If you are looking for some out-of-the-box first date ideas, know that you’re not the only one racking your brains trying to solve this puzzle. After all, first dates are where you make that favorable first impression, and it’s only natural to want them to be perfect. 

We bring you some good first date ideas in consultation with counseling psychologist Shivangi Anil (Master’s in Clinical Psychology), who specializes in pre-marital, compatibility, and boundary counseling. She says, “One of your first-date goals could be to see if the other person’s behavior aligns with your core values. For example, if punctuality is non-negotiable for you, see if they show up on time. If you value treating people with compassion and respect and they are disrespectful to the server, move on. People are most likely to put their best foot forward on the first date. If their best version isn’t good enough for you, it’s better not to waste your time on a second date.”

110 First Date Ideas That Never Fail To Impress

Yes, we know that you are not always looking for that fine-dining experience on your first date. You don’t want to scare your date off, leaving them fretting over whether they’d have to pick the tab or you’re going Dutch (we do know of some appalling relationship ghosting stories that unfolded right when the time came to pay the bill). 

Shivangi suggests, “Any activity that allows you to have a conversation is a great idea. Talking is the best way to get to know someone. You may have a good time playing games or watching movies but it’s not a great way to get to know anyone.” On that note, here is our lowdown on the 110 best first date ideas that never fail to impress:

Cute first date ideas

Are you looking for a cute hang out session and not something too extra or formal? Whether you’re looking to enjoy nature, a cup of coffee, or simply share a new experience together, here are some cute first date ideas:

1. Try an open-air coffee shop

Look for open-air cafes in your vicinity, and take your date there. You can spend hours sitting in the open, sipping coffee, and talking. 

2. Go stargazing

Look up a good spot for stargazing, sitting and talking for as long as you want.

3. Walk shelter dogs

This is one of the best cute first date ideas because, well, dogs. Need I say more?

4. Go chocolate tasting

If you have a place nearby that offers chocolate testing, great! If not, DIY is always an option.

5. Go somewhere with a jukebox

This is one of those vintage cute first date ideas that gives the warmth of the love movies of the early 20s.

6. Make a meal together

This may not work with a total stranger but if you are acquainted with the person already, go for it! 

Related Reading: 5 Reasons Why Women Are Attracted To Men Who Cook

7. Visit a cat cafe

Cute first date ideas? Cats? This one’s just self explanatory.

8. Visit a zoo

Perfect for people that love animals.

9. Have a spot of tea

Among people that are not into coffee, this is one of most popular casual first date ideas.

10. Go bird-watching

Great first date idea if you want something slow-paced and relaxing.

Related Reading: How To Impress A Girl On A Date And Make Her Want To Go On More

Fun first date ideas

Fun dates are about bringing out your playful sides, sharing fun moments and bond in a lighthearted and carefree atmosphere. If that sounds something you’d enjoy, check out these fun first date ideas:

11. Enjoy a ride on a roller coaster or carousel

What’s more fun than shrieking like twelve-year-olds on a roller-coaster ride?

12. Go bowling

Don’t worry if you suck at it, it is going to be fun either way.

 13. Go duo cycling

Cycling together is a great first date idea to find out if you have dating chemistry with the person. The fun is an added bonus!

14. Explore street food 

One of my favorite casual first date ideas. Just go to a food street and see what you like, going where the flow (or your tummy) takes you.

15. Try karaoke 

This one’s for the extroverts looking for fun first date ideas. Sing along to cheesy romantics, heartbreak songs,or some country music, whatever your style. 

16. Opt for a comedy movie

Everybody likes comedies, there is no way you can go wrong with one.

17. Play laser tag

One of the fun first date ideas that help you loosen up and be yourself.

18. Fly a kite together

This one is a little niche but if flying kites seems to be your sport, enjoy!

Related Reading: 25 Signs A Girl Is Interested In You

19. Attend a trivia night

Are you a nerdy person full of fun facts! What better way to showcase your personality than a trivia night?

20. Learn a magic trick

Find a magician or just whip up a YouTube video and then watch each other fail and scatter cards all around. Sounds fun?

