Selecting the perfect first date ideas in Phoenix can be tough, especially if you’re nervous about impressing your new love interest. You want to choose something fun and memorable that’s also intimate enough that you can get to know each other without worrying about keeping an eye on the time or how loud you have to speak to be heard over the crowd. Here are seven top-rated best first date ideas in Phoenix that will heat up your love life like hot summer days in July.
10 The Best First Date Ideas Phoenix
- Romantic Dining
Romance doesn’t always have to be candlelight and expensive wine, though it is a great way to make your date feel special. Show your love interest that you care by cooking for them at home or taking them out for an intimate evening on the town.
Some of Phoenix’s top restaurants also offer free dessert for couples dining together, perfect for a simple but sweet gesture. Get creative with desserts at local favorites like Four Peaks Brewing Company and Culinary Dropout, or choose from a list of sweet treats like spiced doughnuts at Cibo or Godiva truffles. If you don’t want to spend too much money, try spending time together looking at art at The Heard Museum or enjoying a quiet concert in Symphony Park.
2. Indoor Fun
If you’re looking for a date idea that won’t involve melting skin, head inside. Grab tickets to one of our local theaters and go see a new indie flick, or check out exhibits at one of many of our museums and galleries.
One of your options is The Heard Museum in Uptown Phoenix, where you can tour the world’s most comprehensive collection of Native American art and culture. Guests can also learn about instruments, listen to live music and play some instruments at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) on S 52nd Street. No matter which activity you choose from our list, make sure you dress comfortably but cutely!
- Start a Fire (Literally)
Skip dinner and a movie and start a fire instead. And yes, you can do it safely — even on your apartment patio or balcony. Lay down some old towels, strike up some matches, and light up. If you don’t have old towels (and let’s be honest: who does?), head to Walmart for $3 rolls of paper towels that will do just fine. As well as roasting hot dogs and marshmallows over a fire, roasting s’mores puts everyone at ease after an awkward first date. . . especially if things go awry later on in the evening!
- Catch a Movie
A night at a movie theater is practically synonymous with romance. It’s dark, you can snuggle up next to your date (no PDA), and all that popcorn makes for easy pre-date eating if one of you shows up on an empty stomach. So when it comes time for a first date in hot weather, grab tickets ahead of time or swing by early so you can nab seats near an air conditioner. And as always, bring water and take off those uncomfortable shoes! Afterall, you never know how long it might be before your second date…
5. Go, Bowling
Bowling is an excellent first-date idea if you want to spend some time alone with someone. Couples can do it together, but it still allows for plenty of conversation. Plus, if you play enough rounds, there’s a chance you might actually win and can declare yourself king of your love castle and then sweep her off her feet with your bowling prowess. Even better, try something like candlepin bowling or duckpin bowling that relies more on technique than just rolling balls at things.
- Hit Happy Hour
Before you know it, date night will have come and gone. Don’t miss out on your chance for a fun time together just because you don’t have a plan. Take advantage of happy hour specials on appetizers or drinks at your favorite spots; some restaurants also offer discounted dinners if you want to splurge a little bit. Avoid going overboard with your spending if you’re saving for something else, such as an engagement ring or vacation.
Bike Through The Park
When night falls, take a leisurely ride through one of our many beautiful parks. There’s something romantic about a bike ride under stars and beneath palm trees, and you get your cardio in a while also getting to know each other. And if you don’t have a bike, no worries. Many significant attractions allow you to rent bikes at their front desks for $5 per hour. So rent two bikes and go on an hour-long tour around Margaret T. Hance Park or Papago Park—it’ll be one of your most memorable dates ever.
- Let Pets Sniff Each Other Out
There’s a reason dogs are called man’s best friends: people enjoy their company. So why not get friendly with your potential mate by allowing your pets to sniff each other out first? If you and another couple decide to hit up a dog park or maybe even let each other’s dogs play at a doggie daycare, you can get an idea of what you might have in common. And if it doesn’t work out romantically, at least there will be plenty of love for your furry friends!
- Play Mini Golf
If you’re still at a loss for what to do on your first date, mini-golf is always a winner. Plus, as Arizona summers get hotter and hotter, having an activity where you can keep your hands and arms covered is nice. Tip: There are some enjoyable putt-putt courses outside of downtown. If possible, drive a few miles away from Central Phoenix to avoid crowds, and you’ll also find lower prices.
10 Take A Hike In Nature
The Valley is home to many gorgeous parks with miles of hiking trails for days. If you and your date like being outdoors, consider taking a hike through nature together. You’ll be able to connect on a different level and might even have an adventure worth writing about! If a park is out of your price range, you can always walk around Tempe Town Lake or visit nearby Tempe Beach Park for free admission. You can also check out Piestewa Peak, another option for desert views within walking distance from downtown Phoenix. See below for more ideas.
