35 Heartwarming Anniversary Date Ideas

Coming up with some clever anniversary date ideas should not be a stressful time. Instead, you should look forward to spending your special day with the one you love by having fun doing something that you will both enjoy. There are plenty of options to choose from, whether it is a new experience or something familiar. 

There is no one correct way to have an anniversary date night. After all, as the American Historical Association mentions, anniversaries are never just about the past. They are also about the present and often the future. This means that anniversary date ideas can celebrate a range of things, from re-creating a past date night to enjoying an activity based on your current interests or future plans.

If you still need some inspiration for your upcoming celebration together, here are 35 refreshing and heartwarming anniversary date ideas that can make your special day stand out for years to come.

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• Foodie Anniversary Date Ideas
• Anniversary Date Night Ideas
• Fun and Artsy Anniversary Date Ideas
• Relaxing Anniversary Date Ideas
• Adventurous Anniversary Date Ideas

Foodie Anniversary Date Ideas

1. Enjoy a Cooking Class

Indulging in scrumptious cuisine is a fantastic way to connect on a deeper level with someone you love, especially when you both take the time to create the meal from scratch. This makes chef-led cooking classes near you an especially great anniversary date idea. 

You and your significant other can select a cuisine that either you both adore or have never sampled before. Learn valuable tips and techniques in the kitchen so that you can prepare the perfect meal for anniversaries in the future. From cooking classes in Boston to cooking classes in Denver or any other city in the U.S. and beyond, you’re sure to find the ideal experience in your local area.

2. Explore Online Cooking and Mixology Classes

If you love the idea of integrating food into your anniversary date ideas but want to hang back at home, there’s good news: You can learn expert culinary and mixology tips right from your own kitchen.

Online cooking classes let you tune in to live, interactive virtual classes led by professional chefs from all over the world. Ready to pair your gourmet creation with an award-worthy cocktail? Online mixology classes taught by talented bartenders and mixologists will have you stirring, shaking and pouring like a pro.

3. Book an Intimate Private Chef Experience 

Take the chaos out of cooking an anniversary dinner and avoid busy restaurants with a gourmet private chef experience. Private chefs come straight to you with all of the equipment and ingredients necessary to prepare a five-star meal. 

To make it the best anniversary date idea, simply choose your favorite menu (or surprise your sweetheart with the best foodie gift card for any taste or inclination and let them pick their favorite), book and your chef will handle the rest — even the post-meal clean-up.

There are private chefs in San Francisco and beyond. For one of the most unforgettable anniversary date ideas, find a private chef near you today.

4.  Plan a Private Virtual Wine Tasting at Home

Sometimes, simple anniversary date ideas are the best! Bring the concept of a sophisticated tasting event into your own kitchen with virtual wine tastings. Get dressed in your comfiest clothes and join a live, fully interactive wine tasting class led by five-star chefs and sommeliers. 

While you sip and sample different varieties, your host will also teach you how to pair your wine with a spread of appetizers, charcuterie, tapas and any other accompaniments you both love. It’s a romantic and educational anniversary date idea perfect for wine-loving couples.

5. Explore the City on a Local Food Tour

If your idea of a fun anniversary date idea is exploring your city to uncover hidden gems and the best local bites, a walking food tour is for you. Follow a tour guide through restaurants, markets, shops and local landmarks for a leisurely experience gift that will fill you both with inspiration and appreciation of the culinary arts.

You’ll find walking food tours in San Francisco and other locations. Find a food tour near you today and enjoy a flavorful and fun anniversary date idea.

6. Try Flavors Abroad With an International Food Tour

Some anniversaries deserve an extra special event to do them justice, and for the foodie couple who prefer their international cuisine as authentic as possible, few anniversary date ideas are as sublime as a food-focused excursion abroad.

An international food tour allows the two of you to put decision-making, navigation and translation in the hands of an expert local guide so you can focus on what matters most: watching each other experience the sights, sounds, aromas and flavors of cuisine in its homeland. For couples seeking unforgettable wedding anniversary ideas, this adventure is the perfect blend of culture, cuisine and connection.