Creative first date ideas

Maybe you are looking for non-cliched date ideas that are not common. We’ve curated some good first date ideas for you that are not mainstream and may bring out your imaginative sides:

21. Take an art workshop

The obvious first choice for creative first date ideas has to be art. Explore if there are any art workshops taking place and let your creative juices flow.

22. Take a mixology class

Going out for drinks too cliche for you? Try a bartending class together and make your own drinks!.

23. Take a pottery class

A pottery class has a perfect balance of goofiness, fun, and romance.

24. Go thrifting

Even if the date goes wrong, you may fall in love with a cute top. Win-win!

25. Have a puzzle night

Puzzles have to be one of the most creative first date ideas. It is basically art for non-artistic people.

26. Break some stuff at a wreck room

This one has Roza Diaz (Brooklyn 99) vibes.

27. Go to a drag show

Creative? Check. Queerness? Check. Fun? Double check!

28. Play ‘Truth or Dare’

Not a complete date in itself but a great way to get the conversation going.

29. Play putt putt

Another one of the good first date ideas that may or may not end in embarrassment but the fun is guaranteed.

30. Go antiquing

One of my favorite creative first date ideas. Bonus points if you pretend to be fancy art collectors with an obnoxious French accent.

Related Reading: Get Ready For Your Date Night With These Flattering Evening Skirts

Low-key first date ideas

If you are not looking for some grand gestures but rather something simple We got you! Check out these low-key first date ideas to simply enjoy each other’s company and have meaningful conversations.

31. Meet for breakfast

Switch up the fancy dinner with a cozy breakfast. You don’t need to worry about what to order on a first date because waffles and maple syrup, sunny-side-up eggs, and crisp bacon strips truly make for soul food.

32. Go to the museum

One of the cool first date ideas for history buffs.

33. Enjoy an aquarium

One of the coolest low-key first date ideas. In fact, a date or not, aquariums are a magical place to be. 

34. Watch a local theater production

Try this if you’re looking for low-key first date ideas similar to a movie night.

35. Go for a walk

The simplest of date ideas with infinite possibilities.

36. Go grocery shopping

Ok, hear me out first. It’s not as mundane as it sounds. It is low-key, you get to know all their favorite snacks, and it can turn out really fun with the right person. You can also grab a bite or get ice cream after. 

 37. Get some dessert

Tiramisu, cheesecake, brownie — pick your poison. Can’t decide? Go on a dessert tour!

38. Meet at a bookstore

Being a bookworm myself, I would instantly fall in love if someone asked me out to go to a bookstore on a date.

39. Play foosball

Or pool, or darts. Whichever brings out your fun side.

40. Make tie-dye

At the very least, you’ll end up with cool DIYed shirts.

Iconic first date ideas

Oh! You want something opposite of low-key? Gotcha! Here are some iconic first date ideas to create unforgettable memories and add a touch of magic to your first meet:

41. Buy tickets to a music concert

If you don’t want it to be expensive, going to see a local band is equally fun. Just make sure to choose the right music because surveys show that 54% of men and 46% of women won’t consider dating someone with bad taste in music.

Related Reading: 35 Best Gift Ideas For Music Lovers And Musicians In Your Life

42. Create your own photo walk

This is hands-down one of the most iconic first date ideas. Chalk out a photo walk route and just embark on the journey. Research some good poses in advance, maybe even couple poses, if the date turns out well ;).

43. Go to a live podcast recording

This may not be available everywhere but if you are in a big city, it’s an idea worth exploring.

44. Find a pool

One of the cool first date ideas for a hot day. (See what I did there?).

45. Plan a food tour

Food and love go hand in hand.

46. Get flash tattoos

Is it a bit bold? Maybe. But is it one of the most iconic first date ideas? Definitely! 

Related Reading: 5 Reasons to get Matching Couple Tattoos right now!

47. Watch a wrestling match

This is a very niche idea, so know your date before opting for something like this.

48. Go ax throwing

Again, very niche. But a great idea if you both want an adrenaline-filled first date.

49. Go to a race course

Any takers for Fast and Furious vibes?

50. Play a video game

Go to a video game station or meet at one of your places and absolutely destroy them at The Legend of Zelda. And maybe also fall in love or something, idk.

