50 Self-Date Ideas That You Need to Try Right Now

Take yourself on a date with these 50 cheap solo date ideas

Just like we go on dates with other people to get to know them better, we should go on solo dates to get to know ourselves better. That’s what this post is all about.

What are the benefits of going on solo dates?

Going on solo dates has several advantages, including:

Relaxation. Spending time alone can be relaxing, allowing you to recharge and de-stress.

Self-discovery. Spending time alone allows you to concentrate on yourself and your own needs, which can help you learn more about who you are and what you want out of life.

Building confidence. Going on solo dates can help you gain confidence in yourself by letting you know that you’re comfortable being alone and that you can enjoy your own company.

Reflection. Spending time on your own can provide you with the time and space to reflect on your life and your goals, allowing you to gain a better understanding of yourself and your goals.

Increased independence. Going on self-dates can help you develop a sense of independence and self-reliance, both of which can be empowering and confidence-boosting.

Flexibility. When you go on a solo date, you have the freedom to plan and do whatever you want without regard for anyone else’s preferences or schedule.

So, if you’re looking for self-date ideas to go on a self-date, keep reading!

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you click on a link and purchase something I recommend, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Now I’m going to show you some really good date-yourself ideas

1. Cook on your own

Cooking something, whether it’s something new or your favorite recipe, is a good way to spend quality time while having fun by yourself. You don’t have to be a master chef or cook a three-course meal.

And if you don’t feel like doing anything major, you can just bake some cookies or even make a delicious smoothie. If you don’t know where to start, get yourself a good and easy cookbook like this one, or go online to browse through various recipes.

2. Take a cooking class

If you want to level up your cooking game, you can take a cooking class. It’s a good way to learn some new recipes and techniques. There are a lot of different programs and classes depending on where you live, so you can always do a Google search for “cooking classes near me”.

Another option, and it’s a very good one to consider, is taking an online cooking class. Have you ever heard of a site called MasterClass? They offer various online courses for students of all skill levels, and their instructors are the absolute best in the world.

3. Have a coffee date with a book

Are you a bookworm? Great, me too. Before going to the library or bookstore, check to see if you have any interesting books on your bookshelf. We often buy or borrow new books without going through the ones we already have first.

If you don’t have any books that interest you, you can always go to the library and borrow some really good books.

If you feel like buying yourself a book as a treat, go to a bookstore and take your time looking at what they offer. I really love the smell of bookstores and libraries, so I try to really enjoy these environments as much as possible.

Once you’ve selected a book or two, buy them. However, if you want to make it a little bit more interesting, be impulsive and buy the first book that catches your eye.

So, what’s next? Some bookstores have a cafe in or next to them where you can enjoy your fresh book and treat yourself to a nice cup of coffee.

However, if that’s not the case, you can just go to your favorite cafe. Or you can even order some takeout coffee, go to a nearby park, sit under a tree, and read.

By reading a book, you’re mentally challenging yourself, and by surrounding yourself with nature, you’re recharging your batteries at the same time.

4. Have a spa day

This is among some very classical solo date night ideas. Have you ever been to a spa? Check if you have any affordable, cozy spas near you, and book a visit. There’s nothing more soothing than spending a relaxing day on your own.

If you feel like having a spa day is too expensive (and I get it), you can always go to a masseur (fun tip: massages from students are usually much cheaper). Or you can even have your own spa day at home.

Take a bubble bath (here are my favorite bath bombs), and put on a nourishing face mask (this one really works). In fact, that’s my favorite thing to do when I want to date myself.

Make sure to light your favorite candle (here’s the best-smelling candle in the world) and take your essential oil diffuser and enjoy this nice, soothing atmosphere you’ve created for yourself. After taking a bubble bath, put on some relaxing music, and just unwind.

5. Go to the movies or bring the movies to you

This is one of those things to do on a Saturday night alone. You can either go to the movies or watch something at home.

If you decide to go to the cinema on your own, order whatever you want, sit wherever you want, and watch whatever you want. If you want to have a movie date at home, buy your favorite snacks and watch either something you’ve always wanted to watch or something you really like.

The important thing is that you can watch whatever you want because these self-date night ideas are all about focusing on yourself. Another entertaining idea I once saw was to watch 90s classics like Terminator, The Matrix, Jurassic Park, or Fight Club.

6. Have a self-care date night

How can you love someone else if you don’t love yourself first? Have a date night with yourself by really focusing on self-care. We all need a self-care day every once in a while.

