Dating a sports enthusiast of any kind comes with its fair share of challenges and obstacles, but you can score some points with them by regularly taking them out on sports-themed dates – trust us, it’s everything they’ve ever dreamed of and will make their day, if not their entire week!
Sports-themed dates are the perfect way to give your significant other a break from all the romantic dinners, spa days, and whatever else you drag them to on a regular basis. It’s time you do something that they want to do – something that satisfies their fascination with sports.
The good news is there are sports-themed dates for any sport – whether it’s football, soccer, baseball, basketball, hiking, cycling, hockey, dancing, golf, horseback riding, fishing, or any other sport your partner is into. Don’t worry, you’ll have just as much fun as them on the date.
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The Greatest Sports-Themed Dates of All-Time
While sports-themed dates are an excellent way to score some points with your lover by showing them you care about their personal interests, many people – especially those that aren’t fluent in that sport – struggle to come up with cute and fun ideas for sports-themed dates.
Should you buy tickets to a live game? How about going to a sports bar to play some billiards? Or maybe a trip to Topgolf or a local bowling alley? There are endless options for you to choose from, but you’ll have to find the one that satisfies your partner the most – that’s often the catch.
Don’t worry, that’s what we’re here for. We have some amazing ideas for sports-themed dates that you’d be silly not to try with your other half. They might require you to step outside of your comfort zone and make some sacrifices, but isn’t that what dating someone is all about?
15. Get a Hole-in-One at a Local Putt Putt Course
Is your partner a golf enthusiast? Then it only makes sense to go on a putt putt date – day or night, it’s one of the most laid back and popular sports-themed dates for a reason. It’s a great way to test their putting skills, while also giving you an opportunity to impress them with yours.
Of course, what’s putt putt without a good side bet? For example, let’s say you and your date have yet to share a first kiss – if someone gets a hole-in-one, then don’t you think they deserve a kiss? You can get as creative – and freaky – as you’d like, just keep it PG while at the course!
14. Go On a Scenic, Nature-Filled Hike
Is your partner an adventurer? Do they love all things nature? If so, then there’s no better date than a scenic, nature-filled hike. You can literally hike anywhere – woods, forest, hiking trail, mountains, etc. – and have a good time doing it if you’re with someone you love or care about.
Going on a hiking date is the epitome of spending quality time with your significant other. There isn’t much to do in the wilderness, other than talk, share moments, bond, and connect with one another – which sets the perfect environment for a date, especially those that love an adventure.
13. Netflix & Chill With a Sports Movie
How many times have you had a movie date with your partner? If you’re like most couples, then that number is likely very high. Now answer this – how many times has the movie date included a sports film? That number is likely very low, especially since sports films are often overlooked.
Let’s be honest, most couples immediately gravitate towards the romantic, horror, comedy, drama, and thriller genres for their movie date. And while there’s nothing wrong with those genres, you should sprinkle in a sports film every now and then for those that love sports!
12. Knock ‘Em Loose at the Bowling Alley
The bowling alley is one of the most traditional and classic sports-themed dates – you can never go wrong with a good bowling match. It’s an excellent idea for a first date, but that doesn’t make it any less exciting for the seasoned couples. In fact, it might make it even more exciting.
What makes bowling such a good date idea is how relaxing of a game it is. Since you can go at your own pace, it gives couples a chance to not just have fun, but also connect with one another on a deeper level. You can’t forget about the food and most bowling alleys have an arcade, too!
11. Indulge in a Kayaking Adventure
Let’s retreat back to those that love a good adventure, except this time let’s focus more on the water – instead of land. Kayaking is a great way to take in the beautiful weather and amazing scenery, giving you a closer look at what nature has in store for us. It’s a breathtaking moment.
You can even double-up on the date and go for a hike before going kayaking – if you have the entire day to kill, of course. Just make sure you bring some snacks, lots of water, and a thorough survival kit – in case anything goes wrong, being safe is always the best option.
10. Lace ‘Em Up at an Ice Hockey Rink
I know what you’re thinking – isn’t this something that you can only do in the winter time? While it’s more popular in the winter, especially for those that want an outdoor experience, you can always go to an indoor hockey rink if you don’t feel like waiting for the winter season to come.
Another thing that prevents a lot of couples from going ice skating is not knowing how to skate on ice. Don’t worry, it’s much easier than you think and only gets easier as you gain skill. If it still makes you nervous, you can always go inline skating – or just rollerblading around the block.
9. Sweep ‘Em Off Their Feet at a Dance Class
Is your partner a dancer, cheerleader, or gymnastics athlete? If so, you can totally catch them by surprise with a dance class date. You’ll be forced to get up close to one another and it’ll make for an intimate environment – which is key to a good date. You’re sure to be rewarded for it.
