Picnic Date Ideas (Romantic Ideas for Couples)

Picnics are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with your significant other. Plus, they’re affordable and easy to plan.

We will share some of our favorite picnic date ideas for couples, what to bring to the picnic, what to wear, and so much more.

Whether you’re looking for something adventurous or relaxing, we have you covered!

How To Plan A Picnic Date

1. Choose a scenic location

A picnic is all about the scenery. Make sure to pick the perfect picnic spot that has a beautiful view. Consider the weather and time of day when choosing your location.

You should also consider how well you know each other. If it’s a first date, then be sure to choose a location that is not too secluded, ensuring that your date feels safe. Once you know each other better, you can choose a scenic spot that is more private and romantic.

2. Decide what food you will bring

A charcuterie board is a must-have for any picnic date. It’s a great way to share food and have something to nibble on. Prepare a variety of meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruits. Remember your drinks and a sweet treat to end the picnic.

3. Pack a picnic basket

A picnic basket is a perfect way to carry all your picnic supplies. Pack everything you need, including plates, utensils, napkins, and food.

4. Provide a comfortable place to sit

A blanket is essential for picnicking. It will provide a comfortable place to sit and keep you warm if the weather gets chilly. Some comfy cushions are always useful as well.

5. Set up your picnic area

Once you’ve found the perfect spot, it’s time to set up your picnic area. Spread your blanket and set up your charcuterie board to create the ideal setting.

6. Tidy up afterward

You should always leave your picnic spot as you found it. Pack a trash bag and some serviettes to tidy up and take all your trash with you to dispose of at home.

What To Bring To A Picnic

1. Blankets or chairs

A comfortable place to sit can go a long way when picnic-ing. You can also bring umbrellas with you. Umbrellas are great for picnics because they provide shade and are helpful in case of rain.

2. Picnic basket

There are so many different amazing picnic baskets these days that will make your picnic experience much easier and more enjoyable. Depending on your needs, there are picnic baskets with a blanket, backpack styles, baskets with a cooler, and even ones that provide a folding table with cup holders.

3. Plates and cutlery

You’ll need something to eat off of and with, so don’t forget to bring tableware. You will need plates and utensils. Bring a bottle opener to open any bottles of wine or soda that you bring with you. You can pack napkins to tidy up afterward.

4. Cutting Board

A cutting board and sharp knife are necessary if you’re cutting cheese, fruit, or bread.

5. Cooler

Some picnic baskets have an insulated cooler compartment, so you won’t need to bring a separate cooler. This is great for keeping drinks and certain snacks cool and fresh.

6. Condiments

Depending on what kind of food you wish to serve, you might want to bring some salt and pepper and possibly some sauces.

7. Sunscreen and hats

If you’re picnicking outdoors, especially in the summer, don’t forget the sunscreen! Hats can help keep the sun out of your eyes. Sunglasses will be an added advantage.

8. Bug spray

No one wants to be bothered by bugs while trying to enjoy a picnic, so make sure to pack some bug spray. You can also bring mosquito repellent with you.

9. Entertainment

Decide what you’d like to do with your date other than eat and chat. You might want to play some card games or board games. You may enjoy being active, so you can bring a frisbee or kite.

10. Camera

Although most phones have great cameras, you might want to bring a polaroid camera and have a little impromptu photo shoot. Be sure to capture the memories.

11. Hand wipes

After snacking on various yummy treats, you’ll probably want to wipe your hands with some moist wipes, so these always come in handy.

12. Trashbag

Remember to pack a trash bag to be able to clean up afterward. Being outside means you will need to bring everything back home with you.

Best Food For Picnic Date

1. Charcuterie board

A cheese board is the perfect finger food for a picnic date. It is easy to transport and suitable for both meat-eaters and cheese lovers.

2. Finger foods

Popular finger foods include mini quiches, sandwiches, sushi, fruit, carrots with hummus, and wraps.

3. Green salad/Potato salad

A green salad is a healthy and refreshing option for a picnic date. It’s also easy to make ahead of time and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Potato salad is a classic picnic food that is easy to make ahead of time. It can be served cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish.

4. Fruit salad

A fruit salad is a healthy option for a picnic date. It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. A fruit platter is also easy to transport and enjoyable to eat.

6. Something sweet

End the picnic with a sweet treat. Popular desserts include chocolate croissants, muffins, decadent cookies, fudge, brownies, and banana bread.

7. Drinks

Remember to pack your favorite drinks and some water.

Picnic Date Ideas

Botanical gardens, recreational parks, and movie nights are excellent picnic date ideas. Picnics are a fun and intimate way to connect with your significant other on a deeper level.

So, we have you covered whether you want something romantic or adventurous! Grab a blanket and some snacks, and prepare for a good time!

Romantic Picnic Ideas

1. A park with a beautiful view

A park with a great view is the perfect place for a romantic picnic. You can enjoy the scenery while spending time with your loved one.

