Dating, Relationships

Things to do on a picnic date for couples (2023)

Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned picnic date?

Most men would agree that when you imagined your perfect date, you weren’t thinking about a picnic.

When properly executed, picnics can be delightful, and women will appreciate the effort. Planning a picnic shows you are willing to put in a little extra effort.

When should you ask a woman on a picnic date?

Picnic dates are rarely suitable during the early stages of a relationship, especially the first date. They’re too intimate, and you’ll come off too strong. If you jump the gun and ask a woman on a picnic date too early, there’s a good chance you’ll scare her away.

Ideally, you plan a picnic date when you’re in a well-established relationship – maybe date five or six. This is the perfect date idea for some genuine quality time. It doesn’t have to be romantic. Sometimes it’s good to enjoy some relaxation together.

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Picnic Date Essentials

When planning a picnic date, use this checklist to ensure you remember the following items.

Trash bags
Cleaning wipes
Paper towels
Utensils
Cups or glasses
Picnic Blankets
Picnic Basket
Pillows
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Portable charger
Bluetooth speaker
Water
Electric light or lantern

Top Picnic Date Ideas

1. Pick Gratitude Rocks From The River

If you want to show your date an excellent side of you, go to the river and pick gratitude rocks.

For those unfamiliar, a gratitude rock is something you put in your pocket or leave on your nightstand. Every time you touch it, you must think of something you’re grateful for.

Gratitude is an extremely attractive quality, and this is a great way to showcase that side of yourself.

2. Photograph Each Other

Nature can be a great place to get headshots or new material for social media.

When you photograph each other, you break down barriers. Letting someone take photos of you in an intimate setting is personal, and if you can make your date feel comfortable, she’ll love you for it. Plus, you’ll have some awesome pics to show off online.

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3. Kayak to an Island

Many lakes have small islands that are a short paddle away. If you need a kayak, find a local marina and rent one. They’re not that expensive. If kayaks aren’t an option, you can paddle board, too, although I only recommend that if you both know what you’re doing.

Bring your packed bag along and have your date on an island.

Pro Tip: Bring bug spray.

4. Go to the City Park

I lived near a major city park that would do Jazz in the Park every Sunday. This was the ultimate date hangout.

It was lively and packed full of people. They even had food carts and live music. You could also bring a cooler of wine or beer, and nobody would bust your chops.

Back a bag with a few blankets, and you’re set. Many towns throw seasonal events like this at the local parks. Do some research because this makes for a killer picnic date!

5. Charcuterie Board and Wine

In all my life, I’ve never met a woman who doesn’t enjoy a good charcuterie board.

Even if your date is a vegetarian, you can serve delicious pickled veggies, olives, cheese, and nuts. And if you want to impress, bring a chilled bottle of rose.

Pro Tip: Grab a couple of wine ramblers to keep your wine from getting hot!

6. Botanical Gardens

It’s hard to imagine a better setting for a date than a botanical garden. They’re filled with some of the most stunning plants and flowers, and some even have unique wildlife.

7. Let the Dogs Loose

Picture a meadow with open space, wildflowers, and nobody in sight. The smell of the fresh air. The peace and tranquility. The creek with running water. And the dogs, with free rein over it all.

I remember finding a scene like this once, and not only did the dogs have a blast, but so did my date. Try to find a remote location that has a limited amount of traffic.

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8. Read a Book Together

Reading a book with someone else is always a blast. I know it sounds lame, but there’s a reason book clubs exist.

Start a new book with your date. Have a snack and a glass of wine, then read for an hour. You’ll have plenty to talk about on the way home.

9. Sunbath Naked

Is it risky? Yes.

Will your date get a rush from it? Also yes.

AND you’re both sure to be sexually charged after the affair. This can be tough to pull off, but researching and finding the perfect spot makes for a fun picnic.

Pro Tip: Don’t try this if you live somewhere with many mosquitos.

10. Go to a Natural Spring

Where I come from, you can find natural springs everywhere.

Sometimes they require a hike, which adds another fun component to the day. A scenic walk, a nice picnic, and a spring dip before heading back.

In Austin, they have Barton Springs, a natural pool just outside downtown.

There’s a large grass area to hang out on, and in the lower area, you can also let the dogs in the water.

11. Hike to a Lookout

The views can be breathtaking if you research and find a legit lookout.

I recommend doing this in time for a beautiful sunset, and then the city lights make for the perfect backdrop. Something about the night also makes things feel more intimate and private.

12. Lake or Beach

This doesn’t need a lot of explanation for those who live on the coast, but for those who are landlocked, hear me out.

Many lakes and reservoirs have sand beaches, and many have public access. So, even if you don’t live near the ocean, you can still carve out a little beach for your picnic.

Pro Tip: Don’t go at a time close to sunset. Mosquitos love to come out right as the sunlight goes down.

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13. Play a Card Game

Sometimes it’s the simple things that make for the best times. Cards are fun because you can enjoy the competition between you and your date, which is always healthy.

14. Look for Shooting Stars

And satellites!

Looking at the stars never gets old. Drive somewhere remote with minimal light pollution. You can see satellites, too, if you look really hard. They almost look like planes but move way faster through the sky.