No matter how many years it’s been, the same two questions come up every year before your anniversary, “What should we do?” and “Are we doing anniversary gifts this year?” Surprise your partner by having a plan for a romantic anniversary activity or getaway ready to go. Thinking of creative activities to do together can be half the fun, but when you’re stuck for ideas it can be a real challenge. First, think about whether you want a relaxing or adventurous experience, then decide if you’re staying local or heading off to a new destination. That will help you narrow it down.
For longer trips or to celebrate a milestone anniversary, you might be interested in sneaking off on a romantic getaway. As great as a fabulous vacation sounds, a staycation can be just as fun. Don’t forget a unique anniversary gift that your special someone will adore. Here are some ideas for fun places to go for your anniversary whether you plan to stay local or head somewhere new.
1. Stay At A Bed And Breakfast
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy the relaxation of a weekend getaway. Choose a nearby bed and breakfast to stay for just one night. Taking yourself out of your everyday routine will spice things up and give you time to focus on each other.
2. Picnic At The Park
If your anniversary is during the warmer months, pack a picnic and head to the local park for a romantic date. The best part is that it’s nearly free!
3. Relax At The Spa
Everyone could use a little R&R every once in a while. Find a local spa that does couples’ treatments like massages or even mani-pedis, and sit back and relax together.
4. Revisit Your First Date Spot
Whether it was dinner or drinks (or both!), recreate the magic of your first date for your anniversary. If you live together, spice things up by getting ready solo and meeting up at the location rather than driving there together.
5. Go Back To Your Wedding Venue
Visiting your wedding venue will take you right back to the place where it all began. Reminisce on the beginning of your life together and vow to continue making memories together for years to come.
6. Book A Site At A Campground
For a change of scenery, consider pitching a tent at a nearby campground. Glamping or not, this rustic adventure is perfect for outdoorsy couples looking to spend some quality time together.
7. Walk Around A Botanical Garden
Take in the pleasant sights and smells on a stroll through a local botanical garden. You’ll appreciate the beauty of the day (and your partner!).
8. Go On A Mini Road Trip
Have you always wanted to visit the small town close by, but haven’t gotten around to it? Make a day of exploring somewhere new together by going on a quick road trip.
9. Do A Brewery Tour
Most towns have a local brewery you can visit. Enjoy each other’s company while sipping some beers and touring the facility. You’ll learn something new and you might even be able to fill up your personalized growler with your favorite craft beer on tap.
10. Hit The Open Water
Whether it’s a lake or the ocean, if you’re fortunate enough to live near a body of water, head out to enjoy it together. Take kayaks for an adventurous date or rent a boat for a more leisurely time.
11. Take A Class Together
There are classes on all kinds of subjects like cooking, painting, canvas prints, and even dancing! Find a class that you’ll both enjoy. Learning something new together will strengthen your bond. If you love it, it might even become a new hobby.
12. Go To A Comedy Club
Research if any professional comedians are on tour in your area around your anniversary, or find (or perform at) an open mic and enjoy the local talent. A good show will put you both in a great mood and fill you with laughter.
13. See A Drive-In Movie
Movies are a classic date night activity, but for an even more romantic movie night out, head to the drive-in theater or find an outdoor movie night.
14. Attend A Sports Game
If the major leagues are too far away or out of your budget, local minor league games can be just as fun! Check out the sports seasons going on during your anniversary and attend a game.
15. Visit A Street Fair
Street fairs celebrate different foods and cultures from the area. Choose one that you’ll both enjoy like a wine and food festival or an art festival.
16. Go On A Hike In Nature
The great outdoors has so much to offer. Spend a day together, and off your cellphones, on a hike. Pack lunch and snacks for a midday break along the trail.
17. Go On A Coffee Date
If your anniversary is on a weekday, a quick coffee date might be all you can squeeze in. As a popular meeting spot for first dates, it might even spark that new relationship excitement between you.
18. Go Fishing
Head to the lake, sit back and relax and catch a few fish. You’ll have plenty of time between catches to chat and reminisce on the past year together.
19. Catch The Sunset
Is there anything more romantic than a sunset? Look up a local spot that’s best for viewing the sunset and once you’re there spread out a custom blanket or even just stay in your car to watch the sun go down.
20. Hit Up The Farmers Market
Come up with a meal you can make together and head to the local farmer’s market to find the ingredients. You’ll feel in touch with each other after the whole process of picking everything out and cooking the meal.
21. Go Ice Skating
For winter anniversaries, ice skating is the perfect activity. You can hold hands as you skate around and take breaks to drink hot cocoa and warm up. The challenge of staying on your own two feet will be enough to make you both laugh.
22. Participate In Trivia Night
Show off your smarts by being the dream team for trivia night. The chance to work together will make you stronger, and you can celebrate your victory afterward.
23. Play At The Batting Cages
Places with built-in activities always make great date night spots. If it’s been awhile since you’ve played any sports, the batting cages would be a fun and unique experience for you two.
24. Visit The Local Nursery
Browse the local nursery to see some gorgeous plants and maybe even find one to take home. You can use the plants or flowers you buy to decorate around the house.
25. Play Games
From arcades to mini-golf, there are tons of games you can play that aren’t too far from home. Hit a couple in one night to make it a friendly competition all night long. Loser buys the winner a drink!
With a little forethought and planning, you can have a romantic anniversary date that’s fun, cheap and special wherever you are. Break out of your usual routine and try something new every year to keep your love story interesting. Whatever you decide on, take some photos for Instagram or for a personal photo book with anniversary quotes and messages to document the experience. Pair your favorite photos with the perfect anniversary gift. You’ll love looking back on the memories for years to come.