Not only that, but there are so many different types and genres of dance that you can take – there’s something for everyone, so you can’t say no! Even if you don’t know how to dance or are terrible at it, they’ll be able to teach you and you can pick up a new talent in the process.
8. Saddle Up, We’re Going Horseback Riding
Does your partner have a fascination with horses? Have they always wanted to go horseback riding? Is it something they used to do, but don’t have the time for anymore? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions, then saddle up because that sounds like the perfect date idea.
It’s a wonderful and memorable experience that will certainly be a high-point in any relationship. It has the perfect combination of nature and animals, but won’t require the leg strength or arm strength needed for a hiking or kayaking adventure – though riding a hose isn’t exactly easy.
7. Make a Lasting Memory & Go Skydiving
Is your partner a thrill-seeker that loves a good, risky, and dangerous – yet fun – activity to get their blood flowing? If so, then going skydiving with them might just be one of the most memorable dates you ever go on – even if skydiving is something that absolutely terrifies you.
It’s a great opportunity to face your own fears, while putting a gigantic smile on your significant other’s face. You’re bound to learn a lot about yourself in the process, but it’ll also strengthen your relationship. You might have to step out of your comfort zone, but it’ll be well-worth it.
6. Reel Them In With a Fishing Date
If you’re spending a day on the water, then don’t forget to pack the fishing reels, lures, and bait in hopes of catching some fish – of course, you’ll need a cooler if you plan on keeping them. It’s one of the most relaxing ways to spend a beautiful day, especially if you’re with your loved one.
Since there isn’t much to do when you cast a reel, it forces you and your partner to share a wonderful moment together. You can talk about life, talk about work, talk about family, or even talk about where your relationship is going. Hell, you can even use it as a way to finally propose.
5. Sweat It Out at the Gym
Is your partner a fitness buff? Do they spend at least one hour at the gym five days per week? Are they extremely dedicated to their physical appearance and health? If so, then surprise them with a workout date at the gym – it’ll mean the world to them and you’ll stand to benefit, as well.
Every now and then, it’s important to do the things your partner enjoys doing – even if it’s not something you’re interested in yourself. It shows you care. And if you don’t get a good enough workout at the gym, you can always continue the exercise at home – if you catch my drift.
4. Impress Them With Indoor Rock Climbing
Does your partner love the thrill of rock climbing? Do they enjoy the challenge of getting from point A to point B, one rock at a time? Have you always wanted to join them, but are overcome with fear in real-life situations? If so, then get some practice at an indoor rock climbing center.
It makes for the perfect date idea, especially since you know your partner is going to have fun. And don’t worry, there are different difficulty levels at every rock climbing center – meaning they won’t get bored and you’ll each have your own challenge in front of you. As always, be safe!
3. Take Them to a Sports Bar
Is your significant other excited about a game that’s on today? Are they looking for an upbeat environment to watch the game? If so, then why not take them to a sports bar – they’re bound to have the game on at least one of their televisions. Of course, they’ll also have some bomb food!
Then again, you can always bring that experience home, if they don’t feel like going out. Make some nachos, order some pizza, get some drinks, and put the game on. You’d be surprised at how much sports fans appreciate the notion and it’s sure to score some points with them!
2. Take Your Best Shot at Topgolf
Are you and your partner looking for something to do after a good round of putt putt? If so, then Topgolf is the perfect way to end a golf date and it won’t take as much energy as playing nine or 18 holes of real golf. At the same time, it gives your partner an opportunity to improve their shot.
Personally, Topgolf is one of my favorite sports-themed dates – a go-to, if I may. It’s great for those that love golf (or want to learn), but also provides the bar-like atmosphere with excellent food and good drinks. There’s even a level of competition – for those that want it, of course.
1. Get Loud at a Live Game
If you’re not watching the game at home or at a bar, then surprise your date with tickets to a live game. It can be a local game, college athletes, or a professional sport – they’re sure to have fun, either way. Just make sure you don’t forget to buy your partner a beer and some nachos!
Live games, especially professional ones, provide a unique atmosphere and environment when watching your favorite sport. You’re surrounded by thousands of other fans that love the game just as much as you and, let’s be honest, you might even get to witness something historic.
Sports-Themed Dates Are All the Rage Today
Are you ready to prove to your significant other that they mean the world to you? If so, then it’s time to start planning your next sports-themed date, whatever that might be. Don’t worry, you can use the list of sports-themed dates we made for you above for inspiration and motivation.
If you take it seriously enough, you might see yourself rounding some bases and scoring some points with your lover after the date – or during, if you’re lucky. It’ll be a night you lovebirds always remember and might even act as a turning point in your relationship with your other half.
