Looking for some fun friend date ideas? A friend date is a great way to spend quality time with your friends and make lasting memories. Whether you want to stay in or head outdoors, there are plenty of activities to choose from that are sure to make the time spent together enjoyable.
In this blog post, we take a look at some unique and creative friend date ideas. From classic movie nights to cooking classes, there’s something for everyone.
29 friend unique & fun date ideas
So let’s get stuck in. Here are 29 friend date ideas that make for the perfect bonding experience.
1. Go for a hike.
Getting some fresh air and exercise is always a good idea, and it’s even better when you have someone to chat with while you’re doing it. There are plenty of beautiful hiking trails all around the country, so find one near you and explore it with your friend.
2. Create an at-home movie theatre.
Grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and create your very own at-home movie theatre. Then buckle up for a movie marathon. You can get together in advance and plan which movies you want to watch, so you’ve got even more to look forward to.
3. Plan a karaoke night.
Nothing brings people together like belting out some classic tunes. Host a karaoke night at your house, or head to your local karaoke bar for some drinks and singing. It is bound to make you feel good, and you’ll have a laugh together. And no stress if you can’t hit the high notes; it’s the thought that counts.
4. Volunteer together.
Giving back is always rewarding, and it’s even more special when you do it with someone you care about. Find a local organization that needs volunteers for an event or project, and sign up together. You’ll be helping others while also spending quality time with your friend. Everybody wins!
5. Go to a museum.
Whether it’s an art museum, a history museum, or even a science museum, there’s bound to be something that you and your friend will find interesting. You can spend a few hours exploring and then grab lunch or coffee afterward to discuss what you saw.
6. Make a scrapbook.
If you and your friend have a long history of friendship, why not commemorate it by making a scrapbook? You can print photos, write down memories, or find other creative ways to document your relationship. It’s a great way to appreciate and celebrate your friendship. Out of all our friend date ideas, this can create one of the best bonding experiences.
7. Go camping.
Camping is a great way to get away from it all and spend some time in nature. If you don’t want to rough it, there are plenty of campgrounds that offer amenities like showers and electricity. And of course, s’mores are always better when shared with a friend.
8. Visit a local farm.
If you’re lucky enough to live near a farm, why not pay it a visit? You can tour the grounds, meet the animals, and learn all about where your local food comes from. Many farms also have cafes or markets on-site, so you can grab a bite to eat afterward.
9. See a live show.
Whether it’s a concert, a play, or a stand-up comedy, seeing a live show is a fun experience. Check out what’s playing in your area and see if there’s something that you and your friend would both like. You can get dinner before or after the show to make it an even more complete evening out.
10. Have a picnic.
Picnics are romanticized for a reason: they’re fun! Pack up some sandwiches, fruit, and drinks, then head to your local park for an afternoon in the sun. Don’t forget a blanket or two to sit on. And check the weather forecast before you plan it. Soggy sandwiches are not so appetizing.
11. Go bowling.
Bowling is a classic activity for friends. It’s relatively inexpensive and can be as competitive or relaxed as you want it to be. Plus, there’s usually food and drink available at bowling alleys if you get hungry or thirsty midway through your game. If you’re looking for friend date ideas that everyone will love, bowling is a safe bet.
12. Take a cooking class.
If you and your friend love to cook, why not take it up a notch by attending a cooking class? You can learn about different cuisines and techniques, try out new recipes, and have fun doing it. Plus, you get to enjoy the results of your efforts of the finished results.
13. Visit an amusement park.
Amusement parks are full of excitement and adventure, making them the perfect destination for friend dates. Whether you want to challenge each other on roller coasters or just wander around looking at the sights, there’s something for everyone at amusement parks. This is a fun and exciting friend date idea.
14. Go wine tasting.
If you and your friend appreciate good wine, then a winery tour is a great way to spend the day. You can sample wines at different vineyards and enjoy some snacks while you’re there. Just remember to drink responsibly.
15. Go stargazing.
There’s nothing quite like looking up at the stars on a clear night. Or, even better, observing the stars with a friend. Pack a blanket and some snacks, then find a dark spot away from city lights. It’s a magical experience that will be sure to bring a smile to both of your faces.
16. Attend an outdoor movie night.
Outdoor movies are becoming increasingly popular all around the country. Check out what’s playing in your area and see if you can catch a movie under the stars. Bring blankets and snacks, and make an evening of it with your friend.
17. Go for a bike ride.
Biking is a great way to get exercise and explore your local area. If you each have a bike, then head out on a ride together. You can chat while pedaling and make stops whenever something catches your eye. And it’s great exercise. If you’re looking for sporty friend date ideas, biking is a top choice.
18. Play mini golf.
Playing mini golf is an old-school favorite that’s sure to bring back some nostalgia. Whether you show off your skills or just laugh at each other’s missteps, mini golf can be a fun experience filled with laughter and joy.
19. Have a spa day.
Who says spa days are only for couples? You can relax and enjoy some pampering with a friend, too. Book a massage, facial, manicure/pedicure for the both of you and spend the day unwinding. It’s the perfect way to destress, and it allows time for you to chat as well.
