Sydney offers heaps of brilliant options for first dates that don’t involve the awkward dinner/movie routine. If you’re looking to spark romance, we have you covered with our nifty guide to the very best first dates in Sydney. Whether you’re after a sunset spot or a whole hidden beach to yourself, the harbour city has a slew of out-of-the-box first date ideas to help you up the romance.
1. Spark romance with a fun exploration game
Everyone has done the whole dinner and a date thing, if you want to leave a lasting impression you can’t beat working together to solve an adventure. CityDays Sydney Exploration Games provides you with all the tools for a thrilling night out with the chance to make fun memories together from the word go. Similar to an escape room but outdoors, you and your partner will receive clues on your phones which will take you around Sydney’s hidden corners, speakeasies and excellent pubs and bars — once you solve the clues and interact with the city to find the answer. No awkward conversation in sight, just a fun time together and the chance to get a glimpse into your date’s personality. Find the perfect first date activity here and get planning!
2. Head to an amusement park
For an evening packed with fun and laughs, head to an amusement park. The chances of getting bored are pretty slim and it’s a great way to show off your true personality. Plus you’ll get a chance to know your date better without the pressure of making small talk or looking your best.
Sydney’s iconic Luna Park offers unlimited rides and themed events throughout the year. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous try their main attractions — The Big Dipper and The Sledgehammer. You know what they say about fear bringing people closer together!
3. Watch the sun set from a rooftop bar
A bar in Sydney is sure to impress. Rooftop bars especially, offer a laidback ambience with creative drinks and views for days. Head to Lady Banks Rooftop Bar for a cosy night by a freestanding fireplace and sweeping views of the Blue Mountains or make your way to a super cool 80’s resort-style rooftop bar for some chill vibes and brews. For views over downtown Sydney, check out The Strand’s hip new rooftop bar and hotel.
Check out 15 of the very best rooftop bars in Sydney
4. Head to Golden Age Cinema & Bar for some old-world romance
Hidden away under the heritage-listed Paramount House building in Surry Hills, the Golden Age Cinema & Bar is a staple for film lovers in Sydney. It also makes for an exceptional first date spot owing to its charming architecture and intimate underground vibes. The Golden Age also screens fail-safe classics like Roman Holiday and Before Sunrise. Grab a cheese board to share and a cocktail or two to complete your evening. A movie is a great fuss-free date idea and doesn’t require a lot of conversation if you’re not big on small talk.
Check out what’s playing now and book your tickets before they sell out.
5. Laugh out loud at a comedy night
Taking your date to a comedy night is the perfect way to let loose and have some fun. It’s also the ideal way to gauge each other’s humour and get those endorphins flowing. Plus it won’t burn a hole in your pocket which is always a good thing.
Check out some of Sydney’s finest comedy clubs.
6. Find a gorgeous view for a picnic
A picnic makes for a cute first-date idea, especially if you’re in Sydney and spoilt with stunning views all around. Pack a basket and head over to The Observatory Hill for a bird’s eye view of the city or make your way to Wendy’s Secret Garden for a leafy spot all to yourself. If you want to get away from the city, take the ferry down to Cockatoo Island and make a day of it. The options are endless and the setting is bound to stimulate good conversations. Make sure you check the weather app before you head out though!
Check out our list of best picnic spots around the city.
7. Escape the crowds and head to a hidden beach
A beach day is an excellent first date especially when the weather is nice and balmy. Plus when your city offers some of the best beaches in the world, it only makes sense to take advantage of them. But you can take it up a notch and find yourself a secluded beach, hidden away from the city. A few to try: Chinamans Beach in Mosman, Milk Beach in Vaucluse, Reef Beach in Balgowlah and Shelly Beach in Manly.
Head to these gorgeous Sydney beaches for your first, second or hundredth date.
8. See art after-hours
Art galleries encourage both conversation and silence so you can talk as much or as little as you like without any pressure. They’re also brilliant places to explore and learn and if you’re an art enthusiast, they give you a chance to show off. Even better, they’re affordable and low-key.
You can switch things up a bit by heading to an art gallery after hours. Escape the crowds and head to the Australian Museum for free exhibitions, live music and a pop up bar or head down to the Powerhouse Museum for a mix of art and music related events.
9. Go stargazing in the Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains are always a great idea. Known for its soaring sandstone ridges and lush bushland, Sydney’s vicinity to the World Heritage Site makes it an ideal first-date idea especially if your date is down for some adventure.
With its expansive and dramatic scenery, gorgeous waterfalls, cosy villages and tons of laidback café’s, the Blue Mountains come with ample options for a memorable time. You could also embark on a starry night adventure and learn more about the universe with a guided tour.
SEE ALSO: The Secret Sydney Guide To The Blue Mountains
10. Get cosy at the Grounds of Alexandria
There are few places that guarantee a good time quite like The Grounds. With its carefully curated themes, the super Instagrammable spot can transport you to another time, be it in the streets of Marrakesh or a gorgeous hidden garden.
Grab a cuppa at The Cafe or enjoy a meal at The Potting Shed. Get your date some fresh blooms from The Grounds Florals By Silva or get up close and personal with the local animals at The Farm. The Grounds offers a creative, fun and slightly OTT first date which you won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Check out our guide on what to do, what to eat and what to see at The Grounds of Alexandria.
11. Sip cocktails in a hidden bar
Getting a drink is a popular date activity and for good reason. It takes the edge off and allows you to loosen up. It also doesn’t get much cosier than a hidden bar. Find a snug, warm space, unbeknownst to others and get to know your date better.
A few to try: The Baxter Inn for all the jazz and vintage vibes, Old Mate’s Place for a candlelit setting and Earl’s Juke Joint for a charming and laidback New Orleans-style atmosphere.