With food tours in Paris, savor the taste of iconic neighborhoods such as Le Marais, Les Halles and Montmartre. A food tour in Hanoi could bring you right into the wet markets and street food scene of Vietnam’s vibrant capital, while food tours in Bangkok are an equal delight to the senses as you explore bustling floating markets and local culinary haunts.

7. Take a Brewery Tour

If you and your partner are craft beer and spirit enthusiasts, the perfect anniversary date idea for you is a brewery tour! Visit your favorite brewery or one that you have been wanting to sample together for some time. 

For fun and expertly guided experience, consider booking with City Brew Tours, which offers all-inclusive craft beer tours in cities across the U.S. These tours take care of the transportation and tastings, making it a cool anniversary date idea for beer-loving couples looking to explore new brews and local scenes together.

8. Dine at a Restaurant You Have Always Wanted to Try

Anniversaries are the time to go above and beyond, so think about the culinary hot spots or warm and cozy restaurants you and your significant other have always dreamed about going to. It's time to finally book a reservation for a romantic anniversary date idea. 

If the eatery is a little pricier than your typical date night outings, put a little back from your coffee or take-out fund for a few weeks and make the evening happen. Your palates will be thrilled with a little luxury. 

For elevated marriage anniversary ideas, consider booking a table at one of the best Michelin-star restaurants in the USA for an unforgettable culinary journey. Or, if you’re ready to truly splurge, check out the most expensive restaurant in the U.S. for an exclusive and indulgent dining experience you’ll remember for years to come.

9. Cook a Dish Together That You've Always Wanted to Try

Similar to the restaurant option, another great anniversary idea is to get together in the kitchen and use your power-couple teamwork skills to prepare the food you've always wanted to try. Whether it's Korean tofu soup, a hands-on look at how to make gravy from scratch or this fun Italian gnocchi, the possibilities are endless. It’s one of the most rewarding stay-home date ideas for couples who love cooking and creating together.

10. Dine in the Dark

Dark dining, or blind dining, is both a culinary and human experience unlike any other. Among anniversary ideas, this one is truly simple: You dine blindfolded. The effect on your senses — both gastronomic and otherwise — is far less simple.

Without sight to inform the dining experience, the tastebuds work overtime, becoming extra curious and sensitive, leading you through a culinary journey far deeper than any guided by the eyes. Opening yourselves up to such a sensory experience together, not to mention a moment of vulnerability, is the perfect anniversary date idea. 

For couples looking to try this immersive concept, Dining in the Dark offers events in cities across the U.S., turning this unique culinary adventure into one of the most unforgettable things to do for an anniversary.

11. Book a Dinner Cruise

For a dreamy, classy anniversary date idea, why not spend your special night out on the water enjoying fine food? Dinner cruises, such as those offered by Hornblower, come in a variety of formats so that no matter how you want the evening to play out, you’ll have a memorable night for you and your significant other. 

Indulge in a gourmet feast, dine under the lights of a fireworks show, take in the sights of your city’s architecture or simply breathe easy and dance the night away under the stars. It’s one of the most romantic things to do for an anniversary, offering the perfect mix of elegance, ambiance and connection.

12. Try a Blind Pizza Taste Test

Bring the fun home with a blind pizza tasting! To make this anniversary date idea extra special, order slices from famous pizza places in your area, cut them into pieces, and do a taste test without knowing which is which. Score each one and crown your favorite.

This activity is playful, delicious and one of the easiest anniversary date ideas — ideal for food-loving couples looking to do something unique without leaving the house. You can even cook a few of the healthiest frozen pizzas at home to mix things up. For inspiration, check out this list of famous pizzas in Yelp’s Top 100 Pizza Spots.

Anniversary Date Night Ideas

13. Watch a Drive-In Movie

Add a little nostalgia to your celebration with a cozy drive-in movie night. This anniversary date idea requires you to simply bring blankets and snacks before settling into your car for a double feature under the stars.

It’s a low-key, romantic way to unwind and one of the most timeless anniversary date ideas — perfect for couples who love movies and a little retro flair. Not sure where to find one? DriveInMovie.com is a great resource for locating drive-in theaters across the U.S., so you can plan a night that’s classic, simple and full of charm.

14.  Catch a Concert of Your Favorite Performers

Plan a night around incredible music and track down which of your favorite artists are playing nearby. Or, book a trip for a quick getaway to finally see a bucket list performer. For more of a sentimental note for this anniversary date idea, see an act that was one of your first dates or fond memories once again. 

