Grabbing a bite to eat and heading to the cinema is a date night classic, but it’s pretty played out at this point.
Whether you’ve been with your partner for a long time and are trying to keep the romance alive or you’re meeting up with someone new, here are some ideas for things you’ll actually enjoy doing and that will allow you to test your chemistry and get to know each other better at the same time.
1. Try a DIY pizza night.
Instead of booking a table at a restaurant, set up a DIY pizza station at home. Grab pre-made dough or make your own, lay out a spread of toppings, and get creative with different combinations. You’ll have fun comparing each other’s wild pizza ideas—and who doesn’t love a little friendly competition? Best of all, you’ll end up with a cosy meal you made together. This date is all about collaboration, with the added bonus of some delicious food at the end.
2. Plan a mini road trip to nowhere.
Hop in the car and start driving, with no particular destination in mind. Keep it spontaneous: pick random left or right turns and see where you end up. Bring snacks, good music, and a spirit of adventure. There’s something fun about seeing where the road takes you, and it can lead to some unexpectedly beautiful places or quirky roadside attractions. The journey itself becomes the memory, not the destination.
3. Visit a local farmers’ market.
Head to a farmer’s market and browse through the fresh produce, homemade treats, and local crafts. Sample unusual fruits or buy ingredients for a picnic or meal you can cook together later. Farmer’s markets often have live music or food stands to explore, making for an easy-going yet engaging date. Plus, you’re supporting local businesses while enjoying each other’s company and discovering new flavours.
4. Go stargazing (but don’t forget the snacks).
Grab a blanket, some snacks, and head out of the city lights to a spot where the stars are bright. You don’t need a telescope to appreciate the night sky—just enjoy lying back, chatting, and trying to spot constellations. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate or coffee to make it extra cosy. Stargazing has a way of making you feel grounded, offering a chance to just be present with each other under a shared sky.
5. Take a dance class — or try it at home.
For something out of the ordinary, sign up for a beginner’s dance class, whether it’s salsa, swing, or even ballroom. It’s okay if you’re not a dancer—learning together is what makes it fun. You’ll be stepping out of your comfort zone, sharing a few laughs, and creating a new shared skill. If a formal class feels like too much, you could always find an online tutorial and try it at home, where you can laugh at each other without any pressure.
6. Play tourist in your own city.
Rediscover your city by visiting spots you’d usually overlook. Look up historical sites, hidden gems, or a museum you’ve never been to. Or book a city tour—yes, even if it feels a bit cheesy. Seeing familiar places through fresh eyes is surprisingly fun and can give you a whole new appreciation for where you live. Plus, it’s a perfect chance to snap some photos and create memories together without going far from home.
7. Have a “yes day.”
Take turns saying yes to each other’s spontaneous ideas for the day, no matter how silly. If one person wants ice cream for breakfast, go for it. If someone suggests a quick detour to a bookshop, dive in. The only rule is that you have to be up for anything. A “Yes Day” opens you up to unexpected moments and reminds you that dates don’t always have to be planned to be memorable.
8. Volunteer together.
Spend some time giving back together, whether at a local shelter, an animal rescue, or a community event. Volunteering isn’t just a good deed; it can be deeply bonding and bring out new sides of each other. Plus, it’s rewarding to see the positive impact you can make as a team. This kind of date goes beyond just fun—it’s meaningful and makes for a shared experience that sticks with you.
