Fun First Date Ideas Beyond Dinner and Drinks
You’re at an Italian restaurant, sipping house water, wondering, “Should I ask whether pineapple belongs on pizza?” (hint: don’t!) Dinner dates usually boil down to two activities: eating and talking. And chances are, the talking can feel more like a polite interview: “Where did you grow up?”, “What do you like to do?", “Do you have siblings?”, “What do you do for work?”, etc.
I’m not ruling out that these dates can end up being fun and engaging, so if you want to take your chances or your dinner conversation skills are nicely honed, then go for it! Otherwise, let’s swap the reservations for something a bit more interesting, shall we?
Why Skip Dinner or Drinks
The problem with the classic dinner date (or drinks) is that it’s a lot of pressure to converse non-stop. You’re sitting with someone for an hour (or more). And if it’s going well, ending on a high note ensures the date stays memorable.
But if it’s… not going so well? Perhaps the vibe is off, or you accidentally tell your favorite penguin fact too soon. Then, activity-based dates are the perfect solution. They create natural opportunities to chat, laugh, and make a memory together. Plus, doing something together can make the date feel less like a test and more like a good time.
Fun and Memorable First Date Ideas
Get Competitive (But Not Too Competitive)
Mini-Golf: Because nothing says romance like missing an easy putt and laughing about it together.
Trivia Night: Join forces to crush the competition (or commiserate in being crushed by the competition).
Axe Throwing: Nothing says “icebreaker” like hurling sharp objects at a target.
Arcades: Want to know if they’re fun? Challenge them to air hockey or skeeball.
Bars or Cafes with Games: Still want a drink? Opt for a bar with games and challenge them to a round of Uno or darts!
Get Creative (You Don’t Have to Be Creative)
Painting or Pottery Classes: Whether you leave with a masterpiece or a blob, it’s about the memories!
Cooking Class: Bond over chopping vegetables and debating whether pineapple belongs on pizza (yes, I’m letting you have this one).
Maker’s Markets: Wander aimlessly and debate over who found the most absurdly overpriced trinket.
Estate Sales: Like a treasure hunt for grown-ups. Turn it into a game: who can find the quirkiest item and craft the most outrageous backstory?
Get Outside (aka Walking, Etc.)
Nature Walk: Keep it light with minimal to zero sweating! A scenic trail beats a five-mile trek when you’re still getting to know someone.
Botanical or Sculpture Garden: Similar to “Nature Walks”, but more stuff to look at!
Holiday Lights Walk: It’s like a Hallmark movie, but with less snow and more cocoa.
Paddleboarding or Kayaking: Ideal for the adventurous duo. Just double-check you’re both comfortable in the water and have waterproof makeup.
Low-Key (But Still Fun!)
Museum: Find one with quirky or interactive exhibits. Dinosaurs? Robots? You’ll have plenty to talk about.
Escape Room: Bonding over puzzles and mild panic? Both are a solid recipe for laughter (and maybe learning they’re the kind of person who hoards all the clues or saves the day).
Making a Perfect Good-Enough Plan
The goal of a first date is to create a memory together — focus on fun, not perfection.
That said, start with their interests. Do they love being outside? Go for a walk. Are they into art? Head over to a painting class. The best date ideas balance your shared vibe with just enough novelty to keep things interesting.
And don’t be afraid to brainstorm together. Sometimes planning the date can be just as fun as the date itself.
My Challenge to You
For your next first date, skip the table-for-two routine and pick something playful. Something that puts fun first. Whether it’s a new activity, an awkward moment, or figuring a challenge out, the best first dates are the ones you’ll remember. And please remember that at the end of the day, the best first dates don’t need to be perfect. Now go make some memories!
Whether you try these tips or not, I’d love to hear how it went! If you haven’t had a chance to test them, share your favorite first date story or the funniest mishap you’ve experienced. I’m all ears (especially for the awkward ones)! Email me at info@datelabhq.com!
