14 Cozy Date Night Ideas for When You Don't Want to Go Out
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Maybe it's raining or maybe you've just had a long day at work, but it's you and your partner's standing date night and you don't want to bail. Instead of shelling out for an expensive restaurant or braving the crowds to see the latest blockbuster, keep it low-key with one of these cozy at-home date night ideas instead. Not only will you be more comfortable, but you'll also be able to have more private quality time. Plus, by going on a date in your own home, there's no need to hire a pet sitter or babysitter (although we do recommend a babysitter for peak relaxation).
It's easy to get distracted when you're going on a date at home because there's always something to be cleaned or laundry to be folded, but the idea is to forego all your household chores in favor of being fully present with the person you love. There are a few classic at-home date ideas—cook your favorite meal together, watch a cheesy romantic comedy—but for this date night, why not think outside the box and try something new?
Whether you're a couple that prefers activities and experiences or one that doesn't care what you're doing as long as you're together, we have a few ideas to spark that romantic flame. Read on for 15 of the best at-home date ideas from cooking kits to games to movies you'll both enjoy.
Re-create Your Favorite Dinner Date
If there's a meal that you two can't stop thinking about, why not learn to make it yourself? Not only will it allow you to reminisce about a stellar date night, but now you can have your favorite date night every week.
Make a Fancy Cocktail
Take turns making a drink you think your partner will like. Rate them out of 10 each time, and don't be afraid to get experimental!
Write Your Bucket List
Planning for the future is important in any relationship, but rather than focus on the dreary topics like finances, plan the fun stuff. Writing your bucket lists together will not only leave you inspired but also help you know which items you want to cross off together.
Learn to Cook a New Dish
Stuck in a rut? Rather than taking an expensive cooking class, bring the class home. Pick out a dish you'd like to try together and tag team the cooking process.
Do a Couple's Yoga Class
Not only will moving your body make you you feel refreshed and accomplished, but couple's yoga often includes specific poses that promote trust, bonding, and intimacy.
Build a Fort
Let your inner child run wild and create the coziest living room fort you can imagine. Bonus points if you move the couch cushions into the fort for the ultimate sleepover and/or watch TV from inside.
Have a Dance Party
There's nothing better than dancing it out, but clubs are wildly overstimulating and can have expensive covers. Instead, build your dream playlist and break out your best moves in the comfort of your own home.
Write Each Other Love Letters
Depending on your love languages, some people are better with written words rather than spoken ones. Take some time apart and write out exactly what you love about your partner, then exchange the letters to kick off a sentimental night.
Paint and Sip
Pour a glass of your favorite beverage and pick a still life from your own home to paint. At the end you'll have two adorable tributes to your favorite corner.
Have a Spa Night
Sometimes all you need is to relax. Pop on a couple of face masks, lie back on the couch, and play some soothing music. You'll never have a date night as refreshing and relaxing as this one.
Plan Your Next Getaway
If you're the kind of couple who's always on the go, designate one of your date nights to plan your next adventure. Use this time to research, make must-do lists, and even book flights.
Get to Know Each Other
Early on in the relationship? Have an at-home date night where you take turns asking each other questions. If you prefer a bit more structure, we recommend relationship therapist Esther Perel's card "game" Where Should We Begin: A Game of Stories or the iconic New York Times list 36 Questions to Fall in Love.
Try a New Skill
Whether it's knitting, pottery, puzzles, or the crossword, trying something new is better with a loved one. Grab a craft kit or supplies from the store on your way home, and try something new together.
Watch a Double Feature
Instead of bickering about what movie to watch, why not pick each of your favorites and have a double feature? No matter the genres, you'll both be happy to have your favorite movie on the docket.
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