So, you finally had the nerve to ask your crush out on a date–and they said yes! At first, all you feel is excitement. However, as soon as you start planning, the anxiety starts to kick in.
That’s because the first date is often the hardest one to plan. You obviously want them to have fun and get to know you, but you also want to impress them (without going overboard). So where do you start? Do you go the classic route and take them out to dinner? Or do you plan something that’s a bit more outside the box?
If you’ve found yourself struggling to plan the perfect first date, don’t stress out! We are here to help! From axe throwing and scavenger hunts to glass blowing classes, these 15 first date ideas are unique, exciting, and might just get you a second date!
1. GO ON A SCAVENGER HUNT
Play, laugh, and get to know each other with these immersive treasure and scavenger hunts! With the help of your smart device, you’ll step into the shoes of a fictional character and explore the city. Following a fun and creative storyline, the two of you will need to work together to solve riddles, uncover secret clues, and discover hidden treasures. The best part? These experiences start at just $5, making them one of the most fun AND affordable date nights around!
2. THROW A BULLSEYE
There’s nothing wrong with some friendly competition on the first date. That’s why axe throwing is always one of our go-to adventures! You and your date will learn the basics of throwing before competing for the title of axe master. No matter who wins, you’ll both experience the satisfaction of watching your axe rotate through the air before it sinks into the wooden target.
3. TRY AN ESCAPE ROOM
The two of you will have to work together if you want to escape! Featuring immersive themes, these escape room challenges are a great way to let loose and have fun with each other. You won’t have to worry about creating small talk as you work together to find clues, solve puzzles, and decipher riddles. Whether your mission is a success or failure, follow your adventure up with a delicious dinner!
4. BOUNCE IN A TRAMPOLINE PARK
Leap, bounce, and play on wall-to-wall trampolines! To put it simply, trampoline parks are fun. Not only will you both get some great exercise, but you’ll also get to see each other’s playful sides. Beyond jumping, trampoline parks are usually chock-full of other fun games and activities. Play a round of trampoline dodgeball, zip down slides, and fly into cushy foam pits!
5. ZIP THROUGH THE TREES
Make it a date they’ll never forget with these zipline and aerial adventure course packages! You’ll be equipped with harnesses before the two of you climb high into the air. Feel a wave of adrenaline as you stare at the ground below you. Bravely step off the platform and experience the thrill of soaring through the air. You and your date will have so much fun that there won’t be any time for awkward silence!
6. HUNT FOR GHOSTS
Even if you’re not a true believer, these ghost tours are a spooky good time! Together, you’ll explore some of America’s most haunted places and listen to bone-chilling tales. If you’re lucky, you may even spot an apparition lurking in the dark! After your tour, swap your favorite stories from the evening and debate whether or not you believe in ghosts.
7. WHACK SOME GOLF BALLS
With these Drive Shack date night packages, you’ll be treated to an evening of golf, food, and fun! Open year round, you’ll be taken to an all-weather hitting bay for 2 hours of play. Smack golf balls as hard as you can and see if you can land them in the course’s pre-designated targets. The two of you will also receive a $50 food and beverage credit. Taste chef-inspired dishes, signature cocktails, or even a delicious cookie skillet!
8. SOLVE A MURDER MYSTERY
For a fun and unique twist on the traditional dinner date, don’t miss these Murder Mystery Shows! Put on your detective hats and immerse yourselves into a modern-day mystery. As you enjoy a delicious, 4-course dinner, you’ll uncover clues, follow leads, and interrogate fellow guests. And remember, everyone is a suspect… even you!
9. DO A HOBBY SWAP
Hobby swaps are the perfect way to have some fun AND learn more about each other. Simply spend the day or an afternoon exploring each other’s hobbies. If they love to paint, go to a paint and sip studio. Is hiking their jam? Lace up your boots and hit the trails! Sharing hobbies with each other not only allows you to get to know each other better, but it can broaden your horizons as a person too!
10. EXPLORE A NATIONAL PARK
If you’re a nature lover, then there’s no better way to spend the day than out in a national park! You and your date will be awestruck as you explore America’s most pristine places. Hike along a river, hammock in a quiet forest, or take a selfie next to a spectacular waterfall! If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider booking a guided national park excursion!
11. TAKE THEM TO THE WATER
Did you know that being near, in, or under water can lower stress and improve your overall sense of happiness? So, treat your date to an epic day on the water! From kayaking and rafting, to snorkeling and paddleboarding, there are so many water activities to try out with your date. Our recommendation? There’s nothing more magical than bioluminescent kayaking!
12. EMBARK ON A TASTY TOUR
Instead of eating at just one restaurant, take your taste buds on a culinary journey with one of these delightful food tours! Together, you’ll travel off the beaten path, discover local eateries, and sample unforgettable flavors. Plus, if you taste something truly remarkable, you can take them back to that restaurant for your second date!
13. WANDER THROUGH A BOOKSTORE
Share your love of reading with a trip to your local bookstore! Show each other your favorite books or find a quiet corner and read to each other. Then, head to the travel section and chat about your favorite places, your travel bucket lists, and more. One of the best bookstore perks? Coffee shops, of course! Sip on a delicious mocha and let them pick out a new book (your treat)!
14. TRY YOUR HAND AT GLASS BLOWING
Step out of your comfort zone and try something new with these glass classes! You’ll learn how to transform molten glass into one-of-a-kind masterpieces. From glass ornaments to stunning pendants, you’ll create a gorgeous piece that you can take home and cherish for years to come. Not interested in glass blowing? Don’t miss these other hands-on classes!
15. EXPLORE THE CITY
Play, explore, and create unforgettable date night memories with a GoCity Sightseeing Pass! You and your date will gain access to some of America’s best attractions and save money while you play. Visit an amusement park, come face-to-face with elephants at the city zoo, or step inside a fun museum. No matter where you end up, these passes have something for every dating personality!
After reading this list of 15 Unique and Memorable First Date Ideas, we hope your date night worries are a thing of the past! Interested in exploring even more options? Check out these romantic and one-of-a-kind experiences. From helicopter tours to cooking classes, they’ll remember your first date for years to come!
