treat it like an important appointment.

Take turn choosing the date or at least choosing a few to decide from. When things are on the schedule you tend to take it more seriously and stick to it. 

What are the best first date ideas?

Sometimes it can be a little stressful coming up with ideas for your first date, but don’t worry we have plenty of date ideas for you!

We have chose some perfect first date ideas to inspire you.

First date ideas

Morning date.

This is a charming idea. Plan a date for the morning and visit one of your  favorite breakfast places or diners. Afterwards visit a fish hatchery or feed the ducks at a local park.

Bring some change to buy food at the park or grab some bird seed for the ducks.

Cooking Class

This is a great way to have a low key activity that can be lots of fun. Check out some local restaurants that may have a cooking class or Google “cooking classes near me” to find some ideas.  Be aware that bakeries and pastry shops are also good places to check.

Visit an Amusement Park

This is a great activity to learn more about your date. Even if you don’t love roller coasters, there are other rides that are fun, plus the atmosphere is so enjoyable giving you a lots to talk about.

Check to see if you can find an old time park somewhat nearby which will add to the charm.

What should I do on a second date?

You have made it through the first date, Congratulations! So what should you do next? You now know your date a little bit better so some lighthearted activity will fit the bill.

Bowling Alley

It doesn’t matter if you are good or bad, you and your date are bound to have lots of laughs with some games of bowling.

Some bowling alleys have live music and better than average food so check out to see what types are near you.

Movie Tavern

Enjoy a movie with food and cocktails rolled into one! This has become more common since movie theaters have to be creative to get more people to come out and not just sit at home and watch Netflix.

There are many names, such as the Movie Tavern or McGuffins Bar, see what options you have for your date night.

This is a tried and true fun date idea that is great for any stage of a relationship, but is perfect for a second date. 

There is a reason that so many people love mini golf for dates, because you can be a little silly while also competitive. It’s a fun atmosphere in the evening when the whole place is all lit up.

Celebrate the season

Take the time to celebrate the season and enjoy creating new date ideas! Find interesting ideas on Pinterest to make each season special.

For example, if Easter is soon, find some really cool candies to make together! If St. Patrick’s Day is around the corner, figure out how to make green beer and corned beef and cabbage.

The key is to find something that you both think looks like fun.

All you have to do is plan a date night a few days before the holiday and create something to make it extra special.

It only takes a little time to make life moments extra special  

Spring date ideas

Baseball game.

Spring is the perfect time to see a ball game, it’s a fun experience that you can enjoy before the weather gets a lot hotter in the summer.

Check the schedule for a special game or event that they may be having at the same time.

Berry Picking

Visit a farm and pick your own fruit or whatever happens to be in season. Look up some recipes and make something special with your fresh fruit for you both to enjoy.

You could simply grab some fresh whipped cream which tastes great and makes a simple dessert.

Visit state parks

Each state park has something unique to offer. Taking a day trip to see what they have to offer is a wonderful way to explore nature and find some hidden gems.

Map out all the ones that you would like to visit and add some to your couples bucket list below.

Aquarium date

Exploring all the exhibits in an aquarium is a great date idea. Its so relaxing watching the fish and other sea creatures.

Hopefully the aquarium that you visit has a cafe to enjoy something to eat while you are there enjoying the atmosphere.

Winter date ideas

Ice skating.

If you are lucky you have some outdoor skating rinks to choose from, If not it’s still fun to skate at an indoor rink.

If you can pull it off, ice skating at the holidays is the best and if you happen to be close to NYC, skating in Central Park is memorable and very scenic!

(You can pretend you are in your favorite romantic movie, when skating there!)

Skiing or snow tubing

Hopefully you live near a place that is within a relatively short drive that you are able to enjoy an afternoon or evening ski  or tube run.

Being able to ski at night can be a great date idea, especially if you can sit by the fire afterwords with a cocktail or hot cocoa.

Find out what plays are coming to the area or make a day trip out of it and see a show that may be located a little further away.

Find out your dates preferences such as musicals, comedies or perhaps even an opera.

Dinner theater

There are all kinds of options for themed dinner theater shows. Check to see what shows are upcoming.

Keep an eye out for some “of the ordinary” experiences such as “Wizards Brunch” or  “Murder Mystery shows” which would be a very fun date idea.

Rent snowmobiles

Snowmobiling  is one of the most fun activities if you live where there is some snow. Afterwords cuddle up to a fire and enjoy a drink.

This date idea is not inexpensive but one of the best ways ever to enjoy winter.

Tour holiday lights

As soon as Thanksgiving is over, the lights start to go up. There is usually a list of the best light shows around listed on a local website or in a magazine.

Make a date night out of finding all the best lighted homes, which can be very romantic. You will definitely get into the holiday spirit.

Enjoy a hockey game

Feel the energy of a hockey game for your date night. It will be easy to get swept up into the game and you will be cheering before you know it!

Reenact the snowball fight in Elf

Get your snowballs ready with this date idea! One of the best scenes in this holiday movie is the epic snowball fight.

See who can hit the other the most, and make sure that after you make yourself a relaxing drink. Enjoy while watching your favorite holiday movie.

Fall date ideas

Beer tasting tour.

Pick some great craft breweries that you would like to visit and take a road trip. Decide how far you would like to go and chart your course.

A friend and her husband planned a weekend date and had a great time and really reconnected.

Farmers markets tour

Trying different farmers markets is such a great way enjoy each others company while finding amazing artisan created foods.

Often there are food trucks at the markets along with some handmade crafts and condiments.

Pumpkin Picking

Make a date out of picking pumpkins, having cider and checking out Pinterest for some pumpkin carving or painting ideas.

Often pumpkin patches also have a hayride and cider or hot chocolate. Make a beer cheddar fondue with pumpkin beer, (I have and its fabulous!) While painting or carving your pumpkins.

Tailgate at a football game

Tailgating at either a pro game or at your local college football game is a great way to spend your afternoon.

Football and fall go together and is a fun date idea, especially if you have a preference for a football team.

Whiskey tasting

Even if you do not drink whiskey on a regular basis, tastings are a fun date idea and would be perfect to do in the fall.

Many pubs have tastings that become interesting when you know the history and the distinctive flavors of the whiskeys themselves. 

Take a haunted tour

Are you a Ghost Hunter or paranormal fan? Then check out a local haunted tour. Many towns have haunted prisons or cemetery tours.

Learn about some local legends and history that you didn’t know about, while trying to scare each other!

You can rent a cabin or use your own tent if you have one. Take your bicycles and enjoy each others company while riding around the campground.

Food always tastes better when cooked over a fire even if it is just hot dogs or Dinty Moore stew. Make sure that you don’t miss the outdoor movie if they are showing one.  

Summer date ideas

Tubing on the river.

Enjoy a lazy afternoon floating down the river. Pack a lunch and eat on the water or at the water’s edge.

T ubing is a great way to chill as you splash around in the water and enjoy your relaxing summer date.

Head to the horse track

Place your bets! Watching these gorgeous horses is fun in itself and most tracks have a interesting atmosphere.

Read up on Trifectas and placing bets to win, place or show. Watch the horses and see which names you like best and think are the winners

Music Festivals

Summer is the time for outdoor music concerts and festivals. Most towns and cities usually  have  many to choose from along with radio stations that sponsor free “Block Party” concerts.

See what events are coming up and plan a summer date to remember.

Ice cream trail

Make your own ice cream trail! Map out the places you would like to visit and try each of their specialties. If possible find a vintage ice cream shoppe to add to your trail.

Many historic towns hold chocolate trails, wine trails, soup trails (in the fall) & beer trails.  So much fun!

Beach day trip

Or lake or river. Find a body of water and make a day of it. Throw a blanket in the back of the car and have an impromptu picnic overlooking the water.

This date idea is a classic for whenever the weather is really nice out.

Visit a museum

Get out of the summer heat and enjoy strolling in the air conditioning while learning something new. Visit a nearby exhibit or make a day trip out of traveling to a larger museum.

You may be surprised at all the different types of museums that you find that you never thought to visit.

There is always something interesting to learn and talk about when you visit a museum.  Visit the museum cafe for a bite while you are there.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

So what if it’s not May, celebrate  Cinco de Mayo anytime with margaritas, tacos and maybe even by getting an inexpensive pinata and filling it up with your favorite candies. Play some Mexican music to set the mood.

Keep cool at a water park

Check out a water park and be a kid again. Gotta love those lazy rivers that you float around with an inter tube to keep cool. This date idea is great fun when it is hot out and need to beat the heat.

Have fun in the sun

Pick up a blow up pool for adults, fill and grab a cocktail! You can also fill up balloon for a balloon fight or grab some Super Soakers and have a blast.

Fun date ideas

Enjoy live music.

As soon as the weather gets warm, live music can become a weekly affair. Check your local calendar of events for restaurants and bars that are offering a free live show while enjoying something to drink.

Festivals and fairs

Most cities and towns have lots of festivals and fairs to choose from. From food festivals to art fairs,  & 4th of July fireworks.

Take advantage to all your area has to offer, or visit a nearby town to explore someplace new.

Dancing at a nightclub

Go for some heart pumping music with a light show. It’s fun to just let loose and dance the night away. You are sure to find yourself smiling and having a fun date night!

Glow trampoline

We all have enjoyed jumping on a trampoline at some point, but how fun would it be to take your date to a “ Glow trampoline . ”

Lasers, music and black light transforms the whole park into a crazy jumping dance club.

Creative cocktail date

Get your hands on a classic cocktail book and try some new drinks. Raid your liquor cabinet to see what you can create.

It’s fun to make some “ Layered ” drinks . This is where you choose alcohols of different densities and pour them over the back of a spoon to create layers.

Or you can make a floral simple syrup and try some 1920’s cocktails .

Rent some bicycles or use your own and map out a bike trip. Decide your difficulty level and look  for trails that fit your level.

If you would like to take a tour, Google “bike trails near me” to see what is available in your location. Make sure that you bring your bike chains and locks if you would like to stop for lunch somewhere.

Gone fishing

Plan a day of fishing or learning how to fly fish. Whether you have ever fished or not, it is a relaxing way to enjoy the water and the outdoors.

Comedy night

Make plans to see a comedian that is coming to town or visit a local comedy club open mic night.

Check out some Youtube videos of anyone that you are thinking about seeing to make sure that you both will enjoy the show.

Everyone has their own sense of humor, so double check.

Casino night

Set a betting limit and try your luck at a local casino. You can cheer your date on and enjoy either the slots or a fun hand of blackjack.

There’s usually lots of activity and live music that makes this a great date night.

Old school roller skating

If you grew up going to a roller skating rink, why not relive those days with a fun afternoon of roller or inline skating? 

Remember when they play the songs for couples? This is highly nostalgic! Dress in some throwback  80’s or 90’s clothes or accessories and make it even more old school!

Creative date night ideas

Painting plein air with wine.

Head on over to Youtube and find a video of a painting that you would like to try for this date idea. If you are new to painting, then you should try some abstract painting .

This way it’s all about the colors and you don’t have to get into the drawing part. You can play with the paint, which makes it all the more fun!

As the title suggests, take it out doors with a bottle of wine. Plein Air means painting outdoors.

Volunteering

This is a great way to do something good, while having fun as a couple. It feels great to help others and allows you to show another side to your partner.

Google volunteer opportunities near me or call your local animal or food pantry and plan a  rewarding date for the two of you.

Create a playlist

Have a night where you find a lot of  your favorite songs or albums, and share your love of music.

We all get excited when we hear our favorites and sometimes even dance around. So create a list that you both will love. This will be fun to listen to on future road trips.

Take a Yoga or Tai Chi class

Take a beginner or advanced Yoga or Tai Chi class together. Be healthy and learn something new, and maybe you will want to stick with it!

Uncover some history

Explore some historical places and learn the history behind it. Make a day of visiting historic buildings, gardens or battlefields.

Things take on new meanings when experienced in person.Visit an old cemetery and read about the people buried there.

Try a color run

The best idea ever for a 5k! Have a blast for a good cause and get some amazing pictures of you both making memories.

Cheesemaking

Grab a bottle of wine and this cheese making kit and well, make CHEESE! How cool is this, of course only for those that are not lactose intolerant.

Everything tastes better when you make it together. If you like cheese, creating a date night out of making it, doesn’t sound t0 crazy.

Romantic date night ideas

Watch a sunset.

Find a spot that is picturesque, such as a park or river bank. Make the moment special, by really being present and enjoying each others company.

Wine tasting tour

Visit local wineries which will usually offer wine tastings on the weekends, sometimes they also have live music to enjoy.

You can also make your own wine tour or trail, by mapping out a few you would like to visit. You can also have an at-home wine tasting by rating different types of wines by sight, taste and smell by using our download .

Drive-in movie

Visit an old fashioned drive in. Take your chairs and blankets or lay in the back of your SUV and enjoy the experience.

Get some popcorn from the snack bar and cozy up to your date. It is always a fun experience to be outside and watch a movie.

Horseback riding

Make a memory by planning a horseback riding adventure. You can imagine that you are in a old western movie.

Horses are majestic and an experience you will always remember making this fantastic date idea.

Visit a Planetarium

Plan a date and go to see a planetarium show. Some shows are put to music such as Pink Floyd.

Others are so incredibly real that  you feel like you are floating through space.

Botanical garden date

Spend the day at a botanical or a butterfly garden and enjoy the beauty of nature and all the artists that it took to create these amazing places.

Have lunch or snacks at the cafe and spend some time at the gift shop.

Take a train ride

Trains are romantic, if you can book a train ride with a dining and observation car you are in luck.

This may also fit under anniversary dates since depending upon where you live, this can be very expensive. But it really is a fantastic experience and a memorable date idea.

Inexpensive date ideas

Be a tourist.

So often we take for granted the area in which we live and look for new places to explore. But we may not even know what our own town or city has to offer.

Be a tourist in your city and get some info from the local chamber of commerce to see what they promote.

Now go and visit some places that you have never seen before and gain a new appreciation for your home town!

Old school letter

Set some time aside throughout the week to write a letter to your partner. Include your hopes for the future, things that you are grateful for and the things that you appreciate about the other.

At the end of the week, have a candlelit dinner and read your letters. This will be a way to create a bond and talk about things other than, “How was your week.” This is a great bonding date idea for couples.

Go bird watching

Ok, this may sound boring, but it’s not. Get a simple bird book, some binoculars and start looking. You will be amazed how many birds you will find and yes they are interesting.

You will find yourself yelling out, “look over there, a finch.” Its more fun than it sounds, birds are cool.

Check out a local karaoke night

Whether you have ever sang karaoke before or not, make a date to relieve some stress while enjoying each others company.

Play pool & darts

When you are looking for things to do, visit your neighborhood pool hall and try your hand at pool and/or darts. Have fun being a little competitive with this date idea.

Vintage arcade

Visit an arcade with old school pinball machines and video games. Stick with the theme and find some milkshakes, malts and burgers to enjoy.

These games are fun to play and can bring back memories of playing some when you were a kid.

Plant a pot garden

Check out Pinterest and create a garden together.  Pot gardens can be very creative and include herbs and veggies.

It’s fun to create something together and just think how good a salad will taste that you grew together.

Adventurous date ideas

Maybe not so adventurous since bungee jumping and cliff diving are excluded. But whatever you and your partner find adventurous should be on the list.

Some of us would think that riding a roller coaster is adventurous, so you do you!

Plan a road trip and create some life long memories. Road trips can be an epic adventure or a  two hour mini trip to hunt down the best ice cream.

Create something special and unique to you both. Plan a trip around fabulous views, historical places or the best pies. Half the fun is in the planning!

Take a hike

Whether it is a short walk or a more challenging hike, talking seems to come easier when you are moving. The best conversations seem to come when you are not thinking too much about them.

You may be able to dive into some deeper topics since it seems spontaneous when you are moving while talking.

Plus it’s fun to challenge and joke with your partner when there is physical activity involved!

Rent a boat

Most boats have their own unique challenges, so you and your partner can plan a date and have fun trying to figure them out.

Some of the simplest would be a fishing boat, kayak or a canoe. If you have never kayaked before, give it a try. They are fun and very relaxing! Grab some sandwiches and have a simple picnic. 

L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs

Check out what classes they have available near you.  L.L.Bean has kayak and paddle board lessons at local lakes that would make a great date for you and your partner.

Rock climbing

Check out a local rock climbing gym. This way you can have fun, but stay at your level. Most areas have a designated climbing gym but if not, many regular gyms have climbing walls.

Doing a challenging activity creates stronger bonds according to science .

Zip line park

Most zip line parks have different lines to choose from. So you can choose the level that you are the most comfortable with.

This is definitely for the more adventurous, since some parks have some seriously high lines. This makes a great high adrenaline date idea.

Go cart park

This is just plain fun! Do you remember riding go carts as a kid? It’s even more fun as an adult.

 It will definitely bring out some friendly competition and not as scary as going zip lining!

Rent Jet Skis

Jet skis are lots of fun to drive and makes a perfect day date. Pack a picnic and have a cool afternoon on the water.

Indoor skydiving

This is added because it looks like soo much fun, and I think is would make a great date.  If you and your partner enjoy experiencing new things, then check this out !

Try geocaching

Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunt that uses GPS coordinates to find hidden geocache or containers. Download a free app to get started with your treasure hunt.

Double date ideas

Fondue date.

A fondue gathering is a great group date idea. Most people have a fondue set tucked away, now is the time to dig it out! If possible have one couple find some cheese recipes and another create a chocolate fondue.

Bring cut up veggies, bread, fruit and anything else that you would like to dip in the cheese and chocolate. Have everyone bring a  bottle of wine or beer, whatever would compliment the fondue.

Visit an escape room

Have fun with a group of people by having an escape room date night. This is a great way to show some of your skills such as observation and creative thinking.

Find a Meetup

Check your local Meetup for some really interesting things to do. You will find hiking groups, special interests Meetups. You will definitely find something that you all enjoy as a group.

Pizza tasting date night

Get a sampling of pizzas from a variety of pizzerias to taste at home or plan a pizza crawl.

Have all the couples rate the pizzas from 1-5 with the reasons why for each.

Have fun sharing your ratings with each other and see whos picks are closest to yours.

Plan a Mardi Gras or Masquerade party

This is fun for couples and it can be sexy. Create colorful masks and visit a thrift store to put together some creative outfits.

Pinterest will have amazing mask ideas. Have each couple bring an appetizer and a bottle of wine and be transported to another place and time.

Anniversary date ideas

Visit a speakeasy or jazz club.

Having a craft cocktail in a dim speakeasy with soft jazz playing is incredibly romantic! This is a great date idea for an anniversary.

If you have never been to a speakeasy, you are in for a very cool evening.

Art gallery date

Many galleries have special events where they include appetizers and wine while looking at the artwork. Check out a local magazine or website where they usually have a monthly calendar of events.

Going to an event like this is fun because you can dress up and have an out of the ordinary evening.

Afterword you can visit a nearby cafe for a nice finish to the evening.

Bed & Breakfast getaway

Find a romantic B&B to celebrate your anniversary. Maybe a farm were you can enjoy an atmosphere that is completely different from what you may be used to.

Favorite restaurant list

You and your partner are going to create a complete list of restaurants that they would like to visit. Looking at Yelp reviews can help to narrow down your list.

Create one list for casual dining and another for special occasions. Write down what each restaurant specializes in, so the next time you are hungry for that type of food, you are ready to go.

Choose the top restaurant from your “ special occasion list ” that you both have created. This takes care of wondering where you should go for your anniversary dinner or subsequent nights out.

Hot air balloon ride

This is soo romantic and a perfect anniversary date idea. Have a glass of champagne while enjoying an incredible view! Make this year an anniversary to remember.

Couples Spa

This can be as simple as booking a couples massage or going to a spa retreat with hot springs and lots of treatments.

This is a dream anniversary date if you are able to find a spot in a picturesque location. Save up for this memorable date idea.

Unique date ideas

Visit a zoo.

Most people love animals and being around them brings conversations that are completely different from our usual topics.

Many zoos also have a nice place to eat while you are there which makes a nice date atmosphere.

It’s fun to feed the animals while strolling along especially if you have nice weather.

Theme date idea

Pick a different type of food for some upcoming dates. An example would be if you choose Italian, pick your favorite recipes or restaurant.

Once the theme is decided, find some phrases and words in that language that you can learn on your date.

Of course coffee and dessert have to fit the theme. And finally choose a playlist of  the themes music.

One week it may be Italian and the next Mexican, have fun and try some new dishes.

Browse some vinyl

Get nostalgic and find some of your favorite albums. Music stores usually have a lot of character and you are bound to find some accessories from your favorite bands.

Random acts of kindness

Make a list of things that you both can do to make each other smile. Try to create enough to do at least once a day for a week. Don’t show each other what you are planning to do.

This is fun and creates a stronger bond between the two of you. You can kick off your “week of kindness” by sharing your favorite bottle of wine to get your creativity flowing!

Brew some craft beer

There is a kit for everything, so why not try your hand at crafting a home brew ? Maybe it will be the start of something that you both can share and experiment more with.

Take a class

What would you like to learn about? Maybe you always wanted to try ceramics or get some pointers on your golf swing.

How fun to plan a date around a class! To find some options, Google away and check also local events websites.

Who hasn’t watched Dancing with the Stars and wanted to try to dance just a little like they do? There are so many dances to try Salsa, Tango, Swing.

Dancing is sexy and can be fun, so why not give it a try? You may surprise yourself and find a new passion.

Find a great candy/chocolate shop

Take the time to track down a really cool candy or chocolate shops. Maybe you can even find a factory that has tours for this tasty date idea.

If they have a cafe, then all the better, if not find a nice coffee shop to cap off the day.

Local college events

There are many things that are open to the public that can be enjoyed such as lectures and concerts.

There are opportunities to be part of community events while enjoying the college campus atmosphere which is usually beautiful.

Spontaneous things to do with your boyfriend

Go fly a kite.

Find that kite that you have hidden away and go to a field on a windy day. Remember how much fun it used to be?

If you are near a beach or somewhere always windy, all the better.

Have a trivia night

Find some online trivia questions , or grab your Trivial Pursuit and have a competitive game night. Add some cocktails and laugh at some of the things that you come up with.

