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19 First Date Ideas For Winter That Your Date Will Love

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Organizing a first date during the winter can feel like a bit of a puzzle. The weather is against you, with cold, rain, and wind making the usual go-to outdoor activities less appealing, if not entirely off the table.

And while the idea of cozying up indoors might sound nice, inviting someone to your home or going to theirs isn’t the safest option when you’re just getting to know each other. This leaves you in a bit of a predicament, searching for that perfect balance between indoors and outdoors, without resorting to the cliché and sometimes yawn-inducing classic like a museum visit.

After all, you want to make a good first impression, show that you’ve put thought into planning, and ensure both of you have a great time. So, we’ve taken on the challenge of crafting some unique and exciting date ideas that rise above the winter woes.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill suggestions; they’re upgraded romantic and fun date ideas designed to make your winter first date memorable, fun, and above all, comfortable for both of you, regardless of the chilly weather outside.

Us ice skating in London
Us ice skating in London

1. Ice Skating, A classic But A Goodie

Ice skating is one of those timeless winter date ideas that has a bit of everything: a chance for fun, opportunities for physical closeness, and plenty of laughs (especially if you’re both a bit wobbly on the ice).

It’s the perfect backdrop for casual conversation, and whether you’re gliding smoothly or clinging to each other for balance, it’s an activity that naturally brings you closer. Ending the date with some warm drinks adds a cozy finish to this classic winter adventure.

2. Hot Chocolate Tour

We’re big fans of chocolate here so we hihgly recommend this one. You’ll be visiting several cafes to taste their unique hot chocolate variations. It’s a great way to explore different spots in your city while staying warm.

Discussing each hot chocolate variation you try, from the richest dark chocolate to those with unique spices or toppings, can reveal a lot about your tastes and preferences. It’s a simple yet intimate date that allows for plenty of conversation as you decide together which one warms your heart the most.

3. Bakery Tasting

What’s better than indulging in a variety of baked goods with someone you’re getting to know? Visit a local bakery and select an assortment of treats to share and rate them together.

This tasting experience not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also sparks conversation over flavors, textures, and childhood memories related to each delicacy. It’s a casual and fun way to find common ground and preferences while enjoying delicious bites.

4. Museum/Art Gallery Scavenger Hunt

Turn a visit to a museum or art gallery into a playful and interactive experience with a scavenger hunt. Bring a list of items or themes to find, like a metal sculpture, a mosaic, or a glass piece, and embark on a cultural treasure hunt. This activity adds a layer of engagement to the date, encouraging teamwork and conversation as you explore and appreciate art together.

Us playing at an arcade
Us playing at an arcade

5. Video Game Night

Playing video games together, whether it’s on a Switch, PS5, or any other console at a local venue, offers a relaxed and fun environment to connect. It’s a great way to break the ice, especially if you’re both into gaming.

Competing or cooperating in different games can lead to laughter, gentle teasing, and a shared experience that might reveal more about each other’s personalities and problem-solving skills.

Eric and I at the Arcade in Ireland, one of the easy last minute date ideas to put together
Eric and I at the Arcade in Ireland, one of the easy last minute date ideas to put together

6. Arcade Visit

Step into the vibrant, nostalgic world of an arcade for your date. It’s a lively setting filled with the sounds of games and excitement, perfect for fostering a playful atmosphere.

Challenge each other to classic and new arcade games, from skeeball to racing simulators, earning tickets for silly prizes. It’s an energetic date idea that encourages friendly competition and creates plenty of moments to bond over.

You may also like: 35 Upgraded First Date Ideas That Aren’t Boring And Will Show You Care

7. Winter Stargazing with a Thermos

Winter stargazing offers the beauty of the night sky with the added clarity that comes with colder air. Bundle up, bring a thermos filled with your favorite hot drinks, and head to a dark spot away from city lights.

Sharing stories or looking up constellations together under the vast expanse of the universe can be incredibly romantic and thought-provoking, providing a quiet but profound way to connect on a first date.

8. DIY Candle Making Workshop

Heading to a DIY candle making workshop together is like crafting the perfect ambiance for future dates. You can also do it at home if you feel safe meeting the person there.

Imagine the two of you, surrounded by the soothing scents of essential oils, laughing and deciding on which fragrances to combine. It’s a creative way to spend time together, leaving you both with a handmade memento that will remind you of your date every time you light it. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get close as you share ideas and work on your creations side by side.

