27 Second Date Ideas to Keep the Flirty Magic Going

Is there anything better than a really, really good first date? In spite of fears of stilted chitchat or—gulp—a catfish (or kittenfish) situation, you two clicked, the hours flew by and you already have a second date on the calendar. Now it's time to plan: These second date ideas will take the guesswork out of coming up with an activity for your IRL rom-com.

When dreaming up good second date ideas, consider what you've learned about your potential partner on the first date and try to apply that to the second. Did they mention loving adrenaline? Consider heading to an amusement park if the weather permits (and if you're also down for cotton candy and rides!). Spent the evening trading favorite book titles? Head to a bookshop and cafe together for round two.

Below, find our favorite second date ideas and see where the night takes you!

In this article:

• Best Second Date Ideas
• Romantic Second Date Ideas
• Cute Second Date Ideas
• Second Date Ideas for Winter & Fall
• Second Date Ideas for Summer & Spring

Best Second Date Ideas

Let's just cut to the chase, shall we? These are, hands-down, the best second date ideas, practically guaranteed to earn you to a third.

Bookstore Surprise

If you're both avid readers, start off the date by getting to know one another better. Then, head to a bookstore and wander the aisles to find a book you think the other would like to read. (You can discuss whatever books you choose on the third date!)

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Take a Crafting Class

From pottery classes to line drawing, crafting and art classes are great for getting to know one another while also keeping your hands busy. If you can't find one in your area, you can purchase inexpensive supplies and get crafty together right in your own living room.

Head to the Aquarium or Zoo

There are plenty of things to see and do at these locales—so if the conversation ever begins to lag, you can discuss the various animals and exhibits. And if your hands happen to brush at the touch tank, well, that's just a bonus!

Trivia Night Challenge

Head to a local bar that's hosting a trivia night and see how you two stack up against the other groups and couples.

Dessert Crawl

In lieu of a traditional dinner, find a few dessert spots that you want to try and hop from spot to spot, sharing the sweet treats.

Have a Breakfast Date

As of late, morning dates have been popular with Gen-Zers. Lean into this trend by meeting for a weekend breakfast with all the trimmings: Waffles, mimosas, oh my!

Romantic Second Date Ideas

If you were already feeling the heat on date numero uno, lean into those fuzzy feelings with these romantic second date ideas.

Enjoy a Wine Tasting

While sober dating is always a great option, if you both like to imbibe, try a selection of fine wines and then split a bottle of your favorite blend.

Go to a Planetarium

Channel Ross and Rachel and enjoy some indoor star-gazing.

See a Drive-In Movie

They might be rare nowadays, but drive-in movies still very much exist and are ideal for super romantic second dates.

Find a Jazz Club

Think: romantic tunes, candlelight, cozy booths and smoky sips.

Living Room Picnic

If you're comfortable with being in each other's homes, set up a living room picnic, light plenty of candles and cuddle up on a blanket-strewn floor.

Cute Second Date Ideas

Set the butterflies all aflutter with these cute second date ideas that are sure to delight.

Go to a Dog Park

Even if neither of you have a dog, you can trade people-watching for dog-watching (a much cuter option, IMO) while getting to know each other.

Hit Up a Thrift Store

Challenge one another to find the craziest outfits! (Bonus points if you wear them out to dinner afterward.)

Check Out a Local Drag Show

Cheer on the outrageous performances and share plenty of laughs—and be sure to tip the performers!

Tie-Dye

Go ahead and get messy! Work on apparel pieces to gift to one another, and you'll both end up with a one-of-a-kind second-date souvenir.

Go Bowling

Throw it back with this nostalgic date that adds an element of competition.

Visit a Psychic

You don't have to take it seriously, but getting your palms read or sharing a tarot card session can be lots of lighthearted fun.

Second Date Ideas for Winter & Fall

Sure, spring and summer offer plenty of outdoor activities, but second date ideas for winter and fall can be just as fun—and all the more romantic, thanks to elements like extra-cozy restaurants and crackling fireplaces.

Try Axe-Throwing

See if you can find a local axe-throwing gallery in your area. Loser buys the next round!

Visit an Art Gallery or Museum

Wandering around the halls offers opportunities for conversation and, if you ever get stuck, you can always discuss the surrounding art. (Bonus tip: Some museums even offer after-hours date nights with champagne and beverages!)

Go on a Ghost Tour

Celebrate spooky season by going on a local ghost tour. You'll likely learn a bit of history, and can even follow the activity up with a scary movie at your place.

Take a Cooking Class

Whether you make your own pasta or learn how to whip up a seasonal stew, you'll see how you work together while getting to enjoy some noshes, too.

Go Ice-Skating

Even if you aren't the best skater, holding hands on the ice and cuddling up with hot chocolate afterwards sounds too perfect for words.

Second Date Ideas for Summer & Spring

From carnivals to beach picnics, the warmer seasons are great for getting outside with your partner. Try these second date ideas for summer and spring, and give that summer romance some legs.

Explore a Local Park or Botanical Garden

Strolling hand-in-hand through various paths and amongst the trees and greenery? Sign us up.

Pack a Picnic

Get yourselves out of the stuffy restaurants and bars with a thoughtfully packed alfresco meal.

Go Kayaking or Canoeing

If you live near a lake or other body of water, going kayaking or canoeing is an active date that'll have you working together, exercising and having fun.

Hit Up a Local Food Festival

Go from food truck to food truck, trying the local grub. At the end of the date, vote for your favorite spot.

Head to an Amusement Park

Split a funnel cake, get cozy on the Ferris wheel and hold hands on the more thrilling rides.