50 Best Third Date Ideas (Fun Romantic Nights)
50 fun ideas for a third date that are cute, creative, unique and exciting. For a romantic and unforgettable night with your special someone.
Now that you’ve made through the first two awkward dates, there’s room to get creative on your third. Yes, you could totally opt for the traditional dinner a movie date. But why not take it up a notch and try something different?
Below you’ll find the best list of fun 3rd date ideas. So that you’re never stuck wondering what you can do with your new sweetie that will be fun and exciting.
50 Best Third Date Ideas
Creative Ideas For A Third Date
If you’ve been wondering where you should go on a third date we’ve got plenty of fun and creative ideas below.
1. A U-Paint Pottery Class or Paint & Sip Nite
The third date can often be a make it or break it, situation. So creating connection is key. And being creative together could just about be one of the most perfect dates.
Studies have shown that doing something creative together can help increase a feeling of well being in a relationship (1). Creative dates also gives you something to focus on. Which allows you to build a natural rapport with your new love interest.
And you don’t have to be a pro at art to enjoy yourself on a date with an artsy flair! Just pick up a brush and go for it. And you never know, you might discover a new passion or uncover a talent you never even knew you had!
Paint and Sip Nite’s make a fun date idea and are perfect for a rainy day or winter date night. They are also gaining popularity and you can easily find them in your local listings. But if you can’t find one near you then U-Paint Pottery shops are a fun date night option.
2. Take A Cooking Class
Whether you’re a whiz in the kitchen or can barely boil egg, you can’t really go wrong with this third date idea. Taking a cooking class together is a great way to get to know each other more in a fun and casual atmosphere.
And can be very telling about how well you vibe and work together as a couple.
3. Explore A Museum Together
Head out to a local art museum and wander the exhibits together. Museums make a great date because they’re rich with a seemingly endless supply of conversation starters.
And how a person interacts and responds to art can actually tell you a lot about them. Like are they deeply contemplative and emotional? Or bored, dismissive and judgemental?
End the date by heading to the gift shop to pick up a memento of your evening together.
4. Go Chocolate Tasting
We’ve all heard of wine tastings, but you can also go chocolate tasting. And if you need any more incentive that indulging in delicious chocolate all night, consider this little nugget.
Studies have shown that eating chocolate can actually stimulate your natural love hormones.
By way of raising oxytocin levels and stimulating theobromine, tryptophan and phenylethylamine (2). Phenylethylamine also known as PEA stimulates the release of B-endorphin which helps the production of dopamine and norepinephrine (3).
If you’re a foodie, you’ll also enjoy learning all about the different elements of chocolate and end the night a bit of a chocolate connoisseur. You can find chocolate tastings available at your local artisan chocolate shop.
5. Check Out A Trivia Night
Is your brain filled with random facts and somewhat useless pop culture knowledge? Then when it comes to mulling over ideas for a 3rd date, why not blow them away at a trivia night?
Playing together as a team, can help to create a solid third date connection. In addition to, giving you insight into your new crushes interests and sense of humour.
Fun & Flirty Third Date Ideas
6. Take A Photography Class
Taking an interesting class as a couple can be a lot of fun. If you or your date have an interest in photography, then why not check out a photography class. You get to learn some cool new tips and then go out afterward and scout locations together for your photos.
7. Go On A Walking Tour Of Your City
Every city has a story, and most likely some cool places you’ve never even knew existed. On this third date idea, you can discover something new and fascinating about your city. All while charming your date.
You might even walk away with a new go to spot that you can start referring to as “our place”.
8. Karaoke Bar
Now’s the time for all those years of singing in the shower to finally pay off. And as far as ideas of where to go on your date that’s fun? It’s hard to beat a karaoke bar. Its kinda like happy hour but better.
Not to mention, great people watching and surprises. And who knows? Your date may even blow you out of the water with their incredible vocals.
