First dates are usually overloaded with emotions and expectations, which can quickly put an immense amount of pressure on both partners.
You want to look good, sound confident, and basically come off as the best version of yourself.
Underneath the jitters and the pounding nerves, everyone wants to make a good impression – especially if they really like the person they’re about to meet.
One thing is for sure, though. You definitely want the first date to go really well so things can move forward and you get a chance to plan a second date.
Given that people nowadays share a diverse interest in social activities and norms, though, it can be a bit challenging to plan your first date.
Under the pressure of making sure it goes smoothly, most people opt for something simple, such as a coffee.
This is perfectly fine, of course, but if you are looking to step it up a notch, then you may want to look at some other potential options for your first date with your special somebody.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a small list of awesome first date ideas that are both fresh and enjoyable and can offer you the perfect opportunity to spark a love connection.
Visit a farmers market
Farmers markets are great places to find fresh produce at a fraction of the price you would pay at the grocery store.
Plus, they often have local vendors selling products made from scratch, which means you know exactly where your food comes from and you’re supporting a local business.
Exploring a farmers market together lets you bond by discussing your favorite foods.
If the date goes really well, you could even take it further and set up another date to make a meal together.
Cook Your Favorite Meals Together
If you’re confident about your cooking skills, then why not use them to impress your date?
Cooking a meal together can allow you to connect on a personal level, letting you discover each other’s tastes and turn-offs.
Plan a tasty menu together (maybe even make a copycat recipe from your favorite restaurant), then go on a grocery run to shop for all the items.
That way, you’ll get to know the other person in a different light, hopefully opening doorways to new possibilities and a deeper connection.
Visit a Museum
Museums are great places to visit on a first date. They offer a unique opportunity to explore history and culture from different periods of time.
For instance, I love visiting museums like the Smithsonian Institution because they give me a chance to connect with people who lived during different times in American history.
There is so much to see that you will always have things to talk about and probably learn something along the way too.
Have a Picnic Under The Stars
If you live in the city, then you might have already lost the connection with stars and the deeper sky beyond it, like the way you once had it as a child.
Surprising your date with a private picnic under the dark sky filled with stars, therefore, can be the perfect way to symbolize your first meeting and make it last in your memory for years to come.
Pack your favorite drinks, snacks, some blankets, and camp near a location far from the city lights.
Light a fire to keep you both warm, and roast some marshmallows while you are at it.
Never underestimate a good night’s sleep under a blanket of stars, either. They’ve been known to stir up everlasting love stories.
A Side-Splitting Comedy Club
Who doesn’t like a good joke or watching their favorite comedians live? If you and your partner have a funny tooth, consider going to a comedy club for the first date.
Stand-up comedians near you are putting their hearts out every day in an attempt to make the crowd laugh and have a good time.
If you’ve never seen standup before, this could be your first introduction. Even if you are disappointed by the show, there will still be plenty to talk about after the performance.
Give them a shot on your first date. You never know. Maybe the way to your partner’s heart is through a night full of jokes!
Visit an animal shelter
Most animal shelters are in dire need of volunteers – even just for a few minutes of interaction and play time.
Why not plan to spend a couple hours playing with shelter animals or taking them for a walk?
If you’re looking for love, there’s nothing better than finding out how much your date loves animals!
Go Hiking
If both you and your partner are fitness enthusiasts or just like being close to nature, then a hiking trip can turn out to be the best first date for you.
Try to hit a secluded trek, away from the buzz of the city crowd, which will give both of you enough space to bond with each other.
It doesn’t have to be an extensive trip, either, so just pack some water and other essentials to help get you through it.
Any hiking route closer to the city or through a park can be the optimal spot for a first date, too.
Going on a hike will not only get your endorphins going and your heart rate pumping, but it will also give you a sense of accomplishment on your first date. It’s a win-win all around!
Hit Up an Arcade
We know there are many video game lovers out there, so why not turn your favorite hobby into a perfect first date?
If both you and your partner savor the many different flavors of arcade games, you will definitely bond quicker while battling each other in a game of Street Fighter.
It’s not a bad idea to let them win a few rounds, though, just to keep them interested.
Most dive bars have some old school arcade games or a pool table in the back.
Even if you don’t plan on drinking any alcohol, some friendly competition is a great way to see if there’s a spark.
A Classic Candle Night Dinner
As cliche as it is, we can all agree that the first-ever date night in the history of humanity must have been under a dimly lit candlelight ambiance.
Even if that’s not true, a secluded candlelight dinner with some sparkling wine is an all-time classic for date nights.
Be it a fancy restaurant or in your backyard, a candlelight dinner is a perfect way to close the distance with your date and share some memorable moments together.
No doubt, a first date can be a nerve-wracking experience, but the same reason that makes them stressful also makes them so special and vital in our lives.
There is nothing wrong with being vulnerable and a little anxious on your first date, as it only shows that you genuinely like the other person and your body is reacting to it.
Hopefully, these first date night ideas can help you put the perfect spin on your first date – as well as the future ones you go on together!