16 Memorable Date Ideas in Indianapolis for 2025

Finding the best date idea in Indianapolis can be a challenge; it's never easy to pick just one! With any luck, there'll be plenty more chances to try them all but for now, we're here to help you narrow things down. There are tons of fun and free date ideas all over the city. Each will have you having a great time, making memories and enjoying each other’s company. 

So, whether you are looking for first date ideas in Indianapolis or even a fun night out as a married couple, we're here to get the ball rolling.

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• Romantic Date Ideas in Indianapolis
• Fun Date Ideas in Indianapolis
• Creative Date Ideas in Indianapolis for Couples
• Unique Date Night Ideas in Indianapolis
• Free & Cheap Date Ideas in Indianapolis

Romantic Date Ideas in Indianapolis

1. Date Night Cooking Classes

Taking a local cooking class is not just a fun way to learn to cook new dishes; it's a great shared activity that will bring you and your date together. With professional chef-led classes offering everything from New American cuisine to sushi-making, you'll get to craft a meal you'll love, and enjoy it afterward!

If you prefer to stay in, online cooking classes are available to boost your skills and create a meal together in your own kitchen. According to research published by Algonquin College, sharing food with loved ones has major benefits for mental health and relationships that date back to prehistoric times. So, why not try this foodie-themed date idea in Indianapolis to bring you closer as a couple?

2. Get Sculpting at a Pottery Class

Pottery is an inherently romantic art form. Picture you and your sweetheart sculpting something new from the mud. This creative outlet challenges your artistic abilities and offers an opportunity to learn a new skill. Plus, you’ll feel a sense of bonding as you show off the new three-dimensional work that you made together during this fun date idea in Indianapolis. 

Luckily for you, Indianapolis is home to many talented potters who lead classes ranging from pottery for beginners all the way up to the most advanced techniques. Dive in.

3. Expand Your Palette With a Wine Tasting

Learn more about your favorite bottles with a private wine tasting. An expert sommelier will teach you to identify the aromas and flavors that distinguish varietals. A wine tasting is a fun date idea in Indianapolis and an amazing way to dive into the complexities hiding in your glass.

Whether you like red, white or rosé, you’ll find new flavor profiles and learn about each other’s palettes in this rewarding and romantic date idea in Indianapolis. Plus, with virtual wine tastings, you can enjoy new vino right from your own living room.

Fun Date Ideas in Indianapolis

4. Take a Dance Class

What better way to get closer than by learning some new moves together? With dance classes available for all skill levels and led by professional local dancers, this cute date idea in Indianapolis will get you up close and personal. Together, you can choose to learn salsa, samba, ballroom or any genre you fancy.

Sign up for online dance classes to bring the romance to the intimacy of your own home.

5. Learn to Mix Drinks

Mixology classes are a unique way to learn a useful new skill together. You’ll learn techniques for mixing, muddling and shaking the best cocktails like a pro.

Are you thinking, what do you do on a chill date? Take an online mixology class together from the comfort of your home. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even come up with your own signature drink as a couple.

6. Visit a Food Hall

Food halls are sprouting up all over the country and Indiana is no different. Each has its own collection of unique food vendors, all in one venue. So whatever type of cuisine each of you is craving, you can grab it and enjoy your meals together.

The capital city is home to renowned spots like the Bottleworks District and The Garage Food Hall, so you're spoiled for choice!

Creative Date Ideas in Indianapolis for Couples

7. Tipsy Painting

Make your first masterpiece at an interactive paint and sip class led by an expert instructor. In this creative date idea in Indianapolis, you'll receive all of the materials you need and step-by-step instructions to create a pre-chosen image. Paint and sips are a fun way to get the conversation flowing, along with your favorite drinks. Get a bit tipsy and show your creative side.

If you are geographically apart, online painting classes are a great way to bridge the distance. Online classes allow you to meet via video chat and work side by side virtually as your online instructor guides the painting lesson.