Exciting Third Date Ideas To Spice It Up
9. Go Wine Tasting
Wine tastings are a great way to bring an upscale and romantic feel to your third date. For a beautiful setting, tour a local vineyard. But if you don’t have a winery in your city, check your local listings for tasting events in your area.
10. Visit A Comedy Club
A fun way to switch up the typical dinner and drinks on a third date, is to have drinks at a stand-up comedy club or catch an improv show.
Ever hear that laughter is the best medicine? Well it turns out that it’s also an aphrodisiac. Just ask science (4).
11. Turn Up The Heat With Salsa Dancing
Salsa dancing is third date idea that’s also a fun way of breaking the touch barrier and building physical chemistry. If you’re both completely new to Salsa it will allow you to create a bond that is unique to you as a couple.
And if all goes well? Your new dancing hobby could be something you both enjoy together for years to come.
12. Attend A Sporting Event Together
Going to a professional sports game is often considered a highly coveted experience. However, attending an amateur or minor league event together can also be a lot of fun too.
From minor league hockey or basketball in the fall and winter months. To a baseball game in the summer. Or heading out to an event a bit more unique and cheeky, like roller derby match. The possibilities are endless. Not to mention much easier on the wallet than a pro game.
13. Check Out A Live Music Venue
Seeing live music together makes a great third date and is a must for any music aficionado. From a music festivals, to local live cover bands, world music events or a jazz club. The options are pretty much endless.
Whatever your personal music preferences, you get a glimpse into each others tastes and may even discover a new artist or two. And even better? Walk away having started a solid bond as a couple, over something that you both love. Sure to be an unforgettable night.
Cute Third Date Ideas
No one ever said that dating was easy. In fact, it can often be downright challenging. But, when you finally find someone you want to spend your time with, the search is worth it. And, once you’ve managed to snag a third date with that person, you’ll want to make sure it’s a good one. Here are some cute 3rd date ideas to help make your date a success.
14. Go To An Amusement Park (& Don’t Miss The Roller Coaster!)
True or False? Riding a roller coaster produces the same hormones that falling in love does. If you guessed true, then A+, you are right!
Studies have shown that riding roller coasters causes the body to release phenylethyl-amine. A hormone that causes euphoria and mimics the effect of falling in love (5).
Besides, a visit to a theme park isn’t just for kids. Amusement parks have a way of mixing nostalgia and romance that can make your third date kind of magical. Play some games, win a prize or two, brave the rides. Then treat yo’ self to some indulgent over the top snacks.
15. Check Out A Street Fair
Find out what’s going on around your city and attend a local street fair together. This third date idea is perfect for people watching, easy conversation and free (or nearly free) entertainment.
We often think of festivals as just a summer time activity. However, if you look hard enough you can find events going on year round. It’s also a fun way to support your community and explore new areas of your city together.
16. Take An Improv Class
Take an improv class together. This third date idea will take you out of your comfort zone, but in a great way. I’ve already mentioned the benefits of adrenaline and shared experience. And the effect they can have on creating attraction and bonding a couple. And improv definitely fits the bill.
If the thought of improv makes you feel vulnerable or shy, not to worry. Once you try it you realize the experience can be exhilarating and empowering. And, you get to walk away with a great date night story, that you can share for (hopefully) years to come.
17. Go For Brunch With A View
Food and dating go hand in hand. But we often think of classics like dinner and movie. Why not make it brunch with a view? If you’re in a larger city there’s usually a restaurant in the sky option. And sometimes it even revolves. A bit touristy but also kind, romantic and special.
Active Ideas For A Third Date
18. Indoor Rock Climbing
Feeling sporty and adventurous? Trying a new enjoyable activity together has been shown to build chemistry and increase bonding.
And Indoor Rock Climbing on a third date is a great way to test your compatibility, and communication skills as a couple (6). While building a foundation of trust (7). It also gives you useful insight into how they handle stress and being outside of their comfort zone.
