Best First Date Ideas to Break the Ice with Your Match

Photo by Jep Gambardella on Pexels

First dates are equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking. For something so exhilarating, it has high stakes. Their unpredictability adds to the nerves as well.

Even the best of us aren’t immune to first-date jitters. The pressure to leave a great impression sometimes outweighs the idea of savoring the moment. Fortunately, overcoming the nerves isn’t as complicated as rocket science.

Breaking the ice with a new flame doesn’t have to be as stressful as some make it out to be. While nobody can perfectly master the art of first dates, you can make them become fun experiences—even if things don’t pan out as you hoped.

Here are some of the best first date ideas to help you start on the right foot with a match:

#1: Get active

A hike or tennis lesson may not be the first thing popping into people’s minds when thinking of date ideas. But hear me out: getting active together does wonders.

According to a 2021 study, couples who workout together also have happier exercises and relationships. Family and marriage therapist Evelyn M. Saavedra-Funes believes this. “When you work out with your partner, you can create a healthy and even playful space to push yourself a little harder to increase your performance,” she says.

#2: Unleash your inner artists

Even if you aren’t the most creative person, tapping into your inner artist is always a fun idea. Try making DIY (do-it-yourself) crafts and put your hands to work. Just head to your nearest art supply store and let your ideas flourish.

If you’re feeling a little fancy, attend a paint-and-sip class. For those unaware, it’s a painting lesson paired with wine (or any other alcoholic beverage). The best part is you get to keep your masterpiece when you’re done.

#3: Have a little friendly competition

A healthy dose of competition won’t hurt anyone. Add fun to your dates by playing games. You could have a pinball showdown at a local arcade. You can even join a trivia night and try outwitting each other.

If games aren’t your thing, you can always have another type of competition. Why not challenge your match to a friendly karaoke battle?

#4: Soak up the culture

No, this doesn’t mean seeing an orchestra play live (but if it’s your cup of tea, why not?). And fortunately, cultural dates don’t have to cost much.

A museum visit is more than enough to count as a cultural experience. You two may not be art enthusiasts, but you’ll gain some appreciation after seeing the pieces on display.

#5: Be unique

If you’ve run out of ideas and don’t want the typical wine-and-dine approach, why not go outside the box a bit? The ideas here are endless.

Take a random class if you’re up for extra knowledge and skills. Want to move your feet? Go out dancing! See your city in a different light by taking a walking tour or a scooter ride.

My list of the best first date ideas should hopefully help you and your match break out of your awkward shells. No matter what your choice is, don’t forget to enjoy the moment. Good luck!