Whether it's an arena show, a cozy jazz club or a summer music festival, catching live music is one of the most unforgettable fun things for couples to do. It’s also a perfect addition to your list of things to do for an anniversary that feels both exciting and emotionally rich.

15. Try a Paint and Sip Night

Tap into your creative side with a paint and sip experience. You and your partner can enjoy drinks while following step-by-step instructions to create your own works of art, no experience needed. It’s fun, relaxed, and a little messy in the best way.

This is a playful and easygoing anniversary date idea that’s perfect for couples who love trying something new together. You can find events near you through Paint Nite, which hosts sessions in local bars and restaurants across the U.S.

16. Share Laughs at a Comedy Show

Laughter can do wonders for taking your mind off of daily routines. For a simple, enjoyable anniversary date idea, get tickets for a comedy show, whether you prefer comedic plays, stand-up or improv. Laugh the night away with a few drinks and perhaps work this tradition into your relationship whenever life is getting too hectic.

If you’re looking for something a little more off-the-beaten-path, check out Don’t Tell Comedy, which hosts secret pop-up comedy shows in unexpected venues across the country. The element of surprise adds a fun twist to your night out and makes it one of the most entertaining anniversary ideas for couples who love spontaneity and a good laugh.

17. Take a Dance Class Together

Dancing is a perfect way to let loose and allow yourself the opportunity to have fun with movement. There is no need to feel self-conscious, especially with your partner at your side. 

Learn a dance you have always admired or practice skills you have learned from the past to impress friends and family at the next event when the right song begins to play. It’s a lively and meaningful anniversary date idea that’s all about rhythm and having fun together.

Consider signing up for a session through Fred Astaire Dance Studios, which offers lessons in a variety of styles for all experience levels. With locations all across the U.S. and even internationally, it’s easy to find a class near you. Whether it’s ballroom, salsa or swing, dancing is one of the most joyful and romantic date ideas. 

Fun and Artsy Anniversary Date Ideas

18. Hit Up a Weekend Music Festival

Let loose and fully immerse yourself in a musical experience with your partner by getting tickets for the perfect weekend music festival for you both. This anniversary date idea will be an absolute blast as you make your daily schedules to see the acts you absolutely cannot miss and dance the night away for the big-ticket performances. 

Not sure where to start? Check out the Music Festival Wizard guide to explore top U.S. festivals happening throughout the year. If you’re searching for exhilarating stuff to do for an anniversary, this is a top pick, especially for couples who thrive on live music, shared playlists and spontaneous memories.

19. Attend Museum and Gallery Events

Take advantage of the art and historical institutions in your area or when you are on a quick trip. This anniversary date idea can lead you around beautiful, engaging and unique exhibits that will stand out from your typical date nights. 

Go beyond a museum visit and research special events being held, especially if there are wining and dining gala occasions so that you both can get dressed up for an evening of glamour. It’s a sophisticated anniversary date idea for couples who enjoy culture and a night out with meaning.

For couples looking to turn a simple museum visit into something truly special, exploring exhibits across the country can be one of the most enriching anniversary activity ideas. You can browse top options with the Visit the USA guide to museums and galleries, which highlights must-see spots in cities nationwide.

20. Book a Photo Shoot

Capture the moment with a couple’s photoshoot to mark your anniversary. Choose a meaningful location, dress up and let a photographer guide you through a relaxed, memory-making session.

Not only is it a sweet anniversary date idea, but you'll also walk away with keepsakes you can treasure (or post) for years to come. It’s also a thoughtful anniversary date idea for couples who want to celebrate their connection in a fun and creative way. Services like Shoott make it easy to book a professional photo session in cities across the U.S., with flexible scheduling and beautiful backdrops.

21. Visit the Theater

Treat yourselves to an anniversary date idea that elevates theatrical energy and will engage your focus. Whether you are familiar with all of the hottest shows around or if you are eager to dive into exploring the performing arts, there is a show for you and your partner. 

Book a ticket for classic plays, local theater, musical productions, abstract performances or whatever else your creative mind is craving. Attending a live show is one of the most memorable and captivating anniversary ideas for couples who love art, storytelling and a touch of drama.