Visit a flea market

Flea markets can be seasonal or permanent, and they are fun to browse. Some include food, antiques, crafts and clothes.

Regardless of the market that you visit, it can be like falling down a rabbit hole since there is so much to see and the bargains are real.

Visit a bookstore

Bookstores come in all shapes and sizes, but when you find one that has some old used volumes or interesting architecture, it is such a gem!

You can chat about some of your favorite books and if there is a coffee shop as part of the store, you may never leave.

Best Date ideas for couples

Recreate a memorable meal.

Maybe you were on your vacation or your honeymoon and had an amazing meal or tasted the best dessert on a night out. If you have any pictures from that time, find them so you can reminisce.

Find a similar recipe to recreate that memory and make sure you cook it together.

Photo shoot

This can be as simple as finding a scenic spot and taking photos with your phone and comparing who took the best photos. Or maybe you would rather use your tripod to create some “couple photos.”

Maybe grab a friend to take pictures or hire a photographer for professional shots. Either way it will be fun to have some great pictures of you both.

What can couples do for fun at home?

Watch a netflix series.

Binge some fun shows and plan a coordinating meal or snack. An example might be watching Lucifer with hot wings…lol.

Anyway if you are watching something like Mindhunter you’ll have to figure that one out on your own!

Ask fun Questions

Try taking turns and asking these fun questions .

You are sure to find out something new about your partner by asking out of the ordinary questions. Hopefully you can have some in depth conversations that are eye opening.

Madlibs are silly and fun! If you enjoy putting together puzzles then add this to your date and mount the puzzle when you are finished.

Perfect with your favorite pizza and beer.

DIY Project

Pick a fun project for the home, apartment or garden from Pinterest or Youtube.

All it takes is a few minutes to get inspired on Pinterest. The hardest part will be deciding which one to choose.

Inflatable push and ball bumpers

Did you ever see the episode of the Office where they are in sumo wrestler outfits? Or watch that video of a couple hitting other with big Q tips ? They are hilarious!

Have a date where you literally laugh your ass off by getting these two similar games as the picture and video above.

Rainy Night Date Ideas

Candlelight  only.

Turn those lights out and bring out all the candles that you have. If you have a fireplace, you can also light it! Listen to the rain and get cozy.

Enjoy eating by candle light or firelight. Find a deck of cards and play a card game that you haven’t for a while. Stormy nights can be very romantic.

Watch a horror movie or thriller

Amplify the rainy night by watching a horror movie or thriller. Hopefully it’s a thunderstorm for added atmosphere. Cuddle up and enjoy the show.

Check out an old horror radio show to really set the mood.

Best Date Night ideas at home

Create a bucket list.

Grab some snacks and let your imagination run wild! Create a couples bucket list of everything that you would like to achieve for both of you as a team.

Places you would like to go and things you would to do. What would you like your life to look like in 10-20+ years from now?

This is fun and great insightful conversations will come out of this exercise.

Dust off a favorite board or card game. We forget just how much fun some games can be. You get to be competitive, have some laughs and reconnect!

If you want to refresh your supply of games, check out these fun additions .

Download either the Skyview app &   Star Walk 2 free  to explore the night sky.

Identify stars, constellations, planets, satellites, asteroids, comets, ISS, Hubble Space Telescope and other celestial bodies in real time in the sky above you.

Watch a movie series

Maybe you never saw “The Godfather” or “Rocky’ or “Star Wars’ and always wanted to, so plan a movie date night.

Have a fun night with popcorn and snacks and watch a whole series or at least give it a great start!

Go for a walk

A great way to catch up as by simply taking a walk. You can admire gardens or the landscaping of other homes or apartments. See what new businesses have popped up if you are in the city or strolling through town.

We slow down and  notice the small things when you walk. It’s easier to appreciate the company when you don’t have an agenda or a place that you have to be .

Romantic date ideas at home

Romantic picnic date.

There is little that is more romantic than a picnic outdoors . So create one in your backyard or terrace! You just need some fresh air.

We have a complete picnic date planned for you including menus and conversation starters. Visit the link for all the details.

Indoor camping date

This can be so fun! The atmosphere you create can become your own dream getaway, right in your own home. Our complete camping date for indoors has everything that you will need to make it magical.

Visit our romantic picnic date  & indoor camping date night

Give a massage

Find some relaxing massage music , lite the candles and grab the massage oil. Everyone loves a massage!

You can plan to massage each other in the same evening or different nights since  sometimes it’s nice to take a nap after.

Built a Campfire

Use your fire pit or create a clearing for your fire outside. You don’t need to be fancy to build a fire and roast some hot dogs and s’mores.

Just having some alone time to catch up and reconnect can make this simple date very romantic.

Have an Ethnic Food date

Celebrate your family’s history with ethnic food. See if you can find some favorite family recipes, if not you can still find plenty of authentic recipes online.

You will probably reminisce about your memories of the foods and gatherings that you may have had.

Take turns so you both can learn more about each others family and culture.

What makes a date special?

So many memorable dates are simply elevating the ordinary . Taking something simple and adding details.

The details create the experience.

Try to think of all the 5 senses and incorporate them into your date ideas.

Sight, sound, taste, smell and of course touch!

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Rendezvous Team

You might also like, 17 rainy day date ideas that are anything but dreary, music & cocktails- christmas playlist with festive cocktails, first date ideas + all your first date questions answered, 90’s date night ideas at home that will make you nostalgic + 90’s trivia, fun ideas for day dates – great list to keep handy, 25 best date ideas for long distance relationships, what do you think.

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100 Fun Romantic Date Ideas Near Me

Switch up your usual date night routine with something new and exciting near you.

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Are you getting ready for Valentine's Day and want to tuck away a few ideas for the big day? Take a look at our 30 Romantic Things to Do on Valentine's Day That You'll Never Forget and browse 24 Romantic and Fun Winter Date Ideas too!

Romantic Date Ideas for the Outdoorsy Lovers

1. Pack a Picnic Load the car with a basket that includes an outdoor blanket, a few cushions for lounging, cooler filled with tasty beverages (whether it's premixed cocktails, wine, or sparkling water), and an insulated carryall bag with your favorite sandwiches to savor at your favorite local park on a clear and sunny day. 2. Visit a Local Farm Take a weekend to get outside at one of your favorite community farms together. Whether you both want to attend a general grounds tour or visit for a pick-you-own produce event, it will strengthen your bond.

3. Take a Hike Put on your comfy shoes or better yet all-terrain boots with your beloved and grab a backpack filled with the essentials (water, snacks, compass, jacket, etc.) to explore a well worn path at a nearby trail. 4. Take a Boat Out If you have a fishable lake or seaside enclave in your area, consider taking your boat for a spin or renting a private boat with captain if you don't have boating license. Kick back and spend a few hours on the water sipping a classic craft beer and catching tonight's dinner.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Adventurous Couple

5. Get Carried Away on a Zipline Literally get hooked on a line with this daring activity. Whether you op for an indoor version or an outdoor adventure course. Ziplining your way through familiar or unfamiliar terrain is sure to bind you together by the end of the afternoon!

6. Jump Out of the Sky This date isn't for the faint of heart. If you both have a strong tummies and are ready to push personal boundaries, add skydiving to your list.

7. Hit a Target Axe-throwing is definitely for couples with excellent hand eye coordination. Take on your love and get throwing in a safe but challenging environment!

8. Take on a Scavenger Hunt Do you both love games that pull you outside? If so, add an afternoon hunt to your list of fun things to tackle together. Check out Pinterest for inspiration.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Art Lovers

9. Visit a Museum + Dinner Pull out your nicest cocktail attire and head out with your love to visit a new exhibit at a nearby art museum. After swooning over your favorite artworks, go to an upscale eatery for drinks and an opulent meal.

10. Take a Crafting Class Regardless of your creative skill level, book a fun introductory class to learn the basics of pottery, painting, iron pouring, glass blowing, or any other artistic medium to learn a new thing or two together.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Wordsmiths

11. Go Book Shopping + Lunch Make an afternoon of perusing literary selections. Play a little game of picking out the perfect book for each other to exchange at the end of lunch at a nearby cafe.

12. Attend a Poetry Slam + Coffee Date If you're both fond of poetry, browse local events to find an upcoming event at a coffee shop to savor a cup of joe while listening to the captivating tones of writers with the power of the spoken word. 13. Sit for a Book Reading and Enjoy Dinner Afterwards Keep your eyes open for any events featuring beloved and new authors visiting your city. Attend a book reading and signing together and go to dinner at a favorite restaurant to end the evening. 14. Compete at Trivia Night and Sample the Menu This one is for the competitive bunch! Make plans to spend a night out at a local bar or eatery to compete with or against each other at a trivia game event while sampling the drink flight and appetizer menu.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Musicheads

15. Go to a Concert or Festival Step outside for a serenade by your favorite local artist or even consider packing your bags and walking shoes for some time away at a multi-day music festival.

16. Tour a Beloved Music Site Check out the offerings in your town to explore the storied history of a music icon or get on the road for a trip to a close music museum or experience like Graceland , Sun Studio , or the Johnny Cash Museum .

Romantic Date Ideas for the Classic Romantics

17. Have Dinner by Moonlight Set the table in your backyard or deck at dusk, light the candelabra, and open a bottle or two of "the good wine" to sip while watching the sunset before having dinner (get delivery from a fave upscale restaurant) by moonlight together.

18. Go to a Drive-In Movie Take a short drive back in time at a local drive-in movie theater or catch a flick under stars at local park that plays favorite movies during the spring, summer, and fall.

19. Re-create Your First Date Night Consider going back to the place you met up for your first date to feel all the nostalgia that made you fall for each other all over again.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Spirited Lovers

18. Hop on a Brewery Bus Tour If you're both fond of pints, book a fun outing with City Brew Tours to safely sample your way around the best breweries in your community with transportation and good eats along the way.

19. Visit a Distillery Bourbon and whiskey lovers, add a weekend trip to your travel plans for a date outing to visit some of America's best spirit tours with your beloved.

20. Attend a Wine Tasting Class Add an afternoon or evening of wine sampling to your date plans. Browse local events to find a guided class or create a tasting experience with a heart charcuterie board and a spread of new bottles (even sparkling and boxed options) to try at home.

21. Go to a Beer Making Class Are you both beer enthusiasts curious about creating your very own home brew? Consider buying a self-guided kit or purchase an online beer making course to learn the basics together.

22. Have Tapas and Go Bar Hopping Sample your way around town with a fun night out of eating small bites and sipping crafty cocktails with your partner—regardless of your age.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Luxe Couple

23. Retreat to the Spa Couples with an affinity for the "finer things" will definitely want to add this idea to their list of dates. Reserve a time together at a outstanding spa or surprise your love with a trip to unwind and relax together at one of the country's best retreats .

24. Enjoy a Private Shopping Experience Retail addicted lovers can design a one-of-a-kind date with a one-on-one shopping excursion. Many local shops offer private shopping sessions and well-known brands like Macy's , Bloomingdale's , and Nordstrom offer free private styling/shopping services.

25. Have a Staycation at a Luxury Hotel Plan a night together at a nearby five-star hotel where you can order room service and spend the evening relaxing with each other.

26. Rent an Entire Movie Theater Picture a private party of two at the cinema. Book a whole movie theater to watch the latest new release with your beau. Theaters like AMC , Cinemark , Regal , and others offer personal rentals with concierge food and drinks.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Foodies

27. Attend a Cooking Class Whether you're fond of pasta, sushi, or anything in between, put an interactive cooking class on your to do list. Check local class listings or find an online options like Sur la Table to develop a new skill with you loved one.

28. Enjoy Dinner + an Online Cocktail Class Order takeout and sign-on to a beginner's course or an advanced mixology class to learn a new bar trick or two.

29. Go to a Pop-Up Dinner Night Step outside of your usual dinner plans and get tickets for a unique pop-up dinner experience. Check out community boards and discover exclusive themed dining nights with great chefs, food, and drinks like Small Batch and Blockbuster Pop-Up .

30. Make Your Lover's Favorite Dinner Before your partner arrives, turn on the stereo to play their favorite album, and get cooking to surprise them with their favorite dinner!

Romantic Date Ideas for the Animal Admirers

31. Visit an Aquarium or Zoo + Lunch Spend the afternoon seeing some of nature's most beautiful creations at an aquarium or zoo before grabbing lunch at a casual diner.

32. Volunteer at a Farmstead Bond over your mutual admiration of adorable animals and organic produce by volunteering some of your time to assist a community farm in need of helping hands. Call in advance to find a volunteer slot.

Romantic Date Ideas for the DIYers/Crafty Types

33. Go to an Architectural Salvage Show Are you in the middle of renovating or redecorating your home. Get on the road with your truck (or rent one) to attend a salvage show with your partner pick up cool finds (like antique doors and more) together!

34. Eat Brunch + Go Thrift Shopping Gather for brunch to fill up on delicious food before heading to a couple of consignment shops where you're sure to find a bespoke treasures.

35. Attend a Woodworking Class Hand-ons learners will appreciate a class with a loved one to create a unique piece of art. Check your community board for upcoming classes to get chopping and sawing with each other.

Romantic Date Ideas for the Homebodies

36. Plan a Picnic with a Bonfire Head to your backyard to lit the magical fire and snack on tasty treats with your love under the stars. Don't forget to add scrumptious s'mores to the menu too!

37. Have an Indoor Picnic Even if the weather is cold and wet, plan a thoughtful date with an indoor picnic. Lay out a cozy blanket, soft pillows, and a picnic basket filled with your favorite foods and drinks.

38. Have Game Night In and Order Takeout Queue up your favorite tunes, schedule a dinner delivery, and dust off that truck of classic games like Clue and Monopoly for a lighthearted night inside.

39. Enjoy a Private Catered Dinner Hire a professional chef to provide a curated wine and dine experience in the comfort of your home.

40. Make a Home-Cooked Dinner Together Pull together a fun and easy to make dinner to prepare with your sweetheart! Browse our fabulous dinner for two ideas to find the perfect meal. Divide and conquer by splitting tasks to make the prep engaging before enjoying the finished product.

Romantic Date Ideas for Travel Enthusiasts

41. Tour Your City Like a Tourist Plan a weekend date to explore your city for new spots, excursions, and restaurants like a newbie.

42. Hop on a Train to a Nearby City Add a day trip date or extended vacation on the great American rail to your list of new things to experience with your sweetheart.

43. Take a Weekend Trip to a Nearby City Surprise your significant other! Take advantage of last minute hotel and local deals on sites like Livingsocial , Groupon , Hotels.com , or Hotel Tonight to book an impromptu trip .

Romantic Date Ideas for the Sports Super Fans

44. Attend a Local Team Game Night Put on your favorite game day gear and head out to a local event for camaraderie, brews, and lots of loud cheering! 45. Plan an Afternoon at a Sports Museum Put a smile on the face of your sports enthusiast with tickets to a museum!

46. Secure Tickets to a Professional Sports Game Whether it's the NFL , NBA , or NHL , get a pair of tickets to enjoy the "big game" together!

47. Plan a Cosmic Bowling Outing Hit up your neighborhood alley for a date evening filled with low lights, flashing lasers, music, comfort food, and lots of bowling!

Romantic Date Ideas for the Retro Lovers

48. Enjoy a Retro Game Night at Home with Pizza Dust off your old Atari or Playstation console for a night of gaming and snacking on comfort food.

49. Savor Sweets at an Ice Cream Shop Split a sundae, share a malt milkshake, and maybe even a kiss with your partner.

50. Visit a Candy Factory Whether you love Jellybelly Beans, Hershey 's Kisses, or another regional fave, plan an outing to visit an iconic spot.

Fifty More Date Night Ideas!

51. Try a New Cuisine Together 52. Visit a Karaoke Bar 53. Take a Dance Class 54. Go Biking Together 55. Attend a Candle-Making Class 56. Test Drive a Luxury Car 57. Solve a Mystery at an Escape Room 58. Go Line Dancing 59. Head to a Comedy Show 60. Attend a Paint and Wine Event 61. Have Lunch at Buc-ee's 62. Go Skinny Dipping (if you dare!) 63. Put a Pizza in Oven and Tackle a Jigsaw Puzzle 64. Take a Sailing Lesson 65. Go Horseback Riding 66. Visit a Pop-Up Immersive Experience (like the Van Gogh Expo and The Stranger Things Experience ) 67. Plan a Day of Geocaching 68. Go Stargazing 69. Rideshare to a Bottomless Brunch 70. Get a Couples Massage 71. Visit a Food Truck Park 72. Explore a Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, or Apple Orchard (in the fall) 73. Head to a Pick-Your-Own-Berries Farm (in the summer) 74. Plan a Camping (or Glamping) Weekend 75. Eat Breakfast at the Farmer’s Market 76. Plant a Garden Together 77. Bar Hop Your Way Around Town 78. Book a Vintage Couples Photo Session 79. Go Dream House Shopping Browsing 80. Go Hang Gliding (if you dare!) 81. Compete at a Food Challenge (like taking on scorching hot wings or a massive burger) 82. Visit a Rage Room Experience (don't be afraid to get Office Space close) 83. Head to the Track for Go-Carting 84. Write a Song Together (if you're both musically inclined) 85. Go Fishing 86. Take a Carriage Ride Around the Park 88. Go Paddle Boating 89. Book a Dinner Cruise 90. Meet Up for Happy Hour and Small Bites 91. Order Takeout and Plan a Couples Vacation 92. Warm Up with Hot Chocolate and Go Ice Skating 93. Visit an Adult-Friendly Arcade 94. Hit Up the Mini-Golf Course 95. Go Shopping at an International Market 96. Attend a Snorkeling Lesson 97. Hit Up the Ski Slopes (during the winter) 98. Book a Prix Fixe Dinner 99. Play Laser Tag 100. Plan a Surprise Trip for Your Partner

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101 Adventurous Date Ideas To Fall Deeper in Love

Date Ideas · Love

Looking for the best adventurous date ideas to spice up your relationship or keep your loved one on their toes? You’re bound to find an adventurous date idea that intrigues you on this list of 101 adventurous date ideas!

We think adventurous date ideas are so important to throw into the mix of your regular ol dinner-and-a-movie date routine. While routine date nights can be fun as well, think of them like your staple cozy sweater you can count on any time. Adventurous date ideas are like the sexy black dress in your closet. They might not be right for every day, but when thrown into the mix they can bring a lot of excitement, spiciness, and SPARK to a relationship.

Adventurous date ideas aren’t just to spice up your date night routine, they can also help you fall deeper in love. Seriously. It’s scientifically proven.

When I was in grad school I took a class on how to fall in love. (Needless to say, it was the class I paid the most attention in.) One of the things I learned that stuck with me is that novelty can not only help you fall in love, but it can also help you stay in love.

The reason why is that novel activities, taking risks, activities that promote fear (like roller coasters), and trying and learning new things, all release dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is one of the same chemicals that’s released in the brain during the beginning stages of a relationship. A lot of the butterflies you feel during that time period can actually be attributed to dopamine!

Have you ever noticed you feel “more in love” with your partner when traveling or trying new things? This is why! Dopamine is being released!

Dopamine isn’t the only chemical to help give you “lovey feelings”. The exact “love cocktail” that scientists often refer to consists of dopamine, oxytocin (stimulated by touch and feelings of trust), serotonin, and endorphins. Your body naturally releases these chemicals when you fall in love and knowing that, there are ways to enhance each one.

We can talk about each chemical more deeply in a future post, but for today we’ll be focused on dopamine and endorphins, with some serotonin and oxytocin sprinkled in there.  These chemicals can be triggered during the adventurous date ideas we have listed here, which is why we highly recommend trying out an adventurous date idea once in awhile!

Whether you’re just getting into a new relationship or you’ve been in one for what seems like forever, take advantage of the love boosting aspects of these 101 adventurous date ideas!

Adventurous date ideas:

Keep in mind with all of these adventurous date ideas, it’s all about the journey. Don’t be too focused on “completing” the list, instead, keep an open mind to all the different opportunities that might be present or different things you can learn and explore.

I truly believe that anything can be an adventure, it all just boils down to mindset. Go into these adventurous date ideas with an adventurous mindset and you may be surprised to find adventures where you never expected them.

The best adventures will happen as part of the journey. Go into these adventurous date ideas with an open mind, a light heart, and be ready to explore and get a bit silly!

1. Go to an amusement park

Visiting an amusement park or theme park near you is a great adventurous date idea! Riding roller coasters together will boost your endorphins and adrenaline, leaving you with lots of lovey feelings!

Even if you aren’t into roller coasters (we get it, Bassam won’t ride one with me), theme parks still make for a great adventurous date ideas as they have tons of options of different things to do and explore.

2. Create your own romantic challenge as an adventurous date idea

Why not create and complete your own romantic challenge? You’ll get creative together in coming up with the challenge and then have lots of fun completing it together! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Kiss in front of every blue building within a 30 mile radius of your house
• Hide a love note at every date spot you went on your first year of dating
• Try every Italian restaurant in your city with 5 stars on Yelp
• Walk every street in your city starting with the letter “A”

3. Explore a random point on a map

Close your eyes, point to a random spot on a map, and go there! You can keep this as local or as far out as you like!

If you’re a couple that likes to travel together, choose a spot anywhere in the world!

If you can’t just up and fly away like that, neither can we as much as I wish we can, use a map of your own town.

If you can getaway for the weekend, maybe do a map of your state! Either way, it’ll lead to a fun adventure no matter where you end up!

4. Go sand duning

We recently went sand duning on a weekend getaway and it such a fun adventurous date idea! Google the closest spot near you to go sand duning and check it out for yourself!

We took a tour but next time I’d really like to rent a single person ATV. The tour didn’t feel adventurous enough for me, although Bassam would disagree with that!

5. Play a sport together

Playing a sport together is an amazing way to get your endorphins pumping!

Physical activity releases endorphins in general and doing it together helps you get lovey feelings! You can get even squeeze out even more endorphins if you turn it into a competition! Play 1:1 and get a bet going!

6. Learn something new together

Learning something new together is an amazing way to release dopamine through a new activity AND it also helps strengthen your relationship in terms of expansion.