Unique first date ideas

For people out there, who don’t like anything mainstream, check out these unique first date ideas. These will help you create a great first impression and give you an opportunity to bond over new experiences.

51. Take a ferry or a boat ride

Any waterbody, be it a river or a lake, has a kind of serenity that does something to the senses and makes the ideal setting for a beautiful summer date. Just sit back and savor the views and the ride.

52. Register for a fitness class

From Pilates to Zumba and yoga, there are so many different fitness programs that you can choose from depending on your preferences. Plus, it’s a research-backed idea, as it’s proven that the level of adrenaline and attraction are directly connected. As one goes up, the other increases too.

Related Reading: Here’s Why Working Out Together Can Save Your Marriage

53. Explore a monument

Doesn’t matter if you are religious or not. If you’re into architecture, history, or just peace and quietness, this is one of the perfect and unique first date ideas for you.

54. Explore a flea market

A lively ambience, an affordable shopping spree, and a potentially fun first date — what’s not to like?

55. Get a tarot card reading

You don’t need to believe in it, just have some fun.

56. Try an escape room

Another great one for our puzzles-loving guys and gals. 

57. Try a new cuisine

Your typical dinner date but the added element of curiosity makes it one of the best first date ideas.

Related Reading: 11 Reasons Why You Must Date Your Polar Opposite

58. Make art together

Get some art supplies, sit in a park or your home, and get painting! You can also try that trend where couples switch the painting every few minutes and improvise as they go on. Seems like a great activity to bond over.

59. Learn a trendy dance step

One of the most amusing and unique first date ideas. Yes, you may look silly but you would end up feeling bonded. And first date jitters? Never heard of em!

60. A rooftop rendezvous

A classy candlelight dinner under the star-filled sky. It doesn’t get classier than this.

First date ideas that aren’t awkward

Are you a person that gets extreme first date jitters? We get it. First date etiquettes can be tricky. Explore these first date ideas that aren’t awkward and will help you be comfortable:

61. Visit a botanical garden

The plants and the greenery will help get you at ease. Plus it is a very romantic setting.

62. Read a book together

Meet up at your place or a coffee date, the setting doesn’t matter. What matters is to get engulfed in a story together. Pick a light-hearted romance and enjoy!

63. Open-air theater

Seeking movie-related cool first date ideas but going to a theater seems too intimate? Make a DIY theater! Just find a projector, a screen, some snacks, and an open space, and you are good to go!

Related Reading: 15 Heart Touching Dialogues From Bollywood Movies

64. Camp in your backyard

Another one of open-space first date ideas that aren’t awkward as forced proximity will not be an issue. Play some mellow tunes in the background to make the setting more relaxing.

65. Play poker

Another one of first date ideas that aren’t awkward. Can’t get first date nerves if you’re too excited about the royal flush in your hand.

66. Do the No. 1 most touristy activity in your area

Could be anything. A place where a popular series was shot or the world’s biggest paint ball. Depends on where you live.

67. Solve a murder mystery

See if there are murder mystery venues near you and bring out your inner sherlock!

68. Get mani-pedis

Even if the date doesn’t go well, you end up with pretty nails.

69. Draw each other

Works even better if you’re not artistic. You’ll be laughing till your stomach hurts. Plus, it will give both of you plenty of time to look at each other without seeming like a creep.

70. Play Bingo

The healthy competition and adrenaline may work out in your favor.

Indoor first date ideas

Whether you want to escape bad weather, are seeking a cozy atmosphere or are simply not a nature lover, here are indoor first date ideas to help you out:

71. Hit the mall

Buy each other small date-night gifts, do a bit of window shopping, check out a movie, and have a simple lunch at the food court. 

72. Watch a game

Make some popcorn and meet at your place to watch a game. 

73. Watch the worst scary movie you know

Dig up the horror flick that is so bad it’s actually a comedy. 

74. Have a board game tournament

Playing board games is one of the perfect indoor first date ideas. It takes no planning, it is very casual, and it’s filled with fun.

Related Reading:  How To Date A Girl Out Of Your League

75. Shop for records

Go vintage! Explore records at a record shop and get to know each other’s taste in music.

