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It might sound obvious, but a great first date is the key to getting a second date. This means your first date needs to be fun and memorable, as well as give you a chance to form a closer connection with your date.
The perfect first date idea gives you plenty of easy opportunities to have interesting conversations. It also needs to avoid being boring or predictable, so you have a better chance to make a good first impression.
This list of first date ideas is specifically designed with all the above in mind. The good news is that you don’t need to break the bank or push your physical limits to impress your date.
What are the best first date ideas?
When you’re on a first date, there’s nothing worse than running out of things to say and being stuck in awkward silence. The best first date ideas are fun activities that make it easy to have interesting conversations with your date.
When you’re sharing an experience or an activity, you always have something to talk about, and you never have to stress about resorting to boring small talk.
For example, a dinner date at a restaurant can be great, but the entire experience is focused on talking to your date. If you don’t know them very well, it’s easy to get nervous or draw a blank if you’re not great at keeping a conversation going.
However, if you’re doing something more interactive like karaoke or mini-golfing, there are always plenty of conversational opportunities to keep things interesting. You can laugh together at your mistakes and comment on how everyone else is playing.
Low-key first date ideas
Sometimes you’re too busy to plan a full-on date, or you don’t want to commit too much time to someone you barely know. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t impress your date or have a great time together. You just need a low-key first date idea that’s easy to organize and fun for both of you.
1. Go to a coffee shop
A coffee date is perfect if you’re not sure how well you’ll get along with your date. You can time box the date to an hour, so you’re not committing too much time if things don’t go well.
Because it’s so short, you also don’t have the pressure of needing to sustain an interesting conversation over a long period of time. Just prepare a couple of conversation starters beforehand.
2. Browse an old record store
Record stores are a great place for finding unique gifts or interesting music. You can browse together and share your discoveries with one another. This is a great chance to share stories about your interests if you have a lot in common. If you don’t, it’s still easy to find something fun to talk about as everyone has an opinion on music.
3. Wander around a flea market
There are all sorts of fascinating things to see when you wander around flea markets. You can both share your favorite finds and find some cool new mementos together. This works great as a first date idea if you’re on a budget but still want to make a good impression.
4. Visit the local animal shelters
If your date is an animal lover, visiting the local animal shelter is a fantastic first date idea. It’s also a very personal experience and will give you a lot to talk about. You can bond over the cute animals or chat about your past experiences at the shelter. Keep in mind that animal shelters can also be quite sad so make sure your date knows what they’re signing up for.
5. Volunteer together
If you’re both passionate about helping the community or making the world a better place in some way, why not volunteer together? You’ll get to spend time with each other while also doing something great for others. Plus, people who volunteer often tend to be very empathetic and understanding, which will make you both even better matches for each other.
6. Visit your local antique store
There are always plenty of interesting stories behind antiques and old collectibles. You can share your favorite finds and stories with one another. If you’ve both got an eye for treasures, it’s the perfect low-key first date idea.
7. Visit the local dog park
Hanging out at the local dog park for an hour or so is a perfect first date idea if you both have dogs. But even if you don’t, it’s still a fun and interactive activity that you can both enjoy. You can pet all the different dogs and laugh at their different personalities. It’s also a great place for people watching as there are always interesting characters at the dog park.
Food related first date ideas
First dates that involve eating and drinking will never go out of style. Everyone has to eat, and it’s super easy to bond over food. Food is also intimately connected to culture, so there’s always a lot to talk about.
8. Go on a picnic
Grab some food and find a pretty spot in the park or botanical garden for an old-fashioned picnic date. It’s like eating at home, but with better views of nature! You can snuggle up close together and enjoy the sunshine as you eat. It’s also great for people on a budget as it feels sophisticated without spending too much money. Before you eat, wander around the gardens and enjoy the scenery and learn about all the different plants. Bonus points if you prepare all the food yourself to make it extra special.
9. Enjoy a wine tasting
Visiting a winery is a fantastic first date idea. You get to enjoy great wine together and learn about how it’s made. Some people find the idea of wine tasting intimidating, but it really isn’t at all! You’ll quickly learn that there are no wrong answers when it comes to discussing what wines you like and don’t like. If there are no wineries in your area, an evening at a local wine bar can be just as romantic and fun.
