TheGirlsLife
Summer is a breeze when it comes to planning enjoyable date ideas. Rooftop drinks on a patio? Absolutely! Outdoor concert? Already got my outfit planned. Walking along the waterfront? So romantic. But when the cold weather hits, those ideas are pretty much off the table because, well, it’s below freezing and it’s hard to make blue lips look cute to your date. However, there is a silver lining when it comes to winter dates: everything becomes more romantic and cozy. And contrary to popular belief, there are plenty of date ideas that you can plan both indoors and outdoors.
So whether you’re in a long-term relationship looking for some variety in your date nights this season or you’re unsure about what to do on a first date during colder months, here are 12 date ideas that both you and your partner will love—no matter how miserable it is outside.
1. Embark on a winter hike
Despite the chilly weather, hiking in winter can be incredibly romantic. Bundle up with your partner, breathe in the crisp fresh air, and take a scenic hike through nature. Not only will you witness breathtaking views but also enjoy the endorphins from the hike itself. Don’t forget to pack some snacks so you can savor them at the top before heading back down. (If hiking isn’t your thing, snowshoeing makes for an excellent alternative!) Grabbing coffee or tea on your way home adds an extra touch of relaxation after your adventure.
2. Hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding
Calling all winter athletes! Now is the perfect time to showcase your skills on the slopes with your date by your side. Afterward, head into the lodge together for a warm après-ski cocktail (or hot cocoa). (For those who don’t ski or snowboard like me, feel free to skip straight to enjoying cocktails and people-watching at the lodge!)
3. Have a cozy movie night in
When it’s too cold to venture outside, why not enjoy a movie night at home? Simply choose a movie that you both will love, prepare some delicious snacks, and snuggle up on the couch together to watch either a classic or a new film you haven’t seen before. Extra points if you create a cozy setup in your living room with additional blankets and pillows.
4. Go sledding
Sledding isn’t just for kids! Find a big hill in your town, grab some sleds, bundle up with warm scarves and beanies, and head out for one of the most fun and playful date ideas that will have you laughing throughout.
5. Visit the aquarium
While it may be too cold for the zoo, winter is the perfect time to explore an aquarium with your date. Spend an afternoon discovering cute and fascinating creatures like sea otters, penguins, sharks, and stingrays. With so much to see and do there, conversation will flow effortlessly.
6. Attend a paint night
Don’t worry about being an expert painter; anyone can enjoy this activity! Find out what painting classes are available in your area (Painting with a Twist is located in most states!) and mark this unique date night on your calendar. Sip on your favorite drink, indulge in some snacks, unleash your creativity through painting together—and who knows? You might leave with not only great memories but also masterpieces!
7. Arrange an indoor picnic
Since outdoor picnics are off-limits unless you live in warmer climates right now—why not bring the picnic indoors? Prepare a delightful cheese plate, grab some wine or beverages of choice along with music playing softly in the background as you lay out blankets on the living room floor for an intimate indoor picnic experience. To add even more romance to the atmosphere—light some candles.
8. Go ice skating
Ice skating is the ultimate winter date idea. Think about it: you’ll inevitably end up holding hands while gliding on the ice—especially if one of you isn’t so skilled at it. And this date idea isn’t limited to those in cold climates either. If you live somewhere warm, check if your local hockey rink offers open skate sessions.
9. Enjoy a bowling night
Escape the cold weather and head to the bowling alley! Almost no one is actually good at bowling (in my experience), so this is a pressure-free, fun date idea that can be enjoyed during the day or at night. Bowl a few games and then play some arcade games to round out this lighthearted date.
10. Take a brewery or distillery tour
Nothing warms you up quite like enjoying drinks at a brewery or distillery, but to make this date even more interesting, sign up for a tour of the facility. Many places offer free tours, and if not, tickets are usually affordable. You’ll learn about the beer or spirits-making process as well as gain insight into the history of the company you’re visiting—and who knows? You might even get some complimentary drinks at the end!
11. Attend a show
Winter is arguably an ideal time to catch any kind of show! Whether it’s heading to a theater in your finest attire or going for a comedy show in casual yet cute date night outfits, you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy each other’s company while being entertained too. This makes for an excellent choice if you’re still getting to know someone since there’s less pressure on keeping conversation flowing as your attention will be focused on watching the performance.
12.Cook up a cozy dinner together at home
Not only are dinner reservations harder to come by during winter due to holidays and indoor seating capacity, but sometimes it’s just too cold to leave the house. Instead, prepare a cozy dinner at home with your date. Choose a meal that requires both of you to be involved (one chopping vegetables while the other preps a sauce), pour some wine, play some music, and enjoy the process of cooking together. Finally, savor the fruits of your labor at the end—hopefully resulting in a delicious and memorable meal together.
