Date Night at Home Ideas

This story originally appeared on The Local Moms Network. 

A regular date night out is a great thing, if you can make it happen. As any good therapist (or Instagram meme…) would say, the foundation of your family started with your relationship, so keeping it strong will benefit everyone. But date nights can be tricky to plan (read: finding a reliable babysitter) and expensive (read: paying said sitter plus whatever entertainment you choose for the evening). That’s why we also love a good date night in. There’s nothing wrong with a classic Netflix and take out combo post-bedtime, but we’re sharing five creative ideas to freshen up your regular routine.

Bring the Bar Home

Can’t remember the last time you had anything other than a glass of wine or a beer? Brush off your mixology skills and try out a new cocktail. Mix it up together and then sample your creation. Don’t drink? Try the same with coffee drinks, or simply whip up a new dessert together.

Subscribe to Hunt a Killer

This popular game subscription delivers the excitement of an escape room or murder mystery dinner to your home, making it a go-to date night idea for couples that love real crime TV shows and podcasts. Use the clues and evidence they send to solve the crime—together. Thanks to Kristin from Newport Mesa Moms for sharing this great idea!

Create a Travel Experience

With young kids, you might not be traveling as far or as often as you once did (although it’s certainly possible!). On date night, pick a different country each time, and focus on that cuisine/culture. For instance, make homemade pasta (or buy it…) and watch an Italian film or make sushi together (don’t forget the sake).

Host Game Night for Two

From Boggle to Words Against Humanity, there is a board game for every couple. And if you’re looking for something a little more sexy? Take a look at this list of red hot game night ideas from Women’s Health.

Try A Day Date

If you and your sweetheart have flexible schedules or can take a morning or afternoon off, you might be able to use your existing childcare (whether daycare or school) to cover you for a child-free meal out, without extra planning or cost. Bonus: You’ll have the house to yourself…

What are your date night at home ideas? We’d love to hear them! Leave a comment below