Is Getting Ice Cream a Good First Date?

Thinking of getting ice cream on your next first date?

If you’re tired of going on coffee dates or drinks dates for first dates, and don’t want to go out to dinner, then getting ice cream can be a nice low-key alternative.

Let’s explore some reasons why going for ice cream is a good first date, and what you can do to make sure you have a great ice cream date.

Is Ice Cream a Good First Date?

There are several reasons why getting ice cream can be a great first date idea.

It’s enjoyable

Let’s face it — nearly everyone loves ice cream. It’s rare to find someone who doesn't enjoy a scoop of their favorite ice cream flavor. First dates should be fun. And getting ice cream is a fun first date. When people do something they enjoy on a first date, that makes them more likely to enjoy the overall date experience. Many first dates fail because two people who hate coffee feel social pressure to go out for coffee. Going for an ice cream first date can help make sure you and your date feel positive and share something you enjoy together.

It’s flexible

Getting ice cream allows for flexibility in how long the date will last and where you can take the date. Compared to a sit-down coffee, drinks, or dinner date, an ice cream date can be more easily extended or cut short depending on the chemistry and how well it’s going. If the date is going well, you can extend it by taking a walk around the neighborhood, chatting more after you finish your ice cream, or suggesting a new activity to do. If the date isn't going well, then you can easily end it once you’ve both finished your ice cream. Ice cream melts fairly quickly, and most people eat ice cream quickly anyway, so the date need not last more than 20-30 minutes.

It’s casual and low-key

Ice cream shops tend to have a relaxed, casual, and bright atmosphere, making them a comfortable and low-pressure environment for a first date. This can make it easier for you and your date to feel relaxed and to be yourself without much pressure to dress up or act a certain way. Ice cream shops or nearby outdoor spaces tend to allow for easy conversation, as there usually aren’t distractions like loud music or overly crowded spaces you might have at a bar.

It’s low-cost

Another benefit of getting ice cream on a first date is that it is a relatively low-cost date. Compared to drinks or dinner, ice cream is almost always going to be much cheaper.

It allows for a shared experience

Sharing experiences with someone else is a powerful way to bond with them and enjoy the experience more. Getting ice cream may seem like a simply mundane activity, but it can actually be a great way to bond with someone on a first date. By choosing a flavor together, sharing a treat, tasting each other’s ice cream, or just eating together side-by-side, you can feel connected and share a positive experience not as “you” and “I” but together as “we.”

Tips for Having a Great Ice Cream Date

Choose the right ice cream shop

Ice cream shops come in a variety of forms and vibes, so it's important to choose one that fits the kind of date vibe you're going for. If you're looking for a cozy and intimate setting, consider a smaller mom-and-pop shop. If you're looking for a more lively atmosphere, opt for a larger chain store.

Choose the right time for the date

Having an ice cream date at the right time is an important part of planning it. Ice cream shops can get quite busy at peak times, so ideally avoid those peak times so you and your date can steer clear of long lines and crowded spaces. Late afternoon or early evening are usually good times for an ice cream date.

Be mindful of your date's preferences

While ice cream may be a widely loved treat, different people still have a variety of personal preferences and dietary restrictions to consider. When choosing an ice cream shop for the date, make sure it has a wide selection of flavors and accommodates different dietary restrictions so that your date can find something they’ll like.

Consider the weather

Ice cream is a classic treat for warm weather, and while it may be enjoyed in cold weather too, it might not be as appealing to some people then. Ideally, save an ice cream date for a day when it’s warm and sunny out, especially if you plan on sitting outside for the date.

Take your time

An ice cream date is meant to be a relaxed, stress-free, and enjoyable experience, so don't rush through it. Take your time looking at which flavors the shop offers, enjoy the time spent with your date while waiting in line, savor each spoonful you take when eating, and just enjoy your date’s company. If the conversation is flowing naturally, don't feel like you have to end the date once you finish eating. Keep it going until it feels like an appropriate time to part ways. Remember, eating the ice cream is not the main event of the date; spending time together is the main event.

Be open-minded

One of the most fun things about ice cream shops is the wide variety of flavors and combinations they offer. Openness to new experience is an attractive trait many people value in a partner. Be open to trying new flavors and toppings, even if they're not something you would normally choose. This can be a fun way to bond with your date and discover new things together.

What to Wear for an Ice Cream Date

When it comes to what to wear for an ice cream date, the key is to strike a balance between looking casual and classy. You want to look nice and presentable so as to make a positive impression, but also be relaxed and comfortable enough to show your down-to-earth side and to enjoy your ice cream in any potential sitting or standing position you might encounter.

