https://www.today.com/life/relationships/double-date-ideas-rcna73164
20 fun double date ideas for when you want to switch things up
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Double dates really give you the best of both worlds. You get the enjoyment of hanging out with friends and the pleasure of spending quality time with your partner — all at once.
“Double dates can be an interesting and unique way to spend time with your significant other, as well as your friends. It can bring couples closer together and create lasting memories,” Joni Ogle, CSAT, licensed clinical social worker and CEO of The Heights Treatment, tells TODAY.com.
When done right, double dates can also help newer relationships blossom — and eventually, bloom. According to Barbie Adler, the founder and president of Selective Search, a leading luxury matchmaking firm, going on double dates can be a great way to keep the conversation flowing and reduce nerves in a new relationship. “However, it is important to be selective about the couple you choose for the double date,” Adler tells TODAY.com. “Consider who you want to share your new relationship with, and be attentive to shared interests and personalities that will blend well.”
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This interaction can also shed new light on your partner and how they treat others outside of your relationship (which can be a major green or red flag). It “will naturally bring diverse perspectives and topics to the table, and this will help you learn more about your partner and their view on the world,” Dr. Rachel Hoffman, a licensed clinical social worker and the chief clinical officer at Real, tells TODAY.com.
Ready to have twice the fun during your next date night? Reach out to one of your favorite couples and suggest one of the following double date ideas.
Do a tasting experience
Don’t want to cook, but tired of the same-old, same-old? Amber Lee, dating expert and cofounder of Select Date Society, suggests going to a wine or food tasting. Compare taste buds, chat about what you like, and experience new drinks and food.
Get active
Engage in some friendly competition at a sports hall or bar. Adler recommends playing classic games that everyone knows like billiards, darts, bocce or pickleball. Make it a challenge by having the losing couple get the next round of food or drinks.
Sing your heart out at karaoke
Sing — terribly or not — at your local karaoke bar or host a night of karaoke at home. “You’ll reminisce over past eras as you choose your favorite songs to belt out publicly,” Lee says.
Let these stage-worthy moments remain as memories — for your eyes only. “Pledge to not record anyone singing if you want your friendships and relationships to remain intact,” Lee adds.
Go bowling
Bowling is in a league of its own when it comes to good double date activities. “You don’t have to be an expert in order to play, making it perfect for all levels of skill and experience,” Ogle says. Let yourself get competitive, buy some snacks and see who can get the most strikes.
Bring your furry friends
Why not make it a triple date and invite your furry friends to the party? Go to your local dog park or take a hike with your pups while you compare tips on everything from trainers to groomers. It will be a great day out in the sun for humans and dogs alike, according to Lee.
Host a board game night
You can’t go wrong with a wholesome game of Monopoly, according to Hoffman. Each couple can bring their favorite board game (card games work too!) so you can really make a night of it. Fuel up with some pizza and other finger foods.