20 Fun Things to Do on a First Date

Co-authored by John Keegan

Last Updated: October 12, 2022 References

First dates are exciting (and, let’s face it, a little intimidating), but you may be racking your brain for where to go and what to do. You want an activity that will be entertaining, allow for a good first impression, and leave the door open for date number 2. Don’t worry—to help you out, we’ve gathered 20 fun first date ideas for your consideration. Whether you prefer to get your adrenaline up or visit a more low-key event, we’ve got all your bases covered in the guide below.

1

Visit a museum.

Easily find common ground after choosing a museum to visit. Famous artwork, ancient artifacts, or pop-up exhibitions will all give you plenty to talk about while you explore. During your visit, learn more about your partner’s interests and snap some cool photos. Any pauses in conversation can be filled with discussion of what’s on display.^{[1]
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- You can also try visiting a zoo or aquarium if you and your partner are animal lovers.

2

Take an art class.

Art classes are a great way to show off your creativity. Many art museums and community centers hold casual one-off classes where you and your date can chat while you learn. Not the best artist? You’ll still have plenty to talk about once the class is over.^{[2]
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- You can also try visiting a pottery studio and make your own bowls!

3

Participate in a trivia night.

Engaging in a little friendly competition can help you bond with your partner. Plus, you may find some common ground as you share your knowledge of obscure mid-2000s children’s shows. Check local bars, restaurants, or bookstores to see when the next one will be held.

4

Take a dance class.

Get your heart pumping as you learn some new steps. Plus, learning to dance is one way to figure out how you two move together. Even if you’re not confident in your skills, you can still have a good time.

5

Go axe-throwing.

The thrill of landing the axe in the target will add excitement to your date. It can also help relieve stress.^{[3]
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Research source} This trendy idea could be a new experience for both of you, making the date all the more memorable. Getting out of your comfort zone to try something novel also helps promote intimacy.

6

Challenge an escape room.

If you and your date enjoy puzzles, this is the activity for you. Answering tricky riddles with a clock speeding down can show you how well you and your partner work together.^{[4]
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- You can also get a glimpse of how your partner approaches problem solving and working under pressure, which is good to know in the long run.

7

Take a cooking class.

Spend some quality time while preparing something tasty. Learning a new skill together will put you both on equal ground and help shake off any social awkwardness.^{[5]
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Research source} Try your hand at making your own pasta or decorate homemade cakes together. You can also take online cooking classes if you’re going on a virtual date. Some cooking brands, like Cozymeal and Sur la Table, even have classes specifically for couples.
- A cooking class can also generate some follow-up date ideas. Visit a restaurant for a professionally made version of your meal, or try your hand at the recipe in your own kitchens together without the instructor.

8

Go bowling.

Bowling is a low pressure activity where you can show off some incredible skills. Or just try your best and chat over some cheese fries. Do you have a special technique for knocking down splits? Can you not play at all without bumpers? This is a fun way to break the ice. ^{[6]
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9

Go skating.

Show off some cool tricks or glide casually around the rink. Ice skating or roller skating, maintaining your balance while chatting with your date is a good way to keep you in the moment. Don’t be afraid to fall! A stumble here and there will add some silliness that will shoo away any leftover nerves.^{[7]
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10

Volunteer.

Altruism is an admirable trait, and volunteering is an opportunity to show your values. Help walk the dogs at your local animal shelter. Sign up to help pick up litter in your neighborhood. Take some time to hand out food at the food bank. You can also learn more about your partner’s personality based on how they work with other volunteers or who they serve.

11

Tour a winery or brewery.

Try this option if both of you enjoy a drink. You’ll learn more about the creation process and possibly discover some new favorites to take home. Tours typically last around an hour, giving you enough time to get to know a little about your date and leave room to learn more later, should you choose to.^{[8]
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12

Go to a sports game.

Root for your favorite teams together. As sports lovers, you already have a common interest you can share. If your date happens to love a rival team, that can be a point of playful banter.

13

See a live show.

Bond over your favorite tunes while singing along at a concert. Likewise, outdoor live shows make for a great summer evening with room for dancing and relaxing on a grassy lawn. Grab a blanket and some snacks to make it a picnic!

14

Attend a comedy open mic.

Laughing together at a comedy show will help ease the tension. You can also learn more about your date’s interests and sense of humor based on how they respond to the acts. Even a bad performance can be entertaining.
- You can also check out music or poetry open mic nights around town.

15

Stroll through a farmer’s market.

Exploring a farmer’s market can help you learn more about your partner’s tastes, literally. Buy some locally grown produce or admire quirky knick knacks together. If all goes well, you could even buy some ingredients to cook up together for your next date.
- Flea markets, food festivals, and art walks are other options if you’d like to get outdoors and on your feet.

16

Visit a botanical garden.

Walk and talk among the plants. The calming atmosphere, relaxing scents, and pretty flora will help with any nerves. The garden may hold events like educational lectures, paint-and-sips, or live concerts.

17

Check out a barcade or a board game cafe.

Gear up for some friendly competition and nostalgia. At a barcade, you and your date can battle each other in a game of Street Fighter while sipping themed cocktails. Board games also give both of you the chance to show off your skills and enough quiet moments to talk comfortably.

18

Visit a drive-in movie theater.

Drive-in theaters are an old-school—and oftentimes cheaper—way to see a movie. No need to spend too much at concessions when you can bring your own snacks and drinks. Some drive-ins even put on double features, so two movies for the price of one! The more private setting also allows you and your date to freely cuddle up and discuss your favorite scenes without disturbing other guests.

19

Take a walk.

Find a pathway in a park, around the neighborhood, or on a beach and simply roam together. Taking a slow walk can lead to deeper conversation than a sit-down date. The two of you may also stumble upon new destinations, such as a candy shop you’ve never visited or a beautiful view you hadn’t known about.

20

Grab a cup of coffee.

This first date idea is classic for a reason. Come prepared with some talking points or play a game of two truths and a lie. Coffee dates can last as long as you want, and the casual atmosphere of a coffee shop can help both of you relax.
- Coffee dates allow you to enjoy some light conversation and gauge if there's any chemistry going on.^{[9]
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Expert Q&A

Question

What can you do on a date with no money?

John Keegan
Dating Coach
John Keegan is a dating coach and motivational speaker based in New York City. He runs The Awakened Lifestyle, where he uses his expertise in dating, attraction, and social dynamics to help people find love. He teaches and holds dating workshops internationally, from Los Angeles to London and from Rio de Janeiro to Prague. His work has been featured in the New York Times, Humans of New York, and Men's Health.

John Keegan

Dating Coach

Expert Answer

Head to a museum with your date! Most museums are completely free (or offer entry with an inexpensive donation).