Let's Talk Date Ideas

Amber Brooks

By: Amber Brooks

Editor: Lillian Castro

Posted:

Inspiration lives here. Instead of waiting around for a lightbulb moment, check out our best recommendations for fun places to go and things to do other than typical dinner dates.

We've curated a perfect mix of date ideas for any occasion or mood. Get date ideas for every season, budget, holiday, and even specific cities.

Thinking about double dates? We have the perfect recipe for cooking up a successful double date with friends. Our content also dives into what makes a bad date, so you can avoid landing on someone’s dreaded “worst dates” list.

Our articles offer fresh ideas and creative ways to spend quality time with a partner, whether you’re meeting for the first time or have been together for years. Come on, it’s time to create some lasting memories.

Look through our many, many guides to find inspo and create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable date, whether you’re celebrating a milestone anniversary or just getting to know someone.

345 Results

What Our Experts Say:

1.
7 Queer Date Ideas
Dr. Frankie Bashan

Dr. Frankie Bashan

For all the questions I field about queer and LGBTQ+ dating — how to find a compatible partner, how to deal with homophobic family, how to meet other queer people — it's surprisingly common for people to express concern about the mechanics of dating itself.  How do you ask someone out? How do you know if it's a date or not? If it is a date, what do you do? For many people — especially if they're sober — it's...

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2.
What Is Dry Dating: How This New Trend Is Impacting Date Nights
Ashayla Blakely

Ashayla Blakely

Many first dates take place at a bar where the casual atmosphere encourages casual conversation over drinks. Some say after a couple of shots of tequila, their first-date jitters die down. Some daters feel comfortable letting their guard down after a drink, and the alcohol carries the night for them. But what happens when you live a sober lifestyle? That’s where dry dating comes in. Dry dating has grown in...

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3.
15 Ideas for Valentine’s Day If You’re Flying Solo 
Jamie Ballard

Jamie Ballard

Valentine's Day may have a reputation as a holiday that's all about romantic love, but I think it's time to rewrite the book on V-Day. Valentine's Day can be about loving yourself or loving your friends just as much as it can be about loving a partner.  Valentine’s Day can be particularly tricky if you’ve recently gone through a breakup or are having complicated feelings about your relationship status. If you...

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4.
Experts Predict More Valentine’s Day Dates Will be at Home This Year
Sheena Holt

Sheena Holt

During the COVID-19 pandemic, most couples saw their date nights change from going out on the town to connecting more intimately at home.  Without restaurants, concerts, and movie theaters, couples were challenged to reimagine their time together. Couples cooked together, streamed their favorite movies and shows, or listened to virtual concerts from their living rooms. Long-distance couples got better at...

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5.
11 Romantic Lesbian Movies for Your Next Date Night
Jules Chen

Jules Chen

In 2022, 28.5% of 350 films released theatrically and on streaming were LGBTQ-inclusive. Of these 100 inclusive films, 45 featured lesbians.  Lesbian relationships are on their way to receiving more widespread representation onscreen, so when you’re planning your next movie night with your girl, you’ll have more options than ever before. To help you pick a flick, I’ve put together a list of romantic...

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6.
14 Chill & Easy Date Ideas (for Cheap!)
Lauren Sanders

Lauren Sanders

One thing romantic comedies don’t tell you — a romantic date takes a lot of planning. Perhaps you’ve gotten past the first few moments of small talk, somehow avoided being ghosted, and now you’re ready to go on an actual date. Perhaps you’re in a dating rut with your significant other and want to bring the magic back. You can go for the usual coffee date or dinner date routine, but that feels rather stale in my...

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7.
Speed Dating Can Be Just As Entertaining As It Is Romantic
Emma Patterson

Emma Patterson

The Short Version: Speed dating just may be the efficient, drama-free social event of the past — and the future, if Robert Ryall has anything to do with it. His company, Date in a Dash, puts a fun, creative twist on speed dating and singles events.  The anticipatory build-up of a first date can be exciting for some people, but I’m not one of them. Waiting for a first date to begin feels, to me, a lot like sitting...

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8.
The African American Museum is Philly’s Unexpected Date Hotspot
Mackenzie Buck

Mackenzie Buck

The Short Version: A good date location should give couples plenty of room for thoughtful conversation, and that's certainly true for the African American Museum in Philadelphia. This cultural hub gives visitors the chance to explore, learn, and converse about topics that matter. I’ve learned a lot about myself throughout my journey of singlehood. One big thing is I’m not a fan of the traditional dating format of...

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9.
Give Back For National Animal Shelter Week: DatingAdvice.com’s Paw-fect Date Giveaway
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

We get it. Planning a date can be hard, and honestly, even redundant sometimes. But it doesn’t have to be and we're here to change that. Whether you are on the hunt for a unique first date idea or simply need a fun way to keep your partner on their toes, we have an exciting challenge for you to freshen things up with our fun giveaway.  The icing on the cake? You and your date will have the chance to spend...