Never rock climbed before? No worries most spaces have introductory classes available.
19. Mini-Golf
Mini golf is a such a cute third date idea. We like it because it gives you plenty of opportunity for flirty banter and low stakes friendly competition. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a fun weekday date idea.
20. Indoor Third Date Idea – Go Bowling
Obviously, nothing says romance like putting on a pair of funny shoes!..But seriously though, being silly together doing something old school like bowling, is actually a wonderful way to spend your third date.
Vibe wise, it’s a nice mix of friendly competition, meets flirtatious camaraderie as you cheer each other on.
Bowling is also a great option as an indoor third date idea for the winter months or rainy days. Where you want to be active but don’t want to brave the wet or cold.
21. Go-Karting
If you’ve got a need for speed and playfulness, then this fun date idea is for you! Go-Karting is perfect for daters who are thrill seekers to bond and get the heart and adrenaline pumping (8). You can find indoor and outdoor go-karting tracks in most cities.
22. Go For A Bike Ride
Riding your bikes together can make you feel like a kid again. Pick a route with low traffic and beautiful scenery. Enjoy time together in the fresh air. Then end it with a picnic, coffee or an ice cream. Biking is also one of the best summer or spring date ideas you can try.
23. Toss Around A Frisbee
What do tossing the frisbee around, chatting and enjoying a beautiful park all have in common? They all add up to couples time well spent on your third date with that special someone.
24. Go Sailing or Boating
So what if 99% of dates happen on land? Why not take your third date to a new level and be totally different. Take a sailing lesson together, rent a boat or keep it simple with a charming old school peddle boat.
25. Go Water Skiing or Wakeboarding
A wonderful summer idea for a third date that’s sure to appeal to water lovers that are also thrill seekers.
26. Go Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Being on the water together can be so calming. And the serene environment gives you the perfect opportunity to get to know each other on a deep level without any distractions. Time your date for sunset for a blissful and memorable shared experience.
27. Go Hiking
If you both like keeping fit and being in the great outdoors. Then going for a romantic hike is a great way to spend some time together. Plus, there’s nothing better than getting some fresh air and exploring new frontiers with someone you’re totally crushing on.
28. Play Ping Pong
Ping pong clubs and nights are popping up in cities all over. For a third date date idea spending an evening playing ping pong is pretty much a no brainer. Easy, fun, urban and trendy. Paddle up!
29. Play A Game of Tennis
Want more of a challenge that ping pong? If you’re an avid tennis player finding a romantic partner that can keep up with you is an absolute must. So why not find out early, by getting a match going as soon as possible.
30. Take An Exercise Class Together
A couple that sweats together, stays together. Well according to science anyway…If you’re looking for a fun date idea that will have your blood pumping and the pheromones flying then look no further that taking an interesting and active class together.
Try a couples yoga class or a regular hot yoga. Or check out an outdoor bootcamp or crossfit class if you really want to burn calories and bring the energy.
Unusual And Quirky Ideas For A Third Date
31. Have Your Fortunes Told By A Psychic (Or Tarot Card Reader)
What’s your destiny? Whether you’re an avid believer in the super natural or not, a psychic reading is sure to generate some interesting conversation.
32. Take A Ghost Tour
It doesn’t have to be halloween for you to try this third date idea. Ghost tours can be found in almost every city and can be a fun way to bond.
Not to mention the perfect opportunity for you to get physical and hold hands as the suspense builds.
33. Take A Swing Dance Class (& Dress The Part)
Did you know that doing a novel activity can really bring a couple together? Swing dancing can be a fun way to get close and see how well you move together. For an extra element of fun try dressing up in the era style of the 40’s.
34. Explore Your Inner Child At An Arcade
Head to your local arcade and unleash your inner-child together. If you feel like this 3rd date idea is awkward, remember that silly is fun way to build a unique connection. And in the early stages of dating (like a 3rd date) it’s always a good to inject some lightness into the mix.
