Planning date nights can be fun and romantic, but occasionally you might be at a loss for ideas. Sure, dinner and a movie are good, but sometimes you want to step outside the box and have a new adventure. If you’re looking for fun date night ideas that aren’t dinner and movie, we’ve got you covered.

Play Tourist

Whether you’ve lived in your city all your life or you’ve just recently moved there, playing tourist is a fun way to see where you live. Check out a local walking or architecture tour or head to a local famous or popular spot to see what it’s all about. For example, Chicago offers great sightseeing tours, as well as a range of museums, historical landmarks, and world-renowned restaurants.

Cook Together at Home

This might seem similar to going to dinner, but it’s not quite the same. If you enjoy spending time in the kitchen, choose a recipe neither of you has made before. Head to the grocery store to shop for ingredients, then go home to get cooking! You’ll enjoy working together to create a meal, and it will make enjoying it so much more satisfying.

Attend a Trivia Night

Do you have an impressive knowledge of random facts? Do you follow a fandom? Check out the local trivia nights around the Downers Grove or Hinsdale area and put your knowledge to the test. Many trivia nights are held at a bar, so you can grab a drink while you try to win.

Take a Hike

The Chicagoland area has plenty of trails where you can enjoy some fresh air and natural scenery. Enjoy some exercise while you reconnect on an adventurous day date. Pack a picnic lunch and find a spot to stop and eat. The natural surroundings will provide you with the perfect backdrop.

Host an Art Workshop

Getting crafty can be great fun, especially when you do it together. If you’re looking for creative date night ideas, local art studios like the henn house in Burr Ridge offer DIY wood sign workshops and paint parties where you can choose a design and create a custom wood sign to hang in your home. Not only will you have a great time together, but you’ll make a lasting memory that you’ll enjoy every time you look at your wall art.