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10.
Survey Reveals the Most Romantic Fall Getaway Destinations
Jon McCallister

Jon McCallister

Fall is one of the most romantic times of the year. The world outside is turning from a lush green to stunning shades of gold, red, and orange. The colder temperatures bring the promise of snuggles around the fire with a mug of hot cocoa in hand.  A fall getaway with your loved one can be awfully romantic, whether you're bundling up for a stroll through fall foliage, heading to a local farm to pick a pumpkin,...

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11.
Adventure-Seekers, Unite: Plan Your Ideal Date in a Washington State Park
Emma Patterson

Emma Patterson

The Short Version: Take your date into the great outdoors at one of Washington’s beautiful state parks. With Meryl Lassen from the Parks and Rec department as our guide, we learned how romance can bloom when couples visit one of Washington’s parks. Not only are the parks safe and accessible, but they’re full of activities that everyone can enjoy.  When night falls, the Pacific Northwestern sky is blanketed...

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12.
Everything You Need to Know to Have a Successful Date Night
Ashayla Blakely

Ashayla Blakely

Date nights are the glue that keeps a relationship going. A date night is an intentional, planned occasion where couples set aside time to focus on each other and nurture their relationship. A lot of people love the cupcake stage of relationships because that's when couples invest more energy and dedicate time to going on dates — but what if I told you that the cupcake stage doesn't have to be a stage at...

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13.
What Is a Group Date? Definition, Variations & Expert Advice  
Mackenzie Buck

Mackenzie Buck

Group dates are arguably one of the most common tropes in sitcoms and romcoms, up there next to coffee shop meet-cutes, a “Princess Diaries”-esque makeover transformation, or a dramatic last-ditch sprint through airport security.  The thing about group dates is that they actually happen. And, for some people, they can also be quite the tool for elevating their romance game. In this bite-size but comprehensive...

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14.
From Rural Relaxation to Big City Fun, Romance Awaits in Nebraska
Chloë Hylkema

Chloë Hylkema

The Short Version: You don’t have to leave the country to take a vacation off the beaten path. A trip to Nebraska offers couples rural solitude, vibrant city life, and plenty of outdoor adventure along the way. Jump in the car, venture off the interstate, and experience everything the Cornhusker State offers. The term “flyover state” has never sat well with me. I’m from a part of the country most people don’t have...

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15.
A Guide to Planning a Romantic Getaway
Ashayla Blakely

Ashayla Blakely

After going on several baecations with my boo, I realized that traveling is a love language of mine. There’s just something about going to a new place and spending one-on-one time with your partner. Whether we’re cruising to Montego Bay in Jamaica or road-tripping to Canada for New Years, romantic getaways have rejuvenated my relationship in more ways than one.  And I’m sure I’m not the only one.  A...

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16.
Alfresco Feasts: Ranking the Top 150 Romantic Dining Destinations
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

The urge to indulge in one of life's most cherished rituals — alfresco dining — grows irresistible as the days grow longer. Outdoor dining experiences in bustling city streets and tranquil countryside retreats are synonymous with the changing seasons, and American cities offer a unique blend of culinary delights perfect for couples wanting to spend a romantic evening together.  At its heart, alfresco dining...

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17.
A Guide to Double Dates
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

My parents have been married for over 45 years, and they have a firm rule: Friday night is date night. They love to go to their favorite Mexican restaurant to share a plate of nachos, but every once in a while, they're craving something different.  When they want to mix things up, my parents call their oldest friends and set up a double date. It’s a chance to catch up, make new memories, and maybe split a...

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18.
Guide to Having a Fruitful Dinner Date
Mackenzie Buck

Mackenzie Buck

Let’s start off this guide with a simple challenge: Stop what you’re doing and name a romantic comedy that doesn’t involve some sort of dinner date. Trick question! You can’t (please don’t fact-check me on this) because there are none. This is because dinner dates are a staple in the world of romance, even more so than flowers, chocolates, and that awkward face that guys make when they’re leaning in for the first...

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19.
What Does “Netflix and Chill” Mean?
Cassey Ashley Sua

Cassey Ashley Sua

"Wanna come over to Netflix and chill?" At face value, it can sound innocent, simply an invite to snuggle up and watch some shows together. But gone are these wholesome implications as the expression Netflix and chill has evolved into something far more intriguing. For those in a steady relationship, Netflix and chill can literally mean just that – kicking back and enjoying each other's company, no hidden...

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20.
A Guide to Having a Successful Coffee Date
Anggi Pradhini

Anggi Pradhini

A coffee date is more than just a meeting over coffee; it's an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation and create a good impression. Whether you're meeting someone new or catching up with a long-time partner, a coffee date offers a comfortable setting to have a chat. Additionally, women are three times as likely as men to choose to have coffee rather than drinks for a first date, according to a study we...

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21.
What Is Speed Dating?
Amber Brooks

Amber Brooks

If you’re feeling a little burned out on dating sites and apps, you’re not alone. Time Magazine and other publications have reported that Gen Z singles are fleeing dating apps and sites in droves. Although plenty of online dating platforms are still going strong, there’s no question that a lot of young singles now prefer to meet in person.  Enter speed dating, created by Rabbi Yaacov Deyo in the late 1990s....

