Parents need a break too! But sometimes it’s hard to find the time for a rendezvous. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 15 parent date night ideas that will cost you less than an hour.
Whether you’re looking to stay in or go out, we’ve got you covered. So get your spouse or partner and get ready for some fun!
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In This Guide:
Is It Important for Parents to Have a Date Night?
Absolutely! Parents need time to reconnect with each other without the distraction of kids. A parent date night helps keep the spark alive in your relationship and can be a much-needed break from the everyday parenting grind.
Not only are parent date nights important for your relationship, but they’re also good for your kids. Seeing their parents happy and spending time together helps children feel secure and loved. And who doesn’t want that for their kids?
So go ahead and make that parent date night happen! It’s good for you, it’s good for your relationship, and it’s good for your kids. Everyone wins!
How Often Should Parents Have a Date Night?
There’s no hard and fast rule, but we think once a week or at least once a month is a good goal.
Of course, life happens and sometimes that’s just not possible. But if you can swing it, regular parent date nights are worth the effort.
Another line of thought some couples believe in is the “2-2-2 Rule”. This involves making time for a parent date night once every weeks, spending a weekend away every 2 months, and taking a longer vacation away every 2 years.
15 Parent Date Night Ideas That Cost Less Than an Hour
A parent date night doesn’t have to be anything fancy! As long as it achieves its main purpose, which is to give you quality time with your partner, it’s a success.
Here are 15 parent date night ideas that even the busiest of parents can fit into their schedules:
1 | Shopping for Your Home Together
Brainstorm and shop for new ideas for your home! Take trip to a local nursery for outdoor or house plants. Or maybe go to a home goods store to pick out new towels, sheets, or other household items.
2 | Visit an Animal Shelter
Spend some time with some furry friends! Animal shelters are always looking for volunteers to play with the animals. This is a great way to bond, have fun, and get your animal fix – especially if you’re not able to have a pet of your own.
3 | Attend a Wine Tasting
Most wine shops and liquor stores offer complimentary wine tastings. And they’re usually on weekdays during evening hours, which makes them perfect for a quick parent date night!
4 | Pedicures
Get pampered and relax! Pedicures and manicures are relatively quick and affordable. You can usually get in and out within an hour.
5 | Go Bowling
Bowling is a classic date night activity that’s perfect for parents! It’s active, so you can let off some energy, but it’s also low-key and doesn’t require a lot of time or effort.
6 | Take a Hike or Walk
One parent date night activity that’s always free and doesn’t take much time is hiking! This is a great way to get some exercise, fresh air, and spend time together.
Or just take a relaxing stroll around the neighborhood.
7 | Mini Golf
Mini golf is another great activity for parents! It’s affordable, doesn’t take too long, and can be as competitive or low-key as you want it to be.
8 | Podcast and Puzzle Together
Puzzles are great parent date night activity because they’re relatively cheap – put it together with a fun or mysterious podcast and you’ve got a real winner!
9 | Escape Room
An escape room is a great parent date night activity for couples who like a challenge. It’s perfect for parent date nights because it doesn’t take too long and it gives you the opportunity to work as a team.
You can even try an Escape Room in a Box and do it at home!
10 | Take an Exercise Class Together
Get your sweat on with an exercise class! This is a great way to try something new together and get in some quality time.
Most gyms offer free guest passes, so you can usually try out a class without having to commit to anything.
11 | Paint Your Own Pottery
This parent date night is a bit more creative! You can paint your own pottery at most craft stores. Or you can look for a local pottery studio in your area.
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12 | Build Each Other’s Outfits at a Consignment Shop
Being cheap doesn’t have to be a bad thing! Embrace your inner silliness and frugality by building each other’s outfits from a consignment shop. Then plan to wear them on your next parent date night!
13 | Have a Professional Photo Shoot
You don’t have to be a model to have a professional photo shoot! This parent date night is perfect for couples who want some new and creative photo memories together. Pick a location that’s special to the two of you and capture that special moment in time.
14 | Go Strawberry Picking
If you love strawberries (or any other fruit!), head to a local farm and go strawberry picking! This parent date night is perfect for couples who want to enjoy some fresh air and get in touch with nature.
15 | Plan Your Dream Vacation
This parent date night is perfect for couples who love to travel! Use this time to plan your dream vacation. Research different locations, look at airfare and hotel prices. Practical or hypothetical – it’s all fun!
How Do You Set Up Your Parents Date Night?
Now that you have some parent date night ideas, it’s time to plan your own! Here are a few tips to get you started:
1 | Set a budget
Parent date nights can be as cheap or expensive as you want them to be. But it’s always good to set a budget so you know how much you’re willing to spend.
2 | Choose a date and time
Once you have an idea of what you want to do, it’s time to pick a date and time! Keep in mind that weeknights are usually best for parent date nights since you don’t have to worry about childcare.
3 | Make a reservation (if necessary)
Some parent date night activities, like dinner or a show, will require a reservation. So be sure to plan ahead and make one in advance.
4 | Dress for the occasion
Whether you’re going out on the town or staying in for a movie night, it’s always fun to dress up for your parent date night!
5 | Have fun!
Parent date nights are all about spending quality time together. So relax, be yourselves, and enjoy each other’s company.
Wrapping Up Quick Parent Date Ideas
Parenthood is a beautiful and rewarding experience, but it’s also chaotic and stressful.
Scheduling a regular parent date night is the perfect way to unwind, relax, and enjoy some quality time with your partner. And who knows – maybe you’ll even find a new favorite activity!