10. Do a brewery tour
Breweries are becoming very popular these days as more and more people drink craft beer instead of mass-produced light beers. Find the breweries in your area and do a tour together. You’ll both learn about different kinds of beer, how it’s made, and how it tastes different from one another. Plus, once you’re done with the tour, there’s nothing better than enjoying a beer while you talk some more.
11. Tour a local food market
Exploring a local market with your date is a unique and creative idea. Chatting to the local producers is fun, and you’ll get to see where some of the freshest produce comes from while also getting to know each other better. You can also learn about each other’s taste in food and enjoy plenty of delicious samples on the way.
12. Tour your local food trucks
Food trucks are everywhere these days, and they’re an insanely popular date idea. If you know where they all are ahead of time, you can make an afternoon or evening of it and wander between the different trucks, trying a snack at each one. Many cities also have a designated food truck zone with tables set up so you can go and experience lots of different options in one place.
13. Take a cooking class
Taking a cooking class with your date is a great way to learn about each other’s taste in food. If you or your date has a particular cultural heritage, why not pick a cooking class that allows you to explore it through food? The conversation opportunities will be endless as you discuss your favorite recipes and memories of your childhood.
First date ideas at night
An evening or nighttime date is a great way to bring some romance and intimacy into the date. And if things are going well after your activity, you can keep the date going with a coffee or a drink or two and see where the night takes you.
14. Go to a cocktail bar
If you’re looking for a classy and sophisticated first date idea, a cocktail bar is a perfect choice. You can get to know each other while sampling delicious drinks and getting a relaxing buzz on. Cocktail bars are always dark and intimate, so if things are going well, you’ll have a great chance to get even closer to your date.
15. Go see a stand-up comedy show
If you and your date both like to laugh, heading to a comedy club is one of the best first date ideas around. You can enjoy jokes and banter from some of the funniest people in the world and laugh together while you get to know each other. Laughter is also proven to bring people closer together, so this is a great choice.
16. Try an escape room
Escape rooms are a really fun way to spend time together. You get locked in a room and have to work together with your date to solve riddles, discover clues, and break out within a set amount of time. You also get some serious quality time together, which is what all first dates are all about.
17. Listen to live music
There’s nothing more romantic than sitting close together and listening to some live bands. You can check out some local bands or even go see a big-name act if you can afford it. As long as your date shares your musical taste, it’s sure to be a great time.
18. Go see a movie
There’s a reason why going to the movies is such a classic first date idea: It works. Sitting in front of a big screen while you share popcorn and drinks can be just what you need to get over your nerves and ease into the night. You may not be able to talk much, but at least you’ll both be entertained! Once the movie is over, you can grab a drink and review the movie together.
19. Go to a drive-in movie
If your city or town has a drive-in movie theater, you should check it out as a first date idea. There’s nothing more romantic than watching a movie with your date cuddled up in the car. You can even make it extra cozy by bringing some blankets and snacks to enjoy during the movie.
20. Visit an arcade to play some video games
Hitting up the local arcade can be way more fun than you think. It’s loud, energetic, and there’s a huge variety of games to choose from. You can talk about your favorite games or old video games you used to play as a kid and have a great time trying to beat each other’s high scores!
21. Go to a jazz club
If you want to impress your date, a jazz club is the way to go. It’s classy and sophisticated and sets a really fun and relaxed tone. Again, there’s not too much talking involved, so even if you’re feeling nervous, you can just chill and soak in the atmosphere together.
22. Play board games together
Board game bars have been popping up all over the place and are a great first date idea for gamers. You get to play your favorite games together while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Board game bars are also usually very social, so if you’re looking for ways to break the ice, this is the perfect place to do it.
23. Go to a trivia or quiz night
Attending a trivia night is a fun way to spend an evening with someone new. You’ll get to know each other while learning some interesting facts about random topics. There are usually prizes involved, so it’s a great chance to bond with your date over destroying the competition.
