The eternal question: “So, what do you want to do?” has ended countless date night ambitions, leading to the same old dinner-and-a-movie combo. But not anymore.
We’ve compiled the ultimate list of 50 date ideas to rescue you from boredom. From adventurous outings to creative workshops and cozy nights in, consider this your official guide to never having a dull date again.
Creative & Artsy Dates:
- Stroll Through an Art Gallery
Get lost in a world of creativity. It’s a fantastic conversation starter and a visually stimulating experience. Try: Nike Art Gallery (Lagos & Abuja), Windsor Gallery (Abuja) or Thought Pyramid (Abuja) for an overwhelming and beautiful collection of Nigerian art.
- Take a Pottery Class
Get your hands dirty and create something together. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that leaves you with a unique souvenir from your date. Try: Bwari Pottery Village (Abuja) for an authentic, rustic experience.
- Attend a Sip & Paint Session
Unleash your inner artist, guided by an instructor and fuelled by a glass of wine. No artistic skill is required—just a willingness to have fun and laugh at your creations.
- Watch a Stage Play
Experience storytelling in its most electric form. It’s more engaging than a movie and supports the local theatre scene. Try: Terra Kulture (Lagos) for incredible stage productions, or check out a university drama department for something more experimental.
- Unleash Your Inner Poet at an Open Mic Night
Whether you’re performing or just watching, an open mic night is full of raw talent and passionate energy. It’s a great way to discover new artists and share a unique experience. Try: Abuja Literary Society Open Mic (Abuja) - Craft a Signature Scent
Take a perfume-making workshop and create custom fragrances for each other. It’s a sensual and memorable activity that results in a truly personal keepsake. Try: Cyrilia’s Perfumery & School (Lagos)
- Make Your Own Candles
Similar to perfume making, a candle-making class is a cozy, creative way to spend time together, and you get to take home a beautiful, sweet-smelling memento. Try: Hands (Lagos)
- Explore an Arts & Crafts Market
Wander through stalls of handmade goods, from jewelry and leatherwork to paintings and sculptures. It’s a cultural deep-dive and a great place to find unique gifts.Try: Lekki Arts & Crafts Market in Lagos.
Active & Adventurous Dates
- Go Go-Karting
Unleash your competitive side with some high-speed racing. It’s an adrenaline-pumping activity that’s guaranteed to get your hearts racing. Try: The track at Central Park (Abuja) or Get-Arena (Lagos)
- Try Paintballing
Gear up and head into battle. This team-based activity is perfect for seeing how well you work together under (colourful) fire.
- Take a Hike
Escape the city bustle and enjoy nature. A scenic hike offers beautiful views and plenty of uninterrupted time for conversation. Try: Naija Adventurers (Abuja)
- Conquer a Canopy Walk
If you’re not afraid of heights, this is a must-do. Walking among the treetops is both thrilling and incredibly romantic. Try: The famous canopy walk at the Lekki Conservation Centre (Lagos).
- Go Horseback Riding
There’s something timeless and romantic about horseback riding. Many resorts and private stables offer guided trail rides for all skill levels.
- Hit the Bowling Alley
A little friendly competition never hurt anyone. Bowling is a classic, fun-filled date that’s perfect for some lighthearted fun. Try: Trukadero (Abuja) or Rufus & Bee (Lagos).
- Learn to Shoot a Bow and Arrow
Channel your inner Katniss or Hawkeye at an archery range. It’s a unique skill to learn together and requires focus and a steady hand.
- Go for a Swim (Upgraded)
Skip the public pool and opt for a day pass at a high-end hotel. Enjoy poolside drinks, relax on a lounger, and turn a simple swim into a mini-vacation.
- Learn a New Dance
Whether it’s salsa, tango, or even a pole dancing class, learning a new dance style together is a fun and intimate way to connect physically. Try: Morning Dance Classes at Clubhouse (Abuja).
- Take a Boat Trip
Rent a boat or join a tour for a serene escape on the water. It’s a perfect way to see your city from a new perspective. Try: A boat trip from the Kayak Club (Abuja) or Lagos Jet Ski Riders (Lagos)
- Try Kayaking or Paddleboarding
If you want to be more active on the water, rent some kayaks or paddleboards. It’s a great workout and a peaceful way to explore local waterways.
- Scream at an Amusement Park
Bring out your inner child with rollercoasters, water slides, and carnival games. It’s pure, unadulterated fun. Try: Sunrise Waterpark or Play World in Abuja.
Foodie & Drink Dates:
- Explore a Food Truck Crawl
Why commit to one restaurant when you can sample many? Find a hub of food trucks and try a little something from each one. Try: The vibrant food truck scene in Truck Central (Abuja).
- Indulge in Fine Dining
Get dressed up and treat yourselves to a meal at a top-tier restaurant. It’s a classic for a reason and perfect for celebrating a special occasion.
- Discover a New Café
Spend a lazy afternoon exploring a trendy or hidden gem of a café. It’s a low-pressure environment for great drinks and even better conversation.
- Find a Rooftop Bar for Sunset Drinks
There’s nothing more romantic than watching the sunset over the city skyline with a cocktail in hand. Find a bar with a great view and let the magic happen.Head to places like Sky Restaurant ,Mood , or The View Rooftop (Lagos ) for great views and cocktails.