 Dr. Arthur Aron theorizes that “self-expansion,” the desire to grow and change, is critical to boosting a couple’s level of commitment. By “self-expansion” in a relationship, he means that you see your partner as a source of exciting experiences, a support for becoming a better person, or a way to expand your own capabilities.

Learning new things together is a great way to do that!

Some ideas:

• Take a class together (cooking, photography, wine tasting, painting, etc)
• Teach each other something (this is a great way to get your partner into your interests and work on your communication skills!)
• Pick up a new hobby together (you’ll be learning something new together for a longer duration of time and it’ll feel so satisfying as you start mastering it!)

7. Find a rooftop with the best view of your city

Hanging out on a rooftop with your loved one is our idea of a romantic date night. What can turn it into an adventurous date night, is going on a hunt to find the best view!

You might already know of some great spots in your city, like maybe a local bar or a skyscraper, but we challenge you to get more creative! Explore all types of rooftops in your town, even parking lots, until you find one with a beautiful view- perfect for your romantic and adventurous date night!

8. Take a trapeze class

This is one of my favorite adventurous date ideas Bassam and I have ever done together! A trapeze class is an amazing adrenaline pumping actitivy and can make you feel so free! We found a groupon for a class that combined trapeze, trampoline, and silks. So so so much fun!

9. Travel to a new destination

Another one of our favorite adventurous date ideas. We absolutely love exploring new destinations together and always find that it resparks our relationship.

Even if you can’t travel very far, find a close by town that you’ve never been to and go explore there. Literally anywhere can be exciting when you go into it with the mindset of adventure, so even if you think you don’t have any exciting places to travel to nearby, try it with any open mind anyway!

10. Have breakfast at home. Have lunch 20 miles+ away. Have dinner 50 miles+ away

We love this idea! It can lead to a lot of adventure and possibilities! The title is pretty self explanatory, but find a place to have breakfast close to home, lunch somewhere at least 20 miles way, and dinner somewhere at least 50 miles away.

You can also reverse it if you prefer to end closer to home. It could be even more fun to choose places you’ve never been to before, but even favorites spots will still be a fun adventure!

11. Make a list of things that you scare you and do one thing off each of your lists

This is a fun two part date.

Part 1: grab some drinks at home or go to a cute new spot and spend some time coming up with a “things that scare me” list. Each of you should come up with your own separate lists

Part 2: pick one item off each of your lists and go do them!

Voila, three adventurous dates in one (if you do each of your scary things on separate dates)! You can even decide to do one thing off the list a month to keep it going!

12. Look up a lists of events in your area and randomly go to one

Almost all towns have a bunch of fun events going on every weekend. Look up an event calendar for your town and pick an event to go and attend at random. Even if you think the event is silly or quirky, try it anyway! You never know!

13. Take advantage of a rainy day and go mud sliding

I did this once in college and it was SO FUN! Find a grassy hill somewhere, grab trash can lids or sleds, and go sliding down the muddy hill! If you don’t want to get super dirty, you can wear disposable rain coats, but getting muddy might be part of the fun!

Here are some other great rainy day date ideas!

14. play hide and seek somewhere unexpected.

Turn this beloved children’s game into a fun and adventurous date idea! Choose an unexpected place, like a home furniture store or even a city center, and play hide-and-seek! If it gets too challenging, you can text each other clues of where you are.

15. Turn your date into a real life choose-your-own-adventure book

This is an adventurous date idea that can get really adventurous depending which way you decide to go with it! There are two ways you can do this date idea:

Option #1: work together

One of you start the date by choosing something, literally anything. You can choose a street to start on, something to eat, a theme for the day, whatever. Then the next person continues it with with choosing one thing and then leaving something else open ended. Continue this way for the whole date and see what kind of adventurous date story you end up telling together!

Option #2: Surprise date

A choose your own adventure date is a really sweet adventurous date idea to surprise your loved one with. Set this up by writing a little story about the two of you and then have “choose your own” sections. For example: Lena and Bassam went to Santa Monica for a romantic date by the beach! They walked by a taco truck and an ice cream shop. Bassam decided to eat _________.”

16. Try a water sport

Water sports are so fun for adventurous date ideas! There are so many fun options depending on what you’re into! Water activities are  not only a lot of fun, but most of them also promote communication and teamwork. Here are some ideas:

• Water skiing
• White water rafting
• Stand up paddle boarding

17. Go on a bike ride

Find a new neighborhood to explore and go for a bike ride! Exploring in a new way will inject some freshness into your relationship. Want to make it even more exciting? Ride a tandem bike together.

18. Get messy together

Why not turn your adventurous date into a challenge to see how messy you can get together? Getting messy is out of the norm for most of us and something that we typically try to avoid, that it can be really exciting and help you get a little wild and free!

• Paint each other
• Take a pottery class
• Play in the mud
• Dance in the rain
• Have a food fight
• Play twister, but with a twist. Put a little bit of ice cream on each spot!
• Have a paint fight
• Throw paint at a canvas
• Fill a kiddie pool with shaving cream
• Go on a mud run
• Have a water fun fight

19. Race go karts

Channel your inner race car drivers and go race go karts! If you want to take it up a notch, you can even find a race car track. If you want to take it down a notch, go do bumper cars! So many fun possibilities!

20. Take a boat out for the day

You don’t have to be fancy to rent out a boat for a day and experience this adventurous date idea. Check out local boat rentals in your town and find something affordable.

Smaller boats are often more cost effective and you can bring a little picnic as you spend the day out on the water. If that’s too far out of your budget, try paddle boats!

21. Embrace the season

Each season brings with it so many fun possibilities for new activities! Let the season guide your adventurous date idea. Things like a snowball fight in the winter, jumping in a pile of leaves in the fall, plant a garden in the spring, and skinny dipping in a lake in the summer.

Here are some adventurous fall date ideas and a month’s worth of adventurous summer ideas 

22. complete a diy.

Working together to complete a DIY can be a really great adventurous teamwork date! Look up different craft projects online, complete a home DIY or restoration, or maybe even set up a herb garden! We recently distressed our fireplace and it was such a fun project together! Our next big project is to build a greenhouse and create an herb garden in it.

23. Go rock climbing

I love adrenaline pumping activities and don’t often get scared, but rock climbing was the scariest and most exhilarating thing I’ve ever done! It taught me a lot about mindset and life in general.

While Bassam and I have never done it together, I know it would be an amazing date idea! If you can’t find any local outdoor rock climbing classes, try an indoor gym!

24. Get in a friendly competition together

Friendly competition can be a great bonding adventurous date idea! Pretty much anything could be turned into a fun bet! Here are some ideas to get you thinking:

• Who can make the best cocktail
• Cook off competition
• Batting cages
• Who can run the fastest down the street

25. Go zip lining

We LOVE zip lining! We’ve done it several times while traveling and it’s always such a great adventurous date idea! We’ve recently found that there are actually a bunch of zip lining places near us. Google it and see if there are any near you. SO MUCH FUN!

26. Play laser tag

Bring back this childhood favorite for your adventurous date night. You’ll get your competitive juices flowing and also have some laughs because who can take themselves all that seriously holding a laser gun? Loser buys ice cream…

27. Go hiking

Hiking is one of our favorite adventurous date ideas. We love checking out all the different hiking spots near us. Not only is it a great way to get your endorphins going, it’s also so fun to explore new hiking trails and mountains together.

28. Stay up all night

When was the last time you stayed up all night? Make a pact on your adventurous date night to stay up all night and see where the night takes you! In order to stay awake and be entertained all night, we’re sure you’ll come up with all kinds of creative ideas! Finish off your adventurous date night by going somewhere like a rooftop or the beach to watch the sunrise!

29. Go somewhere neither of you have ever been

Some of the best adventures happen in new places! Find a place neither of you have ever been to and go explore! If you are limited on options near you, that’s okay! Just go anywhere and see what you can make of it! Again, remember, it’s all about the mindset! You can find something new and exciting anywhere if you’re willing to look for it!

30. Purposefully get lost

Getting lost can be an amazing way to discover new things and have new experiences. If you can get to a new city or different part of town, this date idea will work best, but if that’s not possible, you can still aimlessly wander anywhere. This is one of my favorite ways to exploring a new place while traveling and it works great as an adventurous date idea as well!

31. Play truth or dare

You can turn this into as tame or risque of an adventurous date idea as you’d like! Choose silly dares or crazy ones, but this can get really fun! And you can learn a lot more about each other with the truth component!

32. Try tandem bungee jumping

Tandem bungee jumping is the perfect activity for daredevil couples! If you’re into extreme adrenaline pumping activities, this would be an amazing adventurous date idea for you! Bungee jumping is really high on my bucket list but not something I’ve been able to convince Bassam to do yet…

33. Sign up for a scavenger hunt

Scavenger hunts are popping up all over! We’ve done several of them and they are so much fun! You usually compete in your partnership or small group against a large group of people and tackle a series of clues all over a city. They usually take a few hours to complete and are a lot of fun! It’s also a great way to work together as a team with your date, which will help you get to know each other more and boost your communication and bonding.

If you can’t find any scavenger hunts in your area, try creating your own!

34. Go sky diving

Okay, this might be a little extreme, but skydiving can be a really great adventurous date idea if you’re into exhilarating activities! You won’t be able to jump at the same time, but you’ll both be buzzing on adrenaline after which will help boost your feelings of love! Tip: choose somewhere with a beautiful view to go sky diving! I did it somewhere without a very nice view and I actually got a little bored.

35. Relive your childhoods

Reliving your childhood can be a really fun date idea! Introduce each other to your favorite activities from you were kids. If you were into different things as kids, it can also be a great way to try new things together! You can also just do fun kid things. Some ideas:

• Swings at the park
• Blow bubbles
• Sidewalk chalk

36. Sneak into a hotel pool

Sneaking into things can be so thrilling! Go on an adventure by trying to sneak into a hotel pool. Half the fun will be getting in and then once you’re in, it’ll be so much fun to date a date by the pool. Keep the adventure going by pretending to have a whole back story of why you are staying at that hotel.

37. Cheer on a mutually favorite team together – or be on opposite sides!

I’m not a big sport lover, but every four years I love watching the World Cup games with Bassam. It’s always such a fun date and we get really into painting our faces with our team colors and cheering on our teams. We are often rooting for opposing teams, which makes it even more heated and exciting. If you’re on opposite teams, why not challenge each other to a fun bet?

38. Go pick something

Apple picking, pumpkin picking, strawberry picking… every season I love going on “picking” dates. Bassam always pretends to complain about it, but he always has so much fun too! Plus. then you can have an adventure in figuring out lots of different things to make with whatever you picked. 

39. Tackle a challenge together

Devise your own challenge and tackle it together! Maybe that’s going to be something like beating a current world record or completing a silly marathon that you make up. The options are endless and it’ll be fun to get creative together to come up with the challenge. 

40. Buy a cheap plane ticket and getaway

If you have a few days off, why not getaway somewhere? Look up the cheapest ticket available that day and go WHEREVER the destination is. Can you imagine a more adventurous date idea?!

41. Take a helicopter ride 

Bassam was initially very reluctant to trying a helicopter ride and then he fell in love! Look up rides around your city for a really exciting and adventurous date night idea! If you want to take it up a notch, try to think of a unique helicopter ride. For example, in Alaska we took a ride up to a glacier and in New York we flew in an open door helicopter. Both really added extra adventure to the experience. They were pricier dates than we usually do, but both are experiences we haven’t forgotten. 

42. Cook something different together

Cooking together is always a fun date idea, but for a more adventurous date idea, try cooking something different than anything you’ve made before. You can do a different type of cuisine like Indian or a challenging type of recipe like macrons. No matter how it comes up, consider it an adventure! Bassam and I once spent hours making gnocchi and then at the last step, Bassam overcooked it and it exploded! We ended up eating frozen pizza we had stocked in the freezer, but it was still such a fun adventure and a story we still tell. 

43. Go on a “quarter” drive

This is one of my favorite date ideas and makes for a very adventurous date night. It’s basically the same concept as going on a drive without a predetermined destination, but you let a quarter decide your fate. Establish a set amount of time you’ll drive for and then at every possible turn flip a quarter. Heads you go left and tails you go right. Continue until times up and then do something wherever you end up!

What’s awesome about this date idea, is that it’s also perfect if you’re on a budget! Check out this post for more budget date ideas .

44. Explore a haunted house

Haunted houses are usually popular fall date ideas, but why not explore a haunted house anytime of year? Most towns have a local haunted house that’s surrounded by a ghost story. Look up the closest one near you and go and see if you can find any ghosts yourselves!

45. Crash a party

Crashing a party always leads to an adventure! Find a low key wedding or a raging party and try to crash it. Give yourselves back stories and fake identities and see if you can pass as invited guests. We’ve accidentally (for real it is an accident!) crashed a wedding in the past and it was so fun! We were walked around one night and stumbled upon a party at an outdoor bar. We thought it was just a regular bar, but after we were dancing for awhile, we realized it was rented out for a private party, a wedding! It was too late to leave at that point, we already had drinks and everything, so we stayed and partied with the weddings guests. A date to remember!

46. Go camping

Okay, I’ll confess, camping is not exactly my thing, but even I have to admit, it is an adventure. If you’re not a camper like me, try something like glamping. The one time I went real camping was in Jordan in a Bedouin tent and that was well worth it! Such an adventure! If you can find a unique experience like that, it’ll add so much more adventure to your experience! 

47. Check out a shooting range

This is one of Bassam’s favorite activities and so sometimes I’ll go with him. It’s actually a really great stress reliever and can be quite an adrenaline rush! 

48. Go cliff jumping

I love cliff jumping! No matter how many times you do it, there’s still a great adrelenine rush that comes with it. Jumping together can be really romantic as well! Just make sure it’s a safe place to jump. You don’t want to jump somewhere with shallow water or a lot of rocks, so do some research first. Other than that, it’ll be fun to check out different places! 

49. Visit a karaoke bar

Karaoke makes for a way more adventurous date night idea than your standard dinner and a movie! Check out a karaoke bar together and each sing a song to each other or do a duet together! Even if you’re not good singers, that’ll still be part of the fun! If your hesitent to sing in front of an audience, look to see if your town has private karaoke rooms. Those can be so much fun! 

50. Try an unusual food

We love foodie adventures! Why not try a new type of food on your adventurous date night? It could simply be a food you’ve never tried before or maybe it could even be something that kind of scares you or grosses you out! One time Bassam and I tried grasshoppers on our adventurous date night. We weren’t big fans, but it was cool to try! Another time when Bassam was feeling up to being adventurous, we tried oysters. That’s not a gross food, but it is something that Bassam avoided for a long time. He ended up loving them and now always gets them!

51. Take a food tour of all one specific food item

Why not create your own food tour? Pick a specific food time or type of cuisine and go food hopping as you try all the different places around you. You can even create a scoring sheet and rank the different places you try, as you attempt to find your new favorite!

52. Build a fort at home

Dates like this are always so silly and fun! Pretend to be kids again and make forts in your living room. It’s a perfect spot to cuddle up and get cozy together!

Check out this post for more budget date ideas

53. play childhood favorites at an arcade.

Bassam and I love having Pacman competitions anytime we come across an arcade. It has been our thing since we started dating. Pick a game that’s “your game” and play it every time you come across it or just head to a local bar and play all your childhood favorites! 

54. Have a drink at an unusual bar

We love going to an unusual bar for a drink when we feel like being adventurous. We’ve tried tiki bars, ice bars, 80s themed bars, etc. Look for unique bars in your area and take your pre dinner drink there. That’ll be a great way to start your date night on an adventurous tone.

55. Try to beat a world record

Look through the Guinness Book of World Records and pick a record that you can set out to beat! Even if you don’t succeed, it’ll still be fun to try!

56. Go skinny dipping

This doesn’t really need an explanation, but find any body of water: a pool, an ocean, a lake- and go skinny dipping together!

57. Try a different mode of transportation

Switching up your daily routine is always an adventure and finding a different mode of transportation can be a great way to do that! Think of a mode of transportation you don’t typically use and do that! For example, Bassam and I almost always drive. Living in Los Angeles it’s just the norm. On the rare occasions that we decide to bike or walk, it’s always an adventure! It would be even more of an adventure to take a train or the bus, even though we have a car. Try switching up your routine and see what happens!

58. Volunteer somewhere meaningful to you

Volunteering is a great bonding activity. Doing feel good things like this boosts serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin chemicals in your body. If you remember, we discussed earlier how those are also the same chemicals your body releases when you fall in love. Use that to your advantage by volunteering together and get a release of feel good lovey chemicals!

Whatever cause is meaningful to you is perfect, but here are some ideas:

• Soup kitchen
• Animal shelter
• Children’s hospital
• Elderly living home
• Make toiletry bags to hand out in an area with a large homeless population 

59. Go on a road trip without a predetermined destination

We LOVE going on road trips and we especially love going on road trips without a pre determined destination! It’s always such an adventure! Even if you don’t have a whole weekend and you have just a day, you can still do this! If you are like, noooo way we can’t go somewhere without knowing where we are going, at least make your route flexible. We often will have an end destination, but will allow ourselves plenty of time along the way to stop in random little towns and explore. It’s always the unexpected moments that you can’t plan that lead to the best adventures! 

60. Visit a local bookstore or library and choose books at random

I think books are such a great way to have an adventure without leaving home. Go to a bookstore or library together and select books at random to read together. Be open minded about the subject and the genre. You never know what might interest you or what you might learn.

61. Take a random tour

Go on any random tour in your city. You’d be surprised how many different establishments offer tours and even if it’s not something you think you’re interested in, you’ll be surprised at how fun it might be or what you might learn. Are you noticing yet that a big theme in adventurous date ideas is the unexpected and the random?

Ideas of places to check for tours:

• Tourist hot spots
• Museums 
• Universities

62. Be a tourist in your own city

Have you ever noticed that a tourist often does all the awesome things there are to do in a city but the locals usually have never done them? We lived in Los Angeles our whole lives and STILL haven’t been to the Hollywood Sign! I don’t think Bassam has ever seen the Walk of Fame! As cheesy as your local tourist attractions sound, go on a tour of all the biggest ones your city. You might be surprised by the adventures you’ll have! 

63. Go to an indoor trampoline park

Indoor trampoline parks are so much fun and also an amazing workout. This is a great way to be silly together and get your endorphins pumping. Go visit one near you and see what kinds of tricks you guys can do together!

64. Go geocaching

If you’ve never been geocaching, it’s a really cool adventurous date idea. It’s basically like a real life scavenger hunt. You use a GPS device, like your phone, to find geocaching hotspots in your area. Then you find that location, almost like a treasure hunt, and see what has been hidden there. If can also hide your own treasures for others to find. More info here.

65. Go paintballing

Paintballing is one of Bassam’s favorite adventurous date ideas. I don’t love it because you can get pretty hurt, but I’ll admit it is really fun! It’s a great way to boost endorphins and it’s also a great teamwork activity, which helps improve your communication and boost your bond.

66. Visit a fortune teller

Whether you believe fortune tellers are legit or not, this can be a really adventurous date idea. Go check out a fortune teller and see what they have to tell you about your fortune together. If it ends up being bad, just laugh it off, it’s probably not real anyway.

67. Go on a ghost tour

Most cities offer official ghost tours and if not, you can make up your own by looking up ghost legends in your town. Even if you don’t believe in it, it’ll still be fun to explore your town at night and probably check out new spots you haven’t been to before.

68. Go on a dinner adventure

Going on a dinner adventure is a great way to spice up a dinner date night. In our town we have things like a pirate theme dinner, a medieval nights theme dinner, dinner in the dark where you eat blindfolded, etc. Look around your area to see what types of dinner adventures you can find. If you can’t find any, you can also host your own mystery dinner party!

69. Do some spring cleaning – any time of year

Wait wait for spring to do some cleaning? Spend time bonding with your loved one while also organizing and cleaning out your space. It’ll be an adventure because you never know what you’ll find! Plus, you can go to a local thrift shop to donate the items and then buy each other silly presents. 

70. Visit your local farmers market

We love going to the farmers market so much that now it’s part of our weekly routine! We head there every week to pick up our staples and also at least one thing that we’ve never tried before. There are bound to be many things you’ve never tried or seen before. Sample them while you’re there or just pick up something without trying it. You can even challenge yourselves to make a meal out of only things you bought at the farmers market.

Check out this post for tips on shopping the farmers market like a pro

71. Hit up an improv show

Improv shows are always an adventure because you never know what will happen and what way the show will go. Attending a show or participating in one would make for a great adventurous date! 

72. Do something you’ve never wanted to do

No, that’s not a typo. Doing things you’ve never wanted to do or never thought you were interested in are a really great way to get out of your comfort zone and therefore, have an adventure! We aren’t suggesting you do something that goes against your values, but more like something you just don’t think you’re interested in or maybe scares you a bit. Go into this with an open mind and see what happens. 

73. Grow something together

Growing an herb garden or even just a single plant together can be an adventurous date idea, especially if you’ve never done something like that before! Before you dismiss yourselves as not being green thumbs, give it a try. Getting the proper care advice from a professional and starting with an easy plant can be really helpful. Bassam and I are not green thumbs in the slightest, so when we grew grape vines in our backyard we asked the nursery for care instructions. A year later, our grape vine was growing and thriving and it felt so exciting! This is a great long term commitment to take on together and also a great way to work together as a team.

74. Look for treasure at an antique shop

We love antique hunting as an adventure! Even if you aren’t shopping for anything in particular, go see what you can find. You might find some really interesting things! You can also turn it into a game, like see who can find the most extra chandelier or who can buy the best gag gift for under $5. 

75. Stargaze and try to figure out the constellations

This is a romantic date idea that can also be really adventurous! Head somewhere where there are not a lot of lights, bring something to lie on, and lie down and stargaze!

It could be really fun to look up different constellations, try to find them, and learn what they mean.

You can also make up your own constellations and makeup stories about them that have things to do with your own relationship story. 

76. Pretend to be strangers

The beginning of a relationship is so exciting, why not recreate that? Pick a place and both of you go there and pretend to “meet” for the first time. Flirt with each other and try to get each other’s number by the end of the night ;-).

