First dates are a mix of excitement, stress, and anticipation. It’s hard to meet new people, and you want to make a great first impression on your first date, which can be a little anxiety-inducing. Once you shift your mindset and think about how the date can be fun, you’ll be less likely to associate it with stress and doom. Think of your first date to check compatibility and remember to keep it casual and lighthearted. Focus on finding a setting or venue that allows for great conversation.
We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for first-date ideas more unique than dinner or drinks. Here are ten entertaining first-date ideas so you can make a great impression. What are you waiting for? Set a date, get out of the house, and have a great time.
Coffee Date at a Bookstore
While meeting at a coffee shop is a traditional first date setting, we like to throw in a twist by meeting at a bookstore.
Picking a first date that doesn’t involve booze is an excellent choice. It allows you to get to know the person and see how compatible you are. Roam the bookstore’s aisles with a coffee in hand and start a conversation about your favorite book – it’s a great conversation starter. Plus, you’ll get an intimate look at their choice of books, which can say a lot about the person.
Head to the Casino
For a bit more glitz and glamour on your first date, head to the casino and test your luck at blackjack, poker, or roulette. A casino can be a fantastic, upbeat first date, especially if you are a self-proclaimed thrill seeker. Have dinner and drinks at the casino, and if the night is going great, head to the dance club for some fun and entertainment.
Prefer a quieter night in? Cook dinner at home and fire up a live casino on your laptop, like Ignition online casino. You can giggle and play live casino games, slots, blackjack, and more from the comfort of your home.
Go for a Hike
If you love the great outdoors, get out of the house and head to a nearby park for a hike. Being in nature feels grounding and calming. You can enjoy the beautiful sunshine and fresh air. Plus, sometimes it’s easier to have a deep conversation when you’re not sitting across from someone but instead are next to each other, making it a great option for a first date.
Visit a Museum or Art Gallery
Roam around a museum or art gallery for your first date. It’s a great way to have ample time to talk and get inspired. Try to plan your date during off-peak hours or a weekday to avoid crowds. If the date is going well, grab lunch or coffee afterward.
Try a Painting Class
Even if you’re not Picasso, painting can be a relaxing way to unwind and a great first date option. It’s a fun activity that allows time for conversation. It’s a great way to get to know your date, too. Can they laugh at themselves and be fun and creative? Do they take themselves very seriously? Creative activity can say a lot about a person.
Trivia Night
Attending your local trivia night can take pressure off the date and allow you to focus on something else. Plus, competitive energy is great for forging a connection, too. Collaborate with your date at your local trivia night for your chance to take home the top prize.
Set Up a Picnic
Picnics are a romantic and thoughtful first date. They take a little more planning than dinner and drinks. Fill a basket with cheese, crackers, wine, and other snacks, and head to your local park or beach. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, a few snacks, and get to know someone.
Farmer’s Market
Head to your local farmers’ market to pick out produce, and local goods and enjoy the scenery. This gives you a great opportunity to have a conversation while taking in the sights and sounds. Bonus points if you head to your local farmer’s market and pick out fresh produce to cook lunch or dinner.
Head to the Bowling Alley
Why not engage in some friendly competition? Challenge your partner to a friendly game of bowling. Bowling is a great way to strike up a conversation (pun intended) and enjoy each other’s company. Even if you’re a terrible bowler, you can use it as an opportunity to laugh at yourself for some comic relief. If all goes well, find a relaxed spot to grab a bite after and continue the conversation.
Go for a Walk Around Town
For a low-key and casual date, simply go for a walk around town. You can browse local gift shops, visit your local coffee store, and sit on a bench to enjoy each other’s company. This is a no-pressure first date option that’s easy to plan but can be a lot of fun.