- Cook a Meal Together
Pick a new, exciting recipe and tackle it as a team. The process of cooking together can be just as enjoyable as the delicious meal you create.
- Become Food Critics for a Night
Go to a restaurant with the express purpose of rating everything from the appetisers to the ambience. It adds a fun, playful layer to a standard dinner date.
- Have a Classic Picnic
Pack a basket with your favourite snacks, a cozy blanket, and find a scenic spot. It’s simple, romantic, and endlessly customizable. Try: Millennium Park (Abuja) or the grounds of the Lekki Conservation Centre (Lagos).
Chill & Relaxed Dates:
- Unwind with a Spa Day
Book a couples’ massage or enjoy a full day of pampering. It’s the ultimate way to de-stress and reconnect in a tranquil environment. Try: Oriki (Lagos)
- Go to a curated Shopping Trip
Have a big event coming up or just need a new outfit? Turn it into a date. Act as each other’s personal stylists for a fun, practical outing.
- Book a Private Cinema
Elevate your movie night by renting out a small, private cinema. You get the big screen experience all to yourselves. Try: The Pasha (Abuja) or Ebonylife Place (Lagos).
- Get Lost in a Bookstore
Wander through the aisles, pick out books for each other, and discuss your favourite authors. It’s a quiet, intellectual, and cozy date idea. Try: Roving Heights (Lagos and Abuja) or Spine & Label (Abuja)
- Tackle a Puzzle Together
Buy a 1000-piece puzzle, put on some music, and spend the evening working as a team to solve it. It’s a surprisingly engaging and collaborative activity.
- Plan a Staycation
Book a night at a beautiful local hotel or resort. It’s all the fun of a vacation without the stress of travel. Try: Almat Farms (Abuja) or Lakowe Lakes (Lagos).
- Have a Beach Day
Pack your towels and sunscreen and head to the coast. If you want to relax, swim, or play beach games, the ocean is always a great idea. Try: The different vibes of Tarkwa Bay, Elegushi Beach, or Ilashe Beach in Lagos.
- Visit a Zoo or Botanical Garden
Take a leisurely walk while admiring exotic plants and animals. It’s a relaxed and educational way to spend an afternoon. Try: National Children’s Park and Zoo (Abuja).
- Try a Couples’ Fitness Class
Find your zen together in a yoga class or feel the burn with Pilates. It’s a great way to bond while doing something healthy for your bodies and minds. Try: Ophil Wellness Studio (Abuja)
Unique & Quirky Dates:
- Explore a Wacky Museum
Skip the traditional art and history museums and find the most random one in your area. The weirder, the better. Try: Discovery Museum in Abuja for a fun, interactive experience or The Upside Down House in Lagos.
- Step into a New Reality (VR Games)
Strap on a headset and immerse yourselves in a virtual world. Whether you’re fighting zombies or exploring fantasy landscapes, it’s a futuristic and unforgettable date. Try: VR GAME CITY (Abuja).
- Outsmart the Competition at Trivia Night
Team up and put your collective knowledge to the test at a restaurant or cafe’s trivia night. It’s a fun, competitive, and low-cost night out.
- Volunteer for a Cause
Spend a day giving back to your community. Volunteering together can be a deeply bonding experience and shows a side of your characters you might not otherwise see. Try: Green Gals Go (Abuja), The Big Sister Project (Lagos) or Stand To End Rape (Lagos)
- Get Matching (or Mismatched) Tattoos
For the bold and impulsive. Picking out flash tattoos for each other is a daring move that will definitely give you a story to tell.
- Attempt to Set a World Record
Channel your inner Hilda Baci, find a silly, achievable (or hilariously unachievable) world record and spend the day trying to break it. Even if you fail, you’ll have a fantastic time trying.
- Escape to a Farm
Get out of the city and visit a local farm. Many offer tours, fresh produce, and a chance to see a different way of life. Try: Hope Eden Garden or Almat Farms (Abuja).
- Stroll Through a Major Park
Beyond just a picnic, dedicate time to actually exploring a large park. Rent bikes, find hidden trails, or just people-watch. Try: Central Park or Millennium Park in Abuja.
- Catch a Live Band
Find a lounge or venue known for live music. The energy of a live performance is infectious and makes for a vibrant night out.
- Challenge Them to a Karaoke-Off
Are you a secret superstar or wonderfully tone-deaf? Doesn’t really matter, karaoke is always a good time. Belt out your favourite duets and cheer each other on.
- Laugh Out Loud at a Comedy Show
Sharing a laugh is one of the best ways to connect. A stand-up comedy show is a guaranteed way to lift your spirits and have a great time.
- Dance the Night Away at a Club
If you both love to dance, get dressed up and hit the dance floor at your favourite club or discover a new one. Try: Romies Block or Of The Buj (Abuja) or Zaza (Lagos)
- Find a Jazz Night
For a more sophisticated and soulful evening, find a bar or restaurant hosting a live jazz night. It’s smooth, classy, and incredibly romantic.
- Go to a Rave or Music Festival
If you share a love for a particular genre of music, immersing yourselves in the high-energy atmosphere of a rave or festival can be an exhilarating shared experience.
So there you have it—50 ways to break free from your dating routine. The best dates are about creating shared experiences, making new memories, and learning more about each other. So next time you’re stuck for an idea, pick something from this list, be adventurous, and most importantly, have fun. Your next great story is waiting.
