Date Ideas That Are Not Just Grabbing Beers
Fun places and ideas for getting to know someone in Groningen.
Grabbing beers is fun and all (especially with the abundance of good bars in this city), but there is so much more to do here than you might realise. Doing an activity on your date naturally brings up conversation topics, easing some nerves. Especially if it’s something neither of you have tried before, which allows you to get to know the person in a different light. Check out this list to get inspired for your next date or even a friendly hangout.
Cool Cafes
Kattencafé Op z'n Kop
If your companion has no fur allergies (and a bonus if you both love cats), the cat cafe is a cute place with a warm ambience and lots of chill, furry friends. The cats are super friendly, so you have a high chance of scoring a pet, and the menu is definitely worth trying. Ps, people who are good with animals>> Keep in mind that the cafe requires a reservation, so make sure to book in advance!
Artsy Avenue
For all you creatives out there, this coffee spot offers a unique activity along with a great atmosphere. Choose a piece of pottery to paint and leave the date with a nice souvenir to remember it by. You don’t have to be good at painting, it is all about having a good time. Just make sure to check the website beforehand, as this activity is a little pricey depending on the ceramic you choose to paint.
Sporty Dates
JumpXL
Now, this might seem a little out there at first glance, but don’t judge before you try. This trampoline heaven will take you back to your childhood, and all the jumping around will completely mask your racing heart and red face. If you’re looking for something different to spice up the usual routine, a couple of tickets to attempt some backflips on a bouncy surface will make you feel like a stuntman. Doesn’t that seem like fun?
Bouldering
Bouldering is surprisingly popular in Groningen, which is lucky as there might be a good location reasonably close to where you live. Have you heard of the adrenaline attraction theory? Look it up. And if you’re both experienced rock climbers, try the Excalibur — the tallest climbing wall in the world while you have the chance. Nothing brings two people closer than hanging off a cliff.
Bowling
An oldie but goodie, plus bowling is technically a sport. It doesn’t matter if you are not very skilled as you can laugh it off, but if you can afford to show off then more props to you. Nothing like some friendly rivalry to spice things up, and you can arrange it so the loser pays for drinks afterwards. It’s all about being creative.
Budget Dates
You guessed it, Noorderplantsoen
There’s a reason why the parks are so packed the moment a sliver of the sun shows itself. It’s cheap, enjoyable and pretty romantic. Set up a blanket by the water, buy some snacks from a supermarket and spend hours chatting with your date until golden hour. Bring a card or board game for some extra fun!
Bike Trail
The Netherlands is THE country of bikes, with a lot of accessible and convenient bike paths. Why not take the time to explore a nice nature route or visit a nearby settlement you haven’t been to before? Adventure doesn’t have to be expensive. Pack your water, charge your phone and make use of the good weather for a relaxing ride. An added benefit is the peace and quiet you’ll feel the further away you cycle from the busy town.
This list is just a start, as there are so many more activities to try and places to visit. We hope it will inspire you to get creative and think outside the box for some quality time.