2. Pick a secluded spot in the woods.

A spot in the woods is perfect if you want a more private setting. You can enjoy nature and each other’s company in peace.

3. In your backyard

You can picnic in your backyard if you don’t want to go far. You can set up a few chairs or a blanket under a shaded area and relax.

4. Get active

Playing frisbee and badminton is a fun, active way to spend time together outdoors. It’s also a great way to get some exercise!

Cute Picnic Date Ideas

Although there is nothing wrong with a simple picnic, sometimes you might be looking for an extra cute date idea. Here are a few cute picnic date ideas that might interest you.

1. Sip-and-paint picnic date

A sip-and-paint picnic is a perfect way to enjoy a date while also getting your creative juices flowing. You can participate in this fantastic and fun activity in various places. Later on, you can have your lunch date or a snack.

2. Self-care

A self-care day picnic is a perfect way to relax and spend time with your loved one. You can light a candle, wear face masks, have a relaxing bath, and put on smooth and soothing tunes. Choose their favorite food and possibly a glass of champagne.

3. Photoshoot

A photoshoot picnic is perfect for capturing beautiful memories of your time together. You can hire a professional photographer and wear a cute outfit. Then pick a romantic spot with great views. The area can be one that both you and your date love to go to.

Indoor Picnic Date Ideas

If the weather isn’t conducive to an outdoor picnic, you can move your picnic indoors quickly. Just like you would plan your outdoor picnic, you can bring everything you had planned to use inside and create a romantic picnic space.

The added advantage of doing it indoors allows you to add extra romantic touches like flowers, throws, and candles.

1. Fireplace

If you have a fireplace, you can light the fire and spread out your blanket and pillows in front of it for a cozy romantic seating area. Dim the lights, and you’re good to go.

2. Wine tasting

Wine tastings are a fun way to explore different types of wine and learn about each wine’s flavors. They’re also great for spending an afternoon or evening with your date!

3. Build a pillow fort

Pillow fort picnic is a fun and easy way to make your date feel special. It’s intimate, and you can make it as simple or complex as you want.

4. Have a relaxing home spa

An at-home spa day picnic is perfect for a relaxing afternoon together. Enjoy some light snacks and relax with some soothing spa treatments.

Unique Outdoor Picnic Ideas

Outdoor picnics are a fun way to enjoy nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They also provide a perfect opportunity to bond with your partner and share special moments together.

Whether you want to go camping or stroll around the park, these are some unique outdoor activities and picnic date ideas for couples.

1. U-pick orchard

One option is to visit an orchard and pick fresh fruit together. Fruit picking is a fun way to spend an afternoon, and you can enjoy the fruits of your labor afterward while picnicking.

2. Bird watching

Another great idea is to go bird-watching at a local bird sanctuary. Watching birds creates a peaceful and relaxing date, and you may even see some beautiful birds up close.

3. S’mores over a campfire

S’mores are a classic camping treat and perfect for a picnic date! You need some chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers, and you’re good to go!

4. Attend a drive-in theatre

A drive-in theatre picnic is a great way to spend a summer evening. You can pack a simple dinner and enjoy a classic movie under the stars.

5. Bike ride

Riding to your favorite picnic spot will add to the enjoyment and excitement of the day. You can use a backpack-type picnic basket to transport the food. 

6. Rowboat

Some lakes or even larger ponds have cute row boats that you can hire for a few hours. Lay down a blanket and some pillows, and pack your favorite snacks and drinks. Then row out to the middle of the pond for a super romantic picnic surprise. 

7. Scenic drive

Many scenic drives will have picnic tables along the side of the road. Grab your picnic and head on to your favorite viewing spot or discover something new. There are always new romantic spots to discover.

Cheap Picnic Ideas For Couples

1. Visit a public or botanical garden

Many cities and towns have beautiful public gardens perfect for a romantic picnic. Admission is often free or inexpensive. These gardens often have areas with beautiful landscaping that make for an ideal backdrop for a romantic picnic. Access is usually free or affordable.

2. Watch a movie on a projector

Set up a projector at home and watch a romantic comedy movie. Grab some popcorn and a blanket, then sit back and enjoy a relaxing evening with your significant other at little to no cost.

3. Home picnic dinner

Transform your coffee table into a picnic set up with some wine and fresh flowers. A candlelit dinner while having an intimate conversation will help strengthen your relationship at a low cost. You can play soft music in the background to take things a notch higher.

4. Backyard picnic

If you have a backyard, you can create a romantic and comfy picnic spot at home.

5. Beach picnic

Grab some beach towels, snacks, and drinks, and head out to the beach. You can choose to simply relax or bring a bat and ball or frisbee for the perfect picnic date activity.

Breakfast Picnic Date Ideas

1. Buttermilk and Parmesan Drop Biscuits

You can cook some drop biscuits on an iron skillet to have with your date. Drop biscuits are easy to prepare. They are also suitable for both outdoor and indoor picnics. You can add parmesan cheese and chives to bring your tastebuds alive.

