12 Creative Date Ideas That Are Way Better Than Dinner

12 Creative Date Ideas That Are Way Better Than Dinner ©iStock/Aleksandar Nakic

According to research by social psychologist Dr. Arthur Aron of the State University of New York at Stony Brook, novelty is the spice of life —and a key ingredient of a good long-term relationship. To keep your partnership strong and passionate, it’s important that you try some new and exciting things together, a practice that can come in handy even at the beginning of your time getting to know someone new. Candlelit dinners and walking hand-in-hand through the park are nice and all, but if you want to get creative with your significant other, here are a few ideas.

  1. Take a cooking class. What’s a relationship without good food? Nothing, I say! Learn how to cook together so you can prepare new and exciting dishes and never be bored of the same old dinners again!
  2. Go to a yoga or other fitness class together. Did you know that 94% of couples who do a fitness program together stick with it? It’s true! Sure, your body will be stronger and healthier, but more importantly, so will your sex life!
  3. Go to an amusement park. A couple that thrill seeks together is a couple that stays together. At least that’s my opinion. Laugh together, try rides that you’re a little scared of, and eat cotton candy until you puke. It’s all part of the bonding experience!
  4. Take an out-of-town trip. Whether it’s a cross-country flight or just a short road trip, going somewhere together can create a stronger bond between you and your partner. For an even better experience, take the scenic route.
  5. Go rock climbing. Rock climbing is an exercise based on trust, so it goes without saying that it’s an incredible way to strengthen your relationship.
  6. Take a hike. Take in nature by going on a hike, and don’t be afraid to go off the beaten track and enjoy each other’s company without any distractions. Just be safe about it.
  7. Try snorkeling. Slow and steady breathing, beautiful marine life that only a lucky few get to see, and the sun beating down on your backs is the ultimate way to strengthen the bond of your relationship.
  8. Have a games night in. You don’t have to go out to get closer; why not try a date closer to home? If you’re feeling particularly brave, you could even try a game of Monopoly – the ultimate relationship test. Honestly, if you haven’t broken up after a game of Monopoly, then you’re set for life.
  9. Enjoy dinner in the dark. Learn how to appreciate your food, and each other’s company, without one of your primary senses: sight. It’s an alternative way to get to know each other intimately, and it seems to be a semi-popular idea, with lots of restaurants in cities around the country hosting their own “dark dinner” nights.
  10. Enroll in dance classes. What’s sexier than a couple that can dance together? Nothing, that’s what. Plus, if he’s willing to take a dance class with you, you know he’s a keeper.
  11. Stargaze. Take in the night sky and ponder the universe together. Nothing will make you feel more in awe of the world and each other than lying under the light of millions of stars.
  12. Go skydiving. Not for the faint of heart, those who value their lives, or anyone on a budget, but if you ever get a chance to skydive with your significant other, you definitely should. The adrenaline and the experience will bond the two of you together.
Sarah is a full-time content marketer, part-time freelancer. She’s a serial hobbyist (which just means that she does a lot of random things, but none of them particularly well). Her real talent lies in her ability to consume copious amounts of wine, whilst discussing feminism and reading A Song of Ice and Fire for the 8th time... All while saving puppies from burning houses, of course. You can see more of her work here, or pop over to Twitter and say “‘ello ‘ello” @daughterdipstik
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