To prepare for a self-care day, take a whole day off and make a list of all the activities that you truly enjoy. Take care of your responsibilities beforehand so that you won’t have to worry about them when you’re unwinding.

What you can do on a date with yourself:

1. Take a soothing bath by candlelight. Have some snacks, listen to relaxing music, and enjoy the soothing benefits of water.
2. Do a facial treatment and read something educational while waiting for your face mask to dry.
3. Get a manicure and a pedicure at a salon, or if you don’t like strangers touching your feet, try to give yourself a manicure and a pedicure. Here’s an affordable manicure set you can use to do your own nails.

Fun tip: I really like monthly self-care subscription boxes.

My favorite ones are this TheraBox’s self-care subscription box that’s full of 6–8 full-sized products; that COCOTIQUE’s subscription box that’s curated especially for YOUR specific beauty concerns; and this Feeling Fab monthly subscription box that usually consists of 6–8 natural products, healing crystals, candles, and gemstone jewelry.

7. Sign up for a class

Signing up for a class, whether it’s an art class, a fitness class, or a cooking class, is one of the most interesting self-date ideas. I mean, who says you need a partner to dance and actually enjoy it?

Signing up for a class full of strangers is also a great way to make new friends who share your interests. I’m really interested in taking a dance class and a cooking class. What classes would you sign up for?

8. Travel somewhere

We all know that traveling heals our souls. There’s a saying that you’ll only regret the trips you don’t take. You don’t have to leave your country for a month. Even taking a day trip somewhere has a huge positive impact on your mental health.

It happens quite often that we feel stuck, so changing your environment can help you clear your mind and reset your energy. The key here is to get out of your comfort zone and just take that trip you’ve been wanting to take for a while.

9. Go for a drive

Create a good playlist of your favorite songs and pick a destination you’ve always wanted to visit. It doesn’t have to be far. What matters is that you’re having a nice date night with yourself.

Roll down the windows and sing along to your favorite songs. Did you know that listening to music you enjoy releases dopamine? What a good way to boost your mood, for sure!

10. Be a tourist in your own city or country

Spend the day exploring your city or country. There are multiple ways to do that. You can either ride around on a tour bus, just walk around the neighborhood, or even fly to the other side of the country.

When you’re taking a stroll in your neighborhood, try to really focus on your surroundings. Look around and be grateful for all the beautiful things we have in the world.

Cities are full of different people, different cultures, and different things to do. Whether you’re in your hometown or somewhere far away, there is always something new to see and explore.

When you’re visiting a new city or even just walking around in a neighborhood that you’re not familiar with, make sure that you’re aware of your surroundings and stay as safe as possible.

11. Take photos while taking yourself on a date

Who doesn’t love taking photos, right? Taking photos simply means capturing memories. So, there are multiple ways to take photos and explore your creativity while doing so. I personally use the Nikon D5600 DSLR camera, which is perfect for beginners.

Let’s start with the simplest things. You can just have a selfie photo shoot with yourself. If you’re on Instagram, you probably always need new content, so why not work on that?

I really recommend this very affordable bendable selfie tripod with a wireless remote that will help you level up your social media game. A tripod is a great invention because, this way, you don’t need other people to take great photos of yourself.

Another option is to go for a walk and capture whatever catches your attention. You can just walk around without a specific destination in mind, pick a certain street and walk down it, or go to an area you’ve never been to.

12. Eat by yourself or get takeout

You don’t need other people to have a lunch date, right? If you feel uncomfortable eating alone, you can always order takeout. Self-care date ideas are all about spending time on your own.

Here are some fun ideas:

1. Go to a bakery and treat yourself to some donuts, muffins, or cookies.
2. Go to a coffee shop with your laptop. Order your favorite drink (or try something new!) and work on some projects you’ve been wanting to work on for a while now.
3. Go to an ice cream parlor and get some delicious ice cream.
4. You can even choose to go to a restaurant or café that has recently opened and check it out.
5. Support small (local) restaurants during this difficult time.

13. Go to a museum or art gallery

A lot of people think museums are boring, but nowadays, there are so many different museums for every taste that there is something for everyone.

You can do a Google search, and you’ll certainly find at least one museum that catches your attention. A lot of them also offer audio tours, which is a great option if you want to be 100% on your own.