If you want to take this up a notch, you can also recreate You’ve Got Mail . For a week, strictly communicate with each other via email, pretending you met online and have never met in real life. Send each other really cute, flirty, and witty emails all week. Then at the end of the week, pick a spot to “meet” for the first time. Don’t forget to tell each other what you’ll be wearing so that you can recognize each other!

77. Go skating

Whether you choose roller skating or ice skating, going skating is always such a fun date idea! Neither of us are very good at all and I’m much worse than Bassam, but that just gives us an excuse to hold on to each other a little tighter and it’s always a fun time!

78. Hit up a bingo night

Okay, okay, I know bingo sounds like an senior citizen date idea, but it can be goofy and so much fun! Remember, adventurous date ideas are all about going into things with an open mind! You never know how fun this can be! Plus, in our area we have drag queen bingo and that’s EXTRA fun! 

79. Watch a movie at a drive in

Taking it back old school with this adventurous date idea. Discover the joy of sitting on the hood of your car and making out for the duration of an entire movie. 😉

80. Go on a tasting adventure

Wine tasting is one of our favorite things to do, but tastings don’t have to stop at wine tasting! Choose literally anything and go turn it into a tasting adventure! Whether your tastes lean more towards ice cream, whiskey, chocolate truffles, french fries, whatever, go have a tasting or make a tasting at home. ( Read here how we throw wine tasting parties at home ! We also did a smoothie tasting party !)

81. Go on a hot air balloon ride

This is something that has been on my bucket list for a long long long time, but I haven’t gotten Bassam to agree to it quite yet. Please go on this adventurous date night idea and let me know so I can live vicariously through you! 

82. Find your way out of an escape room

Escape rooms have been trending for awhile and we are all about that trend. It’s such a fun adventurous date idea! If you’ve never been to one, the concept is that you’re in themed locked room and you have to solve the puzzle or mystery to find the key to get out. It’s usually also usually timed. We like this activity more as a double date than just a duo because it’s a lot for just two people to do, but either way it’s really fun!

83. Host a murder mystery dinner

You can probably find a murder mystery dinner to attend in your town, but why not host your own? You can order sets on Amazon that have everything you need to throw the party. All the guests get to participate and it’s really really fun!

84. Visit an observatory

Observatorys make for such a romantic and adventurous date idea. They usually have a great view of the city and telescopes for you to check out the stars. Plus you might learn something new, which always makes for an adventure! 

85. Make out at an aquarium 

I know this is random, but aquariums have always seemed like the perfect makeout spot to me! Go try it out and let me know what you think! 

86. Place a bet together

Bassam is a big poker player, so I’ve taken to playing 3 card poker with him sometimes. It’s always a really fun date idea, especially if our table is fun. You can also try sports betting, craps, or blackjack- whatever sounds interesting to you! I personally like craps the best!

87. Play photographer

Grab a camera, your iPhone will work, and set out to explore your town through a “photographers” eye. It’s amazing what details you’ll discover that you’ve never noticed before when you’re looking at through the lens of a camera! You can also take photos of each other, which will be a romantic way to notice each other in a new way. 

88. Try wacky foods and play games at a county fair

We love going to county fairs, riding the various rides, and trying all the wacky foods. Head over to the next county fair in your area and see what kind of adventure it can be!

89. Search for a celebrity 

This is a silly one, but why not search for a celebrity who lives in your city or has come there on tour? In Los Angeles we have star maps that people can purchase and go look for movie star homes, which is where I came up with this idea from, but it could be an adventure to recreate it! 

90. Go foraging for food

This is something I’ve always wanted to do! Most cities have foragers who offer classes in foraging! Even if you live in a super urban area, there’s such thing as urban foraging. You basically go with the guide to search for food in the wild! This is such a fun adventurous date idea and perfect for foodies who want to learn more about where their food comes from.

91. Take a wine blending class 

If you’re a wine love you’ve probably been wine tasting, but have you ever tried wine blending? Many locations offer special classes where you can make your own blend of wine! This is the perfect adventurous date idea for wine lovers!

92. Try your hand at stand up comedy

Going to comedy shows is always fun, but why not try your hand at it? You can do a duo act or a solo act, either way it’ll be a fun adventure!

93. Be on the audience of a TV show

We’ve done this one a few times and it’s always so much fun! If there’s a TV show that’s filmed in your area, you can usually sign up to be in the audience. If not, maybe you can try pretending to be paparazzi and hang out around the filming location, waiting for your chance to take a photo! 

94. Camp in your backyard

I’m not a fan of camping, but camping in my backyard or living room is something I can get behind. If you want the adventure, but don’t want the lack of bathrooms and such, try setting up camp at home! It’ll be just as much fun and you won’t have to go anywhere to make it happen. 

95. Learn a magic trick 

Learning a magic trick together can be a fun adventurous date idea! If you can learn a two person trick that can you perform for others, you’ll have a fun party icebreaker for life!

96. Go off roading

This was one of Bassam’s adventurous date ideas. Off roading is one of his favorite activities! Just make sure you find a location that’s safe before doing this and you have the proper car. Have fun, you wild ones!

97. Be each other’s muses

Whether or not you have an artistic bone in your body, spend your date night being each other’s muses and do something to creatively express how you feel about the other person. You could write them a story, draw a portrait of each other, create a sculpture of each other, or create an abstract painting that expresses your love. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be an adventure! 

98. Get inspired

Do something together that will further your personal development. Some examples:

• Go watch a Ted Talk
• Get tickets for a motivational talk
• Go on a self development retreat
• Read an inspirational self development book

99. Try a food that freaks you out

Figure out a food that scares you and try it! You never know what you’ll think! You can also find a fun way to cook it! Exploring fears in a safe way with your partner is actually a great way to boost feelings of love.

100. Go test drive your dream car

Pretend you won the lottery and can buy the car of your dreams – go test drive it! Just asking to drive it will be thrilling, never mind the actual drive! 

101. Go smash things

Okay, this is so incredibly cool. We recently discovered this thing called “smash rooms”. They are rooms that are set up for you to, wait for it, DESTROY! It’s such an amazing way to get out aggression in a safe way and get your endorphins pumping. We think this is an awesome adventurous date idea!

Well, there we have it! 101 adventurous date ideas! Congrats to you if you made it all the way through! We hope you found something here to spice up your next date and would love to know your favorite ideas! Until next time! xo, Lena & Bassam

Did you like this post on adventurous date ideas? Please pin it!

January 31, 2019 at 1:03 pm

I am SO impressed with this post!!!! Ya’ll are amazing. What a great read and so many good ideas! Will be sharing 🙂

Katherine | http://www.oneswainkycouple.com

January 31, 2019 at 11:47 pm

Aw yay! I’m so happy you liked it, Katherine! Thank you for the super sweet comment!

February 2, 2019 at 11:15 am

These are all so fun! My boyfriend and I love to go ice skating – we go so much we both have our own skates. 🙂

Last Valentine’s day I surprised him with a fun date. Told him to wear something comfortable that he could move around in, and we went axe throwing! Super fun.

February 3, 2019 at 9:46 pm

OOHH axe throwing is such a good idea! Bassam and I definitely need to try that!

February 2, 2019 at 11:28 am

SO MANY IDEAS. WOW. Ill never have a date night I need to actually plan again haha

February 3, 2019 at 9:45 pm

Haha hope you’ll have fun trying them out!

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400+ Amazing Date Ideas That’ll Make a Good Impression

Home Dating 400+ Amazing Date Ideas That’ll Make a Good Impression

Updated on Oct 06, 2022

Are you looking for new date ideas to spice your dating life?

If you love your partner, of course, you’re always looking out for fun ways to spend some more time together.

But in the run to make it special for our S.O., most of us tend to think too fancy!

With every date idea… your mind tells you “No, I don’t think that’s interesting enough”

“I think it’ll be boring with just the two of us.”

That’s where you’re going wrong… because nothing is boring when you do it together for your partner’s happiness. You cherish them and that’s all one needs…

Still, to help you steer clear of the confusion here’s me, presenting you with a list of 400+ date ideas – with everything that you’ll ever need! 😉

So, now let’s begin with you…

Date Ideas Infographic

First date ideas

First dates can make you nervous, you obviously want to cast a bloody-good first impression.

Don’t worry, I got your back, mate. Here are a few ways to sweep her off her feet on the first date…

1. Visit a botanical garden together

Botanical gardens are full of mesmerizing greenery – a perfect ambiance for two love-struck people starting to know each other while basking in the beauty of nature.

2. Go for a classic movie date

Reach the movie theater in the afternoon to spend time later discussing the movie. You have an excuse to hang out longer and a topic to keep the conversation going.

3. Fix up a wine tasting date

Stopover a nearby vineyard and pamper yourselves with some wine. It is not just soothing but also provides you with a perfect environment to keep the chitter-chatter going.

Plus, you can always buy a few bottles of wine for your second date ! 😉

4. Compete at a video game club

Indulge in some friendly competition to break the ice. You’ll have fun and find ways to show each other great skills. Pro tip: Lose a few rounds if they’re new to it.

5. Tour some thrift stores

Go around a few thrift shops and buy each other a complete outfit within a fixed amount. Discuss each other’s deals to find interesting deets about each other.

6. Sign up for poetry reading

If poems fascinate you two, make romantic poetry about your partner and perform it in a poetry reading club. Immerse yourself in a romantic ground, amidst the crowd.

7. Have Lunch at nearby restaurant

Choose your favorite eateries or a few restaurants that you both want to try. Indulge in the delicious paradise while exploring each other’s hearts.

Don’t forget to ask them about their favorite food beforehand and place a secret order!

8. Watch a live comedy show

Live shows won’t get you any chance of talking, but you’ll know each other’s sense of humor a little better and make great first date memories laughing together.

9. Visit a flea market

Though second hand, flea markets have great varieties of products at cheaper prices. Take your partner and look around for the best things suitable for each other.

10. Go boat riding

Rent a boat all to yourselves and spend some time together, without anyone’s interference. Choose a sunny day to lose yourself in your partner’s eyes on this date.

After an awkward yet successful date, he/she promised to see you soon, so here are some plans for your second date .

Second Date Ideas

If your first date went well, you’ve of course set a higher bar for the second one… Don’t worry I got your back with these interesting ideas to blow his/her mind…. Once again!

11. Hit up an art museum

Whether you guys have a knack for art, or not… visit an art museum and discuss your perception of the art. Learn each other’s views to know them better.

12. Go stargazing

If you’re ready to go out of your comfort zone, identify a cozy and breath-taking area beforehand for stargazing. Reach the venue before dusk to experience a romantic sunset along with him/her.

13. Go for a “Sample” ice cream date

Ice cream dates can never go wrong… and when you’re sampling all the flavors from a store… Umm, you’ll surely win his/her heart with this.

14. Do some gardening together

Visit the market to buy some plants of your choice. Plant it and get dirty while spending time with them. Your accidental touches will spark a pre-seed romance in this date activity. 😉

15. Visit an old bookstore

While smelling old books and skimming through some favorite stories, chat about your favorite characters with your favorite.

You can also recommend each other new books, and fix another date to further discuss them.

16. Hit an escape room

Escape rooms need a lot of coordination to successfully find a way out. So, you’ll spend a few fun hours together in a room and steal your girl’s heart once again.

17. Visit an amusement park

Ride some challenging rides and explore their fun side. More time for you to be romantic while tending to their motion sickness.

18. Involve in volunteering together

If volunteering is important to you, show him/her your caring side with this date activity. If you guys share similar thoughts, you’ll hit it off better in the coming days.

19. Learn ice skating together

Ice skating is tricky and trippy so hold your partner tight on this date. If it’s a first, you’ll fall more and laugh harder.

20. Try horseback riding

Horseback riding is thrilling and if either of you can’t ride, even better! Ride one horse together for a more romantic experience.

Don’t miss the beat to impress your princ(ess).

Hey there, lucky lad/lass. Luck is on your side… and it seems as if you have caught your next date!

So, let’s check out some more…

Third Date Ideas

If you already came past two dates, you’re already an official couple. Hopefully, now you can drop the shoulders and by yourself around them.

If not, I’m back with some more great ideas!

21. Plan a day at the Planetarium

Stargazing at a hillside might feel exotic but a planetarium is a better choice when the weather outside isn’t good. You can see them up close with higher clarity.

22. Play table tennis

Outdoor games are fine but when the weather’s not on your side, indulge in indoor games like table tennis. Get close while teaching them and break a sweat together.

23. Do a horror movie marathon

Choose the scariest movies for the marathon and grab a blanket. If your partner is one of the I-don’t-like-horror-movies types, they will grab your arm in all the epic moments – don’t miss the chance, darl.

24. Visit your favorite spot

Everyone has this one spot they visit whether they feel happy, sad, or overwhelmed. If you have such places, show him/her. Your date will feel a bit closer to you.

25. Bring out your artistic sides

Even if you’re bad at sketching or painting, try this fun idea. You both can try making portraits of each other. Exchange the portraits and have fun laughing at them.

26. Awaken the Dora in you

Go to some never-explored areas in your locality and immerse in pretty sceneries. Unique shops or restaurants might surprise you so find new and interesting sides to each other.

27. Enroll in pottery classes

Learn to model clay together in the locality. Let your wet hands find your way to each other while making souvenirs of this beautiful day. Entangling muddy fingers can send sparks up your spine.

28. Play a board game

Board games can be fun, competitive, work up your noggin, and you’ll also find your intellectual compatibility with it. Play a common board game and start off with low difficulty.

29. Walk in the local park

Go for a stroll in the local park with your date and find a chance to hold their hand while walking. Have a good time while breathing in the fresh air.

30. Get each other coffee

Visit a coffee shop and order some snacks for each other. In the end, you’ll have a warm drink and lots to discuss during your date.

Enough with being on edge, it’s time to have fun together with your date. If you can’t come up with any, here for some…

Fun date ideas

Anything and everything can be fun if there’s a little adrenaline rush and lots of laughter. But you also need some background research at least to know what really makes them laugh.

31. Go bungee jumping together

Feel the rush and excitement of bungee jumping with each other. The adrenaline will get your heart beating like crazy and you’ll feel you’re falling in love once more.

32. Join a cooking class

Learn to cook together and know each other’s cooking skills. You’ll learn something new together and can charm them with your kitchen skills. Prepare a cute couple’s apron for more fun.

33. Explore without a map

Challenge each other to find a new place together and return without using any digital maps or compasses. Go out on this adventure but carry your phones for emergency situations.

34. Book for couple’s zip lining

If you both are adventurous, you definitely can’t miss out on this one. Combine it with dinner and you’re set for the whole day.

35. Enjoy a rage room

If you’re crazy or want to check out how crazy he/she is, visit a rage room. Also, if something’s bugging your date, he/she can let off their anger there.

36. Go on a morning jog

Apart from the health benefits, you can also test each other’s stamina on your morning jog. Also, seeing your date sweat is a different kinda excitement – if you know what I mean! 😉

37. Join the gym together

If jogging doesn’t work for you, then go to the gym to find out something in common. Spend more time during classes and bond while encouraging each other.

38. Ride a hot air balloon

Book a hot air balloon if you don’t mind the expenses. Enjoy the breath-taking view with your date and follow up with food to combine romance and fun.

39. Go for rock-climbing

Though going out of your comfort zones is challenging, try rock climbing on the next date. You’ll create an unbreakable bond after this date with great memories.

40. Wear funny outfits

Choose funny attires for each other, wear them and do a fun ramp walk. Embarrass yourself together and take pictures as keepsakes. Goof around and make your date skip a heartbeat.

So, your girlfriend/boyfriend likes pretty stuff and you want to touch their heart with something kweettee? You can always buy them a teddy bear but isn’t that a bit too cliché?

Cute date ideas

If your lover is playful and mischievous, you need to awaken your intelligent mind. Find out what he/she really wants, and then plan your cute date .

You can also seek some help from this list.

41. Play with water guns

If you’re daring enough, tell him/her that you’ll make them wet on your date. Refill your water guns and revisit your childhood with your date.

42. Compete in kite flying

Fly a kite as high as possible on your next date and for the icing on the cake, make sure the loser is given a punishment! 😉

43. Go to the zoo

The zoo is full of animals of all sizes and you can go “aww”s and “ahh”s on your date. Feed the animals (if allowed) and spend a memorable day.

44. Visit a pet-friendly restaurant

Some people love pets but can’t get them because of family or landlord’s restrictions. Go to a pet-friendly café and spend a cozy day with the animals.

45. Visit the aquarium

Aquariums have colorful and exotic fishes and a dark ambiance. While your date is busy appreciating the fishes, seize the chance to hold hands – trust me they’ll love it!

46. Go to a sports event together

If there’s any sports event around the corner, that can be a great date. Moreover, bonus points if you end up in the kiss cam though!

47. Attend a flower exhibition

Some places put up flower exhibitions and competitions, if you hear about any of them, that’s a great date idea.

48. Go to a fair together

Enjoy the exotic attractions of stalls and rides at a nearby fair. If it’s crowded, you’ll stick to each other and find an excuse to be romantic. 

49. Share your bucket list

Write down your bucket lists in chits, mix them and then each of you pick one, and share your thoughts about fulfilling it. Brownie points for planning your next date while you’re at it.

50. Compete in memorizing games

Pick random books and ask each other to memorize small paragraphs from them within minutes. Make a few levels from easy to hard. The winner gets to choose their prize.

If your partner is a dreamy person, reads romance stories, or watches lots of romance flicks, then their ideal date will be a romantic one. So check out these…

Romantic date ideas

It has been quite a few dates and you still haven’t explored their romantic side? Don’t worry, you’ve got lots of opportunities to take them out on a perfect dreamy and romantic date with the ideas listed below.

51. Ride a Ferris wheel

Ferris wheel rides are the best because you get to be together and get your own space even in public. Lean in for a kiss when you reach the top.

52. Watch fireworks together

Fireworks and kisses were always a good combination. So, tell your partner about fireworks watching, they’ll get the hint. Lean in for your shot when you get the chance.

53. Watch a romantic movie

Get a romantic DVD and watch it together. Order takeout and buy some wine beforehand to make the perfect date. Cuddle on the couch and vibe with the movie.

54. Join a dance class

Find a couple’s dancing class in your area. Get close while you learn to dance with your date. You might trip over his/her feet, but the intimacy is worth it.

55. Visit a tower

Go to a tower around your city after sunset and enjoy the twinkling city lights with your date. Don’t forget to wrap them in your arms if it’s too windy outside.

56. Exchange hobbies

Share your hobbies and indulge in both of them. You’ll learn a new activity and something new about your partner making you guys closer than ever.

57. Share family albums

Family albums hold lots of memories and feelings. If you’re ready to share your family albums, you’re already close enough. Time to share some embarrassing childhood stories with your boo.

58. Take a weekend vacation

Even if you hardly get time, take your partner on a vacation over the weekend and enjoy each other’s warmth, away from the daily humdrum and hectic schedule of life.

59. Attend live music with bae

Surprise him/her with live music fest tickets – preferably of your partner’s favorite genre – and cultivate your love for each other. Prepare yourself to dance if your partner is really excited.

60. Plan a candlelight dinner

If you’re fine with splurging, then take your girl out on a candlelight dinner in a fancy restaurant. Plan complimenting outfits beforehand to look sexy and gorgeous together.

Is your partner down with the flu, or hurt their leg? Why don’t you go over to their place and help them through this time? Meanwhile, you can use some…

At home date ideas

If he/she is stuck at home or just not feeling like stepping out, no worries here’s my trick! Have a date night at your home , do something together and bask in each other’s presence.

61. Get creative in the kitchen

Make a brand new recipe with your lover. Toss in your favorite ingredients in a basket and add some fancy spices. Couples who cook together, live together!

62. Have candlelight fast food

When dining at a fancy restaurant isn’t possible, order KFC or McD at home and have a cozy candlelight dinner at home. Wear fancy outfits for a luxurious vibe.

63. Paint each other’s face

Get some bodypaint and take turns to paint each other’s faces. It’s silly, fun, and includes physical contact and intimacy.

64. Have a dessert-making competition

Know each other’s favorite dessert ingredients and try making something exotic without checking the internet. Rate each other’s masterpiece when you’re done. This date activity will help you bond.

65. Try Netflix and Chill?

Choose some shows beforehand, and cuddle in your lover’s arms in the bed while watching some great shows you both want to watch. It’s soothing, romantic, and a modern classic.

66. Play video games

While staying at home might seem boring, playing video games can spice things up and awaken your inner gamer. If you’re not a pro, your lover will teach you.

67. Pamper each other

Give each other a body massage and a spa to relieve the week’s tension. If you hardly get time away from work, it’s time to calm your nerves.

68. Indulge in indoor photo-shoot

Put on your best attire, groom yourself, hang some fairy lights in the background and pose away for some aesthetic couple pictures. Frame and hang the best ones later.

69. Solve a puzzle together

Take out a jigsaw puzzle and start solving it together. You’ll bond during the activity and even reminisce about some old memories with your lover.

70. Have a karaoke at home

Find lyrics to your favorite music, put on the song on YouTube, and sing away old songs from your high school. Make sure you pick some really embarrassing songs and some romantic ones too.

If you want to make your next date the best one till now, I’ve got a few ideas here and there. But, to play safe, make sure you know his/her likes and accordingly make the best pick.

Best date ideas

Maybe it’s his/her birthday, or your first-meet anniversary, or any other special occasion… and you planned to make this one the best date ever! Here are a few date plans for your best date…

71. Go playing putt-putt

It’s a silly game and it can get on your nerves but don’t get angry or frustrated. You’re there for fun while you laugh at each other’s shots.

72. Tour your area

You possibly didn’t cover all the tourism spots in your city/town. Go on a date at a tourist’s spot with your date and make some new memories with him/her.

73. Try a tandem bicycle

Ride on a tandem bicycle and go tour a faraway romantic place. The second cyclist can hold the waist of the first making it more romantic.

74. Play with paintballs

Prepare to color some white outfits while playing with paintballs. Shower each other in the color of your passion. You can keep the outfits as keepsakes too.

75. Feast on some fancy desserts

Visit a fancy dessert outlet close to you and order one of each kind of dessert available there. Share the desserts to feel more intimate with your partner.

76. Read books in the library

There’s a catch in this one! Sit side-by-side and take turns reading pages with your partner. Since it’s the library, whisper the story near your date’s ears.