Greenhouse at the Botanical Gardens near Bull Island

9. Indoor Botanical Gardens Visit

When it’s chilly outside, an indoor botanical garden offers a warm and vibrant escape. Walking through lush, green paths and exotic plant displays can feel like you’ve both stepped into another world.

Plus, the greenhouses are usually tropical and therefore warm which will give you a nice break from the cold. It’s a peaceful setting for getting to know each other, filled with natural beauty and quiet corners for intimate conversations. Plus, the tropical warmth and the fragrant air add an extra layer of comfort and relaxation to your date.

10. Cooking Class Featuring Seasonal Dishes

Joining a cooking class that focuses on winter comfort foods is not just about learning new recipes; it’s about the experience of creating something delicious together.

As you chop, stir, and taste, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to chat, laugh, and maybe even engage in a playful flour fight. It’s a date thatpa ends with the satisfaction of enjoying a meal you made together, potentially sparking a tradition of cooking nights in your future.

Eric and I in front of a huge Ice sculpture at Winter Wonderland
Eric and I in front of a huge Ice sculpture at Winter Wonderland

11. Ice Sculpture Festival or Contest

There’s something magical about ice sculptures—the way they glisten in the light and capture the essence of winter. Visiting an ice sculpture festival or contest together offers a blend of artistic admiration and playful exploration. This is a date we did at Winter Wonderland in London and loved it.

You can marvel at the intricate designs, take fun photos, and even dream up designs for your own ice sculptures. It’s a unique way to enjoy the colder months and see creativity in action.

Snowshoe Light Path in Whistler
Snowshoe Light Path in Whistler

12. Snowshoeing Adventure

Strapping on snowshoes and trekking through a winter wonderland can turn a simple hike into an unforgettable adventure. The crunch of snow underfoot, the crisp air, and the serene beauty of a snow-covered landscape provide a stunning backdrop for deep conversations and shared silence. It’s an active date that lets you both appreciate the quiet beauty of nature, making the warm drink you share afterward all the more cozy and deserved.

13. Winter Photography Challenge

Whether it’s capturing the intricate patterns of frost on a window, the twinkling lights of a city at night, or spontaneous moments of joy, this date idea encourages you to see the world through each other’s eyes. Sharing your perspectives and photos not only sparks creativity but also opens up conversations about what you find beautiful and intriguing.

14. Pottery Class with a Winter Theme

A pottery class with a winter theme offers a hands-on way to get creative and cozy. Crafting mugs or bowls that you can later use for your winter soups or hot cocoa adds a personal touch to your date.

It’s a chance to get a little messy, share laughs, and focus on a shared task, creating an easy-going environment that’s perfect for getting to know each other. Plus, every time you use what you’ve made, you’ll have a sweet reminder of your first date.

15. Snow Fort Building and Snowball Fight

Nothing says winter fun like embracing your inner child with a snow fort building session followed by a snowball fight. Find a local park and get creative with your fort design, working together and sharing laughs throughout the process.

This fun competition sets a lighthearted tone, allowing you both to let loose and enjoy the moment. Wrapping up the date with some warm drinks will help you both thaw out and share your favorite moments from the day.

16. Escape Room with a Winter Mystery

An escape room with a winter-themed mystery is the perfect way to add some thrill to your date. Solving puzzles and working through clues together not only challenges your minds but also requires teamwork and communication, bringing you closer. It’s a fun and indoor experience that will leave you both with plenty to talk about afterward, especially as you recount the moments that led to your successful (or nearly successful) escape.

17. Visit an Ice Bar

It’s a unique and memorable setting for a first date, offering a cool (literally) atmosphere to enjoy cocktails and conversation. The novelty of the environment provides a natural icebreaker, making it easier to chat and laugh together as you bundle up and sip your drinks.

You may also like: 50 Easy Date Night Ideas

18. Coffee Shop Hop

A coffee shop hop is a cozy way to spend an afternoon, exploring the different vibes and specialties of various cafes in your city. It’s a casual date idea that encourages conversation over warm drinks and tasty pastries.

As you move from one shop to another, you’ll have the chance to share stories, discuss your coffee preferences, and enjoy the relaxed ambiance. Plus, it’s a great way to discover new favorite spots together.

19. Bookstore Date with a Twist

By selecting books for each other, you get a glimpse into what you each find intriguing or meaningful. Finding a cozy spot to explain your choices adds depth to your conversation, creating a bond over shared stories and insights. It’s a thoughtful and intimate way to spend time together, surrounded by the endless possibilities of new adventures in print.

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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.

We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.

With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.

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