For a truly unforgettable night out, consider catching a Broadway production. While the magic of Broadway is centered in New York City, many of its top shows go on national tours, making it possible to enjoy world-class performances in cities all across the U.S. 

Relaxing Anniversary Date Ideas

22. Enjoy a Bed and Breakfast Stay

Take a moment to get away and relax for an anniversary date idea to remember in a quaint bed and breakfast. Not every celebration needs high energy and a go-go-go attitude! Catch up on sleep, chat the day away and curl up with a hot cup of tea or a nightcap to cheer the day. 

You can find great options all across the country on BBOnline, whether you’re looking for a small-town escape or something scenic and peaceful. It’s one of the best low-key anniversary stuff to do ideas when you just want time together in a quiet, comfortable place.

23. Relax with a Spa Day

Classic spa appointments are still popular anniversary date ideas for a reason. Unwind with massages, facials, sauna sessions and so many more treatments depending on how you both want to be pampered.

It’s one of the most romantic things to do for an anniversary, especially when you just want to unplug and enjoy each other’s company with some self-care activities. For a luxurious experience, Woodhouse Spa offers locations across the U.S. with a variety of treatments designed to help you feel your best. 

24. Wander Through Botanical Gardens 

If you have both been looking for a moment to stop and smell the roses, this is the perfect anniversary date idea for you! Feel invigorated by the nature surrounding you and take a tour of local gardens and parks. A lot of care and dedication go into growing, maintaining and arranging such beautiful displays for everyone to observe and enjoy. 

It’s a peaceful and refreshing way to spend time together, especially in warmer months, making it one of the best summer date ideas. To discover gardens near you or in places you plan to visit, check out the Botanic Gardens Conservation International directory, which lists stunning botanical gardens throughout North America.

25. A Weekend Camping Trip

Retreating to the great outdoors can be an intimate, romantic time with stunning sunsets, cooking over a fire and getting cozy under the stars. Pack your bags with your favorite snacks and comfy clothes for the ultimate relaxing anniversary date idea. 

To find a scenic spot that fits your vibe, explore campgrounds listed by the National Park Service. With options all across the U.S., you’re sure to find the perfect outdoor escape for your next romantic getaway.

If roughing it in the wild is a little too intense for your dream anniversary celebration, opt for a glamping experience. This trendy anniversary date idea allows you to enjoy the simplicity of traditional camping with a few luxuries thrown into the mix. 

26. Book a Local Hotel for a Staycation

Sometimes the best part of a vacation is getting to stay in a comfy hotel room with access to room service and staff to pick up after you! Booking a room should not be exclusive to travel. 

Find the hotel of your dreams in your area for a romantic anniversary date idea that is all about spending quality time with each other. Indulge with dinner in bed, relax at the pool or peruse activities around the hotel for an extra bit of adventure. 

To make it the best anniversary date idea, browse the Top 25 Most Romantic Hotels of 2025 curated by Historic Hotels of America. Many offer luxurious amenities and charming characters that make your staycation feel like a full-on getaway.

27. Visit the Spot Where You First Met

If you are feeling a little sentimental for the very beginning of your relationship, take a trip down memory lane for a heartfelt anniversary date idea. Track down the place where you first met or the spot of the first official date to reminisce over fond memories and chat about how far you both have come.

This is one of the most meaningful one-year anniversary date ideas, especially for couples who want to celebrate the roots of their relationship in a low-key, personal way. You can even make it a tradition — revisiting the same place for future anniversaries to reflect on new memories.

28. Plan a Beach Day

A day at the beach is the ultimate laid-back anniversary date idea. Pack your favorite snacks, a blanket and plenty of sunscreen, and spend the day swimming, sunbathing or walking along the shore.

Whether you're building sandcastles or catching the sunset, it's one of the best anniversary date ideas for couples who want something simple, relaxing and full of sunshine. For inspiration on where to go, the Top 50 North American Beaches list offers some of the most beautiful coastal spots to explore together. 

Adventurous Anniversary Date Ideas

29. Go Skydiving

If you're looking for a high-adrenaline way to celebrate, skydiving is an unforgettable adventure to share with your partner. The rush of free-fall, followed by the calm glide back to earth, makes for a powerful bonding experience and a memory you'll talk about forever.

