After a difficult day, it can be hard to muster the energy to get dolled up for a night on the town with your boo, but you don't have to go all out for a stress-free date you'll both enjoy. We love these relaxing date ideas that still guarantee a night of fun.
What Can Make a Date Relaxing, According to Science
While the image of your sofa, some popcorn, and a movie may come to mind, this is likely something you do often. There are plenty of relaxing date ideas that don't require a fancy outfit or a lot of prep work, though, and have just what you and your partner need to actually relax.
Let us explain - research proves that there are some easy ways to relax, and by incorporating these actions into your dates, you'll effortlessly lighten your proverbial load. Just what are these magical measures?
- Get your blood pumping
- Soak up some sunshine
- Stretch and meditate
- Listen to music
- Get giggling
- Eat good food
- Spend time with animals
- Be present in the moment
So, how do you accomplish these things on a date? We break down the best ways to unwind with your significant other!
Unique Ideas for Relaxing Date Nights
Everyone will tell you that a couple's massage is the best relaxing date idea, but we like to think a bit farther outside of the box! Try your hand at these unique outings - you might be surprised at just how relaxed they actually are.
Axe Throwing
If you really want to get out your frustrations and get your blood pumping at the same time, try your hand at axe throwing. This is a fantastic activity that requires you to fully live in the moment and center your focus on what is right in front of you. The competition makes for a fun evening, and best of all, lumberjacks don't have a strict dress code! Come in your finest flannel and get throwing.
Driving Range
Similarly, the driving range is another relaxed spot to swing away your stresses and live in the moment. Many of these spots also feature fantastic food and spirits. This means minimal travel and an easygoing experience.
Goat Yoga
Deep breathing, stretching, meditation, sunshine, and laughter are all built into this amusing activity! There's also no dressing up. Instead, get ready to sweat and giggle with your partner as you try to balance these billies.
Dog Park Bars
Animals and alcohol are both great at relaxing us, making this a relaxed date almost any couple will love. Throw on some yoga pants or sweats, walk to your local dog park bar, and throw the ball around with your best friend and your boo!
Concert in the Park
Music and fresh air can both help to lessen stress. Why not combine the two and plan a relaxing date at the park? Many people don't realize that arboretums and parks host affordable concerts year round. Look in your area to see what local band may be playing just around the corner from you.
Crawfish Boil
Let go of your inhibitions, pull up your hair, and get ready to get messy at this meal! Crawfish boils are incredibly casual events that are filled with fun, music, delicious grub, and even some laughs. These exciting events begin as early as January and continue through July.
Drive-In Movie
Who said that you still can't enjoy your popcorn and movie? Just make the excursion a little more romantic by turning back time and enjoying the film like they did in the 1930s.
Elevate this experience by packing up a picnic for while you watch your picture! Charcuterie items are always a romantic choice and they are the perfect finger foods for this occasion.
Ride a Horse
There's a reason horses are used in therapy! Studies show that horseback riding will not only help with relaxation, but they can also reduce anxiety and increase your confidence levels.
Better yet, this activity is easy to find in most places. Go for a ride at a ranch or go fancy with a private horse-drawn carriage. Whichever you choose, get ready to find your stride and see your stress disappear.
Volunteer at a Shelter
Did you know that you can play with puppies whenever you want? Shelters need volunteers to help love on the animals who are waiting for a home and this can be a great way to de-stress with your partner. Find some joy, get your blood pumping, and soak up some sunshine while playing with pups in need.
Order Cookies
Sweet treats are always a good option on a date. In fact, chocolate is a known mood booster! For the couples looking to stay in, consider ordering your dessert in as well.
Tiff's Treats, Hot Box Cookies, and Insomnia Cookies are just a few of the companies across the nation that will deliver hot and fresh cookies directly to your door. Indulge in your sweet tooth and enjoy a relaxing date night with some chocolate chip cookies.
Try a New Coffee Spot
Did you know that drinking coffee releases dopamine? Turn back time and take a quintessential first date at a new coffee shop in your area. This low-key excursion will not only let you relax, it's also pretty certain it to bring you some pleasure!
Try Your Hand at Fluid Art
Another relaxing idea for couples is taking the time to express your creative side. Fluid art is an abstract painting technique that creates abstract and one-of-a-kind pieces. Relax by focusing on the task at hand and let your creative juices flow while engaging in this fun activity.
Attend a Minor League Baseball Game
There's something so simple about showing up to a minor league baseball game. There are minimal crowds, there is no dress code, and yet, they still have great food, fine sprits, and nail biting moments that keep your blood pumping!
Relax in a Hot Tub
Relaxing activities for couples might not get any better than a simple dip in a hot tub. Soak in some sun and listen to some music as the bubbles from the hot tub surround you. This is a great way to unwind and unplug with your significant other.
Visit an Open House
Is there anything more relaxing than indulging in a fantasy? This is one of the few dates on this list that requires a certain attire, but there's something exciting about dreaming big. Go online and look at your potential dream homes and then set up some tours.
This can not only be a fun date, but it can also help you get ideas for what to do and what not to do in a future home.
Try Some Spirits
Indulge your palate, get out in the fresh air, and even try something new on a tour of your favorite spirit's grounds! Wineries, breweries, and distilleries are great spots to explore and unwind at the same time. These places also normally provide a pretty intimate atmosphere, making them a subtly romantic and relaxing setting.
Engage in a Trivia Night
The excitement of the game will definitely get your blood pumping! Better yet, the setting of most trivia nights is nice and casual. Head to your local bar, grab a beer, and strut your stuff on their next trivia night!
Place Your Bets
Casinos are a fantastic spot to get your blood pumping, have some fun, and even win some money! You'll also get some meditation in as you place each bet and hope for the best.
Twists on Traditional Relaxing Dates
If a more traditional relaxing date idea is more up your alley, there are plenty of easy ways to make your go-to relaxation activities as a couple a little more unique.
Watch the Sunset in a New Place
Watching the sunset together is romantic and relaxing, but looking for an interesting new spot like a scenic lookout or obscure park can take it up a notch.
Stargaze or Cloud Watch to a Personalized Playlist
Stargazing and cloud watching can be ultra relaxing (and romantic), but you can make them even more special by creating a playlist you know your sweetheart will love and listen to it together on your date.
Learn Massage Techniques Together
Instead of going to a couples' massage for a one-time relaxing date, watch a few videos and learn the art of massage together. Practice on each other for an at-home date that's not only relaxing, but might also get you laughing as you try to perfect the techniques too.
Simplify the Classic Romantic Picnic
Skip planning out a full meal and just opt for a dessert picnic at a pretty park (think strawberries and whipped cream or your partner's favorite pastries from a local bakery) or have a simple picnic in your own backyard for a relaxing date that will help you stay connected.
Have a Phone-Free Bonfire
Keep your devices on their chargers and set out to the backyard (or even your indoor fireplace) to warm up and relax together. Forget the mess of actual s'mores and try s'mores-flavored ice cream or light a marshmallow-scented candle instead.
Create a Simple Project Together as a Couple
If you're looking for a way to relax and connect without going anywhere, try a stress-free project for couples. It's fun twist on staying at home for a movie night. Whether it's a simple art project, mixology, or building something like photo frames or a cornhole game, you can DIY your way to relaxation and connection right at home.
Relaxing Dates Are Relative
For the couples who want to truly unwind, it's important to consider the activities that get you excited and distract you from the real world. These will be the dates that are the most relaxing for you. Whether you choose something classic and put your own personal touches on it, or try an out-of-the-box way to relax with your partner, the moments together can help you unwind and recharge your relationship at the same time.
