Whether you’ve been dating a few weeks, a few years, or a few decades, keeping the romance alive between you and your girlfriend is a must.
This doesn’t necessarily need to mean fancy gifts or big vacations. Simple romantic date ideas are all you need. A couple of dates a month can be a great way to reconnect and show her how much you love her, as well as how much you want to keep her happy.
If you’re stuck in a rut and looking for ways to reignite your old flame, keep reading. We’re bringing you 8 romantic things to do for your girlfriend to show her that you care.
1. Cook Dinner
Making your girlfriend a nice home-cooked meal is the ultimate romantic gesture.
Cook her favorite meal, learn how to make a gourmet recipe, or whip up a simple pasta.
You don’t have to be an expert chef to cook a home meal. The internet is full of easy recipes and cooking tutorials. Even a grilled cheese and tomato soup dinner can be a romantic gesture.
Set the scene with candles and flowers, and make sure that you clean up your home or apartment before she arrives.
If you normally dine before the TV or check your email in between bites, consider turning the dinner into a tech-free zone so that you can chat without distraction.
2. Picnic in the Park
If cooking isn’t your strong suit or you don’t want to spend an evening cooped up inside, don’t worry. There are plenty of other romantic things to do for your girlfriend that don’t require chopping or sauteeing.
Rather than making a complicated, multi-course meal, pack a simple picnic. You could make sandwiches, a cheese plate, or even pick up your girlfriend’s favorite take-out.
But rather than eating at home, take your meal or snacks to a local park. Spread a blanket on the grass or pack some lawn chairs. Sit back and enjoy the scenery while you dine.
A picnic is a great way to enjoy a relaxed meal in the sunshine or while taking in a sunset.
You won’t have to worry about the distractions at home, like laptops or TV. You also won’t have to worry about waiters and other diners at a restaurant. You can chat and catch up, technology-free, or simply enjoy each others’ company.
3. Take a Fitness Class Together
If sweating it out doesn’t sound like it belongs on a list of romantic things to do, think again.
Exercise can actually lead to a boost of energy in the bedroom, making for a romantic evening after your fitness class.
Taking a fitness class together is also a great way to release some of the frustrations of your daily life. You and your girlfriend will leave feeling refreshed and energized.
4. Try a New Hobby
If you ever get the feeling that you and your significant other are stuck in a rut, trying out a new hobby can be a great way to reconnect.
When both of you are out of your comfort zone, you’ll have to rely more heavily on each other. You won’t have to worry that you’re spending time doing something that one of you enjoys while the other simply suffers through.
If the two of you normally enjoy indoor activities, consider scheduling a whitewater rafting or camping trip. If you’re already outdoor enthusiasts, consider taking an art class instead.
5. Visit One of Your City’s Tourist Attractions
Even if you and your girlfriend have lived in the same city for years, visiting a local tourist attraction can be a fun way to spend a day.
Maybe you’ll rediscover your shared love of your city. Or you’ll spend the whole visit laughing at the actual tourists.
Either way, its guaranteed to be a great time.
6. Make Your Own Scavenger Hunt
Some of the best romantic date ideas are those that require some forethought and planning.
One great idea is to plan your own scavenger hunt. While it will take some time and effort on your part, it’s a great way to show your girlfriend that you care about making her happy, even if you have to work for it.
Your scavenger hunt could be a simple one around your house. Or it could be a full-fledged city-wide hunt ending in another fun date, like a picnic or a show.
7. Revisit Your Old Hangouts or Date Spots
Your girlfriend fell in love with you for a reason. When it comes to choosing romantic things to do for her, reminding her of those reasons is always a good idea.
One great way to do that is by revisiting the place that the two of you met, where you had your first date or spots where you used to like to hang out but haven’t been to in a while.
Plan a visit to one of your old hangouts, and make it a surprise. Even if the spot itself isn’t romantic, reminiscing about old times can be a great way to inspire some romance and revisit your old feelings for each other.
8. Schedule an In-Home Massage or a Spa Visit
If you’re looking for romantic ideas that are sure to impress, and you aren’t afraid to spend some cash, an in-home massage or a visit to a spa is always a great choice.
There’s nothing quite like a day of relaxation to leave you both feeling rejuvenated and relaxed.
Romantic Things to do for Your Girlfriend
This list of romantic things to do for your girlfriend is far from your only options.
If these ideas don’t inspire you, try thinking about how your girlfriend would enjoy spending a day or even an afternoon.
Take her to her favorite restaurant. Visit her favorite park. Offer to spend the day doing her favorite hobby.