Summer has all of our favorite things: endless sunshine, trips to the beach, lots of fresh watermelon, and TONS of fun date night possibilities! Having been in a relationship for 10+ years, I’m always on the lookout for date night ideas that feel fun and are a good change of pace from the usual “takeout and a movie on Netflix.” So, that being said, I’ve rounded up 10 of my favorite summer date ideas that are worth adding to your bucket list this season!
Image via Aubrey Winters
01. Take a mini road trip
While I’m based in Los Angeles, I realize that brings with it SO many fun spots to visit for a day-cation. However, I originally come from a small town, where I know firsthand that you can make a fun trip out of just about anywhere! Pack up a cooler with sandwiches (bonus points if you head to a local deli and grab some specialty charcuterie items, sparkling juices, or sweet treats!) and hit the road to enjoy a local spot! Try to keep the drive to under 2 hours to be able to make the most of your day, and aim for spots where you can enjoy the sunshine. Parks, beaches, and scenic drives are a few easy go-to’s!
02. Have a stop-and-go dinner date
This is a fun way to change up your next dinner date! Choose a few local spots you’ve been dying to try, and then try them all in one evening! Head to one restaurant for appetizers, then head to the next for dinner. Then, cap off your evening with something sweet – you can’t go wrong with an ice cream shop in the summer! It’s an easy way to try a few new places, all at once and in different atmospheres!
03. Head to a sports game
Even if you are so NOT a sports fan, you can’t deny there’s something fun about heading to a baseball game in the summertime! Find a local team to support and spend the day cheering them on. You don’t have to be a die-hard fan, or even fully understand the game itself to have a good time!
04. Watch the sunrise…or sunset
This date is 100% free, and yet, is one of the most memorable ones! Make a plan to watch the sunrise together (or the sunset if you can’t get down with an early morning alarm!) and soak up the beauty that’s right in front of you. Bonus points if you limit yourself to only taking one photo and then keeping your phone away to focus on the moment!
Image via Blake Healey
05. Visit your local farmer’s market
There’s something about fresh summer produce that just puts a smile on everyone’s face! Head to your local farmer’s market and pick out some seasonal items. Then, try cooking a homemade meal together. Trust me, anything that you cook together with fresh, local ingredients is bound to be delicious!
06. Try a new-to-you workout class together
Summertime is the perfect time to get a good sweat on! Try a new workout class together. Who knows, it might even lead to a more regular part of your workout routine together! These days there are SO many fun workout classes (kickboxing, pilates, yoga, dance, barre, the list goes on!) It won’t be hard to find one you’re both excited to try!
07. Set up a dinner party series with friends
Sometimes, a great date means a group date! Gather up your friends and organize a dinner party series. Each week, rotate through the group to have someone new host dinner at their place. It creates a fun opportunity for a night out together, without putting pressure on the same person, or the same couple, to repeatedly play host! Get creative with it – try different themes, cuisines, dress codes…the options are endless!
08. Spend an evening under the stars
While we’re all for an evening of actually camping, that just may not be your vibe! But, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the perks of camping while still ending the night cozy in your own bed. Set out a picnic blanket and enjoy s’mores, play some music on your phone, or a portable speaker, and use a stargazing app to test your astronomy skills.
Image via Caralyn Mirand
09. Head to the library or a local bookstore together
What is it about the summer season that has us all suddenly way more on top of our reading game?! From the perfect beach read, to the latest crime novel, summer is perfect for taking your latest read to the beach or the park for a little sunshine and a great story. Take a trip with your partner to your local library or a bookstore. Aim for a small option rather than a larger chain if you can, so that you can support a local business! For a twist, pick out something for yourself and then split up through the aisles and surprise each other with a pick you’ve selected for them!
10. Support the local arts
There are so many ways to support your local artists in your community in the summertime! Head to see a community theater production, visit a nearby art museum or gallery, attend an outdoor concert etc. These activities are often free and are a great way to support your community and some local talent right in your backyard!
We have all the inspiration you need when it comes to recipes, party decor and hosting events. Be sure to check out our Summer recipes blog post to share at your next gathering!