Within minutes you’ll find the rest of the world melting away and the flirty fun taking over. Feel like making it a bit more interesting? Pick 5 video games and have a competition. The winner gets to choose the prize bought with the combined tickets.
35. Try A Live drawing Class
Show off your artist talent (or not) on a date at a live drawing class. Traditionally you’ll find classes with models sans clothing. But you can also find interesting live drawing classes with say, a burlesque theme at local pubs. Check your local listings for event times.
Fun Third Date Ideas
When it comes to dating, the third date is often seen as a make-or-break moment. That’s why it’s important to have some fun third date ideas up your sleeve. Try one of these fun options below and let the good times roll.
36. Be A Tourist In Your City
Travelling together can be an adventure, but on a third date, you probably want to stay closer to home. Why not be a tourist in your own city?
Check out all the sites, areas of note and landmarks you’ve been meaning to get to. If you’re in a city with a hop on hop off bus, well that makes for a fun day too.
37. Go To An Escape Room
Escape rooms are popping up all over and are a fun way to bond over a new shared experience on your date. It works like this, you go into a locked room. Then have to work together to solve a mystery and unlock clues to get out. You see how well you work together, and get valuable insight into how well they handle themselves when the pressures on.
38. Dine In The Dark
This idea for your third date, is like pairing a meal with a side of adventure. Unique and a little bit terrifying. But great for bonding, and sharing a unique sensory experience.
Yes, you’ll have no idea what’s on your plate. But it will allow you to build trust and communication skills with your partner for years to come.
39. Get Upscale At Champagne Bar
Glam AF and off the beaten track as far as a typical date goes. Dress to the nines. Then taste test flights of delicious bubbly. For a classic pairing, don’t forget the oysters.
40. Food Truck Crawl
Looking for an alternative to sitting through a fancy 5 course meal? Well get ready to transcend the typical sit down dinner date by moving your dining to the street!
You can find anything from Korean Tacos, to Crepes, to Fancy Grilled Cheese, food trucks have it all! And then some. With so many options to choose from, a food truck is the perfect way to mix and match your meal. A delicious and fun, foodie adventure for you both.
Related – Low-Key First Date Ideas
Fun Third Date Ideas That Are Cheap and Practically Free
If you’re looking for a few ideas of to what to do on a third date without breaking the bank. Then check our list of good ideas below. Keep in mind that these are also great for a fourth date too!
41. Go To A Swap Meet or Antique Fair
This third date idea is perfect for a strolling around on a hot summer day. Wander around and check out an outdoor flea market or antique fair. Giving you plenty of opportunities to experience a very “couple” type of activity.
And with all the people watching and things to check, it will be nearly impossible to run out of things to talk about. And who knows? You might end the day with an amazing treasure or two.
42. Go On A Sunset Beach Picnic
A beautiful setting makes everything more enjoyable. This time tested third date idea is the perfect combination of natural beauty and old school romance. Add a cozy blanket, wine (or your beverage of choice) and light snacks for a solid romantic experience. You can even make it a little more fun by bring a board game or an old school outdoor game like Bacci.
43. Browse A Bookstore Together
This third date idea is a definite must for book lovers. And its also great for gaining insight into your new love interests hobbies and passions. Are they a history buff or do they love a good adventure story? All useful intel into their personality, and who they are as a person.
44. Attend An Art Opening
Attending a local art opening or gallery is a third date idea that feels upscale but is practically free. Dress up, and head out together to check out some cool new art. And maybe even score a free class of wine and nibbles.
45. Play A Game Of Pool
Not totally free, but not crazy expensive either. Especially if you hit up a local dive-bar that happens to ooze character.
46. Go To A Food Festival
Who doesn’t love to eat? Checking out a food festival together is a good way to add a modern twist to a classic third date. Similar to street fairs, you can find food festivals of all kinds year round.