If you still feel like museums aren’t your thing, we also have art galleries. Art galleries let you explore your creative side, and they also inspire you. Connecting with art is truly healing.

14. Have a creative date night

Creativity means different things to everyone. One of my favorite solo date night ideas is to get creative. I really like art because it lets me express my feelings in a non-verbal way.

Ideas for when you want to take yourself on dates that are creative:

1. Go on Pinterest and find a cool DIY project to work on. Or you can do the opposite and work on a really silly DIY project. The main idea is to work on your creativity.
2. Scrapbooking. If you haven’t tried it, I really suggest you do.
3. Create a vision board. I’m a huge believer in visualizing and manifesting, so creating a vision board is certainly one of those really good ideas for solo dates.
4. Record your own song or do a cover. Don’t worry if you can’t really sing. You’re doing it for fun!
5. Make candles or soaps. I really like this idea because it’s both fun and practical.
6. Follow a Bob Ross tutorial. If you don’t know who Bob Ross is, you’re missing out on so many things. You don’t have to be an artist to express yourself on a canvas. Remember, we’re all about fun here.

15. Attend a concert

Get a ticket to a concert by a local artist. I’m sure there are a lot of local artists you’re not even aware of who make really great music. There’s a huge difference between hearing a band play live and listening to their music on Spotify.

If you feel like going to a concert is way too far out of your comfort zone or you’re just not into it, you can always go to a play or musical instead. Do something that you really enjoy.

16. Enjoy the sunrise or the sunset

I’m blessed to live quite close to the sea, so I can enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets every day and night if I want to. But you don’t have to live near the sea to enjoy the magical view the sun offers.

Think of where you can see the sunrise or sunset, and just go there. You can just reflect on your day or your life while enjoying the benefits of the sun. Trust me, it’s a great way to start or end your day on a very positive note.

17. As part of your self-date, do some self-reflection

Self-reflection is a really important part of personal growth. You can meditate, practice powerful affirmations, or just journal for self-discovery. Sitting in silence and writing down your feelings helps dramatically relieve stress.

You can practice gratitude by naming the things you’re thankful for. You can even write thank-you notes to people in your life. What I also really like is daydreaming and planning my future. Planning your future gives you clarity and something to look forward to.

You might also like The Self Care Prescription which helps improve your well-being every day with solutions-based self-care strategies that work.

18. Have a game night

When we talk about interesting self-date ideas at home, most of you probably don’t think about game nights. But let me tell you, there are quite a few ways to have a game night on your own as well.

1. You can do sudokus, crosswords, or KenKens.
2. You can play PC games such as The Sims.
3. You can do a jigsaw puzzle.

19. Go on an active date

Going on an active date, just like the name says, means doing something active. Moving your body boosts your serotonin levels and therefore improves your mood.

An active date can be a solo date as well. The first active solo date idea that comes to mind is riding your bike. Put on some workout clothes, take your bike, and start pedaling.

If you don’t own a bicycle or don’t want to rent one, you can go on a hike. Or go jogging. Or rollerskating. Or try yoga. The options for those kinds of self-love date ideas are endless.

20. Take a day off from work

You can’t give it 100% if you’re running on empty. If you want to prevent burnout, taking a break every now and then is crucial.

If it’s possible, take a day off from work and have this one day where you schedule absolutely nothing and do whatever you want. Take a break from social media and technology and do something that nourishes your mind.

21. Have a shopping day

This is among some very good solo date night ideas. There are two ways to have a shopping day: you can either physically go to the stores or do some online shopping.

Don’t just buy things for the sake of buying them or just because they’re on sale. Buy things you’ve been wanting to buy for a while. Buy things that make you feel and look good.

When we talk about shopping, I always prefer thrift stores. First of all, with thrift stores, you never know what you could find. Thrift stores are full of unique clothes that no one else wears. Plus the cost! I really don’t like spending too much money on clothes.

22. Spring clean

I love cleaning and organizing so much. There’s a saying that a tidy house is a tidy mind. Besides the usual cleaning, go through your wardrobe and donate or sell clothes you don’t use or don’t really need. Don’t just throw them away.

23. Try something new

Trying something new or something you’ve wanted to try for a long time is a great way to have a date night with yourself.

What do YOU want to do? You can try something extreme, such as bungee jumping or skydiving, or just sign up for this dance class you’ve been wanting to take but didn’t have the courage to do so.

24. Take some internet tests

Who would’ve guessed that taking internet tests is one of those things to do on a Saturday night alone? But let’s be honest, internet tests are fun.

