There’s nothing like a little warm weather to get us in the mood for some outdoor lovin’! Summer is that time of the year when the fresh air and sunshine leaves us scrambling for our beach towels and bikinis. But apart from the usual trip to the lake, what other options exist for creating a fun-filled outdoor date? We’ve rounded up a few great ideas to get your creative mind working!
1. Go to drive-in movie
You spend all year enjoying the latest flicks inside your home, why not hit a drive-in movie or even the park with some blankets, your laptop and a DVD? You may be lucky enough to live in a community that offers movies in the park or traveling outdoor theater so check in with your local park district to see if anything is showing. I can’t think of a more relaxing spin on the usual dinner and a movie!
2. Go on a walking food tour
If you’re a city-dweller, then there is undoubtedly a range of formal options for sampling the city food scene. Check out the local neighborhood food tours or sign up for a chocolate tasting sampler. If you live outside of the city then never mind, you can always create your own; I call this a ‘food crawl.’ Not interested in an active dinner date? Hit the streets for a spot of alfresco dining, a popular outing amongst lovers during the warmer months.
3. Stage your own photoshoot
Some of my favorite memories involved a camera and a loved one. Head outdoors for some summer fun! Don’t forget a few versatile items like some body oil and water spray for all those creative photoshoot effects. You might want to consider staging your shoot at the beach, a rooftop, a nearby forest, or even against a grungy city backdrop. No matter which location you choose plan a few wardrobe changes to keep things interesting.
4. Take a trip to the farmers market
Pick up some ingredients from the local farmer’s market to make your very own romantic farm-to-table picnic dinner. Browsing the stalls is a great way to start your evening of bonding.
5. Head outside to Summer Dance
Is there anything more perfect than the outdoors, dusk and dancing? Throughout the summer various cities around the globe host regular outdoor dances for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike. Explore your local city website to find out what’s going on in your neighborhood or consider planning a weekend and find new spots to check out. If you are one of many lucky locals to have a summer dance in your town then you must give it a go! Salsa, swing, bollywood and techno are often on the agenda. Expect a big crowd and lots of free fun and sometimes even instruction! If your city does not offer fun such as this, then host a dance in your backyard. Set up a group date with a few of your friends, drinks and a well thought out playlist.
6. Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting
Take a trip to a vineyard and stroll amongst the grapes. There’s nothing like some wine to make you feel like celebrating your love! If you can’t locate a vineyard nearby, then your local wine cellar will do the trick. A great idea for a midweek date to unwind and reconnect with your mate. Don’t forget to plan a nice dinner in advance to ensure you make it to work the next day!
7. Take a boat trip or a ferry ride
There’s nothing like the water to make you feel like summer has arrived! Whether it’s gliding across the open water on a boat with a drink in hand or an active afternoon with kayaks and paddleboards, there’s something for everyone no matter what your chosen speed. Whatever you decide consider starting your journey in the late afternoon so you can catch the sun setting over the water. Ah, how romantic!
8. Go fly a kite
Remember the last time you flew a kite? Rediscover your inner child as you enjoy the sun, the breeze and the colors flying through the air. It make me smile just thinking of the fun. Perhaps you could even try making your own kite! Some of your favorite childhood snacks are a must in keeping with the theme of your date.
Try these ideas or get creative with your own, but make sure to line up some dates to finish out the summer months! For more date night ideas, visit my blog at CandisHickman.com/blog. Don’t forget to download a free copy of The Love Challenge while you’re visiting the site.