2. Dutch baby pancakes

Instead of cooking a plain dutch baby pancake, you can add a few things to take it a notch higher. You can add fresh fruit on top, caramel, or any syrup of your choice, and whip cream. You can make a few batches.

3. Cubano sandwich

Finger foods are easy to carry with you for a picnic date. A Cubano sandwich made with pickles, cheese, ham, and pork is easy to make and delicious.

4. Stuffed eggs

Eggs are a staple breakfast food for most homes. They are also great to have for picnic breakfast. Once you remove the egg yolk, you can stuff your eggs with chives, cheese, bacon, and mayonnaise. You get to have so many flavors in just one bite.

5. Smoothie

Smoothies are delicious, filling, and can be healthy too. Whether you enjoy a peanut butter smoothie to something more fruity, you can pre-blend your favorite smoothie and bring it along on the picnic.

Fall Picnic Date Ideas

1. Pick an appropriate spot

Set up your picnic at the appropriate spot. You can go a step further and pick a place with beautiful views, isolated and quiet.

2. Check the weather in advance

Fall weather can be unpredictable at times. Therefore, dress accordingly and layer up. Carry an extra blanket with you as well. Remember to pack hot beverages in a thermos to keep warm because of the chilly fall weather. Then check the weather updates beforehand to be on the safe side.

3. Pack your picnic essentials

The perfect fall picnic date includes a charcuterie board, a fruit basket, and a bottle of wine. You can make finger foods in advance and pack them in containers. Pack a trash bag for cleaning up afterward. Always leave a spot better than you found it.

4. Set up your picnic space

Make your picnic date extra special by setting up your picnic space. Spread out your cozy picnic blankets to sit on. Then lay out your drinks and snacks of choice.

5. Have a good time

Nature is usually more beautiful in the fall season. After setting up your awesome picnic area, you can enjoy nature and your picnic date. Feel free to read a book, lounge around, and have meaningful conversations while having a good time.

Check out these clever picnic hacks:

Beach Picnic Date Ideas

1. Pick a spot at the beach

You want to enjoy watching the waves crash at your beach picnic. A secluded area would be more appropriate for an intimate and quiet time with your date. Carry a large blanket with you and spread it out to create a sitting space.

2. Find the right time

Sunset or sunrise is one of the best times to have a beach picnic. At either time, you should get to your picnic site about an hour earlier to enjoy the ambiance.

3. Carry lots of fluids and fruits

You can pack water, fruit juice, and a bottle of wine in a cooling box to keep it chilled. Cut up some fruit, pack them in separate containers, and lay them out when serving. Add some flowers to set the mood.

4. Dress lightly

A flowy and light sundress is more fitting for a beach picnic. Wear comfortable shoes with the dress and bring a hat and sunglasses with you.

Picnic Date Outfits (What To Wear)

1. An oversized Tee with a Pair of shorts

T-shirts and shorts create a casual look. This outfit is most appropriate if you have your picnic during the summer and is comfortable. You can add a belt for detail and pair it with ankle boots or plain tennis shoes.

2. A Checked t-shirt and Overalls

This outfit is most suitable for cloudy or summer picnics alike. For fall, you can wear long overalls with a long-sleeved shirt. This combo is great when you have an outdoor picnic that requires you to be active. You can wear a colorful and playful t-shirt or a soft floral one per your taste.

3. Graphic t-shirt paired with ripped jeans

This a perfect picnic outfit that gives a laid-back impression. It is chic, edgy, and comfortable at the same time. You can tie a cardigan or flannel on your waste in case the weather gets chilly. Pair this outfit with high tops, and you will be set for your picnic date.

4. Midi dress with a cardigan

A midi dress with floral patterns creates a cute and romantic look. Pair it with a lightweight cardigan and a hat to make it classy. You can add a ribbon to your hat to give it an elegant look.

Related Picnic Questions

Is a picnic a good first date?

A picnic is ideal for a first date because it creates a great atmosphere for enjoying each other’s company. Watching a movie together over snacks, a glass of wine, and picnicking at the beach are some effortless ways to bond with your date without any awkwardness or tension.

How do you make a picnic more comfortable?

Pick a good spot with incredible scenery, find an activity you both love, and bring good food. Pack warm and cozy blankets for a comfortable place to sit and keep you warm when the weather gets chilly. A bottle of wine will do you some good too.

What are good finger foods?

While going for a picnic, it is best to pack finger foods since they do not require much preparation, are light to carry, and are less messy. Here are some suggestions:

• Club sandwiches
• Spring rolls
• Sausage rolls
• Hot dogs
• Cranberry brie bites
• Fruit
• Fruit skewers
• Mini quiches
• Popcorn
• Crisps
• Dips like hummus with carrots or celery sticks
• Cold meats
• Cheese
• Ciabatta
• Sushi
• Salad
• Biscuits
• Croissants
• Muffins
• Fudge
• Yogurt pots

Whichever option you choose, we’re sure that you will create an unforgettable picnic for you and your partner to enjoy.