It is time to add a little bit of fun back into date night – breaking free from the conventional dinner-and-a-movie routine. While there’s nothing wrong with the classic combo, the truth is, sitting in a dark theater or hurriedly devouring a meal doesn’t always foster the deep connection we crave.

Gone are the days of date nights constrained by parental duties or squeezed between errands like grocery shopping, home depot and oil changes. And sometimes that is all you really had time or energy for, and that is ok, because you did something. Now that the kids have flown the nest, it’s the perfect opportunity to elevate your romantic rendezvous to new heights.

I’m talking about infusing more passion and adventure into your relationship. Tonight, we’re throwing kerosene on the embers of romance with 10 date night ideas that will add the sizzle back into your relationship.

But, before we dive into this adventure, it’s essential to understand that this isn’t just a date night – it’s an adventure for the soul. Embrace the unfamiliar, step outside your comfort zone, and be willing to try something new. We often dismiss certain ideas, thinking, ‘They won’t go for it’ or ‘They won’t enjoy that.’ It’s time to try something new so grab your loved one and get ready to ignite the night with these unforgettable date night ideas.

So, are you ready to break the routine and embark on an adventure for the soul? Let’s make your next date night an experience to remember!”

10 fun date night ideas

1- Art Night Date Night

I can already hear a few voices saying, “Creativity isn’t my forte, and this sounds like a hard pass.” Allow me to make a compelling case for this idea. Picture this: channeling your inner Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore in a romantic pottery-throwing session. However, if that doesn’t quite resonate with you, perhaps due to the lingering memories of disliking pottery class in your younger days, fear not. There’s an alternative – consider a pottery-painting class.

In this class, you’ll discover a lot of pottery items, from mugs and plates to bowls and other household or kitchen essentials, awaiting your artistic touch. All you need to do is paint, and the rest is taken care of.

Still not convinced? Here’s another option: a painting class. Imagine heading to a painting studio where everything, from the painting supplies to the canvas and step-by-step instructions, is provided. It’s an opportunity to create a masterpiece alongside your partner with a guided teacher.

2- Get Outdoors

For couples who share a love for the great outdoors, get your hiking boots and venture onto the trails. Seek out a local gem with breathtaking views, pack a picnic lunch, and immerse yourselves in the picturesque landscapes. This has evolved into one of our most cherished Saturday morning traditions – it’s more than just a date; it’s how we connect and talk about our week.

Our outdoor escapades have led us to discover some hidden treasures in the enchanting landscapes of North Georgia. Whether a mere 10-minute drive away or an hour-long journey, each trail has brought us closer together. The proximity of some trails makes them perfect for spontaneous getaways, while others, requiring a bit more travel, prove to be worth every minute spent on the road.

Best Overall Hiking App: All Trails (iOS | Android)

3- Catch a Show

This is a fun date night, that really shows you care, and you are a good planner with a live performance. Either a concert, play, or comedy show. Opt for something that piques both of your interests. It’s not only a fantastic way to support local artists but also nothing is better than catching your favorite band on tour.

For us, attending concerts has become a cherished tradition. The thrill of live music has drawn us to John Mayer’s performances, and we’ve lost count of how many times we’ve enjoyed his shows. However, if concerts are not your preference, consider something like the symphony.

One unforgettable experience took us to downtown Atlanta, Georgia, where we witnessed the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra accompanying the movie “The Holiday,” starring Jack Black and Kate Winslet. The orchestra played as it was synced seamlessly with the movie. It was a delightful revelation to see how the music harmonized with the movie, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the evening.

Find Live music near you, track your favorite artists, get instant concert alerts and buy tickets for upcoming shows at SongKick.com

4- Game Night

Reignite the fun and nostalgia of game night for a memorable date at home. Dust off those cherished board games. Engaging in a friendly competition provides a low-key and laid-back atmosphere, fostering quality time together. Who knows? You might just stumble upon a new favorite game that becomes a shared tradition.

Now, I’ll be honest – I’m not exactly a game enthusiast. Cards and game nights aren’t exactly my cup of tea. However, when friends gather or our kids come into town, we eagerly unearth the games. It might not be my natural go-to, but there’s something magical about the laughter and joy that fills the room during these gaming sessions.

Among our preferred choices are the card game Swoop, Rumicube, Scattergories, Phase 10, or Ticket to Ride. Even if games aren’t my personal favorite, the shared moments and connection that arise during these playful competitions make it all worthwhile. So, whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a reluctant participant like me, a game night date might just be the perfect recipe for a good time together.

Here are 4 of our favorite games from Amazon Rumicube, Scattergories, Phase 10 and Ticket to Ride. Swoop is just a card game and you need regular decks of playing cards. Here are the rules we found online for Swoop. This is by far our favorite game of them all.

5- Cooking Class

Embarking on a culinary adventure together in a cooking class is a delightful way to strengthen your bond. Picture this: chopping vibrant veggies, stirring aromatic sauces, and mastering new culinary techniques side by side. The best part? You’ll savor the delicious results of your shared efforts at the end of the night.