76. Visit an art gallery

One of the classiest indoor first date ideas with a sophisticated setting that allows you to ask thoughtful first date questions.

77. Play a card game

You know you are meant to be if you can survive a game of Uno.

78. Solve riddles

Look up a hundred riddles and go through them one by one while munching on some snacks.

79. Build a lego castle

Or a spaceship. Working together on such a project is bound to make you come close.

80. Have a disco night at home

Create some playlists, dim the lights, and rock your favorite moves.

Romantic first date ideas

If casual isn’t your style and you are looking for a something classy and romantic, here are some romantic first date ideas to set the right tone for your potential relationship:

81. Watch a sunset

What is a breathtaking view of the sunset if not romantic? Add in some snacks and take a stroll after to make it the perfect first date. 

82. Go to a garden

Crisscrossing through the trees, gazing at the flowerbeds and picking flowers for each other. Does that not sound like one of the most romantic first date ideas?

83. Have a candlelight dinner

One of the classic and most romantic indoor date ideas.

84. Go wine or beer tasting

Explore local breweries offering tours and tastings.

85. Plan a mushroom foraging afternoon

A niche idea and may not be available everywhere. But If there is such a park in your vicinity, trust me it will be one of the most romantic dates of your life.

86. Take them dancing

Dancing is definitely among the top romantic first date ideas. Salsa? Tap dancing? Or Tango? What’s your style?

87. Write poetry 

Decide on a prompt, set a 15 minutes timer, and write a short poem separately. Read it to each other. Repeat as many times as you like.

Related Reading: What Should A Woman Talk About On Her First Date?

88. Visit a plant nursery

Pick out plants or flowers for each other, and pot them together. It’s a fun way to connect, and you both leave with a memento of your first date.

89. Try a pottery painting café

Visit a pottery painting café where you can paint ceramics together, like mugs or plates. It’s a creative and interactive way to spend time together.

90. Cosplay

Pick a themed restaurant and dress up as your favorite characters on your first date.

Cheap first date ideas

Not all dates need to be extravagant. What’s important is you have a good time and enjoy each other’s company. So if you’re looking for something budget-friendly that doesn’t hurt your pocket, here are some free or cheap first date ideas that you will enjoy just as much:

91. Hit an ice cream parlor

This is one of the cute but cheap first date ideas because even if you hit an ice cream parlor that boasts the most exotic varieties, you wouldn’t be spending anywhere close to what you would be spending at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

92. A picnic in a park

One of the most romantic but cheap first date ideas because you just need some snacks and a good scenic spot and nature does all the magic. 

93. Go to an arcade

It’s fun, it’s cheap, and it’s a perfect opportunity to see how this person holds up to you absolutely creaming them in pinball.

94. Find a walking tour

Explore walking tours around the city such as local history tours or street art tours.

Related Reading:  Dating etiquette – 20 things you should never ignore on a first date

95. Go to the wackiest-themed museum in your area

You know which one. Every place has one of them.

96. Go on a scooter ride

A lot of cities have started offering affordable ride-share e-scooter options. A great way to get close to your date if you ask me.

97. Explore an off-beat food joint

This is actually one of the cheapest first date ideas because exploring an off-beat place won’t cost you a bomb. There are plenty of small joints in every city serving exotic cuisines with intimate seating arrangements. A great setting to kickstart a meaningful connection.

98. Go to an open mic night

Free entertainment filled with poetry, comedy, and storytelling.

99. Long drive

A long car drive filled with music, singing along, lots of talking and maybe some takeout.

100. Go apple picking

Cheap, romantic, and an added old-school vibe.

Adventurous first date ideas

Not a friend of cheesy dates? Want something exciting that gets your hearts racing? Here are the best first date ideas to get that adrenaline flowing:

101. Visit a haunted mansion

Not exactly a romantic setting but you did ask for adventurous first date ideas.

102. Head to a rock-climbing wall

Granted you’d be covered in sweat by the end, but if that’s your style, go for it!

103. Bungee jumping

If you’re both adventurous people, this would be super fun for both of you.