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Before we go, there’s one thing we want you to do – let us know which of the sports-themed dates above is your favorite and share with us some of your greatest sports-themed dates that you’ve been on. You can even tell us about all the bad experiences – venting is always good!
15 Unique Ways to Enjoy a Sporting Event If You Can’t Be There in Person
One of the biggest decisions a fan makes when preparing for any sporting event is how to enjoy it. There are so many different ways to experience a sporting event and it’s something you can fully customize to your liking – there are no limits and you can do as your little heart pleases.
For many fans, the ultimate experience involves purchasing a ticket to view the sporting event live and in-person. This puts you amongst the tens of thousands of fans either cheering for or against your favorite team. You’ll get to take in all the amazing sights and sounds in real time.
Unfortunately, this can prove to be rather expensive, especially when you factor in food and beverages. You’ll also miss out on the play-by-play commentary and will likely miss certain aspects of the viewing experience. It’s an unforgettable experience, but it’s infeasible to many.
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Unique Ways to Enjoy a Sporting Event
Whether you have no interest in or don’t have the means of going to a sporting event live, you can rest easy knowing there are dozens of unique ways to enjoy the experience from afar – especially in this day and age, where new technology and the internet make anything possible.
You don’t have to be at the actual sporting event to have a good time – in fact, many people prefer coming up with their own creative ways of enjoying the moment. Some ideas might sound more boring than others, but there’s something out there for everyone, so long as you look for it!
Don’t worry, we’re going to detail some of the unique ways we like to enjoy a sporting event – whether it’s March Madness, the Super Bowl, the Little League World Series, or the Masters Tournament. Who knows, maybe you’ve already experienced some or most of them!
15. Cable Television at Home
Alright, we’re going to start with the basic ones and they might sound like boring ideas to some, but trust me when I say it’s as unique an experience as you make it! This is more for those that want to sit back, relax, and watch the game by themselves – there’s nothing wrong with that!
Of course, you have to make sure the game is on cable television, first. If it is, then you’re in luck because television networks go above and beyond to make every sporting event an enjoyable experience from home. Make yourself a snack, get in something comfy, and enjoy!
14. DVR the Game & Watch it Later
So, the sporting event you’re interested in is available on cable television. Unfortunately, you’ll be busy when the game starts and won’t be able to watch it. Don’t worry, that’s where DVR comes in to save the day – allowing you to tape the sporting event now and watch it later.
DVR stands for digital video recorder and it was invented in 1999. Since then, the technology has improved and is now available through most cable providers. What makes DVR-ing sporting events so special is the ability to fast forward and rewind as you please – isn’t that amazing?
13. Go to a Sports Bar or Restaurant
Going to a sports bar or restaurant is always an enjoyable experience, so long as the food is good and the company is even better. And while you can go to a sports bar or restaurant any day of the week, there’s no better time than on game day – let’s just hope they have it on!
It doesn’t matter where you live, you’re bound to find a sports bar or sports restaurant on every corner. Even better, they’re all unique in their own way and some are even geared towards certain sports or teams. Find a sports bar you like, grab some friends, and enjoy the game!
12. Listen to the Play-By-Play on the Radio
Let’s take things back to the 1920s, when commercial radio was starting to make waves in the sports world. People would sit by their radio and listen to the play-by-play with total excitement – no visuals, no graphics, no pictures. All you had was a soft voice telling you what happened.
Today, that might sound boring and dull, but it provides a nostalgic and vintage setting that you can’t get elsewhere. In fact, many people today have no idea what that experience is like, so why not take a stroll down history lane and enjoy the game as people did nearly 100 years ago.
11. Download a Streaming Service
The radio is cool and cable television is even cooler, but this is 2022 and we have something much more elaborate to enjoy – live streaming. In the world of sports, live streaming brings games and sporting events to your TV, phone, tablet, and any other device you’re watching on.
You have a lot to choose from, whether it be ESPN+, Sling, Hulu, FuboTV, DAZN, Peacock, YouTube TV, or any other streaming service. Like they often say, if it’s not on cable television, then there’s a good chance you can stream it – somewhere, somehow, it’s available for you.
10. Host a Viewing Party With Friends & Family
Earlier, we mentioned how much fun you can have watching the game by yourself at home. While there’s nothing wrong with that, sometimes you want company to enjoy the game with. For those occasions, why don’t you invite some friends and family over to watch it together?
Whether the game’s on cable television or you’re streaming it, having friends and family over is always a good idea. You can ask them to bring food, beverages, and games to play at halftime. Memories will be shared, even if you have people over that are rooting for the wrong team!
9. Go to a Sportsbook & Place Some Bets
If you’re a sports junkie that wants a true viewing experience, then there’s no place like the sportsbook – whether it’s inside a casino or a stand-alone venue. Not only can you watch the game, but you can place bets on the game, in hopes of leaving with some cold, hard cash!