You can take a personality test, find out what type of pizza you are, or even take a typing test (this one is really fun!).

25. Garden or plant something

You can order some cute plant pots and create a mini garden. I’ve been wanting to grow herbs and use them to cook dinner, so I’ll certainly do it soon.

26. Get to know yourself

Getting to know yourself is quite similar to self-reflection. We go on dates with other people to get to know them better, so on a solo date, you’re getting to know yourself better.

You can take various personality tests, or you can just ask yourself a bunch of questions and journal the answers. Here’s a great list of questions you can use to get to know yourself.

Another great idea that I really like is writing yourself a love letter. Show yourself some self-love by listing everything you love about yourself. You can look back on this love letter on those days when you’re feeling down. 

I also really like these self-care cards that include effective exercises for mindfulness, meditation, anxiety relief, stress management, self-care, and relaxation.

27. Experiment with makeup

So, I love makeup, but to be honest, I don’t know how to use it properly. I almost never have enough time to watch some tutorials and experiment with makeup, so for me, that’s certainly one of those things to do on a Saturday night alone.

28. Work through your to-do list

I’m all about productivity and time management. Sit down and start working on your to-do list.

It might not seem like one of those great solo date night ideas I’ve mentioned previously, but trust me, there’s something really rewarding about finally sorting through your e-mails and getting your life in order.

29. Start an Instagram, TikTok, or Youtube account about something you’re passionate about

This is one of those really awesome self-date ideas because, remember, we’re all about creativity. I recently jumped on the TikTok bandwagon, and I’m amazed by how many creative people we have. Find something that you’re really passionate about, and just start that account!

30. Learn more about topics that interest you

I’m all about creativity and fun, but I also really love learning. Take some time to read about a topic that you’re interested in and really focus on it. If you’re not interested in reading, you can always listen to podcasts or watch YouTube videos. Remember, the more you know, the better.

31. Google “fun things to do near me”

If you’re looking for self-date ideas, you can always Google a particular topic or activity. Just type into Google “fun things to do near me,” and you’ll be presented with various activities you can do in your area.

32. Volunteer at a soup kitchen or shelter

I know it sounds a bit selfish, but giving back is one of the greatest ways to boost your mood. Seeing the world from other people’s perspectives really puts things into perspective for you. We have so much to be grateful for, yet we don’t often realize that.

Yes, you can donate money or your belongings (such as clothes), but you can also donate your time, which is even more valuable in my opinion. Volunteer at an animal shelter, a soup kitchen, or a homeless shelter.

33. Go to a flower shop and buy yourself flowers

You don’t need to wait for a special occasion or for a special person to buy yourself flowers. Treat yourself the way you want to be treated, and the rest will take care of itself.

34. Do some taste testing at home

Do you know how there are different monthly food subscription boxes? You can order these subscriptions and have an at-home taste-testing night every month.

The ones I really like are this healthy snack subscription box (super affordable), this Korean snack box (what a bargain!), and this authentic Japanese snack & candy subscription (up to 20–25 premium snacks there!).

35. Attend virtual events 

Virtual events are the latest trend. There are so many online events you can attend. You can visit different museums, attend concerts, plays, workshops, lectures, and so on.

My favorite ones are the virtual museums. Check your favorite museums’ web pages to see if they offer a virtual tour.

36. To take yourself out on a date, go for a walk on the beach

When I was younger, I lived very far from the sea. After moving to another town, I got the opportunity to visit the sea every day if I wanted to.

Walking on the beach on your own is among some really great solo date night ideas because spending some time on your own to enjoy the beauty of nature is a bulletproof way to boost your mood and calm your mind.

37. Picnic

Go to a park for a solo picnic. You can either pack your own lunch or purchase food from a grocery store, cafe, or restaurant. Just pick a tree to have your picnic beneath, or sit on a bench if that’s more comfortable. You can also read a book or listen to music while having your solo picnic.

38. Have a date full of your favorite activities/things

This is one of the best solo date ideas because you’re doing all your favorite things. When planning this date, ask yourself the following questions: What do you love to eat? What do you love to do? Where do you love to spend your time?

Is pizza your favorite food? Treat yourself to a big pizza. Do you like drinking coffee? Order your favorite hot beverage and find a cozy place to enjoy it. Do you love going to the cinema? Then go! Do only those things that you truly enjoy.