77. Go grocery shopping together

Who says getting groceries is boring? Get your crush to tag along and find happiness in even the most basic activities in your life.

78. Go for ballroom dancing

If you have any events to attend, take the chance to ask your date out as your plus-one. You might also meet up beforehand to brush up on your dancing skills.

79. Make Jack-o’-lanterns together

If it’s fall, ring up your partner for a pumpkin carving date. Pick up some pumpkins together and get ready with the Halloween décor in the lazy afternoons.

80. Bake a cake with him/her

If Christmas is around, bring over your partner and start baking cakes together. Whisk up those eggs while they sieve the flour. Take your time enjoying the baking.

Being the perfectionist you or your partner is, the best date might not seem enough for these special days. That’s fine because I also have some….

Perfect date ideas

Put together a soothing, unforgettable date with some of these ideas. Flaunt your perfectionist side while you keep in mind your date’s emotional and mental needs.

81. Re-enact your favorite date

If you’re dating for long, there has to be a favorite. Go replay that favorite one once again and cherish the sweet memories. Live the adrenaline rush once again!

82. Take out your coloring books and pencils

Who said coloring is for children? Get two books and a set of colors and start relieving your stress together. Eventually, you’ll find a good topic to strike a conversation with while you’re at it.

83. Attend a ballet dance show

Take her out to watch a ballet performance. The smooth movements of the ballerinas will remind her how thoughtful and romantic you are. Pair it with dinner later on.

84. Feed the birds together in a park

Go visit a park with her and sprinkle some bread crumbs for the birds. You’ll give off a gentle vibe and she’ll fall in love with your sweet side.

85. Go to an antique store

Things in the antique stores can be fabulous or bizarre. Visit one with your love and have a lot of fun together while you look for some useful things.

86. Try spelunking together

If you’re adventurous, try spelunking together. It’s a little scary but the key is having faith in each other. This activity will strengthen your love and trust for each other.

87. Visit a haunted house

Many places have haunted houses, look them up. Choose one and try them out. You’ll love the thrill and bond deeply while you find your way out of the house.

88. Prepare a playlist for them

A long drive is always fancy but playing a playlist dedicated to your partner is like a cherry on the cake. You can also sing your hearts out while driving.

89. Play in the animal shelter

Take your date to an animal shelter and play with the animals. If your budding romance is top-notch, you’ll end up adopting some of them and making a family.

90. Try apple picking

Dates around harvest season are best with apple picking. Explore a few orchards and prepare to fall in love while picking this forbidden fruit.

Perhaps your man/woman isn’t obsessed with anything fancy? Perhaps he/she can’t stand the idea of your taking so much pain for one day? So, let’s stay low-key with these…

Simple Date Ideas

Simple doesn’t mean non-exciting. So, take your partner to these simple dates and win their heart all over.

91. Prepare Ice-cream at home

Everyone likes ice cream but what if you can try a new flavor? Think of some unique flavors with your babe’s favorite topping. Flirt and make fantastic ice cream for each other.

92. Try fishing in the river

If you live near a river, this is a great idea, else you can enjoy a long drive to the spot. Spend a lazy afternoon with your lover while fishing.

93. Play Frisbee

Frisbees are quite fun to catch, so get to the playground with your date and relive your childhood memories together. If either of you has pets, bring them along.

94. Attend trivia nights

Go to some popular pub for trivia nights, team up with your partner, and play. Impress him /her with your intelligence, show them you’re more than just a pretty face.

95. Learn new languages

Download some language learning software and learn together. Laugh at each other’s mispronunciation, teach while you dreamily gaze at each other. It helps you secure another date for yourself.

96. Visit a trampoline park

Who doesn’t want to become a child once again? Well, now you can find your inner child together with your partner while jumping on trampolines.

97. Give a shot to couple’s yoga

If you’re not in the habit of doing some physical exercise, couple’s yoga can be quite difficult. So, look forward to a lot of giggles and snickers while you try your best to hold the positions.

98. Donate blood

If you’re healthy and have no phobia, share some of your love with the needy unfortunate ones. Give up a little blood and eat something delicious to regain your strength.

99. Indulge in a food truck crawl

Food trucks have unbelievably delish food. Hop around with your partner and immerse yourselves in the delicious street food from the food trucks.

You’ll have a great day with your boo and of course, a heartful of amazing food.

100. Go for a road trip

Plan a road trip to a faraway site. It may also take a few days, so spending consecutive days with your lover will make up for your lost time.

Perhaps you just can’t stand being simple? You want to do everything for your man/woman and you’re ready to hit over the mark!

Here are some…

Over-the-top Date Ideas

If you both find pleasure in luxury, indulging in something outrageous is your cup of tea. Mentally prepare your date for this flamboyant day with an over-the-top date in your life. 

101. Enjoy a rich couple’s date

Pretend to be a rich couple, test drives some luxurious cars and attend open houses and visit some high-end properties.

102. Hit up the street food stalls

Street food stalls although super tasty never guarantee your health. Now take your chance relishing all kinds of street food from your culture on a Saturday. Make sure you’ve some digestion pills handy, just in case.

103. Indulge in a house project together

Some people have great skills but never got a chance to implement it. So, start working on making your dream home turn into reality.

104. Ban technology for a day

Smartphones help a lot, but they always ring at the wrong times. Leave your gadgets for a day, indulge yourself in each other’s eyes, and keep chatting for hours at the end

105. Have fancy and exotic tea

Nowadays, people are making fancy innovations with tea. If your babe is a tea person, impress them with a fancy and delicious tea like chocolate tea or ice-cream tea.

106. Partake in legal graffiti

Check for places with legal graffiti and make a masterpiece with your partner. Express your love and devotion through your art to him/her. Make it a remarkable date for him/her.

107. Mix booze with “would you rather”

Sip some beer, get drunk and play would you rather. Record yourself on the video to replay later and laugh it out together.

108. Apply makeup on each other

Bring the makeup kit over and give a makeover to each other. The boyfriend may (possibly) not be as good but who cares?

Take pictures after both of you’re done and don’t forget lip-to-lip lipstick! 😉

109. Visit a novelty museum

Novelty museums are in more demand than regular ones. Do some research beforehand and impress your date with your unusual knowledge on the next date.

110. Plan a multi-course dinner at different restaurants

If you guys’ love food as much as bae, then try this idea. Bond while having food at varying restaurants – though it can really have a toll on your digestive system.

Instead of going into anything excessive, you can also try something out of the ordinary. Impress your darling with these…

Unique date ideas

If you want to stand out of the crowd and show originality to your love, you need to think out of the box. How? Don’t worry, I got your back with some ideas!

111. Party without power

Turn off all the gadgets around your house, light the candles, and indulge in some board games, alcohol, and great food. And of course seal the night with a kiss!

112. Go silly with the party-poppers

Do whatever you see at children’s birthday parties – kiddish games, birthday piñatas, lots of colorful decorations. Awake your inner child together.

113. Why not make piñatas?

Well, this one is time-consuming so it might actually need two dates – double fun! Let loose making and breaking the pinata with your lover while laughing at the mess.

114. Makeover an antique piece

Look for a royal-looking object from your local antique shop, and ask your lover to makeover it according to her wishes. Know each other’s likes with this activity.

115. Food sampling in farmer’s market

The farmer’s market has lots of free food. Take your date out to the farmers market and sample until you’re full. Also, bonus points for free meals.

116. Try some YouTube science experiments

Find a few science experiment videos online, buy the apparatus and materials for them. Share your romantic time together with science in your team!

117. Tour a food factory

Remember school field trips? Something like that but a little more romantic. Whisk her off her feet with the cool factory machinery and food sample.

118. Make a time capsule

Write a letter for the future you and your partner ten years from now, put it in a box, and bury it at some special spot.

Years later when you read the letters and reminisce back to this time – I bet, you both will be teary-eyed.

119.  Show your creativity on gray roads

Color boring gray roads with sidewalk chalk and have fun expressing your love with your art. Your goal is a happy companion so draw as bad to make him/her laugh.

120. Play pretend-experts

Visit historical places or museums with your date and fake an expert. Make up random stories about the artifacts. It’ll get hilarious if more people gather.

If you’re planning on a date but can’t splurge too much on your date for some personal reasons, you might back out from this idea. Well, I’ve got great news for you with these…

Cheap Date Ideas

Sometimes, life doesn’t stay on track, and money-making isn’t always easy. But gone are the days when you sacrificed your dates for money issues. After all, money won’t matter with these…

121. Give a makeover to your room

Get some paint and color a dull wall with your imagination but don’t tell each other your ideas. Or, change the furniture position and bond while giving a new look to your home.

122. Fill in a scrapbook

Print your favorite couple of pictures from your phone and get a little messy with some glue and scissors… all while you cherish your pumpkin’s presence in your life.

123. Play games in a coffee shop

Many coffee shops offer board games during your visit. Check out such shops with your lover and indulge in the aroma of coffee while jogging your minds together.

124. Enjoy a picnic in the park

Relish your takeout on a sunny afternoon at the local park with him/her. Cuddle and lay on the ground together while you brush your fingers through his/her hair.

125. Make unique pies

Look up the ingredients for making a pie but jazz it up with different toppings/fillings. Grab everything from the store and put on some romantic music while working on it.

126. Make your own staycation

Grab some fancy bed sheets, curtains, and scented candles and prepare some drinks. Put on some music, dress sexy and enjoy the romantic time with your partner in your staycation.

127. Go karaoke

Pull-on your singing sock, visit all the karaoke bars in town, and get drunk in your babe’s love. Prepare a few love songs to sing for your babe tonight.

128. Learn a card game

Lookup a card game neither of you’re aware of, buy it, and try learning it together. You’ll unknowingly get really intimate by the end of this date.

129. Go gaga on seasonal sales

Find shops with clearance sales and enjoy shopping to your heart. Buy him/her something nice within your budget and grab some fast food.

130. Visit a close town/village

Catch a morning train to the next town, spend your day exploring hand in hand, and return by the next day. Share the whole day with each other.

Just because these ideas still need some bucks in your pockets, you thought of ditching your date? Have faith in me mate! Here are some more ideas…

Free Date Ideas

If you can’t spend money at all, that’s fine too. Don’t feel ashamed and I’m sure you’ll get there someday to buy fancy things for them.

Cherish him/her with these date ideas for loving you truly even when you’re broke.

131. Bowl in your hallway

Line up some empty bottles in your hallway and bowl your heart away with your partner. Have fun goofing in the house! Don’t forget to tidy up later though.

132. Geocache together

Get the application on your phone and explore your locality of caches while spending quality time with your partner while you breathe in romance in the great outdoors.

133. Try roller-skating

It’s even more romantic if either of you doesn’t know how to. One can play the teacher and the other student. Skate your hearts off until one of you fall in the other’s arms! 😉

134. Share stories from your yearbooks

Dust off your yearbooks and introduce your old self to each other. Share random or memorable incidents at school… Spend the day reminiscing about the good times.

135. Give meditation a go

Meditate and get rid of negativity together. Be the coolest couple in town with great compatibility.

136. Have at-home trivia

Look up some good trivia quizzes online for each other and find interesting new facts together. Add zing with a shot of Tabasco for wrong answers.

137. Ride some playground swings

No matter the age, swings are all-time pleasures. Visit the playgrounds to feel the thrill of teenage dates and fall for their childish selves.

138. Play “Never have I ever”

Explore each other’s mischievous childhood memories and share some secrets with your partner (if he/she is willing). Instead of drinking, make them kiss you for not answering.

139. Get back to prom

Deck up in your prom clothes and have a prom night at home. If you weren’t together in high school, you’ll make new memories, otherwise, jog the old ones.

140. Try three-legged jogging

Tie your legs like three-legged racing, and jog! Although it seems simple, you’ll learn to coordinate with your partner with this date activity along with a side hug.

If you want to keep things cool and calm to make up for your noisy heartbeats, you might try something more casual that you might do with friends also. Here are some…

Casual date ideas

Keep it casual if you don’t want to overwhelm yourself or your date. If you still feel like a new couple although it’s been ages, calm things with some causal plans like these…

141. Grab your binoculars for bird watching

Bird watching can be a great idea for lazy bums but you need to search for good spots, prepare a bird-watching kit, and research about a few birds. Impress him /her with unusual knowledge.

142. Play dumb charades

Silently express your words only with actions. It’s so much fun especially when the two of you are making faces and making dumb guesses.

143.  Throw axes together

If you’re nervous about this date, play with some axes. Let off steam and build back your confidence to sweep off their feet!

144. Shop through the windows                   

Try window-shopping with your S.O. and try some out-of-league luxurious clothes. If you can afford it, surprise him/her on a special day with a tie/heels he/she picked.

145. Compete with food

Order tall burgers or huge ramen bowls and compete together. The one to finish first gets to choose dessert! Sounds like a delish date?

146. Book couple’s spa

Put on your swimsuits and soak in the Jacuzzi together. Sweat in the sauna together. If you think sweat is embarrassing, you’re up for a steamy surprise!

147. Enjoy DIY projects

Look up some interesting DIY crafts, and get intimate with this fun and craftsy date. Find more about each other’s tastes through this activity.

148. Try still photography

Even if you don’t have the skill or gadgets, try capturing some shots with a smartphone. Sneak into his/her pictures and compete on who’s better!

149. Make reels or TikTok

Make funny Instagram reels or TikTok videos together and vibe with each other. Although foolish, it’s a great way to amp your date.

150. Try Aura Reading

Try aura reading and check if you’re each other’s soulmates. Although, observe your partner’s expression carefully afterward. Are they happy to be your soulmate ?

If for any chance you want the total opposite of a casual one, I understand. Perhaps, your man/woman is a completely crazy person?

Get back the adrenaline rush in your veins with some…

Adventurous date ideas

If you guys want to spend some time outdoors instead of staying in or visiting places, try some exciting activities. Make your best pick, buddy!

151. Go bouldering

Try this smaller version of rock climbing with your partner. The difference? There’s no support, just a few boulders, and your strength. Strategize your moves together, fall, and love.

152. Soak near a waterfall

You will enter a new world with a “swim or soak together” under a waterfall. Get ready for a dreamy movie-like scene with your babe.

153. Try slacklining

Balance yourself on the line amidst the rocky beautiful nature. If you’re new to it, definitely give this heart-pounding activity a shot. What’s a better date than two crazy beating hearts?

154. Race in Go-karts

What’s better than challenging their inner child with a go-kart on a date? Show them the sport that you are and share a kiss later!

155. Try couple’s Kayak

Double Kayaking is a cooperative mission! You need to stay in sync throughout, but it’s more fun and romantic trying to sync through your date on a water body.

156. Take a skinny-dip

Skinny-dips are risqué and adventurous. Find a hidden place, talk to your partner, and let them decide if they’re comfortable with this date idea!

157. Try your shot with a bow and arrow

If one of you knows archery, you’ll have a good time learning/teaching archery. Get intimate while fixing their back posture and hand positions – line it up with a relaxation time.

158. Indulge in a scavenger hunt

Plan a map for your hunt and a few romantic clues. Since it’s a date, make the clues relatable to your relationship. Prepare a romantic prize too.

159. Try a day trip

Busy schedules call for shorter dates, so make sure you don’t have any meetings this weekend except the one with your partner. Have a good time in each other’s presence.

160. Wrestle in the mud

You get wet, you get dirty and it’s romantic and exciting to playfully wrestle with your date! Follow up with a good shower and blow-dry each other’s hair.

If you’re a teen and reading this, you’re possibly pissed because I didn’t enlist some date ideas specifically for you. But here you go…

Date Ideas for teens

Who said nobody cares for the teenagers? I do, after all, you’re our future. I won’t deprive you of your school life dates! Read on to know more…

161. Bring out your legos

Dust off your lego set and relish some childhood memories. Relate with each other’s lego stories and build something unforgettably romantic.

162. Make a hide-out

Choose abandoned or unkempt areas of your neighborhood and build a secret hide-out or your first home. It may also take multiple dates to complete it… so congratulations on that! 😉

163. Walk the mall ramp

Show him/her yourself in different clothes. See what makes their eyes pop. Know their choice now to mesmerize them at prom.

164. Go bike racing!

Get your bikes and helmets out and race from your house to the movie hall or arcade. The winner gets to choose the movie/game and snacks for the date.

165. Twist “Never Have I Ever”

Say “Never have I ever…” and make your date guess if it’s true or not about you. Know tons of new things about each other with this game.

166. Enjoy a Pizza date

Instead of ordering one, try making a pizza together through your date. Choose your favorite toppings and relish on the savory food. Find great secrets through baking.

167. What about an onion-chopping competition?

Take out two onions, record each other’s chopping until they tear up. You can find the more sensitive one between you two. Don’t forget to wipe out the tears from their eyes, softly!

168. Style each other’s hair

Play with each other’s hair and style them. Give him/her a complimentary massage. You’ll be more intimate and know each other better when you’re done.

169. Include them in chores

Call him/her over when you’re busy with work. Let them hang around in your living room while you get some work done… they’ll also give you a hand.

170. Fancy meals with rock-paper-scissors

Play three rounds each for main-course, drinks, and desserts. Don’t stick to a theme!

One day you’ll graduate high school and get into college. Hope your love still stays strong till then! But you’ll need new ideas once you are promoted to a college…

Date ideas for College Students

Whether you’re dating your high school sweetheart or found a new love in college, it’s hard to balance studies, a light pocket, and dating life.

Yet, take some ideas from here and appreciate college love.

171. Shake up the shakers

Mix up some booze, with flavors and fruits to make an exotic drink for your babe. Drink and party together with some cheap and fun ideas.

172. Customize couple outfits

Grab some fabric paint and two white t-shirts and a dress. Try something quirky instead of twinning phrases. Look up unique couple designs online.

173. Have a dorm picnic

If you’re on a tight budget in college, I understand. Nothing promises a better future than a partner understanding your finances and having a picnic in your dorm.

174. Visit your school

Show them where you played soccer in high school. If you’re from the same school, you have more to reminisce about while walking through the hallways hand-in-hand, making new memories.

175. Play dorm treasure hunt

Dorms are small, messy, and the perfect place for a treasure hunt. Prepare a penalty if your boo can’t find the treasure in time… a kiss maybe?

176. Go on a campus-date

You have a huge campus, canteen, and games in your college… So why not plan a date around that? Make memories while holding each other’s hands or kissing around campus with him/her on your next date.

177. Study in the library

It’s a crucial time of your life, so why not study and seek each other’s help on your weaknesses? You’ll learn faster to impress your boy /girl.

178. Dance-date in the dorm

Download your favorite YouTube music videos and dance to them through your date. It’s a tight space so you’ll have to adjust in each other’s personal space… 😉

179. Plan a hike

If there are mountains around you, grab that date opportunity in the greenery. Climb through the hilly areas, pump up your heart, and hold his/her hands whenever you’re tired.

180. Compete in stone skimming

If there’s a water body on-campus then use it well. Take him/her to skim rocks on the water. If anyone can’t skim stones, learn from each other. Romantic, right?

Moving on from college, you become responsible adults. The sad part is that as you grow up, you can’t spend as much time with your lover as you did in school or college.

So, now when you meet on date nights, make sure they are super-fin and super-romantic. If you’re still confused, take some cues from here.

Date ideas for Adults

Adult life can get tiring with long office hours. Some days you don’t even get to see a glimpse of the love of your life and start questioning the reason behind life. So, let’s make up with these dates!

181. Catch a random train

Take a random train ride with your babe this weekend morning. Buy tickets without looking at the destination and visit a new place…. All while being lost in each other’s eyes.

182. Tour the cemetery

If neither of you’re faint-hearted, go to the cemetery and maybe have a picnic? Trust me it’s not scary, moreover, the peace and tranquility are romantic.

183. What about a metro ride?

When did you guys’ last talk properly? Instead of talking in a room, go on a metro ride while you chat. You can get off wherever you feel hungry.

184. Plan a mini-trip

You earned and saved a lot, now book those tickets to Venice and enjoy a romantic gondola ride. Watch the pretty Venice sunset as you cuddle.

185. Book a couple’s makeover

Get a salon appointment for you two and get a makeover together. Although the results are fabulous, you can make fun of each other throughout the process.

186. Enjoy a mani-pedi date

Instead of going to a professional, give each other’s undivided attention at home with a manicure and pedicure session. You can also color your man’s toenails! 😉

187. Trespass a closed place

Trespass a shutdown factory or a closed amusement park and have the whole area to yourself. You’ll relive your teenage thrill and romance with this activity.

188. Try skateboarding

Add in some new hobby like skateboarding in your dull life. Stay by your love when he/she needs support to learn the activity. Immerse in a youthful romance together.

189. Drive to the rural

Set out for a drive towards the countryside and observe the changing surroundings. Enjoy a rural, pollution-free sunset and return while stargazing or stay till the morning.

190. Camp in the backyard

When you’re too lazy to go anywhere, set up a camp in the yard. Take out your barbecue, prepare a delicious dinner, and cuddle in the tent.

Your world definitely changed since 2019 with the facemasks, hand sanitizer, and all the precautions to prevent getting covid. It was a tough time and you must still stay alert with these…

Date ideas during covid

When the world first crashed down with the global pandemic, you didn’t know how to cope up with it, and neither did I. But I’ll show you how to date through covid because it isn’t going away any sooner.

191. Brew up healthy drinks

Look up some important healthy spices to increase immunity and brew some special drinks with your darling. Also, compete at making the health potions tasty!

192. Cook a nutritious Covid19 meal

You can try using all the covid preventive food experts recommended and create a new dish together. You will of course learn so many new things about each other during this date.

193. Solve mysteries together

Buy a murder-mystery kit and engage in solving them together. It’s a great way to intrigue your brain, and it might take multiple dates if you both are a novice.

194. Go live on Facebook

Try a Question-and-Answer session on Facebook like celebrities. Your FB live notifications will go to your friends and family. Perhaps dance to a romantic song until then?

195. Get craftsy with Sanitizer

Get the necessary ingredients to make your new daily necessity. Check out ideas on the internet together, don’t worry if the plan changes ‘cause you just need some quality time

196. Try snowshoeing

Indulge in some physical exercise along with your honey to keep yourselves healthy during this period of crisis. If you have snow around you, what’s better than that?

