These under 21 date ideas keep date night fun and fresh without the alcohol. There’s so many advantages to being under 21. Youth. Energy. New experiences.
But there’s one major downfall – common, we all know what we’re talking about here.
You can’t go to the bar if you’re under 21. And a lot of people over the age of 21 choose to go to the bar for dates.
But here’s the good news – there’s way better dates out there. Don’t worry about the bar. Here are some awesome dates you can go on under the age of 21:
Dinner Date
Just because you’re not 21 yet doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a nice dinner together.
Yes, we know this is a super conventional date, but it’s conventional for a reason.
Dinner gives you the opportunity to get to one another on a deeper level.
There’s lots of dates out there that are fun and exciting, but don’t give you time to chat.
Dinner does exactly that, allowing you and your date to find out if you have any shared interests or histories. Plus, no matter your age, everyone has to eat.
Ice Cream Date
Ice cream is always a good idea for a date! It doesn’t matter if you’re 5, 15, 21, or 99 – everyone loves ice cream! Plus it’s a great way to spend some casual, quality time together with your date.
It’s also a great way to get to know a little more about them. We don’t know if we believe it or not, but they say you can learn a lot about someone from their favorite type of ice cream, and an ice cream date is the best way to do this.
Vanilla? You love living in the moment and find beauty in peace and tranquillity.
Chocolate? You hold strong opinions but are still open to new ideas and experiences.
Or maybe you’re a mint lover who enjoys eating ice cream that tastes like toothpaste (just kidding! Kinda.).
If this is you, you’re balanced, cool, and the life of the party!
We don’t know if these are true or not, but it’d be fun to find out! Learn each other’s favorite ice creams and then see if your characterizations are accurate!
Ice Skating
Whether you’re a pro ice skater or have never skated before in your life, ice skating can always make for a fun and romantic date.
If you’re lucky enough to have some snow and ice in your area, an outdoor skating rink is ideal for romance.
But if not, you can book some time at your local arena for some indoor ice skating too.
And like we said, ice skating is fun no matter what your degree of talent. Pro ice skaters can enjoy showing off, and those who have never skated before are sure to get a good laugh out of it!
Plus, if you know how to skate and your date doesn’t, it’s a great opportunity to hold them close and give them some lessons!
Volunteer at an Animal Shelter
There are so many reasons that volunteering makes a great date idea for those of any age!
Firstly, volunteering at a shelter is a great way to ease first date jitters. More commonplace dates like dinner and a movie can come along with a lot of anxiety.
What will you talk about? Will it be awkward? When you volunteer together, you instantly have something to connect and chat with your date about.
Plus, you’ll be actively involved with the animals, so there’s no awkward sit down silence.
On top of that, you’ll be doing a good deed while enjoying your time. Even if you don’t adopt an animal, you can post pictures on your social media accounts of animals that are available for adoption.
Maybe you’ll find one it’s forever home? How amazing is that for a first date story!
Study Date
Okay, so we know this might not sound like the most exciting date idea ever. But if you’re under 21 and still in school…you know what it’s like!
The studying literally never ends and sometimes you feel like you don’t have time for anything else.
If you relate, there’s good news. You can combat two birds with one stone on a study date at your local coffee shop.
If you’re in the same class and studying for the same exam, great! If not, that’s okay too.
Bring your textbooks and quiz each other. Perhaps whoever gets the most questions right gets a kiss?
Comedy Show
If you’re needing a break from all of the hours of schoolwork, a comedy show can be a great date for couples of all ages.
Of course, you’ll have to double check that you’re able to get in, as there are some shows that have bars and require you to be 21.
With that being said, if you can find a show that doesn’t have an age limit, comedy can be a great way to lighten the anxiety of dating.
Plus, you can enjoy each other’s company without even saying word.
And, like they always say, laughter is the best medicine. So if you can laugh together on a date, there’s a good chance you’ll get a second one.
The Arcade
Looking to add a little nostalgia to your date? Take them to the arcade!
Add a little competition into your arcade date by competing against one another, or work together to double your tokens and win your date a prize.
Plus, the arcade can give you insight into how the two of you work together as a team. If you work well together, it might be time for a second date!
Have a Photoshoot
We know that the younger generation is all about social media – and when you go on a date, you can have your own personal photographer for the day!
You can host your own photo shoot right in your home or backyard, or you can take a driving tour to find all of the best photo spots in your town. Try these couples photoshoot ideas for any ideas if you need help.
Either way, you’ll have great photos to share and memories that will last a lifetime!
Just because you’re under 21 doesn’t mean there aren’t tons of amazing date options out there. Whether you’re sitting in a coffee shop studying for an exam or out at the local carnival, it will be a blast if you’re with the right person!
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.