10 Outdoor Picnic Date Ideas: Shake Up Your Love Life with These Al Fresco Adventures

Picnics are a great picnic date ideas and fun and easy way to shake up your dating life. Who doesn’t love eating good food outside with your person? We’ve got some great picnic ideas below to make your next picnic date extra special.

A couple picnicking in a grassy meadow with a checkered blanket, wicker basket, and a spread of food and drinks. Surrounding trees and a clear blue sky complete the idyllic setting

Taking your date on a picnic is a great way to enjoy nature, food and each other without breaking the bank. It’s a chance to get creative and show your partner you care. From scenic spots to fun activities there’s heaps of ways to make your next romantic picnic date memorable.

Ready to go on an outdoor date? We’ve got 10 outdoor picnic food and date ideas that go beyond the usual. These will help you create a few picnic date food your partner will never forget. Let’s get started!

Quick Facts

  • Picnic dates are budget friendly

  • Being creative can turn a simple picnic into a romantic one

  • Choosing the right spot and activities will make your outdoor date extra special

The Scene

A sunny park with a checkered blanket spread out on the grass, surrounded by blooming flowers and a gentle breeze. A wicker basket filled with assorted fruits, sandwiches, and a bottle of wine sits in the center

A good picnic date starts with the right location and time. We’ll show you how to find the perfect spot and time for your outdoor adventure.

Finding the Perfect Spot

We love to try new places for our picnic dates! Parks are always a good choice but why not try something different?

Botanical gardens are a beautiful backdrop with flowers and winding paths. It’s like stepping into a fairytale!

For a beachy vibe we can’t resist a seaside picnic. The sound of the waves and salty air makes everything taste better.

If you’re feeling bold go for a hidden waterfall spot. It’s totally worth the walk!

Don’t forget about urban options too. A rooftop picnic gives you city views. And hey sometimes the best spot is in your own backyard. Cozy, convenient and zero travel time!

Timing is Everything

Choosing the right time can make or break your ideal picnic date ideas. We’re all about that golden hour magic!

Late afternoon to early evening is often perfect – not too hot and you might catch a sunset.

Morning picnics are under rated. They’re great for beating the crowds and fresh air. And breakfast picnics? So cute!

Check the weather forecast like a pro. A little breeze is nice but windy days can be a pain.

And while we love spontaneity, weekends at popular spots can get busy. A weekday picnic feels extra special and indulgent.

Remember timing isn’t just about the clock.

Consider special events like meteor showers or full moons for an extra touch of romance or romantic outing. Trust us it’s these little details that turn a simple picnic into a date to remember!

Picnic Baskets Unpacked

Now let’s talk about what to make picnic date food ideas to pack in our picnic baskets! We’ve got some delicious ideas to make your outdoor date extra special. From classic faves to grilled chicken to snacks that will wow your partner we’ve got you covered.

The Classic Picnic

Okay, let’s start with the basics! A classic picnic is all about the oldies but goodies.

Sandwiches, but make them fancy! We love using ciabatta bread and filling it with prosciutto, mozzarella and fresh basil. Yum!

Don’t forget to pack some crunchy veggies like carrot sticks and cherry tomatoes. They’re perfect for snacking while you chat.

And let’s not forget the fresh fruit!! Grapes and strawberries are our go-to’s – they’re easy to prepare and eat and so sweet.

For a little extra pizzazz throw in some cheese and crackers. It’s like a mini charcuterie board in your basket!

Snacks that will Wow

Now let’s talk about those snacks that will make your date go “Wow!” We’re all about impressing our partners with some delicious food serious treats.

How about homemade bruschetta? Pack pasta salad with a little container of diced tomatoes, garlic and basil then bring along some toasted baguette slices. Assemble on the spot for maximum freshness!

Chocolate covered strawberries are always a winner. Make them at home and pack carefully – they will sweeten up your date.

For a savory option try mini quiches or empanadas. They’re easy to eat and full of flavour.

And don’t forget something bubbly – sparkling cider or lemonade served in cute mason jars is a nice touch.

Get Cozy

A picnic blanket spread out under a shady tree, surrounded by baskets of food and drinks. A couple of cushions and a soft throw blanket add to the cozy atmosphere

Picnics aren’t just for sunny days! We’ve got some lovely ideas to snuggle up with your partner under the stars. Grab your comfiest blanket and get ready for some serious romance.

Snuggle up for Sunset

Imagine this: you and your partner, wrapped up in a fluffy picnic blanket, watching the sky turn all kinds of colours. Swoon! We’re talking major romance here, folks.

Pack some warm drinks in a thermos. Our faves are hot cocoa or spiced cider. Don’t forget some yummy snacks like cheese and crackers or chocolate covered strawberries. Mmm!

Find a spot with a great view. A hilltop or beach is ideal. Get there early to get the best spot.

As the sun goes down snuggle up and enjoy the show. It’s like nature’s own light show, just for the two of you!

Starry Night Cuddles

Once the sun’s gone to bed it’s time for some stargazing magic! We’re all about romantic picnic food ideas that will make your heart skip a beat.

Bring a star chart or download a stargazing app. It’s so much fun to spot constellations together!

Pack extra blankets – one to sit on and one to snuggle up in. We promise you’ll want to get cozy.

Don’t forget some twinkly lights or candles for that extra romantic glow. And music! A portable speaker with your fave slow jams will set the mood.