197. Give inline skates a shot

Inline skates are much safer than regular roller-skates, so if any of you is clumsy, pick this instead of roller-skates. You’ll feel much calm with your baby’s safety ensured.

198. Travel online

Sign up for online traveling experiences from the comfort of your living room or the lap of your sweetheart. Cuddle and find something exciting to watch tonight.

199. Trivia on an old show

Discuss about your favorite old movies or shows and watch one from each of your list. After watching, test one another’s short-term memory with some questions about minute details.

200. Plan a romantic getaway

Plan a vacation for the times when this pandemic will end and you both can finally step out.

Write down each of your dream destinations, swirl them in a fishbowl and pick up a chit. Now plan your whole itinerary for this getaway.

Well, covid didn’t come alone, did it? It brought along its partner in crime – quarantine! If you’re quarantined again yet, I know just the right ways a couple can cope with it.

Quarantine date ideas

Bet you didn’t know how bad quarantine can get unless you faced it. Work from home basically works all the time, you can’t step out of the house, and even if you’re home, no privacy!

But this doesn’t mean your date nights need to be lifeless too. Here are a few fun date ideas even while you are quarantining.

201. Make a Masterchef video

Awaken your inner Masterchefs to make a great dish together and shoot it on video. Later on, don’t forget to upload it. Make the best of this crisis together.

202. Twist your s’more recipe

Get on with bonfire and custom-make s’mores for each other. Indulge in each other’s love to get rid of the frustration. Escape from the daily boredom to a romantic date tonight!

203. Make a hack video

You and your bae might have some tricks up your sleeve nobody knows. Why don’t you make a hack video and share it with the world during trying times?

204. Innovate in the kitchen

Do you know all the uses of your kitchen appliances? Bet you don’t! Look up some creative and unique usage of your appliance, and try making something new together.

205. Make cute face-masks

Sit down on the living room floor with all the necessities and make one another cute/sexy face masks. Have a heart-lightening time with each other amidst the chaos.

206. Window-shop online

Look up wedding outfits online and rate them. If you’re not married, you’ll get a cue on impressing your darling with your elegant white dress!

207. Twist guessing games

Perhaps, share screenshots of items and make your darling guess its price. You can also discuss how absurd prices are now and were back then in your college days.

208.  Relive precious memories

If you’re married, watch your wedding video, flip through wedding albums or scroll through your FB tags from the wedding day. Take a stroll down memory lane.

209. Binge-watch YouTube

Although you have Amazon Prime, Netflix, yet some creative videos are only available on YouTube. Watch the videos that made you vibe back in your early dating days.

210. Challenge your inner child

Video game competitions are great but how many of you know the cheat codes to it all? Try up all the games at hand as long as possible… and make sure to beat your date, buddy. It’s a different kind of fun and satisfaction.

Once you’re released from house arrest… oops, I meant quarantine, you were still asked to maintain some distance from human contact or as we all call it: social distancing.

How would you date in the times when you’re asked to stay away from each other? Keep reading to find out.

Social distancing date ideas

You finally got a breather out of the four walls, but you must prioritize your safety before romanticizing this moment. I’ll show you how with these amazing ideas we can spend some joyous time together…

211. Try riding a helicopter

Ride a helicopter at night and enjoy the serene view of the empty city roads. It’s adventurous and you can relax around without worrying about the distancing norms.

212. Drop with a parachute

If you live for the thrill, relish the thrill of falling from the sky with a parachute. Feel as light as the feather with your S.O.

213. Go river rafting

If there’s a river around you, try rafting with your sweetheart and adore water splashes while you row through the ups and downs together like in real life.

214. Hit up the golf course

Try golfing with your partner in an empty field. Compete to hit the cup with him/her while maintaining social distance. Don’t hug him/her impulsively in public!

215. Book a patio dining table

Choose a not-so-busy restaurant with larger gaps between tables. Avoid buffets to ensure your and your honey’s safety amidst the pandemic.

216. Attend drive-in movies

The drive-in movies became a hit during the pandemic. So don’t miss out on this chance of a drive-in movie date with your darling in the comfort of your car.

217. Plan morning dates

The rush is quite less in the morning so a date in the morning ensures your darling’s safety with social distancing. So, step out in your pajamas, mate!

218. Have neighborhood dates

If you live around other couples, mail them at their email addresses to plan a balcony or yard date. Fix a time to have fun with your dates, all together.

219. Go on social distancing camps

Camp together with your neighbors. Each family must maintain their distance from others which is a great excuse to stick to your babe all day long.

220. Take online gym classes

The quarantine has made your bones stiff so why not enroll for some online fitness courses? Help each other get the exercises right and lead a healthier life together.

Covid was always a gloomy topic. You and I, both lost many loved ones. But the goal is your date, so let’s move on to something more romantic like…

Valentine’s day date ideas

After covid, your views on a life possibly changed. Perhaps you still avoid crowded areas? Or, you want some alone time at your home’s comfort? No worries, let’s keep romanticizing!

221. Check out a yard sale

If you want to give something to your cutie despite your money issues, then check out a yard sale around your locality. It’ll mean more than a gift to your man/woman.

222. Prepare a fairyland

Get some fairy lights, tinsel, and red paper (cut it in a heart shape!) to decorate your room and surprise your sweet potato on a low budget! Prepare some food and cuddle.

223. Prepare a princess’ bath

Get some scented candles, a bath bomb, and perhaps a squishy duck to prepare your princess’ bath. Decorate the room with candles, rose petals, and your favorite dinner.

224. Custom-make teddy bears

Buy some cotton and fabrics and hand-sew them together. Explore some YouTube videos if you’re not sure. Whatever you make, is your honey bun’s gift for this year!

225. Arrange a swing chair date

Rent two swing chairs and decorate them with fairy lights, white blankets, pink and white balloons and get them out in your yard. Have a romantic meal under the night sky with candles.

226. Create an artsy surprise

Draw her favorite character or a romantic scene on your place’s floor with red chalks. Draw a maze around a gift box with you inside holding the actual gift.

227. Make a personal cinema hall

Set up a projector and a huge screen in your living room or bedroom. Project your favorite show from your checklist. Make some chocolate-drizzled popcorn for snacks!

228. Prepare valentine’s chocolate

The classic valentine’s chocolate from the store is nice, but it can be tastier if your sugar pie makes it along with you. Don’t forget to grab the ingredients together!

229. Do the classic proposal

If you’re planning to marry anytime soon, take this chance to propose to your soulmate this valentine’s day! If you’re married, proposing once again will be silly, romantic, and cute.

230. Record yourself and play

If you’re good at singing, record a few songs for your teddy and play… all while you go for a long drive or drive to your actual date destination (restaurant).

Speaking of proposals , the ideal day for one in western culture is Christmas! So how can we leave it out of the list? You were probably dying for the…

Christmas date ideas

Are the bells of your heart jingling already because of Christmas? After all, it’s the best time of the year when you can cuddle along with your bae, and what else? I’ve got you a few plans down here!

231. Head out for a hot beverage crawl

Go around town to taste the Christmas special hot beverages from every shop around with your chocopie. It’s a great way to get undivided attention on this special day.

232. Go Christmas Caroling

Show up at other newlywed or couple’s homes with some gifts and get down to caroling with your gorgeous “elf”. And don’t forget to practice some carols beforehand.

233. Challenge him/her at caroling

Compete with your man/woman at how many Christmas carols you can sing whole from the beginning to the end. The winner will get to unwrap their Christmas gift first.

234. Bring out old-school Christmas movies

Watch some old Christmas movies with your babe. Buy some cake and wine to set up the Christmas mood. Cuddle and go wild tonight. 😉

235. Make a charcuterie board

Go shopping with your love and prepare your Christmas special charcuterie board. Show off your culinary skills on Christmas and help yourselves to a hearty meal.

236. Enjoy with Gingerbread houses

You can either build a gingerbread house together or compete at making two different ones, that’s completely your call.

237. Decorate for Christmas together

You’ll feel great to get a helping hand for decorating a Christmas tree or the complete house. Introduce your love to the plan and hit it off with this year’s décor.

238. Try baking fancy cookies

If you two love cookies, give a shot at baking Christmas cookies. Enjoy the cookies with milk later. After all, you’re each other’s Santa!

239. Donate to the unfortunate

Gather both of your old and unnecessary childhood clothes and toys. Donate them to the unfortunate ones. Share some love with orphans, this good deed will definitely follow you back.

240. Grab a sled

If you can access snow and hills, try sledding together with your boo. Don’t forget to layer up your winter wear because your boo’s love isn’t enough for the cold outside.

But there are couples who defy borders of states and countries and still work their relationship with faith and immense love. To those fighters, this one goes out for your strong bond.

Virtual date ideas            

Long-distance relationships were always a thing! People told it won’t work, demotivated you without knowing your boundaries. But now that you’re committed to yourself, let’s make it fun with these…

241. Experience couple’s reading

From a couple’s tarot readings, you’ll build a stronger connection and find ways to solve your current problems together. You’ll stay longer if you fight together for a harmonious future.

242. Watch animal webcams

Since you can’t do anything outdoorsy together, animal webcams are to your rescue! It’s virtual, cute, you can share the screen and drown in the cuteness of different animals.

243. Play jeopardy together

You can either play online jeopardy or customize one. Test your knowledge about each other. You’ll find it interesting once you start knowing more crazy things about one another.

244. Try the Newlywed Game

If you know your sweetheart for a long time and think you know him/her the best, then indulge in this game to prove how well you treasure him/her.

245. Relax with VR museum touring

If you’re into historical things, tour VR museums together in any part of the world together. You’ll save traveling expenses for more romantic dates or gifts for later.

246. Sign up for mixology classes

Learn the art of making cocktails together on this date and awaken your inner mixologist. Rate each other’s art and relish on the drinks with a heart-to-heart chat.

247. Write a story together

You and your love will write one sentence alternately to make a meaningful story. Share your screen or simply text each other to test your cooperative creativity.

248. Find the key to exit game

Play online exit games together and brush up on your teamwork. Prove that you are made for each other and impress your honey with your intellectual skills.

249. Play two truths and one lie

If you’re a new couple, this game is always a standard way to know everything about each other. If you’re an older couple, check if your babe really knows you.

250. Online dinner surprise

Order a meal for you and your partner or order each other’s meal. Connect online and relish the meals together in each other’s presence through the screen.

Other than virtual dates, thanks to smartphone apps like facetime that allow you to see your lover’s face anywhere, anytime in this world. For a little more spice to LDR’s, check these out.

Facetime date ideas

Other than LDR, many couples chose facetime during quarantine as they weren’t fortunate enough to stay under the same roof. If you’re running out of reasons to facetime, here are a few plans for you.

251. Enjoy your facetime ramp walk

You shopped and can’t wait to meet your babe to show your haul? Well, be your babe’s runway model on FaceTime to know what’s yay and what’s nay for them.

252. Watch a prime show with screen sharing

Share your screen for a horror or tragedy movie while staying on facetime. You’ll learn more with your reactions to different scenes as you miss these while sitting side-by-side.

253. Compete on facetime

You can compete on singing, dancing, acting, making funny faces, literally anything with a facetime call. Rate each other’s performance to know how honest you can be.

254. Try scavenger hunting on a smartphone

You can do it with items in your rooms or with pictures on your phone. Give clues to each other and see who can find the object first.

255. Snuggle till you sleep

When you’re tired or just not feeling it, stay on facetime, put your phone on charge, and get cozy under the blankets. You can sleep or get naughty, it’s your call!

256. Chat while drinking

Grab onto some booze and sides, put on a sexy outfit before facetiming. Drink your sorrows away or celebrate something great together since drinks can go with all moods.

257. Play Mad libs together

If you know about ad-libs, this is nothing different. You two will line up words alternately to make proper sentences. It’ll compliment your date with lots of laughter.

258. Party with presentations

Who said you can only use it for work? Give each other simple topics and make presentations in short times. It’s a great way to express your love!

259. Play Pictionary

Draw and play this guessing game together. You may find the worst sketcher between you and make fun of each other’s skills throughout this date.

260. Read with some drama

Read outrageous reviews from unsatisfied customers and add up matching expressions. Score your date’s performance! You can also turn up the heat with A-rated books or articles.

If you guys’ plan to meet up this summer and leave online dates behind, I’m glad to hear that you finally got the chance.

Summer date ideas

Depending on your country, summer can be warm, humid, or just scorching! Here are some ideas keeping most of the situations in mind. Do your research well before you implement these plans for your darling.

261. Watch outdoor movies

If there’s any outdoor movie arrangement in the vicinity, definitely try it out. Watching one under the starry sky is romantic and calls for the perfect time to snuggle.

262. Run a marathon

Join a local marathon race together to impress him/her with your fitness quotient this summer. Boost your endorphins to feel your man/woman’s love harder than ever.

263. Play beach volleyball

Visit the beach and play volleyball in the warm sand. Play hard to increase intimacy. You might get lucky enough to slather sunscreen on each other too.

264. Scream at a summer match

Get tickets to your favorite sports this summer. Scream your lungs out together cheering your favorite team. Strengthen your sense of unity on your summer date.

265. Go tube floating

Pick out your fancy tubes for this one. Go down the river amidst the lush greenery of nature with your babe. Take your time chatting or playing guessing games together.

266. Legally hit the pool

Trespassing into hotel pools might not sit right with you. Instead, rent the pools for a few hours and enjoy a swim together along with a few drinks.

267. Learn to open oysters

Oyster opening or shucking is an art. Learn this from online tutorials on your next date and savory flesh together. It also helps stimulate your woman’s libido!

268. Have a juice party

Go to a nearby orchard and pick your favorite fruits. Return to make each other a fancy juice without checking the internet. Share the kitchen space together to get more intimate.

269. Make alcoholic delicacies

Ice creams are the best for summer but twist your ice pop recipe with some alcohol. See how many ice pops it takes you to get tipsy and high.

270. Go to an outdoor concert

Bands around your locality might hold outdoor concerts. So go support them to grow their band and your love for one another while you sing along.

If the rainy season is around the corner, some people feel anxious, others feel great. But mostly, going on an outdoor date becomes troublesome. Don’t fret because I got your back with some…

Rainy day date ideas

Whether you guys like rain or not – have faith – there’s a date plan for everybody. I know is it tough dealing with the rain because you’re afraid of spoiling your outfit?

But why not wear your raincoats and splash some water?

271. Go slow dancing

You can put on your raincoats or just get wet while slow dancing in the rain. It’s even more romantic to have a hot beverage after a hot shower/bath (perhaps, together?).

272. Hop on puddles

If your inner child delights you at the sight of rain then put on your trench coats, and pull your babe out of the house and hop on some muddy water. 

273. Build a fort

Do you remember making forts with blankets on rainy days? Relive cozy childhood days together in each other’s embrace. Promise your babe to protect him/her from a romantic ambiance.

274. Pass the baton indoors

Try relay racing inside the house but keep changing the baton as you run from one room to the other. Run through the house and fall in love once again, amigos!

275. Try indoor obstacle racing

Create random obstacles in the hallway, living room, study, bedroom, or wherever you want and jump past the obstacle in your house. Trip in love, not over the obstacles.

276. Pretend there’s no rain

If you don’t like the rain, get crafty and paint cacti on cardboards. Spend a day together indoors, breathing each other’s presence, after all that’s what you want, right?

277. Enjoy the pitter-patter

If you love the pitter-patter of rainy days, then shut down all the gadgets and get rid of any distractions. Snuggle up with your babe to listen to the calming sounds.

278. Do a quick clean-up

Go check your wardrobes together and see which clothing you can reasonably discard. If anything’s undamaged, donate it to charity- spread the love!

279. Rain over me

Not the song! Lie down together in the rain with your trench coats on. Enjoy the raindrops on your face. Enjoy the soothing facial massage with your love.

280. Host horror story recital

Switch off all the lights, light your fireplace or a few candles, and cuddle under blankets. Hold a torch under your chin, goof around with your babe and cuddle some more.

The seasons keep changing but your love for your partner is constant, or perhaps growing every day? If fall is around the corner, you’ve got more ways to express your love to him/her with a few…

Fall date ideas

Fall calls for excitement because the festive season is around? It’s the season of changing colors and showing your undying love and care for each other. Make sure to pick a great plan.

281. Pick pretty leaves

If you have unique-colored leaves around you, go hunt some pretty leaves. Take a box each and compete at picking the prettiest leaves around your locality. They’ll make great memories.

282. Awaken the patissier

Bakeapple cider donuts at home with your darling and make the best out of this season. Add in some special surprise ingredients in every batch… for surprising delicacies!

283. Drown in fall booze

If you like craft beers, it’s time to make your own homemade craft beer. Look up some recipes and try your hand at it. Taste test and score each other’s talent!

284. Do a halloween movie trivia

If you want to stay in and like horror movies, this one is a great way to spend your evenings before Halloween. Test your boo’s knowledge about the creepiest things.

285. Make scary costumes

Find some fancy clothes and make simple Halloween costumes for your babe this fall. You have to wear each other’s masterpiece even if it’s hilarious… because that’s the goal!

286. Shop spooky costumes

If you’re not the crafty type then skim through the stores for your darling’s Halloween outfits. Choose and buy for each other for this special celebration.

287. Go cider bar hopping

If you guys’ love cider as much as each other, then hop through them this season. Check out the nearest ones and also beyond. Go on day trips for multiple dates.

288. Check out seasonal fests

Visit the raging pumpkin carving festivals of this season. Admire the beautifully carved artworks from all the competitors. Let your babe fall in love with you amidst the pretty lanterns.

289. Hit up a pumpkin patch

Marvel at the scenic beauty of a pumpkin patch, make Instagram reels or click a few seasonal pictures to reminisce about this date in the future. You can also picnic around there.

290. Hop on a hayride

Enjoy a hayride together on a nearby farm. You can also look for spooky hayrides in your vicinity to get the seasonal feel. Relive this classic teen date together.

If fall’s gone then you’re completely in the festive season. This calls for a lot of celebrations for the festivities. This winter, instead of cuddling up in blankets, cheer up with these…

Winter date ideas

The wintry breeze might only remind you about hugging your man/woman for more warmth. But you can have more fun this winter if you’re mindful of the occasions in your locality! Try some like…

291. Shop a Christmas tree

If winter is around, then Christmas must already be knocking at your door… then definitely include him/her in Christmas tree shopping.

Know their tastes better, because someday you’ll have one tree for you both. 

292. Go see festive décor

You can crawl through town lazily to watch the festive lightings together. Take a drive to avoid the cold with one hand on the wheel and the other holding him/her.

293. Do HIIT face-off

You can beat the hell out of freezing cold with exercise. But it kinda gets boring with time. So, challenge your partner into a heated high-intensity training to enjoy.

294. Try mini-skydiving

If real skydiving makes either of you uncomfortable, try a skydiving simulator to enjoy the thrill of falling from the sky. Hold onto your partner’s hand and take the leap of faith

295. Make some yum-warm drink

Make the best warm drink for this season together with your love – hot chocolate! Grab some chocolate from stores, melt them at home, and add your own twist!

296. Go hot chocolate hopping

If you’re feeling lazy or want a great outdoors date, then take your babe to taste all the hot chocolates available in your town. You won’t even need dinner!

297. Paint with icicles

If your windows are stuck with icicles, pluck them up, and start painting with them. Compete at making the most sensible painting together or make fun of the failed attempts.

298. Make snow fairies

Lie down on the snow in your yard and make as many snow fairies as you can. Have a stroll down memory lane while you enjoy it together.

299. Make a snow castle together

If you can see snow outside, share the joy of making a snow castle with your partner. Bring the beach to your doorstep and enjoy a friendly competition with him/her. 

300. Twist snow candies

Take fresh and clean snow from your yard and try making as many sweet dishes with it. Use cream, sweeteners, and everything you love. Have some finger-licking sweets together.

But if you’re a foodie – well who isn’t? Then you might revolve your date around food. Well, if you aren’t busy, lunches make more sense because you’re too tired at night. Surprise your hon with some…

Lunch date ideas

If you’re both working, you’ll need to squeeze your lunch breaks. Else, the weekend is the only choice. After all, you need to recharge at home after dinner.

301. Pick an exotic meal

If you’re western, try out Asian food to spice up your lunch dates. Keep your bae’s allergies in mind before choosing the restaurant.

302. Explore cheap eateries

If you don’t want to splurge, explore the cheapest eateries out there and make a whole sumptuous meal from a variety of inexpensive ones.

303. Reserve a balcony table

For a classy date, enjoy a view from the balcony table with your babe. If there’s a pretty scene nearby, you’ll score a goal in your love’s heart.

304. Exchange lunch

Hassling work and romance can be fun if you grab lunch from your office canteens, and exchange them. Have a small getaway in between work hours and de-stress with romance.

305. Walk and eat

If your babe just can’t sit still then grab some finger food and drinks. Have your lunch date on your feet and don’t forget to wipe off the ketchup from your partner’s lips! 😉

306. Go on one big lunch

Buy that extra-large bowl of ramen and share it with your man/ woman. You can share from the same bowl or get an extra plate. (Also save some cash for later.)

307. Go heavy on starters

Try having all the starters from one or multiple restaurants. If your partner likes more flavors this will be a hit lunch date he/she’ll remember and might want this again.

308. Binge on desserts

If you guys have a sweet tooth then instead of the same style lunch menu, enjoy a meal with desserts only! Have a slice of all kinds of cakes available.

309. Visit a book café

If you two have a mutual interest in books, then this is it! Have all kinds of quick bites with him/her while you browse through the books and share your thoughts.

310. Grab the dollar menu

Select a fast-food chain together and go berserk at the dollar menu of the restaurant. Relax! Binging one day on oily food won’t hurt either of your fitness goals.

If you totally can’t make lunch plans, you have no choice other than dinners then? Here you go then.

Dinner date ideas

Nightlife offers many pretty views under the serene dark sky. That’s why your love finds it more romantic! So, pick out your best outfit and deck up like never before and pick a classy date idea from the list below.

311. Reserve a rooftop table

If you want a pretty scene for your date night, then opt for the rooftop views. Savor the dishes with the reflection of a million stars twinkling in your eyes.