47. Explore Your Local Farmers Market
Farmers markets are one of those dates that you might not think of, but can actually be a really great third date idea. First of all, shopping together on the weekend is kind of romantic. And has a very “we’re a couple” vibe when done right.
It also gives you the opportunity to get to know your dates likes and dislikes from a fresh new perspective. Something that would never happen over your typical dinner and movie date.
48. Volunteer At An Animal Shelter
Volunteer to walk a dog together at your local animal shelter. Fresh air, puppies and you two bonding over a shared love of helping others.
49. Go To A Dessert Bar
Why not skip dinner and get right to the good stuff? Indulge yourselves together at an over-the-top desert bar you’ve been wanting to try. Our suggestion: order a few of each other’s favorites and share them together.
50. Discover a New Neighbourhood Together
There’s something exciting about venturing into new territory together as a couple. For this date, all you have to do is point and choose an area of your city that you have yet to discover. Then head out. Once you get there grab an ice cream (also makes a nice weekday first date idea), or coffee and check out the local sites.
Third Date Tips
The third date is especially important, because it’s often one of those dates that can be a tipping point. You either walk away genuinely interested in this person and wanting more. Or disappointed at how the night turned out.
If you want to walk away feeling like your night was a success, then you must hit certain marks on the date. With one of them being, the emotional connections that you make with your new love interest. This starts with knowing how to plan your third date and your choice of activity.
Ideally, you want to choose a third date idea that will help you connect in way that goes beyond the typical “get to know you”, surface phase of dating. The activity should be engaging and keep the conversation flowing. In addition, to being a positive experience on every level, for you both.
What Should Happen On The Third Date?
If you’re looking for a relationship, the third date is about you going beyond the surface. Diving in and really taking time to get know this person to see if the compatibility is there.
It’s about cultivating a deep connection. The lowering of your walls, sharing yourself, your relationship goals and getting to know theirs too.
All while having a enjoyable and memorable experience together.
What To Talk About On A Third Date
What you talk about on third date should give you clear insight into more of who this person is what their values are, and how they life their life As well as, what their relationship and long-term goals are. The best way to do this is by asking questions that go beyond the surface and delve into the real person underneath.
In my experience as a dating coach for over 15 years. I recommend that by the end of the third date you should have a sense of the following about your potential new partner:
- What their long-term relationship goals are.
- What their short term and long-term lifestyle goals are.
- If your relationship goals, values and lifestyle are compatible with yours.
- Their general outlook on life, interests and current personal relationships.
- If they are curious about you, attentive, and trustworthy.
- That you genuinely enjoy their company and have a sense of your compatibility with each other.
If you don’t know have a sense of these key things. Then make sure to ask the big questions (see list below). To help you determine if they’re a match for you (or not).
A word of warning though. Don’t try to get to analytical. Remember you’re still in the getting to know you stage. So it will be impossible to know everything after a only a few dates.
And of course don’t forget to flirt and have fun! For a list of juicy questions to ask on your date check out this list here >> 100+ Flirty & Fun Questions To Ask On A Date
What Questions To Ask On A Third Date
If you’re wondering what to talk about or what questions to ask on your third date, then keep this list of interesting third date questions handy.
I’ve also got an amazing list of must ask conversation starters and dating tips here. These questions were created so its easy for you dig beneath the surface and see what’s really there.
They are listed in the article as first date questions, but can be very helpful for a second, third or fourth date as well. Don’t skip this step!
How To Choose A Third Date Idea
When considering ideas for a third date keep choose a memorable activity that will reflect your genuine interest in getting to know them better. While allowing you to showcase your personality, connect and have fun with them.
**What To Read Next In Dating & Date Night Ideas**
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- 9 Reasons You Didn’t Get a Second Date
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- 150+ Flirty Would You Rather Questions (Witty, Fun, Funny, For Him or Her)
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