Reflecting on our own experiences, one date night that stands out is our culinary escapade in the heart of Rome, Italy. Here, amidst the romantic ambiance, we crafted pasta from scratch. The joy of blending flour and egg to form the perfect noodle dough, and the satisfaction of transforming it into mouthwatering pasta, still is one of our favorite memories.

The flavors of that meal were unparalleled, and we still find ourselves reminiscing about the best homemade pasta we have ever had. It’s moments like these that create lasting memories and bring couples closer together, one delicious dish at a time.

Book a cooking class at Get Your Guide. If you are in Georgia, Click HERE for a great wood fire pizza making class

6- Dancing

Consider taking a dance class together, whether it’s a Latin dance like salsa, a classic ballroom waltz, or something more contemporary like hip-hop. These classes not only provide an opportunity to learn new moves but also offer a playful and enjoyable environment for couples to bond. Beyond the physical benefits, dancing is a powerful means of connecting on a more intimate level.

When MarKay and I first dated we loved to go swing dancing. Not country swing dancing, but the popular swing dancing from the 1930s and 1940s. I did struggle with my two left feet and stiff as a board, but this year we are going to start a new class and see how we do in a different style of dance.

So dust off those dancing shoes and get out on the dance floor.

7- Scavenger Hunt

Embark on a thrilling Scavenger Hunt Date, where you will turn your ordinary evening into an extraordinary adventure. Whether you plan a personalized hunt for your partner or opt for one organized online, this is one you will talk about forever.

Let me explain how this works. On a special Valentine’s night, I orchestrated a scavenger hunt for my wife, enlisting the help of family. The adventure unfolded across Salt Lake City, as my wife and her team embarked on a four-hour quest to uncover hidden treasures and surprises. Each clue led them to a different location, adding an extra layer of excitement to the journey.

The scavenger hunt wasn’t just about finding physical items; it was about taking photos with strangers, quirky clues at the local kitchen store that lead to an ice cream machine as a gift, to charming boutiques with hidden notes, the hunt unfolded like a love story across familiar places for the two of us.

The scavenger hunt culminated at our favorite restaurant, where my wife and her team met up with the rest of us that were staying ahead of them doing all the drops and leaving the notes. We turned a simple date night into a cherished memory.

Incorporating a scavenger hunt into your date night not only adds an element of surprise but also fosters a new adventure, teamwork, and a lot of fun.

8- Candle Making

Ignite your creativity and romance with a candle making class. Imagine crafting your very own candles, tailored to your preferences and infused with your favorite scents. One of the best parts of candle making is the ability to handpick your favorite scents, allowing you to curate a fragrance that resonates with both you and your partner.

Whether it’s the calming notes of lavender, the warm embrace of vanilla, or the refreshing scent of citrus, the choices are endless. This sensory exploration transforms the candle-making process into a unique and personalized adventure, setting the stage for a memorable date night.

9- Axe Throwing

For those seeking a unique and exhilarating date night, consider trying your hand at axe-throwing. It’s the perfect activity for couples looking to let loose, have some fun, and engage in a bit of friendly competition. This thrilling experience not only provides a unique outlet for stress relief but also allows you to discover and challenge your competitive spirit in a lighthearted atmosphere.

During one of our adventurous date nights, we decided to give axe-throwing a try. While I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, my wife found it to be a bit challenging at first. Despite her initial hesitation, the evening turned into a fun night that we went out and did with friends. Axe-throwing establishments are expensive yet enjoyable activity designed for fun.

10– Take a Road Trip

Hit the open road and explore a new place together. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or checking out a nearby town, a road trip is a great way to create lasting memories and adventures. This is probably one of my favorite dates to go on. It is usually all day on a Saturday. We set course for a new city within 1-2 hours away and we just go and explore. One of our favorite times doing this was to a Christmas city called Dahlonega, Georgia. It is where they have filmed a few hallmark movies and is one of the top Christmas towns in the country. It was fun to catch lunch, shop and check out all town square together. So whatever you are doing, Just be sure to pack plenty of snacks and good tunes!

Personally, this is my top idea of the 10 and it usually takes an entire Saturday for this date. We set our sights on a city located just 1-2 hours away, and then head out early in the morning because we never know where this might lead us.

Reflecting on one of our most memorable road trips, we decided to explore the enchanting Christmas city of Dahlonega, Georgia. This charming town, famed for its appearance in hallmark movies and ranking among the top Christmas towns in the country, provided us with an unforgettable experience. From savoring a delightful lunch to indulging in retail therapy along the town square, every moment was filled with festive cheer and lots of photos.

To ensure your road trip is an enjoyable experience, don’t forget to pack an assortment of snacks to keep energy levels up and curate a playlist of your favorite songs. So, no matter where your road leads, don’t forget to stop if you see something you like a long the way. It is always about the journey no matter what your destination is.

If you are looking for a roadtrip app or how to organize your trip. Here is my favorite app that I have been using for over 5 years for all my roadtrips. Roadtrippers and if you use this promo code you get $5 off your subscription (Promocode: BTR5QTP)

I hope these tips help you plan your next date night!

Remember, the most important thing is to choose an activity that you and your partner will both enjoy. So get creative, have fun, and make some lasting memories together!