Who says you need a partner or a group of friends to have a good time? Some of the best outings can happen when you make plans with the one person you already know is available: yourself.
Taking yourself on a solo date is a chance to try something new, revisit an old favorite or simply spend a few hours doing exactly what you want. There’s no coordinating schedules, compromising on restaurants or deciding which movie everyone wants to see. You pick the place, set the pace and enjoy the experience on your terms.
If you’re ready to give it a try, here are 10 solo date ideas to turn your alone time into a treat.
1. Take yourself out for breakfast
Find a neighborhood cafe or brunch spot you’ve been wanting to try, order your favorite breakfast and enjoy a leisurely meal. Bring a book, flip through a magazine or simply sip your coffee and watch the world go by. Try to put down your phone so you can soak in your surroundings, enjoy your food and remember your worth.
2. Spend an afternoon at a museum
Art museums, history museums and cultural exhibits are ideal solo outings because there’s no need to agree on what to see or how long to spend looking at something. Take your time with the exhibits that interest you, skip the ones that don’t and browse the gift shop before heading out. You might even discover a new favorite artist or subject along the way.
3. Go on a photography walk
You don’t need an expensive camera or professional photography skills to enjoy this one. Pick a scenic neighborhood, beach, garden or downtown area and head out with your phone or camera. Challenge yourself to photograph interesting architecture, colorful storefronts, street art, flowers or little details you might normally overlook. It’s a fun way to explore familiar surroundings with a fresh perspective.
4. Catch a weekday matinee
Going to the movies alone is one of the easiest solo dates to try. You don’t have to share your popcorn, explain the plot afterward or compromise on what to watch. Pick a movie you’ve been curious about, grab your favorite snacks and settle into a comfortable seat. A weekday matinee can be especially appealing, with fewer crowds and often lower ticket prices.
5. Have a bookstore afternoon
Browse a local independent bookstore or spend some time wandering the aisles of your favorite book retailer. Pick up a few titles, explore sections you don’t normally visit or find a cozy spot to read. If there’s a cafe nearby, make an afternoon of it with a coffee and a good book. There’s something satisfying about having nowhere else you need to be.
6. Sign up for a cooking class
A solo date doesn’t have to mean doing something entirely by yourself. A cooking class gives you the opportunity to learn a new skill while meeting people who share an interest in food. Look for classes focused on pasta-making, sushi, baking, regional cuisine or another style you’ve always wanted to try. You’ll leave with new skills, and possibly a few new acquaintances, too.
7. Treat yourself to a spa day
Sometimes the best date is one that involves absolutely no effort. Book a massage, facial, manicure or other treatment you’ve been putting off. You could also spend a few hours at a day spa with a sauna, steam room or relaxation lounge. Leave your to-do list at home and give yourself permission to unplug for a while.
8. Explore a nearby town or neighborhood
Play tourist for an afternoon without having to travel far. Choose a Southern California town or neighborhood you don’t know particularly well and spend a few hours exploring. Check out its shops, public art, historic landmarks, cafes and interesting little corners. Make a loose plan, but leave room for spontaneous discoveries. You might find a new favorite lunch spot or a place you’ll want to revisit with friends.
9. Take yourself on a sunset date
Find a beautiful beach, waterfront park, scenic overlook or rooftop with a view and plan your outing around sunset. Bring a blanket, pick up a favorite snack or drink and enjoy the changing colors of the sky. You can listen to music, take photos or simply sit and relax. It’s an inexpensive way to turn an ordinary evening into something a little more special.
10. Plan a dinner and a show
Ready to take your solo-date confidence up a notch? Get dressed up and enjoy a night out. Make a reservation at a restaurant you’ve wanted to visit, then head to a live theater performance, comedy show, concert or other event. Attending a performance alone can actually be a great experience because you can focus entirely on what’s happening onstage without worrying about entertaining your companion.
Getting comfortable with solo dates
If the thought of doing things alone feels awkward, start small. A coffee shop visit, bookstore browse or quick lunch is a good introduction before working your way up to a full dinner or evening out.
It can also help to remember that being alone and being lonely aren’t the same thing. Choosing to spend time by yourself can be refreshing, especially when everyday life involves juggling work, family, social commitments and other people’s schedules.