104. Go hiking

Hit the hiking trail if you are both fitness freaks. Hiking is a great way to discover nature and each other. 

105. Become a tourist in your own city

A different kind of adventure. Hop on one of those city tour buses and explore your city like a tourist.

106. Go swimming

Another great one among adventurous first date ideas, especially for summer dates. Find a pool, pond, or lake, and go crazy. Plus you get to see them in a swimsuit.

107. Challenge them to a go kart race

A perfect balance between fun, bonding, and competition.

108. Go zip-lining

You get to see beautiful scenery while flying through the air, with optional screaming.

109. Book a hot-air balloon ride

Check if these are available in your location, if yes, enjoy The Wizard of the Oz vibes.

110. Go sledding

For a winter date, sledding is one of the best adventurous first date ideas. Afterwards you can play with the snow, make snow angels, kiss each other to keep your face warm, endless possibilities. 

What Are The Safe Choices For First-Date Conversation Topics?

Now that the ‘planning the date’ part is taken care of, let’s get you prepped with some first-date questions to keep the conversation flowing. With these, you can easily beat the awkward silence and come off as a smooth talker. It goes without saying that overbearing topics like political or religious ideologies, parental issues, and unpleasant experiences should be off-limits for a first date.

You are not going out for a debate or therapy session. Talk about your hometowns, discuss your hobbies, favorite books and movies, and your taste in music – it can be as simple as that. In his book Quirkology, Richard Wiseman observes that 9% of the couples who discussed films on their first date landed on a second one while it was 18% for those who talked about travel. Here’s a list of questions to keep the conversation going on a first date:

• Would you rather spend a day with me at home, cuddling and sipping coffee, cooking a meal together, or go out roaming around the city?
• What chases you away about your date on the first meeting?
• Tell me about something that you are extremely passionate about
• When was the last time you traveled? How was the experience?
• Do you wish you were better at something?

Shivangi shares her insights with 5 super interesting questions that can help you see your date for who they really:

• What’s been your proudest moment ever?

Notice what are some of the things that truly make your date light up and make their eyes glitter with joy. You may be a very good match if similar things make you light up too.

• If you had a magic wand and could create your perfect life, what would that look like?

This question provides a wider perspective – it’s a bird’s eye view into what a successful and happy life looks like for them. It’s the answer to what they are striving for in life

•  If you had the chance to seek advice from anyone living or dead, who would you seek advice from and why?

Whom they choose to speak to gives you a sneak peek into what they value, whom they admire, and whether they are creative or logical

• What can you spend your entire day chatting about?

This question tells you about their likes, dislikes, priorities, and passions. If the person says something like work, you know you need to book your next cab unless you are looking for a work bestie

• What is the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?

Soon you will know whether they are willing to be vulnerable and how they behave when they are. Do they do it with humor or is vulnerability something that infuriates them?

Related Reading: 20 At-Home Date Night Ideas For Couples – Romantic Date Ideas

What Are Some Of The First-Date Red Flags That You Should Keep An Eye Out For?

The first date decides the trajectory of the upcoming dates with a potential love interest. Your date’s body language, the way they talk and listen to you talking, and conduct themselves (not only with you but everyone else around) speaks a lot about how good a match they are for you. And, this would be a good time to spot the red flags that are deal-breakers for you.

Shivangi says, “The biggest red flag to watch out for is a mismatch in core values. If you don’t feel like they treated you the way you want to be treated in the long term, then it’s probably better not to get your hopes high.” Here’s a lowdown on the most common red flags to spot on a first date:

• Comes late to the date
• Speak too much about themselves and barely show any interest in you
• Orders without discussing with you
• Overly critical of everything and everyone
• Pushes you to come back to their place or for a second date
• You don’t like their vibe

Final Thoughts

Decide on the kind of date you want and the interests you have in common. If you are both adventurous, go rock climbing. You will be sweaty but you will be sexy. Work on your common interests and you can come up with brilliant ideas on your own. If you need help, do give this list a try.

15 Tips On What Not To Do On A First Date To Make The Right Impression

21 Questions To Ask On A Second Date

First Date Nerves – 12 Tips To Help You Ace It

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