We combed the internet and our brains for the best at-home date night ideas, and we’ve only the included the ones that didn’t make us immediately cringe. (And all of them can be done while the kids are asleep!)
So, turn off your phones, and get to it. You really deserve it.
1. Pick-A-Year Music Night
Snuggle up on the couch, agree on one year, and listen only to music from that year for the rest of the night. It’s way too fun. You’ll go down several rabbit holes researching random artists and reminiscing about those one hit wonders.
2. Trivia Time
Pull out the old Trivia Pursuit that’s been collecting dust, or head to a trivia site online. Mix up your favorite drink and find out once and for all which one of you is more intelligent. You could easily play this over Facetime with another couple, too!
3. Spa Night
This is getting kind of awkward… but it’s easy to set the relaxing spa mood with dim lights, a candle, essential oils, and your favorite music. We are all so stressed lately – you both deserve to be pampered!
4. Video Game Night
Does one of you play video games, and it really annoys the other one? Or am I just projecting? If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em. Playing video games together can actually be really fun, and it kind of makes you feel like you’re back in high school. Especially if you throw a bag of Doritos in the mix.
5. Do A Puzzle
Puzzles are great because they give you the same goal to work towards. Add in your favorite music and snacks, and you’re ready to accomplish your mission.
6. Wine & Cheese Tasting Party
On your next hoarding grocery store run, pick up a variety of cheeses and wines. Set them out on a cheese board, and break out the wine glasses. Which pairings go well together? Which wine and cheese do you each love the best?
7. Play Your Favorite Board and Card Games
When’s the last time you played a game, just the two of you? Break out the Scrabble Board, or Rummikub, or whatever game you love. Nothing like the competitive spirit to bring you closer together! (Or start a huge fight?)
8. Candlelight Dinner
Level up your dinner by having it AFTER the kids go to bed. Prepare your favorite meal, light a candle, and put on some music. It’s so simple, but such a good jumping off point for connection.
9. Raid The Craft Closet
Why should your kids have all the fun with the crafts in your house? Break out the paints and watercolors, and enjoy an adults-only paint night. If you need some painting instruction, search for a video on YouTube!
10. Spend an evening at the “Bookstore.”
Remember how nice it was to kill hours and get lost in a bookstore? Pull up two comfy chairs, brew some tea, and pull out a stack of old books and magazines. Peruse away! You’ll probably find a lot to talk about.
What other date night ideas do you have? Email us at hello@mkewithkids.com!
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
