6 Dates That Are Under 30 Minutes
Adulting is hard, and it takes up a ton of time. Deadlines, updating Instagram, last-minute meetings, spin class, commutes, your sister’s best friend’s cousin’s baby shower, networking events, meal-prepping, sleeping, drinking enough water, dentist appointments, Westworld…. (fine, that last one isn’t necessarily pressing but DAMN was that last season good).
My point? Even now in post-COVID land, we are all busy, busy people. It’s a miracle we get all our shit done, much less have time to go on dates.
But that doesn’t mean you should give up! If you’re short on time but long on romance, here are some dates you can do in 30 minutes or less:
One Single Episode
Movies are long. (I’m looking at you, Irishman. Ain’t nobody got time for your five-hour BS). Instead of committing to a full flick with a potential beau, catch up on a half-hour sitcom. If you’re able to be together, snuggle up on the couch with some popcorn or a sweet treat. If not, you can use Netflix Party or play the old “1, 2, 3 click” game and watch the show together via FaceTime or Zoom. Not only will you be able to spend some time relaxing with a date, but you will also get to keep up with your favorite shows.
Classic Coffee
There’s a reason why a coffee date is a cliché. It's quick, easy, and very low-pressure. Grab a cup at your favorite local place, sit, and get to know one another while you sip. Plus, if things go well, you can always blow off your afternoon meeting and grab another latte. Just don’t forget breath mints… coffee breath is a mood killer.
Walk the Dog
Fresh air, sunshine, exercise, good conversation, and a furry little smooshy? Best date ever. Take your or your date’s dog for a 30-minute walk. Don’t worry if neither of you have a dog. Most animal shelters are always looking for volunteers to walk their pups, meaning you can do a good deed and make a good impression on your date. Don’t want to take time to go to the shelter? Hit up a local dog park and just do some puppy and people watching.
Hit Up the Library
Libraries might not seem sexy, but think about it… conversation-starting books, quiet corners for stealing kisses… not too shabby, right? Don’t worry, I’m kidding. I don’t think libraries are sexy. But they are great quick date spots. Most libraries have artifacts, traveling exhibits, and beautiful architecture, meaning your local book haven is an excellent short-on-time substitute for a longer museum date.
Scream for Ice Cream
Grabbing ice cream is the perfect speed date because ice cream will literally be ruined if you don’t eat it fast enough. Plus, its super fun to see what kind of treat your date will order. What does their triple scoop chocolate sundae with gummy bears and extra whipped cream say about them?
Schedule an ice cream date on a busy weeknight after dinner with coworkers so you can get dessert and maybe get some dessert ;)
Play Pokémon Go
No, you didn’t accidentally wander into 2016. Pokémon Go may be a bit retro these days, but it’s still super fun and Pikachu is still super adorable. Take your date out to a local park, wander around, capture some Pokémon, and make it back to the office in time for that conference call. Gotta catch ‘em all, right?