"If there’s one thing many of us can agree on, it’s that not only did Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook make us want an epic love story, but it also made us want an epic old-fashioned date experience. While Noah’s scaling of the Ferris wheel would probably get him kicked out of the carnival these days, and laying in the middle of the street is more anxiety-inducing than any of us need, we can all appreciate his boldness. We can also appreciate what the dating scene looked like in a time before social media and swiping right.
There’s no way we can go back in time. But the nostalgia we feel when re-watching our favorite heartwarming—albeit slightly cheesy—rom-com is far from unattainable. Thus, brings the inspiration for our list of old-fashioned date ideas. These ideas are reminiscent of simpler times. That means you probably did some of the activities as a kid, and hopefully, taking part in them now can stir up some serious warm and fuzzies and memories to share with your partner. What’s even better is that—even though everything is more expensive now—these vintage date ideas won’t break the bank.
It seems like many of us appreciate a good dose of nostalgia these days. And we happen to think there’s no better place for the sentimental longing for the past than on our date nights. If you’re looking for a fun new way to mix up your next date night and get back to the basics, read on for 16 nostalgic date ideas that will make you feel like Allie and Noah in no time. The next time you find yourselves asking, “What do you want… to do tonight?!” pull up this list of ideas.
16 Old-Fashioned Date Ideas
1. Head to a Drive-In
Nothing says “old-fashioned date ideas” quite like a drive-in movie night. This also happens to be the perfect summer date night that you and your partner have been looking for. Whether you’ve got a tailgate, a spacious trunk, or just want to get cozy in the front seat, find a local drive-in theater and catch a flick with blankets and popcorn the old-fashioned way. Just try not to get “stranded at the drive-in” Danny Zuko-style.
2. Grab Milkshakes at a Diner
You can picture it: A couple sitting across a booth from one another, splitting a milkshake with two straws. Not only is it oh-so-cute, but old-fashioned diners aren’t as hard to come by as you may think. Stepping into one is a blast from the past itself and offers a friendly atmosphere that will leave us feeling all sorts of giddy.
3. Go to a Carnival
No Ferris wheel scaling required! As the summer months approach, more and more towns will be welcoming back their annual carnival. You’re sure to feel like a kid again, hitting all of the rides, winning prizes for playing games, and eating the tastiest fair food.
4. Go for a Bike Ride
A date idea that costs $0? Sign us up! Get the tires pumped up and head out for an afternoon of carefree fun. Whether you hit a local bike trail or check out a new neighborhood, you and your partner will have fun exploring in a new way together.
5. Go Bowling
Maybe it’s been so long since you’ve gone bowling that you’re wondering if they’ve changed it. Well, the answer is no! It’s as fun as you remember and nearly just as wallet-friendly as a date can be. Get the competitive juices—and perhaps some cheap beer—for a fun out-of-the-house game night. This is a great option for bringing the kids along if your babysitter isn’t available!
6. Try Rollerskating
A date idea that can be indoor or outdoor is always a great idea. Weather permitting, it could be an extra adorable date to stroll around your neighborhood with some colorful roller skates on. Otherwise, find a rink near you and see how fast you can roll!
7. Head to an Ice Cream Shop
Ice cream is always a good idea. But what makes this idea even better is if you can find a themed ice cream shop that’s frozen in time from the ’50s. Share a sundae with your honey and daydream about what it would’ve been like to grow up in the time of poodle skirts and Thunderbirds.
8. Find a “Lover’s Lane” to Park In
Speaking of one-on-one time, it doesn’t get much more nostalgic than a pit stop to a lover’s lane. Rather, find a secluded spot to park the car for a bit for a make-out sesh straight out of high school.
9. Play Games at an Arcade
While many of our favorite arcade games are more reminiscent of the ’80s than earlier decades, it’s still a fun, youthful date idea. Play all of your old favorites from your childhood, rack up the tickets, and go home with a souvenir from the prize station. Plus, if you go on a school night, you may not have to compete with the kiddos for a spot at Ms. Pac-Man!
10. Go on a Picnic
While we’re on the topic of getting outdoors, this is a great daytime option. Whether it’s just you and your SO or you bring the kids along, having a picnic in a park or nature area is a great way to slow down and reconnect with nature and one another. Bring a blanket to sit on, some snacks, and maybe even a speaker for some soft music for a low-cost but meaningful experience.
11. Go For a Romantic Walk
Another free date option that’s perfect for nice weather. Stroll through the neighborhood, or find a local hiking spot to spend one-on-one time with your significant other. While you’re at it, be on the lookout for birds so you can quote Noah when he says, “If you’re a bird, I’m a bird.”
12. Go Dancing (or take lessons!)
Though tracking down a sockhop may be harder to come by, dancing doesn’t have to be! Find a local dance hall, classy club, or disco and dance the night away for a unique date night. Haven’t laced up your dancing shoes in a while? Take some lessons instead!
13. Peruse a Record Store
If you’d rather let the music speak to you than move you, a record store may be just the ticket. Peruse through hundreds of records at a local shop and find some hidden gems to take home with you.
14. Go Vintage or Antique Shopping
While maybe not an old-fashioned activity in itself, vintage and antique shopping gives us a peek into the past like none other. You may be surprised how many goodies you can find sifting for the diamonds in the rough of fashion items, home decor, and more.
15. Tailgate Under the Stars
When the weather is nice outside, there’s no date quite like stargazing to help us slow down. When you need a break from the hectic parts of life, head to a place out of town a bit to park and search for constellations with your honey. Bring some wine and dessert for a night you’ll never want to end.
16. Go See a Revival Movie Showing
If it’s too cold outside for a drive-in movie experience, find a theater that’s airing throwback movies. Whether it’s a black-and-white film or a favorite like The Notebook or Grease, this experience will put you right back in time in the coziest way possible.