Lay back, point out shooting stars and whisper sweet nothings. It’s the perfect time to dream big about your future together. How adorable is that?

Picnic Fun and Games

A colorful picnic blanket spread out on green grass, surrounded by baskets of food, board games, and a frisbee. Sunshine and a light breeze create a cheerful atmosphere

Outdoor games can make your picnic or date night even more special. We’ve got some lovely ideas to get you laughing and having fun together in the great outdoors.

Competitive Fun

Let’s get competitive! Bocce ball is a classic that’s easy to learn and super fun. Just toss those colourful balls and see who can get closest to the target.

Want something more active? Frisbee is our go-to for getting a sweat up while showing off our skills.

For a twist on the traditional, try ring toss. It’s perfect for all levels and will bring out everyone’s inner child.

We love setting up colourful rings and targets – it’s insta-worthy and so much fun!

Low-Key Challenges

Not every board game just has to be high-energy. Card games are perfect for a lazy afternoon in the park.

Pack a deck and challenge your partner to a game of gin rummy or go fish. It’s a great way to chat and get to know each other better.

For a bit of romance, try a truth or dare game. Keep it light and fun – no pressure! It’s all about having laughs and maybe learning something new about your partner.

Got creative? Set up a mini treasure hunt around your picnic spot. Hide little treats or love notes for your partner to find. It’s sweet, surprising and will bring big smiles.

Creative Date Ideas

A couple picnicking in a sunny meadow with a checkered blanket, surrounded by wildflowers and a babbling brook. A basket of fresh fruit and sandwiches sits between them

Add some spice to your outdoor and indoor picnic and dates with these fun ideas! We’ve got ideas to serve food, get your heart racing and ways to chill out in nature.

Action Adventures

Let’s crank up the fun on your picnic date night! Pack a frisbee or ball and find a spot to play.

We love combining a picnic with kayaking for double the fun. Paddle to a secluded spot and then enjoy your meal with a water view.

For the adventurous, try a hiking picnic. Choose a trail with a lookout for your meal break. Don’t forget trail mix and plenty of water!

Dancing under the stars is magical. Bring a portable speaker and have an impromptu dance party after your picnic. It’s a great way to burn off those snacks!

Chill out

Sometimes we all need to slow down. Stargazing is perfect for a chill picnic.

Pack cozy blankets and download a star map app. See who can spot the constellations first!

Try a sunset yoga picnic. Bring mats and follow a beginner-friendly video on your phone. Stretch out those picnic-sitting muscles!

Wine tasting is fancy. Pack mini bottles of different wines and some fancy cheese.

Can’t get out? Do a virtual wine tasting in your backyard!

For ultimate relaxation, learn some basic massage techniques. Take turns giving each other shoulder rubs while enjoying the fresh air.

Seasonal Fun

Picnics are great any time of year! We’ve got some awesome ideas to make your outdoor dates extra special, no matter the weather. Let’s get into some fun activities for those hot summer days and chilly winter nights.

Summer Vibes

Beach days are perfect for summer and beach picnics! We love packing a cooler with snacks and cold drinks.

Unroll a big blanket and soak up the sun. Don’t forget sunscreen!

Swimming is a must on hot days. Jump in the waves or find a calm lake to cool off. It’s so good!

Building sandcastles is fun for all ages. Bring buckets and shovels and build your dream beach palace. Who can make the tallest tower?

For a change of pace, try apple picking in late summer. Many orchards let you pick your own fruit. It’s a sweet way to spend an afternoon together.

Winter Fun

Ice skating is a winter date classic. Hold hands as you glide around the rink. Don’t worry if you’re not pros – laughing at each other’s wobbly legs is part of the fun!

Hot cocoa picnics are so cozy and cute. Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and some warm blankets. Find a spot to watch the snow fall together.

Snowman building contests are fun! Divide into teams and see who can make the most creative snow person. Use sticks, rocks and anything else you can find for decorations.

Stargazing is magical on clear nights. Bring a star chart to find constellations. Cuddling up under the stars is so romantic!

Snap

A couple sits on a checkered blanket under a shady tree, surrounded by a spread of food and drinks. A gentle breeze rustles the leaves as they enjoy each other's company

Making memories is what picnic dates are all about. We’ve got some fun ideas to help you capture those moments and relive the magic later.

Snap

Who doesn’t love a photoshoot? Bring your camera or phone and get ready to take some cute pics.

We’re talking about more than just selfies here! Set up a mini backdrop with a pretty blanket or some balloons.

Bring some silly props like oversized sunglasses or fake mustaches for extra laughs.

Don’t forget to capture the little things too – your picnic spread, the view or even a close up of your hands together.

And hey, if you’re feeling brave, ask a passerby to take a few shots of you two together.

These will be perfect for social media or to print out and frame later.

Movie Night

Watching a movie under the stars? Yes, please!

We love this romantic picnic or date night ideas idea.

Bring a tablet or laptop and download a movie beforehand. Don’t forget some comfy pillows and a big blanket to snuggle under.

Choose a movie you both love or try something new.

Rom-coms, action movies or even a scary movie (perfect excuse to cuddle!) work great.

Pack some popcorn and your favorite empty movie theater snacks to complete the experience.

Pro tip: bring a portable charger so your device doesn’t die mid-movie.

It’s like your own personal outdoor cinema!

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