The sportsbook is an excellent place to be if there are several games on that you’d like to watch simultaneously. Since most sportsbooks have a wall that features dozens of televisions, they’ll put on as many games as they can – ensuring there’s a game on for everyone to enjoy.
8. Follow the Game by Playing Daily Fantasy Sports
If traditional betting isn’t your thing, but you still want to have a little fun while staying up-to-date about the sporting event, then we suggest trying daily fantasy sports – or fantasy sports, in general. It not only allows you to follow along with updates, but makes it more enjoyable.
Most daily fantasy sports require you to pick several athletes as ‘your team.’ You’ll gain points depending on how those athletes perform, which are then compared to other fans playing. At the same time, you’re receiving real-time updates from the games as they’re happening.
7. Follow the Updates on Social Media
Social media plays an enormous role in most people’s day-to-day life – including mine. It’s something we’re checking during all times of the day. Sometimes we’re checking in on friends and family, but other times we’re keeping tabs on our favorite sports team or favorite athletes.
Thanks to social media, fans are closer to the action than ever before and if there’s ever a moment where you can’t be at the game or watch it at home, social media has you covered. Other fans, beat reporters, and sports news accounts are always keeping people in the loop!
6. Start a Group Chat With Friends & Family
Every sports fan should have a sports-related group chat with friends, family members, or like-minded individuals – especially if there’s a team everyone follows together. It gives you an opportunity to vent about your team and share your opinion with people that are ready to listen.
For example, I have a group chat with my father and brother, where we keep tabs on the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres. Every now and then, I might be busy and unable to watch the game, but that’s okay because my brother and father will send me text updates regarding the game.
5. Follow the Play-By-Play on ESPN’s Gamecast
ESPN has been the worldwide leader in sports for over four decades and they show no signs of slowing down. When you need updates regarding your favorite team, athlete, or sporting event, ESPN should be the first place – and oftentimes the only place – you should consider going.
In regards to keeping tabs on a specific sporting event, ESPN has this thing called a ‘Gamecast’ and it’ll save your life. Not only does it give you play-by-play updates in real time, but you can view the box score, stat sheet, and even watch highlights as they happen. I use it all the time!
4. Catch the Highlights After the Game
I don’t know about you, but this is something I do every single day, even if I was watching the game live. It could be on social media, YouTube, ESPN, or the regular news, but somewhere someone is giving a thorough or brief recap of the exact sporting event you’re interested in.
The recap is fit with highlights, stats, quotes from the post-game press conference, opinions, and even a look ahead at the next game. Whether you want to relive what you already witnessed or want a quality update on what you missed, don’t overlook the highlights/recap.
3. Enter the Sports Metaverse (Virtual Reality)
With the technology we have today, anything is possible. One of the newest additions to the sports world is virtual reality. What started with VR sports games has now expanded to live streaming – meaning you can watch live sports games and events in a virtual reality setting.
The experience is unlike any other and will give you the impression of being at the game – even though you’re sitting at home. There are still some kinks that companies are working through and the technology is rather new, but it’s 100% worth a try, if you’re after a new experience.
2. Host a Virtual Watch Party
This is something that gained a lot of popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially since people wanted to be together, but not together. With the emergence of Zoom and other video chat apps, it was only a matter of time before the sports world took notice – and they did.
With virtual watch parties, you can join a party that includes all your closest friends and family members, then share your screen with them – what’s on that screen is up to you, but many people started to cast the sporting event and proceed to watch it with everyone in their party.
1. Go to TopGolf
There’s nothing better than getting to watch your favorite sports team, all while drinking beer, eating some good food, and hitting some links. If that sounds like paradise to you – which it should – then you need to head over to your local TopGolf and enjoy the fun experience.
Most of the bays at TopGolf feature a television, which is fit with most sports channels – as well as other networks. You’ll not only get to keep a tab on the game, but you can challenge your friends and family (or date) to one of several different games of golf – now that’s what I call fun.
Which Upcoming Sporting Event Are You Excited to Watch?
This is an exciting time for anyone looking to test some of the ideas above on an upcoming sporting event – there’s a lot happening in the next few weeks. For example, the PGA’s Tour Championship takes place August 25-28 and the US Open (tennis) is August 29-September 11.
The 2022 NCAA Football regular season kicks off on September 3rd, NASCAR’s Southern 500 is on September 4th, the 2022 NFL regular season kicks off September 8th, and the Laver Cup begins on September 23rd. With so much to look forward to, how will you be taking it all in?
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Personally, I like to sit at home in my man cave – sometimes by myself, other times with friends and/or family members. Of course, the food is always a must-have when enjoying any sporting event – whether you’re at home, at a restaurant, or at the stadium. Either way, happy times!
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