Just because Valentine’s Day is over doesn’t mean love is! If you’re anything like me, figuring out what to do for date night can feel like a task (especially if you struggle with decision-making – the struggle is real). But date nights are a must, whether you’re keeping the spark alive, breaking out of routine, or just trying to avoid spending a fortune at the movies (including your right kidney and firstborn child). So, I put together this short but sweet list of unique date ideas to bring more creativity, joy, and laughter into your relationship. 🙏🏻
Besides, I truly believe date nights are crucial for a strong, healthy relationship (at least they are for us!). They give you something to look forward to, fill that quality time love tank, and—let’s be real—sometimes you just need an excuse to ditch the sweats and put on some makeup for old time’s sake. 🤷🏻 And if you have kids, date nights become even more important. A little “just us” time goes a long way.
On the real though, being in love with your best friend makes all the difference. You can read more about our wild love story by clicking HERE (Trust me, you’re gonna love this one). Kaleb and I have been about adventure since day one. Of course, we can make any mundane date fun, but we’re always on the lookout for something new—whether it’s a cool hidden gem, an event coming to town, or the latest restaurant we haven’t tried yet. And between living in three different states, we’ve been blessed to experience all kinds of places. (Just wait till we’re ballin’ out and not on a tight budget! Yes, please!)
Alright, let’s get into it! Here are 12 date ideas to shake things up. 💥
1. Dream Board Night 💭
This one’s a once-a-quarter thing for Kaleb and me, and it’s the perfect way to sit, talk, listen to good music, and just be present with one another. My favorite place to get lots of printed photos for cheap is the Free Prints app (first 80 prints free—just pay shipping!). We grab dollar store supplies, cut out our Pinterest-inspired photos, and hang up our dream boards. Every home we’ve had has a whole wall dedicated to them, and we’ve already checked off so many goals—power of manifestation, baby! Have you ever made one? What’s the biggest dream you’ve seen come true?
2. Cooking Dinner @ Home 🍴
I know, I know—why do something you do every day? But trust me, this one’s different. Pick a fancy meal you wouldn’t normally cook, turn on some music, and make it a fun experience. We’ve tried dishes like yellow chicken curry (Click HERE for the recipe) and mango sticky rice. Bonus: It’s budget-friendly and way cozier than a crowded restaurant.
3. Food Carts 🥡
Being back in the Northwest, we have sooo many incredible food cart options from Troutdale to Portland. Our favorites right now? Tita’s Kitchen, an authentic Peruvian cart and Tita’s Juice Bar both owned by our friend, Fabiola! (Located in Troutdale and Happy Valley, OR., seriously SO good!) If your area has food carts, give it a try—it’s a great way to sample different cuisines without the pressure of agreeing on one spot.
4. Beach Getaway 🏖️
If you’re lucky enough to live near the coast, make a day trip out of it! We love grabbing fish and chips, watching the waves, and if you’re like my husband, stocking up on saltwater taffy. (Not my jam, but you do you!)
5. Hot Air Balloon Festival 🎈
Still on my bucket list to ride one, but last summer we attended the “Festival of Balloons” in Tigard, OR, and it was a blast—even five months pregnant! Vendors, food carts, and a mini market made it a fun day, even though we slept through the 5 AM balloon launch. Maybe next time!
6. Arcade Night 🕹️
Nickel arcades are the move! In Dallas, we loved Cidercade (adult-only after 7 PM with cider and beer!). In Portland, The Avalon is our go-to, and fun fact—Kaleb has never beaten me at air hockey. I’m 7-0. He found out the hard way on one of our first dates. 😏 What’s your go-to arcade game?
7. Dreambuilding (Future Homes, Cars, Furniture) 🏡🚘
Find a “Street of Dreams” in your area, test drive your dream car, or window shop at luxury furniture stores. Pro tip: Dress the part. 😉 It’s fun imagining your future together.
8. Bookstore Date 📖
Powell’s was actually where we had our first date, and now we love exploring small bookstores, hunting for funny book titles, and finding gems for our daughter. (We found a complete collection of the Magic Tree House books at one, like HOW COOL.)
9. Fork & Film 🍽️📽️. **
A themed movie and dining experience where you eat dishes inspired by the film. Think: ratatouille while watching Ratatouille. Yes, please. They have all types of movies and tickets sell QUICK. From Aladdin to Hercules to Mean Girls, they have some pretty cool menu items. Still on our bucket list! 👀
10. Local Farmers Market 🌱
Great for fresh air, free samples, and supporting small businesses. I love chatting with vendors about their crafts – and trying not to buy everything (yes, I am the window shop girly, hi, it’s me). What’s the best thing you’ve ever scored at a farmers market?
11. Goodwill Outfit Challenge 👗
Kaleb actually gave me this idea! Pick out the wildest outfits for each other, try them on, and see what happens. You might actually find something you love (or just get a good laugh).
12. Board Game Bar 🎲
Mox Boarding House in Portland is a favorite! Free board games, a full bar and restaurant, and staff who actually teach you how to play. Game-changing (yes, pun intended) for people like us who would rather stab our eyes out with a spoon than read and comprehend game instructions. Codenames Duo was a hit for us and had us laughing all night!
I hope this list gives you fresh ideas for your next date night. Whether you’re staying in, heading out, or watching Inside Out (see what I did there?), just remember: love is in the little moments. And let’s be real—if food is involved, it’s bound to be a good time. 😉
Tried any of these? Have a unique date night idea? Drop it in the comments—I might just steal it for our next one!
I hope this post inspired you or at least made you laugh a little! If you liked it and want to read more content, subscribe for updates on my next post! (Don’t worry, no spamming from me – just an update!)