21 Worst Date Ideas People Should totally Avoid
When it comes to planning the perfect date, some ideas that sound good at first might actually end up being pretty terrible. Sure, some of the worst ones are obvious—like who really thinks taking a date to a funeral is a good idea?
But then, there are those classic go-tos that have somehow stuck around, like going to the movies. It might be a popular choice, but it’s not exactly prime for getting to know someone when you’re both just staring at a screen in silence. In this post, we’re not just calling out these less-than-ideal date ideas.
We’re here to help you step up your game by offering fun and engaging alternatives. From swapping silent library sits for lively picnics, to ditching awkward funeral attendances for, well, pretty much anything else, we’ve got you covered with creative ways to make your date memorable—for the right reasons.
1. Going to the Movies
While it might seem like a classic date idea, going to the movies is not the best way to get to know someone. The main issue is that you can’t talk or interact during the film, which makes it hard to connect. Plus, picking a movie that both people will enjoy can be a challenge, especially if you don’t know each other’s tastes well. It’s a passive activity where you’re both just staring at a screen, not each other.
What to do instead: Plan to grab ice cream and chat before the movie or plan a hopping dinner after, moving from one restaurant to another for appetizers, the main course, and dessert. This way, you get to enjoy a fun activity and have plenty of time to talk and connect.
You may also like: Our Movie date Essentials
2. Netflix and Chill
“Netflix and Chill” might sound like a cozy way to spend an evening, but as a date idea, it lacks creativity and effort. It can also be pretty awkward if you don’t know each other well, turning what’s supposed to be a fun date into just another night in front of the TV. Plus, it doesn’t really provide an opportunity to learn about each other or form a deeper connection.
What to do instead: Play Bingo movie using our free card. This adds an interactive and playful element to watching movies, making it more engaging and fun for both of you.
Get your free Movie Bingo Card here
3. Just Going to Any Restaurant
Simply choosing any restaurant without much thought can come across as lazy and unoriginal. It shows little effort in planning something that could be memorable and special. While eating out is a common date idea, picking a generic place without any uniqueness or relevance to your interests together can make the date forgettable.
What to do instead: Make food together at home, or go on a dinner cruise. These alternatives offer a more personalized and engaging experience, allowing you to bond over the activity and enjoy each other’s company in a unique setting.
4. Clubbing in a Loud Nightclub
While dancing the night away might sound exciting, a loud nightclub is not the ideal place for a date, especially in the early stages of a relationship. The noise makes it almost impossible to have a meaningful conversation, which is crucial for getting to know each other. Plus, the environment can be overwhelming and not conducive to forming a genuine connection.
What to do instead: Take a dancing class together. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy music and dance, while also giving you the chance to communicate and connect on a more personal level.
5. A Group Activity with Your Friends
Inviting your date to a group activity with your friends might seem like a good idea to show off your social circle, but it can put unnecessary pressure on your date. It doesn’t allow for much personal connection or privacy, making it hard for the two of you to focus on getting to know each other.
What to do instead: Start just the two of you and ask your date if they’d like to meet your friends later but don’t impose it. This approach keeps the focus on your connection and gives your date the option to get involved with your social circle when they’re comfortable.
Not sure how to spice up you date night? Check Our Movie date Essentials here.
6. Extreme Adventure Sports (if they’re not into it)
We don’t recommend planning a date that involves extreme adventure sports unless you’re absolutely sure that both of you are into that kind of thrill. It can be really uncomfortable or even scary for someone who isn’t much of an adrenaline junkie. Plus, if something goes wrong, it could lead to awkward moments or feelings of guilt for having encouraged them to participate.
What to do instead: It’s better to ask them about their comfort level with adventure sports beforehand or opt for a moderate hike. This way, you can still enjoy an active date but in a way that’s comfortable for both of you.
7. Visiting Family
Bringing your date to meet your family right off the bat can be overwhelming. It’s too personal too soon and puts unnecessary pressure on your date. Plus, it’s hard to be yourself or for them to relax when there’s family around, analyzing every interaction.
What to do instead: Discuss and plan ahead when it would be appropriate for you both to meet each other’s families, once you’ve established a solid connection and feel comfortable taking that step.
8. Going to a Fast Food Joint
A date at a fast food joint might come off as lacking effort and thoughtfulness. While it’s okay to enjoy fast food, as a date setting, it doesn’t really say, “I’m excited to spend time with you.”
What to do instead: Spice up the fast food experience by ordering each other’s meals as a surprise, or try fast food hopping to explore new menu items together. This adds a fun twist and lets you share opinions and laughs.
