Forget sitting silently in a movie theater next to someone you’re just getting to know! A date night should be about fun, connection, and shared experiences. Whether you’ve just matched with someone on Tinder or you’ve been together for years, Charlotte is bursting with creative and budget-friendly date ideas that make getting to know each other the star of the show.
Here are 10 unique date ideas in the Queen City that will make you forget about overpriced popcorn and flat sodas forever!
#10 Cheer at a Sports Game
Charlotte is a city of sports fans! Grab tickets to a Charlotte Hornets basketball game or a Charlotte FC soccer match at Bank of America Stadium. College sports more your style? Head to a Davidson Wildcats game or check out local high school matchups for a budget-friendly evening. Games are the perfect balance of energy and downtime, where you can chat during breaks and cheer together when the action starts.
#9 Explore a Quirky Museum
Charlotte has more to offer than your typical museums. Discover the weird and wonderful by exploring spots like the Mint Museum, Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, or the interactive Museum of Illusions Charlotte. Bonus: many museums offer discounts for students, so don’t forget your ID!
#8 Trivia Night at a Local Bar
Turn a casual night at the bar into a fun competition with trivia! Many Charlotte spots like VBGB Beer Hall or The Suffolk Punch host themed trivia nights weekly. Order drinks, grab a snack, and team up to show off your random knowledge. Even if you don’t win, the laughs and teamwork will make it worthwhile.
#7 Pick Your Own Produce
Seasonal fun is always in bloom around Charlotte. Head to Carrigan Farms or Wise Acres Organic Farm for apple or strawberry picking. Enjoy the fresh air and gather some goodies to take home. If you’re feeling inspired, bake a pie together afterward for a sweet ending to your date.
#6 Brunch Together
Who says dates need to be at night? Skip dinner and try a brunch date instead! Visit Snooze, an A.M. Eatery or Haberdish in NoDa for a mix of sweet and savory dishes paired with morning mimosas. A relaxed mid-morning vibe is perfect for casual conversation without the pressure of a formal dinner.
#5 Hit the Trails
Love the outdoors? Charlotte has plenty of trails for hiking and exploring, such as Reedy Creek Park or Crowders Mountain State Park. Take in the beauty of nature, breathe some fresh air, and enjoy great conversation as you walk. For a romantic touch, pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit or by a lake!
#4 Tour a Local Brewery
Charlotte’s craft beer scene is booming, with spots like NoDa Brewing Company and Sycamore Brewing leading the charge. Many breweries offer affordable tours where you can learn about the brewing process and enjoy samples. Wrap up the date with food from their on-site kitchens or rotating food trucks.
#3 Cook a Meal Together
Instead of dining out, invite your date over for a personal potluck. Each of you can cook a dish and share the work while creating something delicious together. Not sure where to start? Stroll through the 7th Street Public Market for fresh ingredients or pick out a recipe that you can tackle as a team.
#2 Try Indoor Rock Climbing at Inner Peaks
Looking for an adventurous and interactive date? Take your partner to Inner Peaks Indoor Climbing Gym, where you can challenge each other to scale walls and conquer your fears. No experience? No problem. Inner Peaks offers first-time climber packages that include gear rental and a lesson.
Climbing is not only a unique activity but also a great way to build trust and teamwork. Plus, it’s easy to transition from climbing to dinner or drinks nearby, like at Haberdish or Heist Brewery in NoDa. Bonus: you’ll both leave with a fun story and maybe even some new skills!
#1 Go Old-School Fun
Take it back to the basics with classic date activities like mini-golf, bowling, or an arcade night. Check out Pins Mechanical Co. in South End for bowling and retro games, or play a round of mini-golf at Stroke with craft cocktails in hand. End the evening with ice cream from Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams for the perfect nostalgic date.