Adventurous & active first date ideas
Picking an adventurous first date idea is a great way to show off your athleticism. You’ll also get to see how your date responds to a more challenging situation. In addition, the adrenaline you get from doing an intense activity together will give you both a positive buzz that will strengthen your attraction.
Just make sure your date is up for it, so you don’t push them too far out of their comfort zone. If they feel pressured into doing something that makes them feel uncomfortable, they’ll be left with a negative aftertaste that will harm your chances of getting a second date.
24. Take a bike ride together
If you’re looking for a low-key first date idea that’s active, going on a bike ride is perfect. You can take it as slow or as fast as you want and enjoy the local scenery. Many cities and towns have miles of dedicated bike trails that you can enjoy away from cars and pedestrians. You can even take a picnic with you and find a nice spot to take a break from your ride.
25. Go indoor rock climbing
Indoor rock climbing is super popular, and it’s a really good date idea even if you’re a complete beginner. You’ll learn new skills and get a great workout together. Just make sure your date isn’t terrified of heights, and you’ll have a great time.
26. Go horseback riding together
Horseback riding can be extremely romantic, especially if you’re doing it at sunset over a picturesque landscape. If you live in the countryside or somewhere with beautiful trails, this is a great option for your first date. It’s exciting and adrenaline-inducing but also very chill at the same time.
27. Learn how to surf together
Surfing is an adrenaline-filled activity, but it’s also heaps of fun. If you’re both starting out, it’s great to learn together. You’ll get a good workout and have plenty of laughs as you get smashed by the waves. The first time you manage to stand up on your board is something you and your date will never forget.
28. Go ice skating
Ice skating is fun and romantic, especially if you and your date are both good at it. And if you’re not, then you’ll both spend a lot of time laughing together as you fall on your butts.
29. Take a dance class
Learning how to salsa or tango together is guaranteed to bring you closer together – both literally and figuratively. Learning how to move your body in sync with someone is an undeniably sexy experience, and it can set the tone for a relationship full of passion and excitement.
30. Enjoy a hike together
Going on a hike with a date is a great way to get some fresh air and see the world from a new perspective. You’ll also have plenty of time to chat as you explore the surrounding area. Hiking makes conversation very easy because there’s so much to see, and the landscape is constantly changing. Make sure you pick a trail that’s within you and your date’s fitness level. You want the hike to be a challenge but not so difficult that you’re physically exhausted when you finish.
31. Try canoeing or kayaking
How about trying canoeing or kayaking as a first date idea? It’s a great way to spend time together outdoors and enjoy being on a lake or river. Plus, you get to work on your upper body strength as you paddle. There are both canoes and kayaks that fit two people so you’ll have fun learning to work together as a team.
Outdoor first date ideas
Outdoor dates are great because there’s always plenty to see and talk about as you explore your local area. No matter what the season, there’s always something new to experience.
32. Visit a farm or ranch
Visiting a local farm or ranch is a unique first date idea. You can go on a tour together and learn about how food gets from the farm to your plate. It’s also very easy to find conversation starters while you’re walking around the farm, taking in all the interesting sights and sounds.
33. Go on a city tour
If you live in an area with lots of interesting sites, taking a city tour is a great way to spend a few hours with your date. You can find tours that focus on history or architecture and learn more about your hometown together. If your date doesn’t live in your city, this is a fun way to show off your city and learn more about them at the same time.
34. Go to an amusement park
Who doesn’t love amusement parks? You and your date can enjoy thrilling rides, concession stands full of crazy food options, and lots of fun games. Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for flirting as you’re lining up to use the rides and snuggled together on the Ferris wheel.
35. Go see a sports game
Whether you both love the same sport or not, watching a live game is always fun. It gives you more opportunities to chat than watching live music, and you can learn a lot about your date from their reactions throughout the game. If you’re both excited to cheer on your team, this is a great way to bond over something you both love.
36. Visit a water park
Water parks are the perfect place for a hot day in summer. There are rides, slides, water to play in, and plenty of snacking options to enjoy. When you’re done playing in the water, you can hang out in the sun and enjoy each other’s company.