39. Take a scenic train ride

Embark on a solo adventure by hopping on a scenic train ride. Sit back, relax, and enjoy breathtaking views as the train chugs through picturesque landscapes.

Whether it’s a coastal route or a journey through mountains, the rhythmic sound of the train and the changing scenery will create a peaceful and mesmerizing experience.

40. Learn new recipes and cooking techniques

Have fun while sharpening your culinary skills! Sign up for a cooking class where you can learn to make delicious dishes from expert chefs. Try your hand at new recipes, master useful cooking techniques, and maybe even meet other food enthusiasts.

It’s a great way to expand your cooking repertoire and impress yourself with your newfound kitchen expertise.

41. Try a yoga or meditation class to relax and stretch your body

Take some time for self-care and find your inner calm. Attend a yoga or meditation class where you can learn simple exercises to relax your mind and stretch your body gently.

It’s a fantastic way to reduce stress, improve flexibility, and find a sense of peace within yourself. Breathe deeply, let go of any tension, and embrace the peace.

42. Visit a local market to choose fresh ingredients for a delicious meal

Explore a vibrant farmers’ market filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and other fresh goodies. Take your time to wander through the stalls, chat with local farmers, and select the finest ingredients for a home-cooked feast.

Supporting local businesses and enjoying wholesome, flavorful ingredients will make your solo dining experience even more special.

43. Create pottery or paint a picture in a fun art class

Unleash your creativity and discover the joy of artistic expression. Enroll in a pottery or painting class where you can learn to mold clay or wield a brush like a true artist.

Let your imagination run wild as you create something beautiful with your own hands. It’s a chance to explore your artistic side and bring your unique vision to life.

44. Spend time in a park or garden and discover plants and flowers

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at a nearby park or botanical garden. Take leisurely walks among stunning flowers, lush trees, and fragrant herbs. Learn about different plant species, breathe in their delightful scents, and feel a sense of peace and serenity in their presence.

It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the wonders of the plant kingdom.

45. Learn about historical places or important landmarks near you

Step back in time and uncover the stories of your local history. Visit nearby historical sites or landmarks to learn about their significance and the people who shaped them. Explore museums, read plaques, and take guided tours to deepen your understanding of the past.

It’s an opportunity to connect with your community’s heritage and gain a newfound appreciation for the place you call home.

46. Go stargazing

Find a quiet spot away from city lights, lay out a blanket, and spend an evening gazing at the stars. Observe constellations, marvel at shooting stars, and let your mind wander as you contemplate the vastness of the universe.

Bring a star chart or a stargazing app to help identify different celestial objects. It’s a serene and awe-inspiring solo date that connects you to the wonders of the cosmos.

47. Learn a musical instrument

Unleash your inner musician by learning to play a musical instrument. Whether it’s a guitar, piano, ukulele, or any other instrument that sparks your interest, find online tutorials or beginner’s guides to get started.

Practice at your own pace, learn simple melodies, and let the music transport you to a world of self-expression and creativity. It’s a fulfilling and enriching experience that allows you to connect with the power of music.

48. Write a letter to your future self

Take some time to reflect on your dreams, goals, and aspirations. Sit down with a pen and paper and write a heartfelt letter to your future self. Share your hopes, dreams, and intentions, and express the person you aspire to become.

Seal the letter in an envelope and store it away. It’s a powerful and introspective self-date idea that allows you to envision your future and set intentions for personal growth.

49. Create a vision board

Tap into your creative side and manifest your dreams and goals through a vision board. Collect magazines, newspapers, or printouts of images and words that represent your desires, aspirations, and inspirations. Arrange them on a board or poster, creating a collage of your dreams.

Display it somewhere you can see it every day, and let it serve as a visual reminder of the life you envision for yourself. It’s a fun and visual way to clarify your goals and stay motivated on your journey to self-discovery and achievement.

50. Attend a sound bath or meditation workshop

Immerse yourself in the healing power of sound by attending a sound bath or meditation workshop. Allow the soothing vibrations of Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, or other instruments to wash over you and induce a deep state of relaxation.

Explore different meditation techniques, practice mindfulness, and let go of stress and tension. It’s a unique and introspective solo date idea that promotes inner peace and harmony.

That was my list of 50 self-date ideas that are pretty cool

That’s it for my list of self-care date ideas. Tell me, what are your favorite things to do on a Saturday night alone? Do you go on dates with yourself? I would love to know!