Second Date Ideas

If you’re reading this article, then congratulations on nailing the first date (arguably the most nerve wracking of all). The pressure is off somewhat, and you can now start to relax and get to know one another, leaving the awkwardness of an initial meeting behind. A second date can be when you start to realize whether or not you want to continue spending time with this person, and if you see a serious future together since you’re able to open up more.

Everyone’s dating experiences are different, though, and it’s important not to hold yourself to any kind of outside expectations. Take things at your own pace, and do your best to relax and be open to new possibilities. And remember, it’s OK if you decide you don’t want to see someone after a second date, as well.  

That being said, we have plenty of fun, romantic, and budget-friendly second date ideas for you to sink your teeth into, so read on.

It should go without saying that we think all our date ideas are fun, but if you’re looking to dial up the fun factor and leave the nerves behind, these could be the second date scenarios for you.

If you and your date are adrenaline junkies, racing cars around a track will get your hearts pumping in more ways than one. See if you have a local indoor or outdoor racing track, book a slot, and strap in. Loser has to buy a round of drinks afterwards. 

Another action-packed adventure, this one’s not for the faint-hearted. Shooting one another with multi-colored paint could take your relationship to the next level, but it can also highlight how competitive both of you are. Deal breaker or deal maker, you decide. 

Everyone loves a theme park, right? Even if you don’t head to the mega roller coasters, there’s something infectiously enjoyable about spending the day in one of these fictional lands. They offer plenty of opportunity for conversation and you can also win your date a stuffed animal while sharing some sweet treats. 

This activity has become super trendy over recent years, and now it’s easy to find indoor rock climbing gyms all over. These centers can provide all the gear you need, and most have classes for total newbies. Just make sure you’re waiting on the crash mats to catch your date if they fall… (We’re joking—obviously they’ll be safely attached with a rope!) 

Now that you’ve gotten past the first date, maybe you’re looking to showcase more of your romantic side. Picking up on something your date mentioned in your first meet-up will probably help to spark the most romantic, personal second date ideas. These additional ideas, however, can certainly help.

Lots of people avoid dinner on a first date—it can go on forever, you have to eat in front of someone you don’t know, and it makes initial conversations difficult. As a second date, though, it’s kind of perfect. If you and your partner are foodies, try to score a reservation at a hip new spot or opt for a classic, white-tablecloth restaurant known for its service. Being wined and dined is nice, after all. 

If you and your date are more on the creative side, painting ceramic plates, mugs, or figurines together during a pottery class can be a really romantic afternoon date. You get to know more about their style and taste, while creating mementos that will last forever. 

Seeing a play is just an inherently romantic experience. It’s probably best to avoid anything too tragic here, as to keep the mood light in your early dating stages. Plenty of towns and cities host outdoor performances or drive-in theaters in the warmer months, which can make for an ultra-romantic second date experience.  

If you love reading, take your date to your favorite bookstore. Extra points if it’s independent or sells used books. Wander the stacks and point out beloved authors and novels. Being surrounded by the works of great writers can really dial up the feelings between you both, and you can discuss any purchases you make at a nearby coffee shop afterwards. 

Dating, especially if you’re playing the field, can become pricey. Here are some second date ideas that won’t break the bank.

This is a completely cost-free way to spend time together, while keeping physically active and potentially exploring a new area or nature trail. Talk about ticking all the boxes! If you and your date are fitness freaks, you could dial up the walk to a hike (just make sure you come prepared with the right gear and plenty of water).

If you feel comfortable enough to invite your date over to your home, then cooking a meal can be a low-cost yet romantic second date idea. Even if you aren’t the best of cooks, your date can get to know more about you and your personality by seeing you in your own environment. 

Again, if you feel comfortable enough to do so, watching a movie at home is a really cost effective date idea. If not, head to your local theater (matinees are often cheaper) and smuggle in your own snacks to save on the sky-high cinema prices. 

Wandering a farmer’s market with someone you’re developing a major crush on is almost a perfect second date idea, if you ask us. Take advantage of the free samples; by the time you’ve made it around all the stalls, you’ll have eaten an entire meal’s worth of food for free.  

Lots of art galleries and museums are free to visit or have off-peak hours where entry prices are lower. This is a great second date idea since it will give you insight into a person’s taste or what makes them tick. Art provides plenty of jumping-off points for a conversation, even if you aren’t an expert. 

It’s important to remember that anything can be a second date—there are no set rules here. The best second date idea will be one that you both feel comfortable doing and that suits both of your interests. We want to make sure you secure a third date, after all! So get out there and try some of these second date ideas now.