37. Visit an observatory
If you or your date is a sci-fi buff, an observatory is a perfect first date idea. You can gaze at stars and planets together and learn more about space, and the conversation starter possibilities are endless when it comes to astronomy.
38. Go to the aquarium
Strolling around an aquarium with your date is sure to give you plenty of opportunities to laugh and chat. You’ll both be so amazed and excited by the colorful aquatic life that you won’t have to worry about any awkward silences. Many aquariums also offer night tours if you want to make your first date even more romantic.
39. Play a round of regular golf
Golf can be a frustrating game if you’ve never played before, but it’s still a lot of fun when you play with someone special. You can laugh at each other when you completely miss the ball and celebrate when you finally sink a putt. Plus, spending a few hours with your date in beautiful surroundings with lush green grass and pretty views can’t be a bad thing.
40. Play mini-golf
If proper golf isn’t your thing, how about mini-golf? Spending time together playing a round of mini-golf is a great way to get to know one another. You’ll have plenty of opportunities for conversation and flirting while you both try your best to beat each other’s scores. If you don’t believe me, just go watch the date scene in the original Karate Kid movie.
41. Go to the zoo
It’s easy to spend a full day at a good zoo exploring exhibits, watching animals in their enclosures, and enjoying concessions. It’s also a great chance to talk about travel, nature, and future plans as you look at exotic animals from all over the world. Plus, the opportunities for taking cute photos together are practically endless.
42. Hire a paddleboat
Paddleboats are a low-key way to spend an afternoon with your date. You can both work on your balance and chat about what you see around the lake as you paddle together. It’s also very easy for one of you to steer while the other takes pictures, so this is a fun alternative to canoeing or kayaking that requires less skill.
43. Go for a walk and people watch
It sounds simple, but spending an afternoon walking around together can be a lot of fun. You’ll have plenty of time to talk and enjoy each other’s company, but if you see something interesting, you’re free to stop for a minute and check it out. Pick a new area of your city you haven’t explored before and pretend you’re a tourist in your own town.
44. Go bowling
Bowling is a safe first date option that allows you to chat and laugh together without a lot of pressure. It’s also a fun, low-key way to spend an afternoon with someone new, and who knows – maybe you’ll have a strike!
45. Go to the beach
Heading to the beach for an afternoon of swimming and relaxing can be a great option if you live in an area where it’s warm. Even if the water is too cold to swim, you’ll both have fun playing Frisbee or throwing around a ball. If things are going well, take your date to the next level by grabbing dinner or a drink together on the boardwalk after strolling along the sand.
46. Go fruit picking
You may not have ever considered going fruit picking before, but it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon. You can chat with your date as you both admire the beautiful views and eat plenty of delicious fruit. It’s easy, unique, and your date is sure to appreciate your efforts. Plus, if you get hungry or thirsty, there’s no better place to snack and drink than on a farm surrounded by fresh fruit!
Art & culture first date ideas
If your date is the sensitive, artistic type, then they’ll love getting to know you better with a date that focuses on art and culture.
47. Go to a poetry reading
A poetry reading isn’t going to be for everyone, but it can be a fun and unique choice. Even if your date isn’t a huge poetry fan, they’ll appreciate your effort and get a kick out of trying something new. Plus, poetry readings are often free events, so you’ll save money too.
48. Visit a museum or art gallery
Museums and art galleries are perfect if you’re looking for a date idea that’s interactive and fun. Wandering through all the fascinating exhibits will spark your curiosity and creativity and give you lots to talk about.
49. Go see a play
Much like a movie, a play can be a great first date option if you’re worried about making conversation. You can sit and enjoy the performance together and then chat about it afterward. It’s also a classy and sophisticated option that is sure to impress your date.
50. Take a ceramics class together
Taking a ceramics class together is a great way to get the creative juices flowing. You’ll be able to chat and laugh with your date while also spending time getting creative in a fun new way. Plus, you’ll both have a great memento of your first date when it’s all over.
51. Take an art class together
For an intimate date idea that will bring you even closer, why not try doing something creative together? Doing arts and crafts is a great way to learn about your date without having to make too much conversation. You’ll find out a lot about them while having your hands full with glue, glitter, and paint!