It’s a bold and thrilling anniversary date idea for couples who love to push boundaries together. If you’re ready to take the leap, iSkydive is a helpful resource for finding reputable skydiving centers across the U.S. 

30. Take a Spontaneous Road Trip

Sometimes the best way to reconnect is to take a step away from daily life for a completely new experience. Whether you both have lists of trips at the ready or you love spontaneity, take some time to unplug and hit the road. Relish in fresh scenery, nightlife, food, drinks and good tunes so that this anniversary date idea is one for the books. 

If you’re not sure where to start, Roadtrip USA offers mapped-out scenic routes across the country, perfect for couples craving freedom and adventure. This is one of the best fall date ideas if you're chasing autumn foliage, and it also makes for unforgettable wedding anniversary ideas when you're ready to celebrate with something a little more epic.

31. Escape to a Theme Park

Whether you are in it for exhilarating rides, new sights, nostalgic eats or simple games, theme parks really do hold a special place in the hearts of adventurous folks. Plan a day trip to a nearby park for a fun afternoon together. Or, go all out for a longer stay to fully experience everything the destination has to offer. The bigger the park, the longer the stay!

For thrill-seeking couples, Six Flags offers locations across the U.S. with plenty of rides, entertainment and excitement. It’s one of the most fun and energetic romantic things to do for an anniversary, especially if you're looking to celebrate with laughter, adrenaline and a little friendly competition.

32. Get Tickets for a Big Game

If sports bring you two together, a great anniversary date idea is scoring some tickets to a big game. Plan a night of tailgating, game-day rituals and high hopes of making it on the jumbotron. Cheer on your home team or follow them to a destination city for a bigger night out.  

To find upcoming major sporting events across the country, check out the On Location sports schedule for premium access and curated fan experiences. It’s a perfect anniversary date idea for couples who love big crowds, big plays and big memories.

33. Plan a Romantic Hike 

Hikes are such easy outings to plan, so whether you both have a special trail to trek or you are looking for a new adventure, an anniversary hike will leave you with a memorable experience. Peruse local spots or take a trip to a bucket list hike or even a mountain climb. This anniversary date idea will give you plenty of time to reconnect while taking in the beauty of nature.

To discover scenic trails across the country, explore Rails to Trails Conservancy, which highlights pathways built on former rail lines, perfect for hiking and more. Whether you're after a relaxed walk through nature or a challenging summit climb, it’s a great resource for planning your next unforgettable anniversary date idea outdoors.

34. Plan a Ski Trip

No matter what season your anniversary falls in, a getaway to a crisp wonderland of snow has just the right amount of whimsy and romance. Hit the slopes with your partner by skiing, snowboarding or snow-tubing and have a blast showing off your skills. If winter sports are new for you, sign up for a couple’s lesson for a truly unique anniversary date idea. 

For help finding the perfect snowy destination, OnTheSnow offers up-to-date info on ski resorts across the U.S. From beginner-friendly spots to more advanced terrain, it’s a great resource for planning fun and adventurous winter date ideas you’ll both remember.

35. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Let your love soar with a romantic hot air balloon ride. You'll get to float on the wind together as you take in breathtaking scenic views and explore your local landscape from new heights. This is a one-of-a-kind anniversary date idea for those who love a little adventure. Book your flight at sunrise or sunset for an extra romantic touch.

If you're in the Southwest, Rainbow Ryders offers hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque, Phoenix, and Colorado Springs — perfect for couples looking to celebrate in a truly unforgettable way. It’s a dreamy marriage anniversary idea that blends beauty, peace, and just the right amount of adventure.

Brainstorming anniversary date ideas can feel a little overwhelming, but it is important to remember that this special day is for celebrating one another and truly appreciating the time and energy you have spent together. Let these suggestions inspire what you both love doing as a couple. 

If you are adventurous, try something wild and new. If you have a palate that craves quality food, center your date around an exquisite meal. If you both have an itch for travel, plan a fun getaway. These 35 anniversary date ideas are only the beginning for what magical traditions and occasions can be formed!

For more unique anniversary date ideas, check out other Cozymeal experiences happening near you.