16 Amazing Solo Date Ideas, Because Self Love Is Key

Dating is part of life, but you don’t have to wait for someone else to enjoy all life has to offer. Whether you plan on staying single or taking a break from seeking a partner, here are five amazing solo date ideas to enjoy. 

What Is a Solo Date?

A solo date is exactly like a regular date, except you’re doing it alone. What’s the point of going on a date by yourself? Just like going on a date with romantic partner or a friend, a solo date allows you to get to know yourself.

It’s easy to get lost in the hustle of everyday life. When you have to go to work, run errands, take care of pets or kids, it can be hard to find time for youself.

Going on a solo date allows you to do something simply for yourself. You can pick your favorite activity, block out your schedule and learn to enjoy your own company.

Here are some solo date ideas to try this year.

Simple, Beginner-Friendly Solo Date Ideas

Going on your first solo outing can be nervewracking. These ideas are great to dip your toe in and get used to spending time by yourself in public.

1. Movie Night

A solo trip to the theater can be a great way to relax, unwind and treat yourself. Get the popcorn, your favorite candy and enjoy the show. The best part about taking yourself to the movies is that you can fully immerse yourself in the story without worrying about anyone with you. Plus, you don’t have to argue about which movie to see.

2. Go On a Shopping Spree

Shopping alone can be so much better than shopping with someone else. You can go at your own pace without feeling rushed to move on too quickly. To make your shopping day more interesting, find a different town to explore the shops. Going somewhere other than your normal mall can make it feel more exciting.

3. Take a Class

Taking a class is a perfect solo date opportunity, because it can help you learn more about yourself. Whether it be cooking, pottery or martial arts, learning a new skill can allow you to discover a passion you didn’t know you had. While you want to focus on yourself during a solo date, this can also be a chance to meet new people. Others taking the same class are likely to have similar interests as you.

4. Read in the Park

Reading is usually a solo, at-home activity, but you can make it more fun by taking it outside. Go to your local park, find a bench under a tree and dive into the story. You can take a break to people-watch between chapters and enjoy the fresh air.

Adventurous Solo Date Ideas

If you’re feeling bold, try one of these activities. While they might seem scary to do alone, the experience is sure to be worthwhile.

5. Attend a Concert

Have you ever passed on the chance to see your favorite singer live because you didn’t have anyone else to go with you? Most of us have probably been in that situation. But don’t be afraid to go to a concert by yourself, especially if it’s an artist you love. You won’t have to drag a non-fan along, you can sing and dance with no judgment, and you only have to worry about securing one ticket.  

6. Take a Vacation 

Taking a solo vacation can be a great experience. Life gets stressful, and sometimes you just need to get away for a little while. Take some time and go to your favorite spot for a few days of relaxation and fun. The best part about taking a trip on your own is you can do what you want when you want. Whether relaxing on the beach, exploring a new country or visiting a favorite theme park, enjoy the exhilaration of solo travel. 

7. Go for a Hike

Immerse yourself in nature by hitting up a local hiking trail. You can take the time to meditate, reflect on your day and journal surrounded by a beautiful landscape. As a woman, be sure to take appropriate safety measures when hiking alone. While it’s a great solo activity, you should still choose a popular trail where other people will be around and text someone where you’ll be before heading out.

8. Try a Martial Art

Not only will a martial arts class be a fun activity to do on your own, it can also help make you feel comfortable to be alone. If you ever do feel unsafe when taking your solo adventures, self defense skills will help put your mind at ease — though hopefully you’ll never need to use them.

Self Care Solo Date Ideas

Treat yourself to a self care solo date with one of these relaxing activities.

9. Visit a Spa

There’s no day like a spa day, and it’s the perfect way to engage in self-care on a solo date. Whether it’s a massage, a facial or a sauna, there are many ways to enjoy your day of pampering. Rest and relaxation are important for everyone, and treating your body and mind with the spa experience is a fantastic gift to give yourself. 

10. Hit the Nail Salon

While a manicure can be part of your full spa day, it can also be a quick, fun treat you can indulge in any time. Pick a bold color or a cute design to treat yourself to the max. Getting a manicure can also be a good opportunity for small talk if you’re craving a bit of social interaction.

11. Have a Pool Day

Whether you have a pool in your apartment complex or you get a day pass for a local public pool, this is a perfect way to spend a summer day. You can swim some laps, lounge with a book and enjoy some vitamin D. Pack a pool bag with your favorite snacks, a cold drink and sunscreen to ensure you get a healthy tan.

12. Attend a Yoga Class

Yoga is one of the best ways to unwind and take care of both your mental and physical health. If you’re new to yoga, book a one-time class to get a feel for it. It may even turn into a regular hobby if you fall in love with it.

Local Solo Date Ideas

Explore new places in your own city for a fun solo day.

13. Eat Out at a Restaurant

Is there a new restaurant in town that you haven’t gotten to try yet? Enjoying your favorite eats by yourself is an excellent treat. You can have some peace while being in a fun place and not having to cook. When you go out to eat solo, you can take as much or little time as you desire, and you don’t need to worry about who’s picking up the tab. 

14. Go to a Museum or Tourist Attraction

Even if you’ve lived somewhere your whole life, you can always visit the local museums and attractions. Pretend you’re a tourist and learn about the history and culture in your town. These activities are great to do alone, because you can go at your own pace. There’s nothing worse than trying to enjoy a museum when someone is rushing you.

15. Do a Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt can be a great way to get to know a place if you’re new in town. Research your town to see if a tourism bureau already has a scavenger hunt guide to your city, or put one together yourself by looking up popular sites to see. You can also find a generic hunt that can be completed anywhere with tasks like, “Take a picture in front of the oldest building.”

16. Rent a Bike

If your city has bike rentals, pick one up for the day and ride around town. It’s a great way to get familiar with the streets and neighborhoods, while getting your daily exercise. You never know what hidden gems you might discover along the way.

Taking Yourself On a Solo Date

A solo date is an excellent way to treat yourself to an experience like no other. You can get to know yourself better by exploring the things you want to do without someone else’s influence. 

Whether you’re single or just need some alone time, these solo date ideas are a great way to enjoy any time.

Originally Published 3/27/2024 – Updated 7/19/2025