25 Cute and Fun Summer Date Ideas to Plan With Your Partner

The summer months instantly make you feel more lively. The sun lingers in the sky a little bit longer, the warmth allows you to shed a few layers and the fresh air is crisp and inviting. Opportunity is ripe for romance—as long as you plan some cute summer date ideas, of course!

From low-key, inexpensive outdoor couples activities—like exploring nearby parks or rollerblading down the boardwalk—to fun indoor experiences that give you a chance to cool off, there are tons of options to consider. Take a peek at our curated list of fun summer date ideas to add a splash of romance and excitement to your relationship.

Dazzle Yourselves at a Butterfly Garden

We love a summer date idea that puts a sparkle in your eye, and butterflies have a way of enamoring everyone. Marvel at the beauty of these remarkable, colorful creatures as they flutter around you and lap up the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Gear Up for a Hiking Adventure

Lace up your hiking boots and explore a nearby trail together. Best of all, there are hikes for all fitness preferences. Opt for a short and flat hike if you prefer a low-key summer date idea. If you're feeling ambitious or are experienced hikers, opt for a hike that's more challenging. Either way you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, take in the fresh air and bond over your shared appreciation for Mother Nature.

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Volunteer Together

Volunteering somewhere together is a free summer date idea that's also an excellent opportunity for you both to give back to your community. Take time considering options and then sign up to help out. Volunteer opportunities are plentiful and run the gamut. Whether it's helping out at a local soup kitchen, animal shelter or community garden, you'll both feel good knowing you're making a difference.

Plan a Picnic at the Park

For a super cheap summer date idea that promises happy memories, plan a classic picnic at the park. Pack a basket with your favorite snacks or an entire meal—drinks and dessert included—then find a scenic spot to spread out a blanket. Consider bringing a card game or board game for some extra fun.

Spend a Day at the Beach

What's more iconic in the summer than sporting your swimsuit, throwing a towel on the sand and splashing around in cool water? Make a day of it by bringing some music or your favorite books, get creative by building sandcastles and take a romantic stroll along the shoreline.

Go Fruit Picking

For a super sweet summer date idea, grab a basket and hit a local farm or orchard to go fruit picking. Lots of berry varieties are in season during the warmer months, including blackberries, strawberries and blueberries. Depending on where you live, you can also go picking for apricots, avocados or cherries. Consider making something yummy with your fruit haul.

Visit a You-Pick-Your-Own Flowers Farm

If fruit picking isn't your jam, or if you've already crossed that summer date idea off your list, then schedule a visit to a local flower farm where you can pick your own florals. Take time creating a beautiful bouquet together and make sure to take lots of pictures along the way. Flowers that are in-season during the summer include sunflowers, dahlias, zinnias, roses and hydrangea, among others.

Feel Like Kids Again at a Theme Park

Hearken back to those carefree days as kids and spend the day at a theme park riding roller coasters (if you dare!), indulging in all the yummy food and enjoying each other's company. If you don't have a theme park nearby, search for the nearest one and make a weekend or day trip out of it.

Visit a Festival or Summer Fair

Similarly, look up local outdoor festivals and summer fairs in your area and make sure you've got your entry tickets. Poke around the livestock arena, compete against each other in classic carnival games, spring for the elephant ears and cotton candy, and don't forget to take a romantic whirl around the Ferris wheel. Talk about an iconic and cute summer date idea!

Sign Up for Sunrise or Sunset Yoga

Find a local yoga studio that offers outdoor classes—or simply roll out your mats in your backyard or a nearby park—and jump right into downward dog! This is a great way to relax and unwind with each other, and is particularly beautiful (and a bit more cool) at sunrise or sunset.

Get Some Permanent Jewelry

Does anything say "I love you forever and ever" more than a piece of gifted permanent jewelry? Shops across the country offer this service, and it's a cute way to express your love while taking reprieve from the summer heat. Grab some ice cream after for good measure!