8. Learn to Sketch in a Drawing Class

Learn to sketch and shade drawings like a professional artist. Drawing classes are a fun date idea in Indianapolis for everyone from the artsy crowd to those dipping their toes in the creative world. Expert instructors know how to work with every skill level to teach them tried and true drawing techniques.

You can also take online drawing classes, making this a perfect date activity even if you'd prefer to stay in. Once you've got a handle on things, wander around Garfield Park together and draw what you see to practice your new skills.

Unique Date Night Ideas in Indianapolis

9. Visit a Brewery

If you’re into yummy libations, why not see firsthand where and how they are made? The number of facilities in the area makes this an ideal outing for Indianapolis daters. Check out where your favorite craft beer is made and sip a flight of local brews. You’ll learn more about each other’s palettes and discover new great beverages in the process.

Sun King Brewery is a local hotspot, with over 15 taps to choose from on any given day.

10. Have an At-Home Game Night

Stay in, make popcorn and enjoy a cozy game night. With online trivia games, you can test your knowledge on everything from pop culture to history. Or, sign up for a hosted virtual game night and try your luck at a game of Bingo or a round of your favorite TV game show. This easy last-minute date night idea in Indianapolis doesn't sacrifice the fun.

11. Embark on a Food Tour

Indianapolis is a growing and evolving city. Delicious new joints pop up every day and even for the most connected of locals, it can be hard to keep up. A food tour is a great way to get a new understanding of the city and uncover the gems hiding right under your nose.

When you go on a food tour, you’ll be guided by an expert who knows the ins and outs of the area’s culinary world. This is an awesome date idea in Indianapolis for food lovers and culinary connoisseurs. 

Free & Cheap Date Ideas in Indianapolis

12. Head Out on a Hike

Hiking is a favorite pastime for many. It also happens to be a great way to spend time together. The number of trails in the area makes a hike a great date idea in Indianapolis. Check out the many state parks and Indy Parks and Recreation trails to get out into nature together.

Eagle Creek is a favorite among Indy hikers. There are options for every skill level, making it a great choice for many couples. 

13. Check Out a Historic District

Indianapolis was founded in 1821, meaning that the city is full of charming historic districts. Check out the Wholesale District for stunning architecture and a convenient location.

Or, head down to Fountain Square for its nostalgic feel and budget-friendly eateries. Lockerbie Square is a beautiful step back in time that’s perfect for a romantic stroll. Any of these spots is the perfect date idea for Indianapolis history buffs or those just looking to explore the city. 

14. Explore a Museum

Indiana's capital city is home to a host of museums that are sure to appeal to any couple’s interests. Explore them on the free museum days for an affordable date idea in Indianapolis.

Many museums, including the Indiana State Museum and even the NCAA Hall of Champions, have specific days when they offer admission without cost. Free days sometimes change, so check ahead of time to plan this indoor activity in Indianapolis. 

15. Pack a Picnic

A picnic is a timeless and free date idea in Indianapolis that is a guaranteed hit. You can combine efforts and work together to create an al fresco feast. Treat your sweetheart by making an impressive meal all by yourself. Don't forget drinks and some extra snacks!

White River State Park offers lush grass and enough space so that you can focus solely on having a great time together.

16. Find a Festival 

When it comes to festivals and special events, the city’s schedule is bursting with options. Attending one is a fun, cheap date idea in Indianapolis to enjoy the city’s fun atmosphere. From the IndyFringe festival to delicious food and top live music acts, check out the local event schedule to find one that suits you.

Whether you're ready to get out and explore the sights or you're looking for a cozy date night in, we hope our list has inspired you to try something new and fun for your next date with that special someone. 

See Indy from a new perspective with romantic date ideas in Indianapolis, like visiting art galleries or history museums or take your relationship to new heights on an adventurous hike! No matter what you decide, just be sure to take the opportunity to connect with the person you're sharing it with. 

For even more fun date ideas in Naptown, check out other experience gifts in Indianapolis happening on Classpop!