You could ask a group of one hundred people on the street what their ideal date night would be and you’d get a totally different answer each time. While what makes up the perfect evening (or afternoon!) out with someone special depends on the person, here are some ideas you might like to try on your next date.
- Hit up a ballgame Sporting events are a great way to a man’s heart because you can see him rushed up in the emotions of it all, as well as see how he deals with stress. It’s cute to be able to see someone wrapped up in something that they really enjoy. More than that, you can invite yourself into the important parts of their lives. Plus, you’re more likely to have their unerring focus without him checking the football score while you’re on a date. It’s such a great photo opportunity, and you can see him all cute and riled up.
- Netflix and Chill This is a crowd favorite for guys because it’s simple, local, easy, and cheap. Yes, it’s not the most stylish or fashionable date night, but it’s functional and you get to chat. Why waste money on a first date when you’re not sure about the other person yet? A date doesn’t mean that you’re owed someone’s time or money, nor does it mean you owe them sex, of course. Just because he’s the man in the relationship doesn’t mean that he has to foot the bill. This is why simple first dates are ideal. There are no expectations, and you can just be yourself.
- Dinner at a fancy restaurant And no, before you ask, a pub meal isn’t fancy. If burgers are on the menu at all, you’re in the wrong place. A fancy restaurant is ideal for date nights when you’ve been going out for a few weeks and you’re starting to step things up. The best cuisine here is Asian, so expect to see sushi, dumplings, or anything that shows you’re willing to embrace other cultures and branch out. In an otherwise basic date night idea, get creative with cuisine and show you will take risks.
- See a movie This is another solid idea for a date night, though you might not get as much conversation in during the film. However, it does mean that you get to have loads of conversation pieces after the film. A trip to the movies can be built into a bigger date, for example having dinner or walking afterward. You can reflect on the film and elevate your first date conversation to more current affairs and art, rather than just “what do you do for work?” Don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it! You can really build sexual anticipation at the movies too.
- A few cans of beer while watching the sunset This is a really cute, simple way of creating unforgettable memories without breaking the budget and is what many guys consider an ideal date night. This is a perfect way of being at one with nature while also being present in the moment. Dates aren’t about finding the perfect way of distracting yourself or wasting time but simply letting life take over, with alcohol, of course.
- Picnic in the park This is a bit like when guys like watching the sunset — it’s a way to really curate the experience and control your communication. You’re making all the eye contact, plus you can incorporate a lot of other things into the experience. For example, you can have a baking session at someone’s place and bring those homemade sweet treats on the picnic, as well as some strategic bottles of wine or cider for the vibes. It can be exactly what you want it to be and sets the scene for how you plan to meet the needs of the relationship going further.
- Walk in the snow Some people love to walk on the beach or spend time in the mountains, but the snow scenery is such a cinematic, iconic setting that it cannot be overlooked. Walking in the snow reminds me of fresh starts, crisp weather, and festive family time. This is the best setting to make new memories, so the next time snow falls, get yourself a date and get the snow boots on! Conversation and nostalgia will flow and it will be super enriching. This may not be an ideal date night that’s possible all year ’round, but when it is, don’t miss out!
- Drive to a nature reserve Find yourself on a hike that’s an hour away from where you came from. Go on a new route that you’ve never been on before. It’s always so different from going on tried and tested walks that you know every step to. Plus, everyone always looks sexier when they’re driving, so it gives you an opportunity to show off.
- Brunch on Sunday While most people say that Saturdays are the best brunch spots, by eating together on a Sunday morning, you make use of an otherwise boring day. Plus, it gives you an excuse to hang out together on Saturday evening… for logistical reasons, of course. This way, your ideal date night becomes a date weekend. Who wouldn’t love that?
- A spontaneous city break We all want a Bridget Jones moment where a bad boy sweeps us off our feet to an all-expenses-paid trip abroad or to the countryside for the weekend. That’s the gold standard because it introduces you to a whole new world, and lets you embrace spontaneity and just forget the world. It’s the ideal date night idea for women.
