As someone who doesn’t really drink much these days unless it’s a fun daytime cocktail on a perfect sunny afternoon, heading out for a drink or dinner as a first date is not something I’m super excited about. I think there’s something to be said about a fun date activity instead of just spending money on food and drinks.
This got me thinking. What are some fun date night ideas that aren’t just making a reservation at a restaurant, or a first date that’s just grabbing a drink? This is typically my default, especially for those first dates. Here are a few fun ideas to make your date nights a little more exciting!
Date Ideas That Aren’t Dinner
Take A Dance Class
A very sensual date you can take is a dance class. Whether it’s salsa, square dancing, or the fox trot, this is a really fun way to show off your dance moves!
Comedy Show
My preferred date is to go to a comedy show. You are guaranteed a good time even if your date sucks. Even just open mic nights can be really fun and entertaining.
Cooking Class
Cooking classes, or baking classes, can be really fun! I took a cooking class in Jamaica with a friend and it was such a fun activity we went home with a fantastic recipe and something to try when we got home.
These are interactive dates that also take the pressure off when you’re in the beginning stages of dating. But is also really fun to reignite some fun between one another no matter how many years you’ve been together.
Art Class
There are so many fun art classes you can take. And while a sip and stroke is fun, there are other options out there. From pottery classes to photography or painting, there are lots of options that are popping up around here. I am personally a fan of going and painting pottery!
Arcade
I feel like arcade bars are popping up in every city. There are so many in Downtown Raleigh, my favorite being Boxcar. A room full of fun arcade games from the 80s and 90s. Play a few games and the loser pays for the next date!
Bowling
Why did we stop bowling? I grew up bowling in so many different friend groups and camps. This was such a fun activity as kids and someone always had a birthday party at a bowling alley. It’s fun and competitive, but no one expects you to be any good at it either.
Go-Cart Racing
Talk about competition. Feel like a kid again driving around in go-carts. Nothing like a little trash talk and getting to actually bump someone in a go-cart to really set the mood for a date.
Trivia Night
While this can still include dinner, many places, bars, or restaurants do trivia nights. They are such a fun way to get to know someone too. These last a few hours and honestly keep the conversation going instantly with all the trivia you have to discuss.
TopGolf
Topgolf is a fun driving range experience where you can also get food and drinks if you like. But it’s a physical activity that keeps you moving and trading off. No Topgolf near you? Just head to a driving range with a bucket of balls. Or you can also play a Par 3 course for a quick golf game. Mini golf is always an option, but I think Par 3 courses are a bit more fun!
Visit A Farmer’s Market
Get your groceries done while supporting local farmers AND knocking out that first date. It’s also a perfect weekend activity to be out and about. Farmer’s markets keep you moving, and talking, and you can totally get a bite to eat while strolling through.
There are really so many ideas to get out of the usual dinner and a movie or let’s grab a drink. Which one of these ideas are you going to try on your next date? What are some of your favorite date night ideas?
As always, thank y’all for stopping by and reading. I will see y’all back here next time.