Look Up at the Stars

One of the best summer date ideas is also free: stargazing. Head to a quiet spot away from the city lights and spend the evening stargazing. Make sure to pack a cozy blanket you can lay on—and perhaps some tasty snacks and beverages—then lie back and enjoy the beauty of the night sky together.

Compete at Mini Golf

Challenge each other to an entertaining game of mini-golf. This summer date idea is a fun and lighthearted way to enjoy some friendly competition, and it also presents itself with some great photo opps. Whoever comes in second can treat you both to some cold ice cream.

Wake Up Early and Hit the Farmers' Market

Set your alarms, pour yourself some iced coffee with your favorite fixings, and mosey over to the nearby farmers' market. While you're there, grab some essentials for the week including fresh produce, local honey and high-quality meats. And if there are flowers? Definitely grab a bouquet. You won't regret it!

Stop and Smell the Lavender

Fruit picking, flower picking and farmers' markets are iconic summer date ideas, but a unique option you might not have thought of is strolling through a lavender garden. This in-season herb is known for its relaxing scent and beautiful purple foliage. Find a local lavender farm and take a leisurely stroll to enjoy the soothing aroma.

Visit a Local Museum

Pretend you're a tourist in your own town—or maybe the next town over—and spend the day exploring a museum or art gallery together. Whether you're into history, art or science, there's always something new to discover and discuss. Plus, this is a great date idea in the summer when temperatures are blazing and you need to cool off.

See a Show

Do some research on local shows and get yourself a pair of tickets. Maybe it's a musical or drama at a local theater, your favorite comedian at a comedy club or a musician or performer you've both been wanting to see live. Grab dinner before or after to make it an extra fun summer date night idea.

Go Camping for the Weekend

Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life with a romantic camping weekend together. Pitch your tent and build a campfire, then immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature all weekend long. While you're there, you can play games together, go hiking or swimming, or enjoy some evening star peeping. Whether you're roasting hot dogs, telling ghost stories or simply enjoying each other's company, this date idea for the summer is the perfect way to reconnect and unwind.

Cozy Up at a Drive-In Theater

Dabble in the nostalgia of a bygone era with a trip to a local drive-in theater. Pack your car with cozy blankets and pillows, grab some salty popcorn and sweet snacks, and settle in for a double feature under the stars. We recommend arriving early to get the best spot for your car.

Visit a Petting Zoo

Spend an afternoon at a petting zoo and get up close and personal with a variety of adorable animals. Feed the goats, pet the rabbits and maybe even hold a baby chick or two. Don't forget to snap some photos of your favorite furry friends and enjoy the laughter and joy that comes from spending time with these lovable creatures.

Try Stand Up Paddleboarding

Also known as SUP, stand up paddleboarding is a relaxing sport that lets you enjoy some time on the water without getting too wet. Whether you're exploring a calm lake or paddling along the coastline, it's a fun way to enjoy some great weather and each other's company. If SUP isn't your speed, consider canoeing, kayaking or paddle boating.

Stop By a Local Brewery or Winery

Research some local breweries or wineries and then head that way for a fun weekend date. Schedule a tour so you can learn more about the brewing or winemaking process, and make sure to sign up for a tasting so you can sample all the flavors. Whether you're sipping on a crisp IPA or a smooth merlot, you're sure to make some memories and learn something new together.

Have an Outdoor Barbecue

Dinner inside is a staple for winter, but barbecuing your meal is a classic date idea for summer. Head to the store to buy some excellent cuts of meat or your favorite brand of hot dogs and hamburgers, and make sure to whip up some tasty side dishes like potato salad and grilled corn. Light a candle outside and enjoy your home cooked meal al fresco.

Take a Scenic Bike Ride

Take a leisurely bike ride together along a scenic path or through your neighborhood. If you've got time, stop for a picnic, explore a new area together or peep some birds or foliage. If you don't own bikes, you can often rent them from a local company or through an app.

Splash Around at a Waterpark

A waterpark is the perfect summer date idea for days where it's just too dang hot but you still want to get outside. Put on your swimsuit and pack a bag with towels, lots of water and sunscreen. Race down water slides, float along lazy rivers and splash around in the wave pool together.