A Guide to the Perfect Botanical Gardens Date

Believe it or not, botanical gardens are not just for botanists and bees—they also make for stunning date locations. Imagine strolling through lush gardens with someone special, taking in gorgeous greenery and beautiful blossoms, where the buzz comes from your conversation (and possibly a few insect friends). Whether it’s your first date or you’re looking to explore new date ideas with your long-term partner, botanical gardens offer a mix of beauty and nature, bringing a dash of adventure to date night.

With a riot of colors, tranquil landscapes, and winding paths, your local gardens could promise a day filled with gentle strolling and top-quality chatting with your date. Get yourself ready with this guide as your (not so) secret map to navigating a successful botanical garden rendezvous—from outfit tips to essential picnic picks.  

More than just leafy escapes, botanical gardens are the perfect place for that casually chic look you’ve been dying to show off. But remember: When scouting your wardrobe for your iconic ‘date at botanical gardens outfit’, it’s all about balancing style with the undeniable fact that you might get muddy (or dusty, if your local botanical garden is more desert-focused). Here’s how to ensure you look fresh and fashionable on the day.

Opt for a smart-casual outfit like a crisp pair of jeans or cargo pants teamed with a breezy button-down shirt or blouse. This combo strikes a neat balance: put-together, but down for a good walk. If it’s your thing, a flowy maxi dress is also a great option. It’ll keep you cool and cute while exploring the gardens in hot weather.

This date will definitely have some walking involved, as well as the potential mud we mentioned, so keep footwear comfy and casual. Those new heels might be calling your name ready for their debut in your latest social post, but walking shoes, sneakers or a solid boot are your best bet. Nobody wants a blister as a third wheel on your botanical garden date!

We firmly believe that a botanical garden is the perfect place for a strong accessory. Think wide-brim hats, big sunglasses, or even a parasol if the weather calls for it. Bonus: All of these will keep you protected from the sun, as well as looking the part. 

If the weather isn’t so great, don’t forget to layer up with a stylish blazer or a snug sweater.

When you think of botanical garden activities, you might imagine people silently walking about and awkwardly pointing at plants. Well, think again—your local gardens could be bursting with fun activities that can dial up the romance and make your date memorable. 

Some might offer scavenger hunts to follow, challenging you to find specific plants or flowers on your walkabout, or put on art sessions for drawing or painting the beautiful plants. Can’t see anything like this available? Why not bring your sketchbooks and try it yourself! 

And if you want to really get to know each other better, sign up for a workshop where you can get your hands dirty together. Nothing says romance like creating a succulent terrarium while learning the difference between a cactus and a succulent. Spoiler: it’s all about the spikes! Plus, these activities aren’t just fun; they’re a great way to see how your date handles new experiences. Do they dive into the dirt with enthusiasm, or do they stand back with a camera? Either way, it’s a great insight into their personality.

Don’t forget to capture special moments. Whether it’s a selfie in front of a spectacular flower display or a candid shot by a hidden walkway, these photos will make for great reminders of this special moment (and great additions to your social media snaps). 

When hunger strikes, head to the botanical gardens café where you’ll likely find tasty sandwiches, hot drinks and a range of homemade goodies like cakes, cookies and jams. Or if you’d prefer, find a cozy nook in the picnic area and indulge in your own selection of tasty treats.

Botanical gardens dates don’t have to be a daytime-only thing. When the sun dips, some botanical gardens stay open late and are perfect for nature-loving couples who’d prefer an evening more enchanting than dinner and a movie. Some gardens host evening sessions with twinkling lights and live music, turning a simple garden path into a dance floor for fireflies (and maybe some actual dancing if you’re feeling brave).

Want to keep the magic going after the sun sets? Head to a nice dinner spot nearby with outdoor seating that continues the theme of natural beauty. Choose a restaurant that serves fresh, seasonal fare to keep the day’s theme alive. If you’re near water, a post-dinner stroll by the shore under the stars can be incredibly romantic, perfectly capping off your evening.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, why not bring along a telescope? Find a cozy spot under a tree, and bam! You’ve got yourself a botanical gardens date night turned stargazing date that screams “I’m effortlessly romantic.” Plus, stargazing in the clear night sky surrounded by the silhouette of towering trees can take the romance to the next level. 

So, there you have it—botanical gardens could be dating’s best-kept secret. They’re not just beautiful and full of life, but also brimming with opportunities to laugh, learn, and connect. 

And if you’re still searching for your perfect plus-one for garden gallivanting, Bumble is ready to help you find your match. Download it, get swiping, and you might just find someone who’s as wild about nature as you are. Here’s to love, laughter, and not stepping on any rare plants during your date!