Summer Date Ideas

10 Summer Date Ideas (When You're Low on Cash, Ideas, or Time)

Let’s be honest. Between work, kids, responsibilities, and exhaustion, date nights can easily slip to the bottom of the list. With so many tasks to complete, spending quality time with your spouse can seem more like a fantasy than a reality.

But connection doesn’t need to be out of reach. Below, I’ve pulled together some simple and stress-free date ideas you can use to reconnect without feeling like you’re adding one more thing to your plate. Whether you're short on ideas, time, or money, there’s something here that’s doable.

1. Drive with no Destination

Gas might not be cheap, but sometimes a 30-minute drive with no distractions and a good playlist is all you need. Let the windows down, grab a drink, and just talk (or don’t). The point is being together, not being productive.

2. Sunset on the Porch

Light a candle, pour a drink, and put the phones away. You don’t need a dinner reservation to enjoy a slow, quiet evening outside. If you’ve got kids, this works great after bedtime, or let them play in the yard while you two chat. 

3. Thrift store challenge

Set a budget (even $10), go to a local thrift store, and pick out something silly or meaningful for each other. It's fun, low-pressure, and will spark some laughter.

4. DIY Tasting Night

You don’t need a fancy kitchen. Pick up a few cheeses, fruits, or sparkling waters and do your own mini tasting at home. Light a candle, write fake “reviews,” and enjoy some food together.

5. Walk and talk

It’s simple, but effective. Leave the house, walk the neighborhood or a local trail, and catch up. 

6. Make your own Ice Cream Sundaes

Grab a few toppings and a pint of ice cream or two. You could do this after the kids go to bed or invite them in for a full-family version of the fun. Bonus points if you take your ice cream creations outside for a sunset picnic. 

7. Home Project Night (the fun kind)

Tackle a small project together. Rearrange some furniture, build something, or organize a closet. When you're doing something with your hands and working side by side, it often opens up space for conversation and laughter.

8. Pick out a Film from your Local Library

Skip scrolling for a new show. Instead, run to the library and select a movie to watch together. It's a free and 'old school' experience. 

9. Grab-and-Go Picnic

Pick up takeout from a local spot and eat it somewhere different: a park, the beach, even the back of your car. A change of scenery makes everything feel a little more special.

10. Play a Game

Pick a card game, board game, or something silly on your phone. It’s an easy way to break out of routine and enjoy each other’s company without needing anything extravagant.

You don’t need a babysitter, a reservation, or a picture-perfect plan to reconnect. What matters most is being intentional in the small ways.

Take the time to treasure small moments with your partner and see how little, everyday moments start to take on a new light. 

Keep it simple, 

-Ashley 💛 

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