Summer is here, which means it’s time to embrace everything the season has to offer – including the plethora of fun, romantic date ideas at your fingertips. Even if you’re trying to keep things casual as possible, the warmer weather allows you to get a bit more creative and original than you normally would when it comes to planning your dates. Hint: if it’s summer and you’re still asking someone out for “coffee” – you’re doing it wrong.

Here’s a few of our favorites –

1. Watch a movie outside.

I know what you’re thinking, “that’s great, but I don’t live somewhere that shows movies in the park or has a cool old time-y drive-in theater.” While both of those options make great summer date ideas, if you don’t live somewhere that outdoor movies are the norm – improvise. Got a patio, backyard, porch or balcony? Great. Grab a bottle of your favorite rosé, some snacks, a blanket and your laptop. Snuggle up with your sweetie under the stars while you stream episodes of Weeds or check out a cool documentary. Whatever your taste, there’s something fun and unconventional (read: romantic) about watching your favorite TV or movies outside. Also, the rosé helps!

2. Hit up your local dog park.

If you’ve got an animal lover on your hands, grabbing a few lemonades and going for a dog walk with your new beau is a fun outdoor activity (i.e. it sure beats sitting across from each other at a stuffy coffee shop when the sun is shining.) If you don’t have a pooch of your own, borrow a friend’s dog for the afternoon. Your pal will be grateful for the “dog-sitting” while you enjoy a chance to bond with your date as the pups frolic. Really, it’s a win/win. However, this date only works if you’re both animal lovers – so, make sure you check in with your date before you make plans.

3. Go boating.

No, I’m not suggesting you procure a yacht and rock it Jay-Z style (but, if you do have a yacht, go forth and do you.) I’m referring to a date idea that’s way more quaint, adorable and Notebook-esque. A lot of local parks rent paddle-boats, rowboats or canoes. Pack some snacks (and maybe even some wine!) and head out onto the water. Since this is taking place at your local park (and not the open seas) the risk level is extremely minimal while the romantic payoff is high.

4. Tap into your inner Ferris Bueller and rent convertible for the day.

Even better if you know someone that you can borrow a convertible from (just make sure you ask first – as we learn from Ferris and Cameron, failure to abide by this rule doesn’t end well.) With the wind blowing in your hair, hit the town. Grab some lunch, cruise around town and maybe (if you’re lucky) catch a gorgeous sunset together. Can you think of a more perfect summer day?

5. Enjoy a scenic outdoor happy hour at a bar or restaurant you’ve never been to before.

Happy hour is a great time to check out new places – especially if they’re a bit more pricey (happy hour usually offers discounted appies and small plate versions of house favourites. Check ahead.) Go experience that rooftop patio bar that has a gorgeous view or take your date to the new craft brewery that just opened for some brews & appies on the patio. Either way, it’s all about hitting a patio together and enjoying the outdoor ambience.

6. Sign up for a food tour.

Why visit your local farmer’s market when you can sign up for a guided tour of one? Lots of cities offer guided food tours of their local markets and restaurants. A food tour is a great way to try a bunch of new flavours, while also learning about the local food and drink scene. Stroll from one venue to the next, while impressing the foodie in your life.

7. Netflix and grill.

“I hate barbeque” – said no one ever. Who needs to make reservations when you can make a home grilled meal for your date?! Barbeque is easy, fun and tasty. Grab some meat or some veggie burgers and fire up the grill. If you don’t have a grill, head over to your local barbeque joint, grab some takeout and make a picnic dinner. There’s something about comfort food and summertime that just feels right. Combine some delicious grub with option #1 (outdoor movie) and you’ve got the makings of a perfect warm weather date.