Afternoon Date Ideas

Sure, a Friday night date is a romantic classic. But, if you want to seize the day and get things started a little earlier, we’ve come up with a list of afternoon date ideas to enjoy with your Bumble match while the sun is still shining. The benefits of an afternoon date over an evening date are myriad, especially for a first date. An afternoon date takes the pressure off, as you won’t spend all day preparing for the evening. You can meet in the daytime, assess the vibe, and always have the option to continue your date into the night should things go well. Read on for our ultimate guide to afternoon date ideas.

First dates are all about getting to know each other in a low-pressure environment. The afternoon is the perfect time to set one up for the reasons we’ve listed above. Here are some ideas. 

A nature walk involves a gentle stroll with fresh air and lots of beautiful scenery to observe. It’s all about relaxing in nature, getting to know your date, and chatting as you walk. As for the location, it’s totally up to you! You could find a local forest, beach, nature trail, or public garden. Take in the sights and learn more about each other as you wander.

Meeting at a local coffee shop provides a low-key and informal environment for getting to know someone you’re on a first date with. The chatter and buzz of people around you should help you ease into comfortable conversation too. Coffee shop dates can take as long as you want them to–if you’re feeling the chemistry, you can order another round or go for a stroll afterward. 

If you and your match both love fitness, an active afternoon date might be just the ticket. You could take turns to try each of your favorite classes, be that HIIT, pilates, yoga or spin, and enjoy the endorphins that come from working up a sweat. Grab a juice or smoothie afterward and get to know one another. 

Theater tickets are often a bit cheaper if you go to a matinee. While the show will be your focus, there’ll be plenty of time to talk before and during intermission, so you’ll still have the opportunity to connect. Plus, catching a show in the afternoon means that you can make a reservation for dinner and drinks afterward to discuss the performance. Just cancel it or grab a friend if your date doesn’t dazzle you.

If you’ve been dating for a while and the connection between you is getting stronger, you might want to opt for a romantic afternoon date. Something a bit more intimate than attending a show or being surrounded by other people. Read on for our ideas.

If you and your date are wine lovers, then this date idea is a no-brainer. Head out of the city to a vineyard if you can, or book in at a local wine bar. Sample the sommelier’s selections and compare notes, learning about the different wines and their food pairings. Not only will you walk away with a new favorite vino, but you’ll have experienced an intimate afternoon that will hopefully set you up for a romantic evening.

If you’re comfortable enough with your Bumble date coming to your home, you could set up a home spa at your place. A cheap afternoon spa date for two is a great way to deepen intimacy and connection. Gather your favorite beauty products, soften the lighting, and burn a candle. You could do your treatments at the same time, or if you’re feeling confident and safe, practice on one another. 

If you’re lucky enough to live next to a body of water (be it a pond or a lake), there’s likely the opportunity to rent a rowboat. There are many iconic movie scenes involving a couple and a rowboat, and for good reason: they’re incredibly romantic. Sure, there’s a little bit of arm work involved, but you’ll hopefully be too busy enjoying each other’s company to notice. 

In Spring, the sun chases away the chilly mornings, meaning that an alfresco lunch should be possible. Set up a table and chairs in your yard, or bring a picnic blanket to a local park. If you’re at home, you could whip up a delicious dish together and light some candles to set the mood. If you head elsewhere, stock up on cheeses, meats, and a bottle of something sparkling–you’ll be swooning in no time. 

These afternoon date ideas should hopefully provide some inspiration for your next Bumble meet-up. Dating in the afternoon is a pressure-free way to get to know someone–extend the date into the evening or keep it short and simple, it’s up to you! Happy afternoon dating.