20. Visit an art gallery.
Art galleries offer a great way for you and your friend to explore a different side of yourselves. You can spend time discussing the pieces and expressing your thoughts — you can get to know each other in new ways. Plus, it’s a great way to support local artists.
21. Have a game night.
If you don’t have the time or money for an outing, then why not host a game night? A healthy dose of friendly competition never hurt anyone. Break out the board games, then challenge each other to see who comes out on top.
22. Go for a coffee.
Sometimes, the simplest activities can make for some of the best dates. Grabbing coffee is a great way to catch up without having to commit too much time or money. It’s an easy and casual way to reconnect with your friend while catching up on life.
23. Try an escape room.
Escape rooms are the perfect way to test your problem-solving skills and bond with a friend. It involves teamwork, which makes it a great bonding experience. Whether you succeed or fail, it’ll be an experience to remember.
24. Play a game of tennis.
Playing tennis is a great way to stay active while having fun. You can challenge each other, practice techniques, and enjoy the outdoors in a friendly match. You can grab a bite to eat afterward and catch up on each other’s lives.
25. Have lunch at a food market.
Food markets offer a variety of options for everyone’s taste buds. You can wander around and explore the different food stalls, sample some dishes, and take in the atmosphere of a bustling market. It’s great for friends who love to eat and explore.
26. Read together.
If you both love to read, then share a good book and read it together. You can discuss the plot points, characters, and themes without having to leave your living room. And when you’re done, you can continue the discussion over a cup of tea or coffee.
27. Explore a new place.
Explore a place that neither of you has been to before and discover something new. Whether it’s a different city, state, or country, exploring a new area can be an exhilarating experience. Plus, it gives you something else to talk about when you get back home.
28. Go to a jazz club.
Jazz clubs and lounges offer a great atmosphere for friends to socialize and connect. Listen to some music, sip on cocktails, and catch up on each other’s lives. It’s a great way to relax, listen to soothing tunes, and just enjoy the night.
29. Do a dance lesson.
Taking a dance lesson together can be a fun and creative experience that will get you both moving. Whether it’s salsa, hip-hop, or ballroom dancing — there’s a style for everyone. Whether you’re a natural or a beginner, it can make for some funny memories.
So these are our 29 friend date ideas that you can choose from. Depending on your personalities and preferences, you can pick the one that best fits you and your friend.
Friend date ideas FAQs
Let’s now take a look at some friend date ideas FAQs.
Why are friend date ideas so important?
Friend date ideas are so important because they enable you to spend quality time with friends and make lasting memories. Spending quality time with your friends is important because it creates a strong bond and connection between individuals. By sharing stories, having meaningful conversations, and engaging in activities together, you are able to deepen relationships while also creating new memories.
Additionally, spending quality time with friends can provide an opportunity for growth and understanding as it allows both parties to gain insight into the other’s values, interests, beliefs, and preferences.
Quality time also offers a chance for relaxation and stress relief after a long day or week. Whether it’s heading out for a night of drinks with friends or just grabbing coffee together, quality time spent with your loved ones provides both immediate and long-term benefits that can last far beyond the time spent together.
How do you plan a platonic date?
When planning a platonic date, start by deciding on where you want to go and what kind of activity you’d like to do. Consider things that both of you like, as well as any special interests or hobbies that one or both of you might have. Take into account your personalities too. Are they the kind of person who likes loud, bustling activities or more low-key, relaxing outings? Are they sporty, or do they prefer less active activities? This can help you choose an activity that will be enjoyable for both of you.
It’s also important to decide on a budget. This will help you narrow down your choices and make sure you don’t overextend yourself. Think about other practical considerations. For example, is there vegetarian food available? What amount of cash will you need for snacks/drinks? What time does it get dark?
Once you’ve decided on the activity, find out when a good time would be for both of you to meet up. Schedule the friend date so that neither of you feels rushed or like you have other obligations after the date.
Then, make sure to plan ahead and make arrangements. Book tickets if necessary, buy food supplies if necessary, and figure out your travel arrangements.
Finally, don’t forget to have fun. A platonic date can be the perfect opportunity to get to know someone on a deeper level while still having a great time. Enjoy yourself!
Why are friend date ideas so important?
Friend date ideas are so important because they enable us to spend quality time with our friends and create positive memories together. They help us to foster meaningful connections and provide a sense of belonging.
Friendships can give us a sense of purpose, happiness, and fulfillment that we may not find in our family or career. In addition, good friends offer support, care, and understanding. They can help boost our mental health by providing an outlet for self-expression and can help us gain perspective on difficult situations.
Friends also benefit us physically. Having strong friendships can reduce stress levels and increase longevity. Friendships also encourage us to take risks and try new things, helping us to grow as individuals.
Ultimately, friendships are essential for our overall well-being – they help us live longer and better lives.
Final thoughts on 29 friend date ideas
Friend dates are an important way to spend quality time with the people we care about. Whether it’s an exciting day out exploring or a quiet afternoon grabbing a coffee, building those bonds with your friends can be mutually beneficial.
These 29 friend date ideas are just a few suggestions for how to make the most of your time together. Not all of them will be suitable for every friendship, but you can take these ideas as inspiration and tailor them to your own unique personalities, interests, and goals.
