Need last minute date ideas?
A date which is on the spur of the moment can be super exciting! Not planning your dates rigorously ahead makes them more spontaneous, more fun and encourages you both to use your imagination.
Yourself or your partner planning something elaborate for your date is thoughtful and makes you feel special, however, it’s just not always practical!
Last minute dates are great for couples who have busy schedules or those who want to switch up their routines a little.
Unplanned dates mean there are less nerves, less effort in preparation and you are totally ‘in the moment’. You’ll have an open mind as well as an open heart!
But there are drawbacks.
If you haven’t got a ticket to that show you wanted to see, reservations at your favorite restaurant or a refrigerator stocked with ingredients to make your signature dish- what are your options?
Below you’ll find a list of suggestions for your last-minute date. We’ve split these into staying in and going out:
Stay At Home Last Minute Dates
Because your date is last minute, perhaps you haven’t planned your appearance as much as you like.
No one wants to be dragged out with no make-up and pajamas on!
Staying at home also ensures total privacy and a more relaxed atmosphere.
There are plenty of ways you can enjoy each other’s company while staying in:
Video Games
Not typically romantic, but playing video games together can be a bonding experience and welcome escapism from everyday stresses.
Set up a mini tournament with plenty of snacks!
This will also win you extra brownie if this is something your partner typically enjoys doing alone. T
he extra effort is sure to be appreciated.
Movie Night
Bring the movie theater to your front room for a fun movie date at home.
All you need is some movie-style snacks such as popcorn, candy and a selection of movies.
Either each pick an all-time favorite each or choose something neither of you have seen before that’s been on your ‘to watch’ list for a while.
Or head to your car for a fun drive in movie date.
Couples Quiz
You can turn a couples quiz into a fun evening, which will also help you find out more about one another, and perhaps bring you closer together.
There are plenty of couples question games you can play. See our picks below for some couples quiz inspiration:
–Who’s Most Likely To Questions For Couples
–Truth or Drink Couples Game
–Funny Couples Questions
–Romantic Questions To Ask
–Flirty Questions To Ask
–Yes or No Questions For Couples
–This or That Questions For Couples
–Road Trip Questions For Couples
Cook Together
Given this is a last-minute date and you won’t have grocery shopped with a romantic meal in mind, you’ll have to get creative!
Have a mini competition to see who can create the best dish with the ingredients available or each serve a different course. Perfect At Home Date Idea!
Last Minute Games
There are plenty of games you can play with each other with zero preparation and equipment.
Try charades, 2 truths 1 lie, Pictionary, ‘never have I ever’ or a fun couples quiz, like how well do you know me? or Would You Rather Couples Edition.
DIY Spa
Enjoy a luxurious spa date experience from the comfort of your own home!
Simply light some candles and play some relaxing music to create that spa atmosphere.
You can then indulge in some face masks or take it in turns to give each other a massage.
Netflix and Chill
Snuggle up and binge-watch your favorite shows for an ultra laidback and relaxing date night.
All you need is some snacks and a cozy place to chill out.
Reading
Not a typical date night activity, but reading together can be a real bonding activity.
Just sitting in comfortable silence can provide a relaxing change.
Discussing what you have been reading afterwards will help you get to know each other on a deeper, more intellectual level.
Board Game Tournament
A night of classic board games can be a fun, retro-style date night which encourages a bit of friendly competition. Make it a 2-player game date night, or an online game date.
You could even see if another spontaneous couple is free to join in last minute double date game night.
Breakfast in Bed
Why not mix up your routine with a morning date?
Spoiling your partner with breakfast in bed can be a romantic gesture.
Make a Bucket List Together
Sitting together and making plans for the future will make sure you are on the same page, while giving you plenty to look forward to.
Going Out Last Minute Dates
You can still head to a venue or outdoors for a date if you haven’t planned your date in advance, you may just have to get a little more creative with your options!
Picnic
A picnic is a super easy date to plan on the spot.
Simply grab a blanket and hit your local deli for some sandwiches.
Sports
If you are lucky enough to live near a sports facility or if you already own suitable equipment, head out last minute for a friendly game together.
It could be tennis, hoops or tossing the frisbee around.
People Watching
Simply sitting together at a cafe or park and watching people go by can be a surprisingly fun and low-effort way to spend an afternoon.
Grab some ice cream for this date!
Go for a Drive
Pick a scenic route and enjoy exploring new territory in this fun car date idea.
Depending on your location you could show each other where you grew up or even a neighborhood you would like to live in one day. The possibilities are endless!
Go to your Local Arcade
Ideal for couples who don’t take themselves too seriously and just want to have fun.
An arcade date can take you back to childhood and allow you to be a little silly with one another.
Hike
Going for a hike is free and requires zero planning, making it ideal for a last-minute date.
All you need is water and perhaps some healthy snacks.
Bar Crawl
For those who can get glammed up quick, going out for a few last-minute cocktails is a spontaneous, flirty date choice.
Sara, a seasoned expert in wedding planning and date ideas, brings a wealth of experience to our couples blog. With a background in the television industry and hands-on involvement in a dozen weddings, including working as a wedding assistant on "My Fair Wedding with David Tutera," Sara has an innate understanding of the magic that makes weddings truly special. Growing up with four sisters has given her unique insights into the dating world, making her a go-to source for practical and heartfelt dating advice. Her knowledge and enthusiasm make her the perfect guide for couples seeking to infuse their relationships with creativity and love.