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22.
Fall in Love at Vine Street Brewing Co, Missouri’s First Black-Owned Brewery
Chloë Hylkema

Chloë Hylkema

The Short Version: Vine Street Brewing Co. in Kansas City, Missouri, offers everything you could want in a brewery date night and more. The brewery is Kansas City and Missouri’s first Black-owned brewery and is revitalizing KC’s historic Vine District, which once saw jazz history and legends made. Kemet Coleman is one of the brewery’s co-founders, and he told us about the spot’s history and founding story, and what’s...

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23.
Eat, Drink, & Explore With Avital’s Interactive Dining Experiences
Chloë Hylkema

Chloë Hylkema

The Short Version: Looking for a different kind of dinner date? Avital Experiences offers innovative culinary tours and experiences that couples can enjoy in their city or from the comfort of their own home. Avital Ungar, founder and CEO, talked to us about Avital Experiences's offerings and what couples can expect from an in-person or virtual experience. Avital Experiences offers local cuisine tours in several San...

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24.
Asterisk is Denver’s Premier Wedding Venue with a Spacious and Customizable Options
Jordan Sprogis

Jordan Sprogis

The Short Version: Calling all Denver brides- and grooms-to-be: If you’re still looking for the perfect venue, we’ve come to save your sanity. Wedding planning is among the most stressful things a couple can go through, but Asterisk awaits you in downtown Denver so you no longer have to worry. We talked with Amy Lugowski, a spokesperson for Asterisk, who told us about the historic space and how you, too, can treat it...

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25.
7 Holiday Gift Giving Tips for Dating Couples
Hunt Ethridge

Hunt Ethridge

It’s that time of year again. When a young man’s thoughts turn to gifts and the nagging question: What the heck do I get people for the holidays?! Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Festivus are beloved holidays in December. The holiday season is a wonderful time of year to celebrate with loved ones, but it can come with its own stressors as well. Mainly, how do I get the right gifts for the important people in my...

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26.
6 Do’s and Don’ts for Office Party Dates
Mackenzie Buck

Mackenzie Buck

I’ll always remember one December —  fresh out of college and a four-year relationship — a guy I had met on a night out asked me to be his date for his company’s annual Christmas party. Horrible at small talk and terrified of jumping into another relationship too soon, I said no. Looking back all these years later, however, I regret it.  Why? Because I know now that a holiday party invite doesn’t have to...

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27.
Toast & Jam DJs Bring a Personalized Touch to Wedding Day Dance Floors
Chloë Hylkema

Chloë Hylkema

The Short Version: Breaking news – wedding entertainment doesn’t have to be cheesy. Toast & Jam is a group of wedding DJs based in Chicago who create personalized music experiences for every moment of a couple’s special day. Unlike many other wedding DJs, the team at Toast & Jam works closely with their clients from the beginning of the wedding planning process to create meaningful and memorable musical...

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28.
Fall In Love On A Romantic Autumn Getaway To Littleton, New Hampshire
Lexi Inks

Lexi Inks

The Short Version: Breathtaking colors and cool breezes aren’t the only things to enjoy about the fall season — especially in a town like Littleton, New Hampshire. Nestled among the New England mountains and not far from large attractions like Boston and Burlington, Littleton is a small but lovely place to take a foliage-filled foray with your significant other. From its pumpkin carving festival to intimate date...

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29.
Sandy Valley Ranch Adds A Western Flair To Nevada Weddings
Lexi Inks

Lexi Inks

The Short Version: While they are ever-popular, weddings held in massive churches or on tropical beaches aren’t for everyone. Some people prefer a unique experience for their big day,  especially when they live a niche lifestyle. If you and your fiancé are the dust-kicking, cow-wrangling type, a wedding venue like Sandy Valley Ranch is the perfect place to get hitched — and to hitch a horse, while you’re at it....

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30.
Port Townsend Is the Perfect PNW Destination For a Romantic Weekend Getaway
Lexi Inks

Lexi Inks

The Short Version: Eyeing larger cities across the country is not uncommon for anyone looking to travel domestically.  But if you and your partner are hoping for a more relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, somewhere like Port Townsend, Washington, may be the perfect alternative. With its historic charm, abundance of outdoor activities, and friendly atmosphere, let this hidden gem of the PNW...

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Amber Brooks

By: Amber Brooks

Editor-in-Chief

Amber Brooks is the Editor-in-Chief at DatingAdvice.com. When she was growing up, her family teased her for being "boy crazy," but she preferred to think of herself as a budding dating and relationship expert. As an English major at the University of Florida, Amber honed her communication skills to write clearly, knowledgeably, and passionately about a variety of subjects. Now with over 1,800 lifestyle articles to her name, Amber brings her tireless wit and relatable experiences to DatingAdvice.com. She has been quoted by the Washington Times, Cosmopolitan, The New York Post, and AskMen, among others.

See Amber's full bio »

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