312. Hit a cook-it-yourself restaurant

You can find such setups in Japanese-styled restaurants. Let your food cook while you have a leisurely chat. You also spend more time with one another.

313. Do coffee dinners

If you don’t have a busy schedule the next morning, ditch the watch with a coffee dinner. Stay up late while dining with your love and savor this moment.

314. Dine by a museum

Check out a museum café where you can appreciate art along with befitting food of the same theme. You’ll feel like a time traveler out on a romantic getaway.

315. Groove to the music

Enjoy the nightlife in your town! Dance your heart out before dining with your partner. Request your partner’s favorite songs to the DJ and groove to them.

316. Crawl through bars and pubs

Taste test all the exotic hard drinks together through all the bars in your locality. Don’t drive on your date night because your love’s safety comes first.

317. Grab night-concert tickets

If you two have a favorite performer, grab tickets to their concert and enjoy the night tuning your hearts together with the lyrics of the songs.

318. Book a fancy hotel room

Search for a high-end hotel room with a pretty view and classy food options. Order dinner in your room and enjoy your time getting intimate.

319. Try shooting

Few shooting clubs stay open all night. Get rid of your frustrations together and enjoy a lavish meal following that. Stay strong with a healthy mind together.

320. Indulge in motorcycle riding

If you guys love to stay up on thrill rides, then go motorcycle riding late at night in the cool breeze. And with safety in mind, speed up on empty roads.

Speaking of night, perhaps you chose the dinner date because you want to surprise your date with a birthday bash? I have more to say about that, so hear (read) out my…

Birthday date ideas

If your S.O’s birthday is knocking on the door, you have to blow away their mind. Because who else will they expect tender care and kindness from? Here are some plans for you!

321. Try old-school letters

Gift a box full of hand-written love notes with everything you like or hate about him/her. Choose words carefully and wrap all the significant happenings of your life as a couple. You’ll bring them to tears…. Happy tears, of course!

322. Prepare a performance

If you can sing, then prepare a song. Or play some instrument if you can. Choose something romantic, meaningful, and linked to your memories. Remind them of the good times.

323. Visit his/her hometown

If it’s far away, it may take more than a date. Set off on the birth date and prepare some board games for passing time and making it memorable.

324. Pretend-play awkward

Recreate your first date behavior (not the date) which was possibly pretty awkward. Play your part and thank them at the end for standing tall with you for so long.

325. Visit a vineyard

Fix a day out at a vineyard and enjoy the juicy fruits together while you chatter away or roam about the lush green grapevines.

326. Make an appreciation presentation

Gather all the pictures of every age of your babe, and make a presentation with a comment about the pictures. Show how much you love him/her with adorable compliments.

327. Rent a treehouse

If you can splurge, go on a short vacation in a treehouse and enjoy your time amidst the greenery around the house. Indulge into each other’s warm heartbeats.

328. Barbeque his/her favorite meat

Make his/her birthday special with a BBQ night. Pick out their favorite meat and veggies and be their personal chef for a day. Or, serve them as a butler does.

329. Invite their family

Surprise them with a knock from their family members early in the morning. Party with the family until afternoon and go easy on the evening date with your regional birthday meals.

330. Do the classic surprise

Pretend you forgot their birthday, keep them away on errands, and get all the décor right. You’re all set for the birthday surprise once your baby returns.

This reminds me, how old is your relationship or marriage? Is it almost another year or is it like six months to it? Whichever it might be, you can always take some date inspiration from…

Anniversary date ideas

Your partner always expects a little something on anniversaries and the bar keeps rising higher after marriage. Since anniversary dates are predictable, you can start planning these a month before your day!

331. Charter a cruise

Surprise him/her with a dinner date on a cruise. Arrange the whole day’s plan on the cruise, under the open sky. Celebrate with a few drinks and cuddles until mealtime!

332. Gift him/her a pup/kitten

If he/she loves dogs/cats but hasn’t gotten one yet, this is your best bet! Buy a pet for them that they have been wanting for so long… and show how much you care about them.

333. Make a living room memory lane

Decorate your room with all the pictures of your dating life till now.  Fill a balloon with favorite flower petals and prick it over their head to make it romantic.

334. Arrange a fairy-tale surprise!

Buy her a dress the same color as her favorite princess (avoid imitating to keep it a surprise). Wear the prince’s dress color to enjoy a fancy date… vice versa for men, of course.

335. Go down on one knee

No matter if you’re a male or a female, or if you guys are married, confessing your love and proposing to each other (once again!) always feels special for both!

336. Go back in past

Prepare a date where you guys first met. It doesn’t need to be where you proposed or previous dates. Reminisce about when you had no idea while crossing each other.

337. Book a musician

While you have your dinner in the dark with candle lights, let the musician play their favorite songs in the background. Express how much you mean to each other.

338. Hit up the Theme Park

Take him/her out to their favorite theme park and delve into the facilities in each other’s presence. Make him/her feel like a real prince/princess on your special day.

339. Head out to the hot springs

If you guys are stressed, then visit the hot springs in your locality. Soak in the warm bath and let the salts do their magic while you chill together.

340. Replay your wedding

If you’re married, get married once again! Go to the church, wear your wedding outfits, buy the same bouquet, and say your vows once more! God bless you both.

If you guys are bored with just the two of you having fun, or you just think “the more the merrier”, you might want double dates. But what might be interesting on a double date? Here’s your answer…

Double date ideas

If you have other couple friends, it feels great to share the vibe and make more memories. Make it feel like “romance is in the air” with some of these unusual date activities!

341. Raft through ripples

Rafting is perfect for double dates if you guys can do great teamwork. Have fun bobbing up and down the river currents to break a sweat together.

342. Glide through parachutes

Try tandem paragliding or couple’s paragliding and double the fun with this double date. Shoot each other’s glides through the sky to capture this fascinating moment.

343. Zorb down the hills

Roll down the track in four zorb balls to enjoy your double date. Make sure to choose a shorter track to prevent any accidents during your amazing time together.

344. Give a shot to parkour

If you’re super athletic and have amazing stamina, then start this free run-over obstacle to make him/her happy. The more the merrier so even triple dates can work.

345.  Go orienteering

Split into two teams and navigate through the green woods with a map. Enjoy running about like little kids in love through the woods. Great excuse to split, right?

346. Play soccer on the sand

Beach soccer is a great group activity so engage both couples in it. Be a little more intimate once everyone gets tired of playing… I know you’ve been eyeing that! 😉

347. Hit the ball

Engage in cricket or other field games if all of you are crazy about it. Split from your partner to play and flirt hard during the game and later.

348. Try a field trip

Join another tourist group and enjoy childhood field trips together. The guides might take you sightseeing, in various known or unknown places. Feel the romance through the bus trips.

349. Play marshmallow challenge

Build the tallest tower to support your marshmallow (the real one, not your partner!). Relish this group activity while you sneak glimpses of your hard-working partner. Bonus: Loser makes s’mores!

350. Play Pretzel or Twister

Get a Twister board or draw your own with chalks! If your buddy knows, he/she’ll get you physically intimate with your partner in this game. Don’t forget to return the favor!

If you’re studying or working hard for your future, you might need to fly around. All of those who feel left out because you can’t go to date nights because of the immense distance, here you go!

Long distance date ideas

Kudos to those of you juggling school/work and a long-distance relationship! I’m not being sarcastic, you’re great in your own unimaginable ways.

So, how can I leave you guys out? Hope you enjoy it!

351. Enjoy a hearty QnA

Try out an online question-generating app to avoid any misunderstandings on your date. Know one another a little more with the questions, or check if you read them right.

352. Laugh together with funny clips

You can do this on Instagram while staying on call. Share funny videos from your feed or explore other platforms to send each other funny clips and laugh it out together.

353. Take each other on virtual picnics

Go to a picnic spot around you, video call your partner and show them the pretty view around you. Be each other’s personal guide on this date.

354. Browse online houses

Search houses on property sites and rate each of the properties together. Talk about your dream houses and share your expectations from life. Express that their dreams matter to you!

355. Play This or That

This or That can be the icebreaker in your relationship if it’s a new one. You can spice it up with your own twist to make it more interesting.

356. Play virtual board games

Compete on a round of chess or mah-jong for an anytime-anywhere date with your babe.

357. Play with filters

Apply funny filters on-call and post them online. Make your friends tell you the funniest one or do it yourself. The goal is to spend time together while showing a little love!

358. Map goals!

Spill your thoughts to make future goals or couple goals and achieve later when you live together. Promise your partner that someday you’ll cross all the boundaries and turn them true!

359. Answer character quizzes

Still wondering what kind of person they might be, because you didn’t get enough chances to (I understand!) then take some character tests. Know each other better every day!

360. Try fidget toys

If you guys have anything quirky to fidget about… you know, like stress-relievers… show it to each other and give an ASMR-like experience to soothe your partner’s nerves.

When you’ll finally meet your long-distance partner, you might go blank. It’s normal, happens to everybody in front of their romantic interest. So here I am to save the day with…

Picnic date ideas

If you want to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors and also want your partner along, a picnic date is the best bet. You can also club your picnic dates with some fun pastimes like here…

361. Experience a chocolaty date

Each of you must bring different chocolate assortments and dive into a chocolate world. Guess the exotic ingredients inside it. Share each chocolate in half to create a romantic ambiance.

362. Compete in Sushi-making

Pack all of the ingredients for your Sushi platter to your spot. Indulge in making Sushi together while basking in flirtatious glances. Taste test each other’s masterpieces and rate them.

363. Twist the tag game

Blindfold your partner and start playing tag like innocent children, unless you want to surprise him/her with a longing kiss (make sure your spot is a couple-friendly area!)

364. Appoint a chef

If you feel like spending more, appointing a chef for a fancy meal outdoors is also an option. Make them feel special with all the luxe and grandeur!

365. Hop on alphabets

Bring your alphabet hopping mat along to your picnic spot and work up your man/woman’s appetite. You’ll feel great jumping amidst the natural environment beside your love.

366. Lease a tortilla machine

Tacos are great picnic food so if you guys are into it, then lease the machine for it. Indulge in preparing your unique tacos while you enjoy one another’s warmth.

367. Book a flowery spot

When he/she isn’t allergic to flowers, take them to a flower garden picnic. They might ask you to take Instagram-perfect couple pictures so keep your sweetheart and power bank nearby.

368. Play hide and seek

If there’s enough greenery around your picnic spot, return to your old days and play a few rounds of hiding and seek. Top it with a kiss when you finally catch sight of each other.

369. Jenga!

Take your Jenga kit along with your picnic essentials and indulge in this game on the spot. Tease your brain and develop your strategies. Learn to tackle real life together!

370. Play the Pocky game

Grab some Pocky sticks (Japanese stick-like snacks), challenge him to hold on to it till the last bite (oh! And make sure it’s a couple-friendly area). Kiss lots with this excuse!

If you’re feeling like going on an exotic date instead of a laid-back one, there are many like the sea or the hills. But let’s start one at a time lest I overwhelm you. Check out some fancy…

Beach date ideas

You think the beach means you’ll splash saltwater at each other and that’s all? Here are some fun ideas to try other than playing with water.

371. Fly on a board

Experience the joy of flyboarding together with your partner. Try to balance yourselves like you balance your life together through the ups and downs of your dating life.

372. Go parasailing

Enjoy the thrill of flying like a kite with parasailing! It’s even more fun when you do a couples’ one. So don’t forget to opt for that romantic arrangement.

373. Go seashell hunting

Put on your swim trunks and hunt for cute shells throughout the beach. Compete at finding the prettiest shells. Keep the best ones as a memory of this romantic day.

374. Sunbathe together

Apply sunscreen on each other, lie down together on the beach mat. Grab a coconut or ice cream and you’re all set for a romantic and lazy beach date.

375. Dive in deep waters

Hit the ocean bed with your diving outfits. Go scuba diving together and show your man/woman the mysterious and colorful life under the ocean surface with only you two.

376. Ski on the waves

Go high on adrenaline with a water-skiing lesson or competition. Teach one another new tricks to enjoy an electrifying and unforgettable date with the love of your life.

377. Surf on the waves

Choose each other’s surfing board and the safety of one another while getting ready. Fight with the waves while you struggle. Start with the smaller waves until you master them.

378. Fly a kite on the board

If you guys visit the beach on a windy day then definitely indulge in kiteboarding with your babe. Race through the water surface with your babe romantically making extraordinary memories.

379. Bodysurf through the waves

Put on your swimsuits, ditch the board and swim on the waves. Stay together and keep an eye out for each other to safely enjoy this beach sport.

380. Stroll and eat

Stroll through the beach and enjoy all the exotic food on the beach coast. Get food for one and bite on the same food to make it more romantic.

If the high ranges attract you more than the sea-side, but you’re afraid you don’t know what to do… I’ll let you in on everything you can do together on your date with some of these…

Mountain date ideas

Mountains bring in a large assortment of opportunities other than their scenic beauty. It doesn’t matter if it’s covered in snow or full of greenery, there are endless date ideas in higher places like these…

381. Try via Ferrata

Try this safer alternative to regular climbing to ensure your partner’s safety to the next level. Challenge yourselves to overpower the mountains together to reminisce about them afterward.

382. Bike on the rustic terrains

Grab or rent two mountain bikes and go on a new trip towards the unknown. Ride your bicycles through the mountains and achieve new couple goals in life.

383. Try trekking

If you two are sporty, don’t forget to trek on one of your mountainside dates. You need great stamina to complete it so support each other through the rough terrains.

384. Go view the canyons

If you want a laid-back date that doesn’t include any sports then go sightseeing the canyons of your mountainside. Make him/her feel majestic while absorbing the immense beauty.

385. Explore the canyons

If you’re sporty enough, then try canyoning together. You both need extreme stamina for this date activity. You’ll take your relationship a notch above after this date.

386. Hop on a cart

Try mountain carting and race against time with only each other’s thoughts in mind. Compete in this activity on the rough terrains and enjoy the rage of racing together.

387. Climb on the ice

If the mountains around you have solid and sturdy ice formations then climb through them for a new experience. This is harder than rock climbing so support your S.O. well.

388. Try abseiling

Instead of climbing ranges together, try descending the ranges with harnesses around you. Enjoy this adrenaline-pumping activity with your love and capture some nice shots of each other.

389. Go hunt for mushrooms

Show off your not-so-regular talent of identifying edible mushrooms to your love and appeal to them with this exotic activity. Taste the mushrooms together or preserve them for later.

390. Try couple’s hang gliding

Glide through the air like two birds in love or “lovebirds”. Engrave this exciting moment of togetherness while you fly across the water bodies around the mountains.

If you have great water parks or pools at your disposal, grab the opportunities to enjoy them well. You might think it’s boring to laze around beside the pool, so let me change your mind with these…

Poolside date ideas

You’re taking your date to the pool? Great idea! To have lots of fun in the water, you can combine it with some of the date ideas below.

391. Play finders-keepers

Toss something waterproof and expensive in the pool. Swim to the bottom to find it. Whoever finds it, owns it. You can prepare a surprise for your partner this way.

392. Scavenge a water bottle

If you want to increase the difficulty of your pool game, then toss in a water bottle! It becomes really difficult to spot unless you get the perfect angle.

393. Shoot them!

Get your water guns ready and annoy them to your heart’s content. What’s love without being annoying to each other? Try not to aim at the face for safety standards.

394. Toss the water balloon

Fill some balloons with water and play catch with them. You’ll laugh at the difficulty of the game. Don’t let the balloon burst in your hands so keep tossing quickly!

395. Race in the pool

What’s a little pool date without a swimming race? If either of you can’t, then learn it together. It’ll make the whole date even more romantic and fulfilling.

396. Play volleyball in the water

You don’t need a group for this. Play on your own with the splashing water around you. If there are people around you, others will join in eventually.

397. Try high diving

If the pool has a diving platform, then try to dive from one. Take it slow to make good memories because your partner might not be comfortable with the heights.

398. Sneak into a private pool

If you want to play the daredevil, then sneak inside a private pool and enjoy your time. This will be a huge bet on your luck so try it.

399. Toss a coin 

You can toss a coin in the pool and seek it. Take turns finding it and let your partner go in first. Pro-tip: Search it with your smartphone torch to win!

400. Try pool relay

Grease a fruit and play a relay race with it. You’ll marvel at its difficulty level, mate! But who doesn’t want to see their partner in a funny struggle?

So many ideas for so many life situations and opportunities, but you can’t show up all the cards at the same time. To choose wisely, you must know…

How to pick the perfect date idea?

Dates are fun to enjoy but with so many options available, it gets really hard to pick. Plus, if you know your partner for long and have been to 62636532 date nights, you might run out of options.

However, sweeping them off their feet for new relationships is another challenge. Before starting or using any of the fun ideas, you must consider these pointers…

1. Review the relationship

So which stage are you in your relationship ? Did you just hit it off or are you dating for years?

For instance, you can’t sneak a sudden kiss if you both have just met each other, right? Think about how close you are to each other. Still, get sweaty palms? Are you comfy together?

2. Do some research

Find out about the basics of your partner. Are they allergic to anything? What are the things that can trigger them or make them vulnerable?

The last thing you want is to step on a landmine and make it your last date. If you’re unsure, it’s better to ask them directly than be sorry for the surprises later.

3. Be thoughtful of the environment

This implies two things – Don’t try anything off-season… be it the natural environment or your partner or your health situation.

If you’re not fit for a day-out then stay at home and enjoy some homely time together.

No scenery or dinner will be easily compensated with your never-ending attention for each other, so prioritize safety and wellbeing.

A word from ThePleasantRelationship

All kinds of relationships are the best kind as long as you love each other unconditionally without paying heed to any “flaw”.

Depending on your health and financial circumstances, or your locality, you can make the best out of anything… truly!

Thrive to be a better person every day but you’re enough the way you are. If anyone tells you otherwise, you’ve stepped into the wrong boat.

You don’t need anything fancy as long as you have each other’s hearts. You can be rich one day and poor the other, that doesn’t mean you can’t sustain a relationship.

So be creative in your own way… and you’ll see the happiness glowing in your partner’s face.

Surabhi wakes up every day with a drive to craft words that can create a soulful impact. Creatively adventurous, she is always seeking to learn new skills and acquire new experiences. With a hidden soft corner for languages (especially Urdu), she writes poetry occasionally, binges on romantic shows, and LOVES to talk. A hustler, admirer, chaser, Surabhi is just another-someone who refused to give up on her dreams. She says, she is just somebody who’s trying to make herself a writer and for now, she’s just writing...

100+ Third Date Ideas for You & Your Beau [+ 5 Tips on How to Carry it Successfully]

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Keep the romance alive in your relationship with these 101 romantic date ideas.

Whether you're dating someone new or you've been together for years, date nights keep your connection intimate and relationship thriving. And once in a while, it's good to switch up your usual date night routine for something a little more romantic.

After all, spending intentional time doing something you both enjoy together can help the two of you bond and make memories—plus  quality time  might even be one of your love languages.

So, without further ado, here are 101 romantic date night ideas to keep handy whenever you need an extra special date night.

Go out to dinner

Starting off simple, going out to dinner is a date night staple for a reason. You can converse over good food, wear your best outfit, and gaze at each other over candlelight. To make things interesting, go to a restaurant you've never been to—or at least try something you've never had.

See a movie

Another classic, hitting the movies is the perfect opportunity to snuggle up in front of the big screen and indulge in some movie theatre popcorn. Bonus points if you have some discussion points on the drive home!

Go to the drive-in

Switch up your usual movie date by finding your closest drive-in and enjoying an outdoor movie. You'll have a bit more privacy than you would in a theatre, plus drive-ins often show throwback movies if you want to enjoy an old classic together.

Have a pajama day

Take the day off work together, send the kids to grandma and grandpa, set your phones on silent, and put on your coziest PJs. Spend the day completely free of obligations together whilst you order takeout, eat it in bed, and binge-watch something mindless and fun.

Do a coffee tasting

For a creative spin on the classic coffee date, consider attending a coffee tasting or even a coffee-making course instead. You can discover new things about each other while learning a cool hobby.

Go for a hike

Any nature lovers out there? Going for a hike on a nearby trail is a great way to take in some nature and give you time to connect outside of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. (Easy walking trails are an option too!)

Go for a bike ride

Want to take in more of your city in less time? Map your ideal route around town and go for a bike ride together. Even if you don't have bikes, you could borrow or friend's or see if your city has a local bike-share program.

Play mini golf

It's cute, it's fun, and it's classic: Putt-putt courses are everywhere, and many also feature arcade games and snacks, so you can make a whole evening out of letting your inner-child out for some fun.

Visit the driving range

If one of you is more of a golf-aficionado than a putt-putter, you might consider hitting up your local driving range to work on your swing. Whoever is the pro can sweetly put their arms around the other to demonstrate—oh so romantically—how to get a hole-in-one.

Go for a drive

Going for a country drive can feel like a welcome escape, especially if you live in a city. Make a roadtrip playlist together, pack some snacks, and hit the road for a scenic date that doesn't even involve getting out of the car.

Have a beach day

Pack the cooler, refine your beach playlist, and don't forget your sunscreen! There's nothing like laying on the beach on a nice summer's day, and having your partner by your side makes it that much sweeter.

Visit an animal sanctuary

If one or both of you are animal lovers, visiting and/or volunteering at an animal shelter is a nice way to give back to the animals, and spend quality time with your partner doing something that makes you feel good.

Rent kayaks and go out on the water

Getting out on the water is an instant recipe for serenity—and an arm workout! Grab kayaks or a canoe (or rent them if you don't have any) and take a leisurely row down your nearest creek or river.

Get tickets to a dinner cruise

If you like the sound of getting out on the water—but without the arm workout—consider finding a local dinner cruise to attend. You and your date can enjoy a night of dressing to the nines, having a nice dinner, and dancing the night away.=

Visit an amusement park

Any adrenaline junkies out there? Nothing will bring you and your date together quite like being at the top of a 150-foot rollercoaster—or unanimously chickening out and hitting the merry-go-round instead.

Go berry picking in the summer

When you go berry picking, you're connecting with both nature and your date. Plus, you can go home and make something with your harvest, like blueberry pie or a strawberry tart.