9. A Day at the Amusement Park
While amusement parks are filled with fun activities, they might not be the best choice for a date. The long lines and crowds can make it stressful and difficult to have conversations, taking away from the personal connection you’re hoping to build.
What to do instead: A visit to your local farmers’ market could be a more relaxed and engaging option. You can explore different stalls, try samples, and enjoy casual conversation as you walk around.
10. Shopping for Clothes
Clothes shopping on a date can quickly turn tedious and doesn’t really offer a chance to connect. It puts pressure on personal tastes and can be uncomfortable if one person doesn’t like what the other chooses.
What to do instead: Try a thrift store challenge where you pick out quirky and funny outfits for each other on a budget. It’s a playful way to interact and learn about each other’s sense of humor.
11. A Lecture or Workshop
Sitting through a lecture or workshop might feel more like being in a classroom than on a date. It’s hard to interact and share experiences when you’re focused on listening to a speaker or learning a new skill in a formal setting.
What to do instead: An escape room offers a fun and interactive alternative. Working together to solve puzzles and escape can create memorable moments and strengthen your connection.
12. Sitting in Silence at a Library
While a library might seem like a serene and intellectual place for a date, it doesn’t allow for conversation or connection. Sitting in silence among the stacks of books means you miss out on getting to know each other.
What to do instead: Organize a picnic outside. It’s a great way to enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed setting, where you can talk freely and enjoy some snacks together.
Want to stay home but with a twist? Check Our Movie date Essentials here.
13. Attending a Funeral
Bringing a date to a funeral is highly inappropriate and puts your date in an extremely uncomfortable situation. It’s a personal and somber occasion, not a time for social introductions.
What to do instead: Just don’t do it. There are countless more appropriate places and occasions for a date.
14. Getting Drunk at a Bar
Getting drunk at a bar might seem like a way to loosen up, but it impairs judgment and doesn’t allow for meaningful interaction. It can also lead to situations you might regret later.
What to do instead: Make cocktails at home or attend a cocktail class together. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy drinks without overdoing it, and you get to learn something new together.
15. Watching a Sports Game When They’re Not a Fan
Dragging your date to a sports game when they have no interest in the sport can make for a long and boring experience for them. It shows a lack of consideration for their preferences.
What to do instead: Ask them beforehand if they enjoy sports or opt for something more universally enjoyable like mini-golfing. It’s fun, light-hearted, and allows for plenty of conversation.
16. A Long Drive With No Destination
A long drive without a destination can quickly turn from an adventure into a tedious journey. Without a plan, it can become boring and awkward, especially if conversation stalls.
What to do instead: Take a bingo walk through a neighborhood or park. It adds a sense of purpose and fun to your outing, encouraging exploration and conversation.
17. Going to a Museum Without Interest
Visiting a museum when neither of you has an interest in art or history can make the date drag on and become dull. It’s important to choose activities that spark excitement for both of you.
What to do instead: Go to an interactive art exhibition or a museum with engaging exhibits. These can be more entertaining and provide a shared experience to talk about.
18. A Surprise Date Without Considering Their Interests
Surprise dates can be thrilling, but they can backfire if it ends up being an activity they dislike. It’s crucial to consider their interests and preferences when planning.
What to do instead: Make sure they’re open to surprises, or hint at the activity to gauge their reaction. It’s better to ensure they’ll enjoy the experience.
19. Volunteering for a Cause They Don’t Support
Volunteering together can be a meaningful and bonding experience, but only if it’s for a cause both of you support. Otherwise, it can put them in a difficult and awkward position.
What to do instead: Volunteer for a cause they are passionate about. This shows you respect their values and are interested in what matters to them.
20. Taking a Hard Fitness Class Together
While exercising together can be fun, a hard fitness class might not be the best idea if one of you can’t keep up. It can be embarrassing and the sweat might not be attractive to everyone.
What to do instead: Go swimming at a local pool. It’s a more relaxed and enjoyable way to get some exercise without the intensity of a hard class.
Prefer to stay home rather than going out together? Check Our Movie date Essentials here.
21. An Outdoor Hike in Bad Weather
Hiking can be a great way to spend time together, but bad weather can turn it into a miserable experience. It’s hard to enjoy each other’s company when you’re uncomfortable.
What to do instead: Indoor skiing offers the thrill of an outdoor adventure without the discomfort of bad weather. It’s a unique and fun activity that allows for conversation and laughter.
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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.