CRUSHES

So you and your crush are *so* over the basic dinner-and-a-movie routine. Time to level up with a niche night that totally fits your vibe. Whether you're bookworms, music obsessed or just a little weird (in the best way), here’s how to plan a date as unique as the two of you.

For the book lovers

@sasana.marinmai

Turn your fave bookstore into the backdrop of your own personal romcom. Each of you picks out a book you think the other would love (think something heartfelt or oddly specific).

Once you’ve made your selections, grab a table at a nearby café to swap books and explain why you chose them. You can even set a goal to finish the books by your next date and host your own mini book club for the perfect lowkey, high-connection hangout. 

For the music obsessed

@alexafadeleyamoia

Create personalized playlists for each other ("songs that remind me of you" or "our dream road trip soundtrack") and go on a scenic drive, blasting your songs and share why you picked each one. Sing at the top of your lungs—even if neither of you can sing, it's the effort that counts. You’ll laugh, bond and maybe even discover a new fave song. 

Want to go the extra mile? Stop by a vinyl shop and pick out a record of your fave track from the drive—the perfect keepsake to remember the vibes and replay the memories. Pure main character energy.

For the fashion icons

@ahvajanina

Check out a thrift store and make a game out of it. Set a budget ($25 or less) and a timer, then pick out the best (or wackiest) outfit for each other. Whether it's Y2K glam or casual cool, the only rule is to go all in. Bonus points for finding matching accessories or the most ridiculous hat in the store.

Once you've styled each other, hold a mini photoshoot outside . You can even challenge each other to incorporate one item into your actual wardrobe rotation. So. Much. Fun. 

For the theater kids

@carolinammboffe

Hit up an improv show or a student theater production. Before curtain call, quiz each other on Broadway trivia (winner gets dibs on picking the post-show dessert spot). 

If the show inspires you, on the car ride home talk about your dream roles, belt out a show tune or act out a monologue, extra drama encouraged. No shame in even shedding a fake tear. The world’s a stage—and so is your date night.

For the gamers

@thestreeteurope

Embrace your competitive side and go far arcade mode. From claw machines to old school pinball, battle it out for the ultimate bragging rights. Keep score as you go—whoever racks up the most wins gets to pick the next date activity. No sore losers allowed! Don’t forget the claw machine—winning a stuffed animal for your date is basically a love language. 

If you’re into something more cozy, do a game night at home with a console and all the snacks. Either way, it’s all fun and games...until someone loses at Mario Kart. 

For the foodies

@emmadyre

A DIY food crawl! Pick a theme (desserts, boba, tacos—you name it) and map out a few different spots, rating each one. Keep score in a shared Notes app and crown the ultimate winner at the end. In between bites, chat about your dream travel food spots or make a bucket list of dishes you want to try. (Hello, next date).

No matter what your niche is, the *best* dates aren’t about perfection—they’re about making core memories, laughing until your stomach hurts, and being unapologetically yourselves. So go get creative, and plan the date only you two could dream up.

Looking for more date ideas? We've got you covered:
🌹 9 out-of-the-box date ideas
🌹 Valentine's Day date ideas for a long-distance relationship
🌹 Winter date ideas that are ~actually~ fun

Feeling inspired by one of our niche date ideas? Tag us in your pics on IG @girlslifemag!

Slider image: @jillianavaa
Top image: @mckenziegirouard

by Maggie Zhang | 3/27/2025