Here are some tips to consider when planning your ice cream date outfit.

Keep it casual and simple

An ice cream date is a casual low-key date, so there's no need to dress up too much. Opt for comfortable, casual clothing that still looks nicely presentable and flattering.

Dress for the weather

Check the weather forecast before heading out for the date. In warmer weather, considering wearing light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. In colder weather, layering with a cozy sweater or jacket will be ideal.

Choose comfortable shoes

An ice cream date isn’t the time to show off your fanciest shoes. Comfort is key. Avoid high heels or shoes that may be difficult to walk in. Instead, opt for comfortable flats, sandals, or sneakers.

Consider the location

Most ice cream shops are very casual, but keep in mind what place you’re doing to and the neighborhood it’s in. Depending on the ice cream shop and location, you may want to adjust your outfit accordingly to meet the situation. If you're going to a more upscale shop, you may want to dress up a bit more.

How Long Should an Ice Cream Date Last?

The length of an ice cream date depends on various factors, such as the chemistry between you and your date and the time of day. As a general guideline, an ice cream date should last around 30 minutes to an hour.

On an ice cream date, you’ll want to have enough to enjoy your ice cream without rushing while also getting to know your date through some meaningful conversation that goes beyond small talk. Usually, this will take at least a half hour or 45 minutes, if you consider the time it may take to wait in line before getting your ice cream.

If the conversation is flowing and the date is going well, then continue spending time together beyond the ice cream part of the date. You can suggest going for a walk or doing another activity together, like seeing a movie or grabbing a meal.

How to Make an Ice Cream Date Romantic: Creative Ice Cream Date Ideas

An ice cream date is a casual low-key first date. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be romantic. Here are some tips for upping the romance on this frosty dessert date.

Choose a cozy ice cream shop

To set the mood for a romantic ice cream date, choose an ice cream shop with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Look for a place with dim lighting, plenty of comfortable seating, and a romantic ambiance. For a bonus, see if you can find a shop that has a scenic view or outdoor seating.

Take a tour of local ice cream shops

Traveling together side-by-side is a great way to make a first date more intimate and romantic so you feel connected. If you live in an area with many ice cream shops, consider taking a walking tour to multiple shops so you and your date can sample the different flavors and check out the vibe of each shop.

Have an ice cream picnic

Instead of going to an ice cream shop, you and your date can have a picnic in a park where you bring your own ice cream and toppings. You can bring blankets and pillows to create a cozy and romantic atmosphere. This is a perfect way to get creative and impress your date by putting effort into a memorable first date experience.

Have an ice cream tasting and rating

Whether it’s a picnic at a park or a regular visit to an ice cream shop, a creative way to spice up your ice cream date is to have an ice cream tasting like aficionados. You can order or bring a variety of different flavors to taste and then rate them based on flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment.

Dress up a little

Want to make an ice cream date more romantic? Then ignore the earlier advice about dressing casually. While ice cream dates are generally casual, dressing up a little (in an appropriate way, not to overdo it) can make the date feel more special and romantic. Wear something nice that makes you feel confident.

Have an ice cream date night

Going out for a first date at night after sunset is a reliable way to make it feel more intimate and romantic. Planning your ice cream date at night, after 7pm or 8pm, can be a good idea if you want to set a romantic tone.

Use romantic language

The way you speak on a date can make all the difference between it feeling stale vs. romantic. Use romantic, flirty language to express your feelings and make your date feel special. Compliment your date on their appearance, attire, and inner qualities. Tease them playfully. Express your interest in getting to know them better. Use soft and affectionate language. These behaviors can go a long way in sparking chemistry on a first date.

How to use dating apps to land more first dates

Hopefully these tips give some insights into whether an ice cream date is for you and how to have a great first date when going out for ice cream with someone.

When planning a first date with someone you met on a dating app like Hinge, Tinder, or Bumble, it’s important to plan ahead and do what you can to make it go well.

If you’re on dating apps and want to improve your dating profile so you land more first dates, we have you covered.

We at The Match Lab offer professional services to create dating profiles that attract high-quality matches.

If you’d like to find out which are your most attractive photos to use in your dating profile, give our dating photo analyzer a try. Just upload some photos of yourself, and our algorithm will reveal which photos you should be using in your profile and the ideal order they should go in.

If you’re looking for help with writing your dating profile, then check out our professional dating profile writing service.