These at-home dates ideas will make just any many memories, if not more, than the elaborate ones.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve heard all of the recommendations to prioritize dating your spouse (or enjoy the dating season that you’re in), but the pocketbook is a bit too thin and the kids a bit too little to constantly enjoy nights out. While I love a nice date out with my husband and think they’re important to schedule, more often than not, spending quality time at home is more achievable and affordable. 

Dates at home can be more fun and creative than just a movie night (though those are great, too). If you’re looking for innovative ways to connect at home, here are some ideas—and methods to help you create your own.

Pay attention to ways of relating

My husband really enjoys dates where he and I can do or accomplish something together—whether that’s rock climbing, a long bike ride, or an escape room (we love all of these!). While I enjoy those, too, dates are also really meaningful to me when we have time for uninterrupted conversation. We’ve found we both “get” the most out of dates when we combine these two elements – the same goes for dates at home.

It can be helpful to think of the ways you and your partner relate when you’re trying to plan a date at home. What kind of connection is meaningful to both of you? What is restful and fun? What sort of things are you both interested in or wanting to learn? What special element can you afford to add in?

Idea 1: Game night

My husband and I are both big fans of board games and play them regularly. If you’re looking for an inexpensive, fun at-home date, set up a game night – you can even make it a tournament for a little extra competition. Make a dessert or drink to enjoy while you play! 

Check out Refine’s list of the best board games for two here.

Idea 2: Listening party

If you’re both music lovers, pick an artist you like and listen to an album together, all the way through, discussing the lyrics and artistry. You can even print the lyrics out in advance to follow along – try to be screen-free for this! This can be a really nice, relaxing date after a long week – add in cups of tea or a cocktail to set the tone. 

Idea 3: Cooking class

If there’s a cuisine that both of you want to explore, find a recipe online to try (or even a video). You can get the recipes together, pour a glass of wine, and make the meal together – the best part is enjoying it afterward! 

Idea 4: Book club 

For couples who like to read, a book club can be a great way to connect at home. Pick a book, essay, or article to read aloud together and discuss. A cup of tea, dessert, or cocktail adds an element of fun.

Idea 5: Cocktail mixing

Speaking of cocktails, try finding a new one to craft at home (or even create your own signature drink!). Similar to the cooking class, have fun picking ingredients and learning to mix the drinks. Enjoy them in your living room, or make them part of the game night or book club to double up!

Idea 6: Picnic

For a bit of nostalgic fun, “pack” a picnic to have in your living room or backyard. Find or make some picnic foods like cheese, fruit, and sandwiches, pack them up, and then make the spread as fancy as possible. 

Idea 7: Workout class

For the fitness junkies, an online workout class can be a fun and energizing at-home date. There’s an endless variation of workout types online – pick one that maybe both of you are unfamiliar with. Try a pilates or martial arts class, or dance cardio if you really want to make yourselves laugh. 

Enjoying simplicity

However you plan your at-home dates, see them all as opportunities to enjoy simplicity with one another. One of the greatest parts of a stable, healthy relationship is the chance to continually dive deeper into each other’s hearts, minds, and personalities, and find gratitude for the other person. At-home dates may be simple, but they’re a great way to reignite appreciation for a companion with whom you’re never bored.