Go apple picking in the fall

Apple picking is a classic autumnal activity for good reason—you can chat as you collect your basket of apples, and make a pie together later on. Tack on a hayride or pumpkin carving and you've got the perfect recipe for a romantic fall day.

Stop by your local farmers market

Farm ers markets  are a great date option that allow you to simultaneously support local farms and get to know your date's shopping habits. Are they going for the broccoli or the fresh-cut flowers? When you're done shopping, try to come up with a meal you can make together with all your fresh ingredients.

Try an escape room

Solving puzzles together gets the conversation flowing minus the awkward lulls. This is also a good opportunity to observe how your date deals with pressure, as escape rooms usually have a time limit.

Go to your local history museum

Museums are a great way to learn something new and foster good conversation. If one or both of you is into history, don't miss out on your nearest history museum to learn more about the area you live in.

Visit an art gallery

Speaking of museums, history is just one option—art museums are another. You can gaze at paintings and discuss how they make you feel—or perhaps chuckle at the ones you're surprised made it into an exhibit.

Check out the nearest botanical gardens

Many cities have botanical gardens with a variety of plant species, which is a fun way to learn about plant life up close—plus admission is typically pretty affordable too, which never hurts.

Explore a new science museum exhibit

Speaking of learning something new, see if your local science museum has any cool exhibits opening up. From workshops to biology exhibits, there's usually at least one offering that could pique both of your interests.

Visit a planetarium

Speaking of science, nothing says “I love you” like gazing at the whole known universe. Sit back in the dark and wonder at the beauty of the night sky, without actually having to camp out in the cold. Win-win!

Scope out your local library

Some libraries offer events and exhibitions that are great for  sparking conversation . You can also swap book recommendations and read together, exchanging your thoughts on your picks.

Take a pottery class

Not only is this a fun way for you both to get your hands dirty and make something together, but you get to take home your creation! Talk about a win-win date night.

Take a cooking class

Another win-win date night? Taking a cooking class together. You'll learn how to make some amazing recipes—and get to enjoy eating them, too.

Go to a paint and sip

Paint and sips aren't just for ladies nights, and going to one with your partner is a low-pressure way to tap into your more creative sides. Plus, if you like your paintings enough, you can hang them up at home later.

See a play or musical

From big Broadway shows to local theatre company originals, consider having an evening with arts by seeing a play or musical. Put on your fanciest theatre attire, grab a cocktail beforehand, and enjoy the show.

Catch some live music

Want to see a different kind of show? Check out the concerts coming up near you! Don't be afraid to take a drive to see a bigger artist, or get into your local music scene at nearby bars and venues.

Go ice skating

Ice skating might be tricky if either of you aren't the most graceful, but if you're confident in your skating skills, it's a super romantic date night idea. Even if it's warm where you live, check out if there are any indoor rinks near you.

Fishing can be relaxing (and momentarily exciting when you actually catch one), plus you'll have plenty of time to chat with your date on the water. Bonus points if you go home and make dinner with your catch.

Start a couple's book club

Settle on a book you're both interested in reading and start your own "book club." You can read out loud to each other, and then when you're done, make a whole evening out of book discussion questions, wine, and charcuterie.

Have a picnic

Pick a romantic and picturesque spot near you, pack up your favorite picnic dishes, and take a trip out for the day. Don't forget a portable speaker, sunscreen, and some fizzy drinks!

Do some stargazing

What's more romantic than laying outside in the summer and gazing at the stars? If you live in a city, use this date as an excuse to get out into the country and reconnect with nature.

Take a yoga class together

Yoga is an excellent activity for strengthening the body and mind—plus it can  improve your sex life . Hit up your nearest studio and try a  style of yoga  you've both never done before!

Visit your local zoo or aquarium

Get up close and personal with your favorite animals at your local zoo or aquarium. Some of them may even offer volunteer opportunities, workshops, or demonstrations, if that's something that interests the two of you.

Watch each other's favorite movies

When you first got to know your partner, you probably asked what their favorite movie was—and then maybe they watched it. If it's been a while, rewatch your respective favorites with each other! They probably will love sharing it with you—even if it's not the first time.

Try rock climbing

For the adventurous daters in the bunch, find your nearest rock climbing gym and give it a go. Belaying each other can even foster a sense of connection and trust.

Going dancing is a tried-and-true date night activity that, quite honestly, needs a renaissance. Just have fun with it and dance like no one's watching!

Take a dance class

Speaking of dancing—need to brush up on your skills? That works too! Find a local dance group or studio that offers classes and workshops for adults, and learn a few tricks to dominate the dance floor together.

Recreate the night your first met

Re-stage the night you first met with as many details as you can remember, like where you went, what you were wearing, and the timeline of the evening. Relive the memories and fondly recall why you two kept dating after that night.

Pretend you're meeting for the first time

Even if you can't exactly replicate the night you first met, you can still role play meeting each other for the first time, pretending for the whole night that you've only just met. Who knows, maybe you'll even kiss on the "first date."

Eat your way around your city

Who says you have to have a five-course meal in just one place? Stop for cocktails at your favorite cocktail bar, apps at a local tapas joint, entrées at a swanky five-star restaurant—you get the idea.

Have a staycation

Take a look at the hotels or bed and breakfasts near you and have yourselves a staycation. You can go out for a fancy dinner, take a dip in the hotel pool, and enjoy a night in a cozy suite.

Get a couples massage

Everyone deserves a good massage once in a while, especially if you or your date have been stressed lately. On the off chance that getting a couple's massage is out of your price range, you can look up massage tutorials online and massage each other (which, come to think about it, is kinda sexier anyway).

Play 20 questions

No matter how well you think you know someone, there's virtually always something new to discover, and asking deep questions is a great way to connect with parts of your date you've never seen. Here's our list of  114 conversation starters for couples  if you need some inspiration!

Go through old photos together

Seeing pictures from your date's childhood is an almost certain recipe a warm heart, plus a bunch of "aww's." You'll undoubtedly hear stories from each other's childhoods, plus learn more about each other in the process.

Make a scrapbook of your relationship

From the day you first met until now, compile all the photos, ticket stubs, and tangible mementos you can and put them in a scrapbook to make a beautiful record of your memories together.

Go on photo walk

Grab your camera, polaroid—or let's be honest, your phones—and take a photo tour around a picturesque area. You can exchange visual inspirations beforehand and try them on the streets, plus this is great for discovering new spots around your city.

Have a karaoke night

Whether you rent a karaoke machine for the night if you're too shy to do it in public, or go all-out at your nearest karaoke bar, you and your date can let your goofy sides out, serenade each other, or find your new go-to duet.

Attend a sound bath or breathwork ceremony

For a little spiritual connectivity and relaxation, see if there are any  sound baths  or  breathwork  ceremonies happening near you. It's a chance to try something different and tap into your spirituality together.

Try to make each other's favorite family dish

Does one of you have a famous family sauce recipe, or another dish that's been passed down for generations? Get a recipe from both of your families, and try to make the other's signature dish for each other! (i.e. you make their family's meatloaf, and they make your family's paella).

Draw or paint each other

Doing portraits of each other not only gives you an excuse to stare lovingly at each other for a bit, but you can let your creative sides out and have fun with it.

Write each other love letters

This is an especially great option if one or both of you appreciates  words of affirmation . Writing love letters is a classic way to get your feelings out on paper, and you can even read them out loud to each other if you really want to get sappy. (Here's our  guide on how to write one , in case you need it.)

Build a fort in your living room

A true childhood classic, building a fort together is the perfect way to take your usual movie night to the next level. Reconstruct your living room into the fort of your dreams, complete with pillows, twinkly lights, and your favorite childhood film.

Have a DIY spa night

Want a couple's spa treatment without the spa prices? Hit up your nearest drugstore for sheet masks, bubble bath, massage tools, and more, and  bring the spa in  for a night of relaxation and pampering each other.

Host a game night

You can put together a couple's game night for just the two of you, or invite some friends over and host a whole evening out of it. All you need are your favorite board or card games, some cocktails (or mocktails), and your favorite go-to munchies.

Plant a garden

Sow the seeds of your love by literally sowing seeds in a garden together. If you don't have a backyard, there's absolutely nothing wrong with a cute little patio garden of small pots, or you could see if there's a local community garden nearby.

Go foraging in the wild

Speaking of plants, you can also forage in the wild if gardening isn't an option where you live. From mushrooms to ramps to dandelions, there's no shortage of dinner ingredients to use when the Earth is your grocery store.

Hit the slopes

Whether you're an avid skiier or more the bunny hill type, spending the day skiing or snowboarding is a great way to get outdoors together in the colder months, plus get a workout in, too.

Build a campfire

From the warm glow of the fire to cozying up in a hammock together, sitting by a campfire is super romantic. You can swap memories, ask each other questions, tell ghost stories and make s'mores—whatever tickles your fancy.

Volunteer for a cause you both care about

Are the two of you both big environmentalists? Or perhaps you've bonded over being vegan? Find a local charity you both get behind and commit the day to furthering the cause together.

Attend a workshop

There are workshops for anything and everything, from poetry writing to acting improv. Find a local workshop that sounds interesting to the both of you and spend the night getting out of your comfort zone.

See a speaker or attend a lecture

People go to concerts all the time, but when was the last time you went to see someone speak? Find out if there are any cool speakers giving talks near you—and check out local universities, too, which often have opportunities to attend events on campus.

Watch the sunset

Whether you're on a roof or a beach, watching the sunset together is a classic romantic move. Or, if you're early risers, don't let us stop you from venturing out early for the sunrise.

Go to a burlesque show

Want to make your next date night a little bit spicier? See if there are any burlesque or drag shows coming up near you and get tickets for a night of sexy fun.

Try a workout you've both never done

Going on a date that gets you both out of your comfort zones is a great way to bond, and trying a new workout is a great date option for the gym rats out there.

Visit a winery from some wine tasting

Enjoying gorgeous wine trails and sampling wine? Talk about a simple but elegant date idea. Of course, if you're not too into wine, you can also see if there's a brewery nearby that you'd prefer.

Cook together

Working as a team in the kitchen can be quite romantic—and remind you both why your work so well together! Browse online for a recipe that looks yummy to both of you, run to the store for the ingredients, and have fun cheffing it up with your favorite tunes playing.

Get matching tattoos

If you really want to get adventurous, there's nothing quite like bonding over shared pain. Plus, exchanging ideas over which design to get can be a great activity before the date.

Go to a fair or festival

You can do several of the activities mentioned here at an outdoor festival. You can walk around, eat, get fresh air, enjoy carnival rides, and likely listen to music all while you're there. This makes for a full day of fun, as well as plenty of in-between time for good conversation.

Try your hand at axe throwing

Axe throwing venues have been popping up in cities all over the country, and you'd be amazed just how much fun and laughter can be had as you each attempt to perfect your throw.

Book a hot air balloon

You read that right! If you really want to amp up the romance your next date night, consider seeing if there's a hot air balloon service near you. Just an hour in the sky is enough for a lifetime of memories.

Have a casino night

Whether you bet on who has to do tomorrow's chores or who's paying for your next dinner date, a fun game of poker (or blackjack, roulette—you name it) can bring on the laughter—and a little friendly competition.

Learn a new skill together

Have you always wanted to master pasta making? Or maybe you keep eyeing the local tango classes around the corner from you. Whatever it is, grab your S.O. and tackle learning this new skill together. (Online how-to videos are great if you want to keep your date night cozy at home!)

Go out for ice cream

Two spoons please! Nothing says sweet and romantic like literally getting a sweet treat together, and there's something about ice cream dates that are particularly innocent and nostalgic.

Go to a local sports game

Does your town or city have a sports team, big or small? From football to basketball to baseball, there's no shortage of sporting events to attend, and you and your date can cheer on your favorite teams together.

Make a playlist for each other

Long gone are the days of burning CDs for your lover, but playlists certainly haven't gone anywhere. Making a playlist for each other is a cute way to show you care and express how you feel, and you can listen to the playlists together and talk about why you chose those songs.

Pitch a tent for the night

For the nature lovers out there, there's never a bad time to escape for the night with a quick camping trip. OK, well maybe if the weather is bad—but otherwise, camping for the night is a fun way to spend some quality time away from your usual routine.

Who doesn't love a classic trip to the bowling alley once in a while? It's easy to make conversation between turns, you don't have to take it too seriously, and you can invite some more friends to make it a group activity, too.

Take them on a tour of your childhood

Even if you and your partner are from the same area, there's a chance they don't know about every single one of your favorite spots. Take each other on tours of your respective childhoods for a clue into how you each grew up. Think driving by your school, favorite park, childhood home, favorite place to eat, etc.

Hit up a local trivia night

Trivia is certainly not everyone's strong suit, but it's all for fun and games, right? Find your closest trivia night and form a team, whether that's just the two of you, or with the addition of some particularly brainy friends.

Go horseback riding

Going for a trail ride on horseback with your date can be relaxing and allow you to connect with local nature, and it's well worth it to find the best trail you can, even if it's a little far away.

Host a dinner party

Planning a dinner party will not only give you an opportunity to work together as a team, but you can bond over the experience of hosting a party together, and enjoy the company of your friends as a couple.

Plan a murder mystery

If you want to host a dinner party but take it up a notch, why not plan a murder mystery? You can find scripts online, invite your more theatrical friends, and prepare for an evening of laughter—all coordinated by you and your date, of course.

Redecorate a room in your home

Spruce up a room in your home that needs a little redecorating, whether you opt to rearrange the furniture, get some new decor, or completely transform the room. You'll not only be getting creative together, but can help each other with deciding on what to do.

Check out your local comedy scene

Want a night of drinks and laughter? Go to your local comedy club, or see if there are any open-mic comedy nights near you. Bonus points if you go to an open-mic and both perform a bit yourselves.

Put a scavenger hunt together

Take turns making a scavenger hunt for the other that leads them through landmarks of your relationship—from the place you first met, to the location of your first date, etc., with the final destination being one of your favorite places to go together, for example.

Work on a home improvement project

Have a desk that you've been meaning to refurbish or a cabinet to assemble? Test your teamwork abilities and see if you can tackle the project together—of course rewarding yourselves afterwards with whatever prize you see fit.

Go cliff jumping

Get that adrenaline pumping at your nearest cliff jumping site. Please be safe, obviously—but if there's a local spot that is known to be safe for jumping into water, it's a great date activity to spark a sense of adventure and aliveness between the two of you.

Go thrifting

Get thrifty with your date and hit up the nearest flea market, thrift store, or antique shop. You can spend literal hours in second-hand stores, looking at all the old treasures and making up stories about where everything came from.

Plan a treasure hunt

This one takes a little bit of advance planning, but it’s super worth it for the look on your partner’s face. Hide little gifts all over your home along with clues related to your relationship. For example, if your first kiss was in a club toilet, you could have a clue that leads your honey to a present hidden in the bathroom. Make the treasure hunt culminate in a bigger present or a little card that explains what kind of date you’re going to take your boo on later that day.

Go sky-diving

Certainly not everyone's cup of tea, but if you've always wanted to go sky-diving, it can be a great activity for getting your adrenaline pumping and making one major memory with your date.

Go to an open house

You don't have to be shopping for a home to  pretend  you're shopping for a home, and it can make for a pretty fun date. Check out a local open house and enjoy an afternoon of pretending to be homebuyers.

Get a reading with a psychic

If you dare, find a reputable psychic  near you and pop in for a couple's reading. With any luck, they might just have a positive message for you.

Have your astrological compatibility mapped

Speaking of psychics, an astrologer might have a positive message for you too. Find one near you who specializes in relationship astrology, AKA synastry , for a full reading on how your stars match up.

Get your auras read

That's right: You can get your aura read professionally, and in some cases, photographed. You can each compare your  auras , and even ask about how well your auras match with each other's.

Go to a book reading

Book readings can spark an interesting conversation between you that goes beyond the classic "Tell me about yourself." You and your date might even find a new author to fan over together.

Go on a wellness retreat

Making time together to do something good for your overall health can deepen your connection. Plus, going on a meaningful journey like this together is sure to make for great memories.

Make a shared vision board

What's more romantic than sharing a mutual vision of what you both want in the future? Take that vision and bring it to life with a vision board full of images, quotes, etc., that highlight the goals you two share.

Go on a double date with your favorite couple friends

Last but not least, if you and your S.O. know another couple that you like spending time with, invite them in on your plans! Extra company never hurts from time to time, and they might have some good romantic date ideas, too.

The takeaway

No matter how busy our lives get, it's still so important to carve out quality time with the person you love—and not only that, but keep the romance alive! So the next time you're looking for  date night  inspiration, consider swapping in one (or more) of these romantic date ideas for your usual routine.

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2026 LB CJ Gamble Talks His Recent Visit To Georgia Tech's Spring Practice

• Author: Arvon Bacon

In this story:

CJ Gamble is a name that is currently flying under the radar at the linebacker position, but likely not for too much longer.

Gamble is a big-body linebacker that plays the game with a lot of force but is as nimble as a yogi. Much like the new-age prototypical linebacker, he's very versatile. This past season at Carrollton he lined up primarily at the dawg backer position but took snaps at edge as well.

No surprise that Georgia Tech's defensive coordinator Tyler Santucci has an interest in him. 

Gamble shared his thoughts on if he could fit in Coach Santucci's defense.  

"Yes, I definitely think I would fit right into Santucci’s defense. Everything that their linebackers do is similar to what we are doing at Carrollton," he said. 

Thoughts On Visit To Spring Practice 

Thursday afternoon Georgia Tech opened their spring practice to recruits to come check out the sights and sounds of how things roll at the flats, and Gamble stated it was a great all-around experience.

"It was a great all around experience. Everyone had energy from the meetings to practice. The coaches and staff were really involved and welcoming and I would love to be back sometime," he relayed.

He also gave his opinion of how the coaches ran the practice. 

"The coaches at GT have many years of experience. By the way, they coach, I can tell that they know what it takes to get to the next level and succeed."

Yesterday, Georgia Tech received their second commitment for the 2025 class.

Grady Adamson, a 6'1 205 LBS quarterback prospect, committed to the Yellow Jackets yesterday, becoming their second prospect in the 2025 class. Adamson plays at Deer Creek High School in Edmond, Oklahoma, and he also had offers from BYU, Syracuse, USF, Pitt, and Boston College. On the 247Sports Composite, he is the No. 952 player in the country, the No. 63 quarterback in the country, and the No. 15 player in the state of Oklahoma. 

Here are some stats and info on Adamson courtesy of 247Sports director of scouting Andrew Ivins:

2023: Central Oklahoma Athletic Conference Offensive Back of the Year. Threw for 2,565 yards with 28 TD and 4 INT. Also ran for 577 yards and 7 TD. Got Deer Creek to the the semifinals of the Oklahoma Class 6A-II playoffs with a 9-3 record.

2022: Posted a 10-2 record as a sophomore, leading Deer Creek to the semifinals of the Oklahoma Class 6A-II playoffs. Completed 187 of 283 passes for 2,813 yards with 33 TD and 10 INT. Also carried the ball 108 times for 208 yards and 6 TD.

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Everything from georgia tech defensive coordinator tyler santucci after the yellow jackets' third spring practice.

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

Locations of Planets and Comet During Totality on April 8, 2024

• Released Tuesday, April 2, 2024
• Produced by:
• Abbey A. Interrante

During the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, sharp-eyed observers might spot some planets in the darkened sky near the eclipsed Sun. Jupiter and Venus, on opposite sides of the Sun, will be the brightest and easiest to spot. Jupiter will appear about 30 degrees to the upper left of the eclipsed Sun while Venus will appear about 15 degrees to the lower right of the eclipsed Sun. Fainter Mars and Saturn will appear next to one another about 35 degrees to the lower right of the eclipsed Sun, but they might be challenging for most to see. Mercury and Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks will also be in the sky to the upper left of the eclipsed Sun, but they will likely be too faint to see without binoculars or a telescope. For more information about safely watching the eclipse, either directly or with binoculars or a telescope, visit go.nasa.gov/Eclipse2024Safety .

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Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

• Eclipse_Sky_Chart_Planets_and_Angles_B.png (1690x951) [2.1 MB]
• EclipsePlanets_No_Angles_C.png (1690x951) [2.1 MB]
• Eclipse_Sky_Chart_A.png (1690x951) [2.1 MB]
• Planets & Moons
• Solar Eclipse
• total solar eclipse

Please give credit for this item to: NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio

• Vanessa Thomas  (KBR Wyle Services, LLC)
• Lisa Poje  (USRA)
• Kristen Perrin  (TRAX International)
• Abbey A. Interrante  (ADNET Systems, Inc.)
• Preston Dyches  (NASA/JPL-Caltech)

Release date

This page was originally published on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. This page was last updated on Monday, April 1, 2024 at 5:16 PM EDT.

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Bianca censori wears nothing but lace bra during date night with kanye, bianca censori the bra-less wonder is back ... goes full 'seinfeld' w/ ye.

Bianca Censori seemed to be channeling an old episode of "Seinfeld" -- in which one of the characters wore nothing but a bra and caused heads to turn ... now, life is imitating art.

Kanye West and his wife went out to dinner Wednesday night in L.A., hitting French restaurant Gigi's for a bite to eat ... and a relatively quick getaway afterward -- with Ye and Bianca walking back to their car and paps firing off some shots as they exited.

We've seen Bianca in a lot of wild outfits over the past several months -- but this is equally as eye-popping, because it's BC in nothing but a bra up top, and some sheer pants below.

Yes, it's certainly more elegant than some of the getups she's been wearing of late ... but if Sue Ellen Mischke, the Bra-less Wonder, was any indication nearly 30 years ago on TV -- even this fashion choice is pushing the envelope.

As the 'Sein' crew noted in that famous episode ... Bianca's flouting society's conventions!

Kanye and Bianca have been stationed in L.A. for a little while now -- and it seems Ye is blending his family with Kim Kardashian into his life with his current spouse -- as we're seeing their kids hang out with dad a little bit more ... including for holidays like Easter.

Bianca, meanwhile, isn't slowing down on the racy 'fits ... it's something new every single day.

As for the bra-only look ... try not to get distracted if you see walking down the street. We've seen how that would work out in a sitcom ... and it's not a winning case. Just sayin'!

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