60 Most Useful Long Distance Date Ideas To Keep You Connected

Reviewed by Dr. Dave Jenkins, DMin, LMFT Dr. Dave Jenkins Dr. Dave JenkinsDMin, LMFT linkedin_icon Specialty: Marriage and Family TherapyExperience: 20 years
Written by Sanjana lagudu sanjana lagudu
Edited by Akshay Nair Akshay Nair
Last Updated on

Distance indeed makes the heart grow fonder. Distance does not matter when you are connected by the heart. Some interesting long-distance date ideas can help keep the spark alive despite being away from each other.

Regular phone calls, video calls, and e-mails may get a little monotonous as time passes. You may want to try out something new and innovative. Some people find long-distance dating ideas absurd and impractical, but it is a great way to have fun with your partner. Read this post as we bring some interesting and novel long-distance date ideas.

60 Long Distance Date Ideas For Couples

1. Have a house party

A virtual house party can be hosted on a video call. Play games such as heads up, quick draw, trivia night, and chips and guac to keep you both engaged, laughing, and enjoying for hours. You may invite friends to join in to have a group party with fun activities. You may also use several dedicated long-distance couple apps to have a fun time with your beloved.

2. Watch a live music performance together

Had a tiring day? A piece of good music will refresh and rejoice you by setting the mood right. Attend an online live music performance together and let your hearts dance to the beats. Musicians are taking their performances onto social media and streaming platforms to play live for their fans. You may make use of them to have your moments.

3. Appreciation night

Spend an evening expressing your appreciation for each other, listing why you love and admire one another. This way, strengthen your emotional connection through heartfelt conversations and affirmations.

4. Virtual date night challenges

Create challenges for each other, such as cooking a new recipe, coming up with the most creative cocktail, or checking who’s faster at finishing chores. Judging the results together adds a playful and competitive element to your virtual date nights.

5. Go on a walk

Have a walk in the park while on a call with your love,to stay connected and healthy. Challenge your partner to complete their daily step counts while talking to you. The change in scenery will enhance your mood and provide you with different topics to talk about. Stop occasionally to take a picture to send them, or just video call them to show around your neighborhood.

6. Arrange a virtual dinner date

Show your love for your partner by ordering their favorite food and wine delivered at their door step. Facetime or video chat with them to have a dinner date together. For adding a sense of being together at the same place, you can eat the same food items while on a virtual date.

Don’t forget to get dressed up and groomed as you would have done when going out in person with your partner. Enhance the mood by playing songs from your shared music playlist in the background. Dim the lights in your room to create a romantic ambiance. But make sure there is enough light on your face to look bright on the video call.

protip_icon Quick tip
All relationships need time and effort, but long-distance relationships need extra work to keep them going. So make sure you take time to plan activities with your partner just like you would if they were with you.

7. Go on virtual tours

You can get the feel of being at a different chosen place with your loved one from the comfort of your house. It will help you both save money for your other plans. To make it a bit real, set your rooms according to the weather at the destination.For example:

  • Decrease your room temperature to feel the cold weather of the snow-clad mountains.
  • Soak in your bathtub to feel the water at a beach.
  • Light scented candles with flavors like tea tree oil or brewed coffee scent to get the feel of a tea or a coffee plantation.

8. Host a book club for two

Storytelling can be an interesting activity to do on long-distance dates. If you both love books, then select some books to read, discuss and talk about on a date night. Starting a book club will give you many topics to talk about and allow you to be on the same page literally. This will encourage you to finish the book, gain new perspectives, understand each other better, discuss your favorite part of the book, and find common interests.

You can also try audio books if you don’t want to read. And do not forget to snack together while discussing your book. It’s a delightful way to bond and immerse yourselves in a shared literary adventure.

Nick Dilo, a blogger, shares another way to foster a long-distance relationship through shared reading. He says, “For our first Valentine’s Day apart, I picked out a new book for us and mailed her a copy (NOTE: personalize their copy of the book before you send it by adding notes and little messages throughout the book). I don’t remember exactly how it started, but after the first chapter or so we began taking turns recording chapters for the other person to listen to using the voice memos app that comes with the iPhone. It was such a fun way to read through the book. Laying on your bed listening to your significant other read to you is so soothing and comforting (i).”

9. Online shopping date

Browse online stores together, pick out outfits, gadgets, or gifts for each other, and explain why you chose them, deepening your understanding of each other’s tastes and preferences.

10. Play virtual games

Online gaming, Long distance date ideas
Image: IStock

A Sunday of shared delights provided by playing together online could be a fun virtual date for the child in you. To add in more glee, you both can team-up against other teams of your couple friends and enjoy the thrill of competition. Choose from various online games available or plan your games, such as bingo, cards, Pictionary, name-place-animal-thing, charades, would-you-rather, and truth-or-dare.

11. Drink up with a wine or beer tasting

Go for wine or beer tasting to a nearby winery or brewery. Discuss the tastes and flavors of each variety you taste. Get dressed and drunk; talk your heart out as you two feel relaxed with a glass of sparkling wine or a chilled beer. If you are doing this at home, light some candles to add up to the mood. You both can also attend a Facebook live tasting session together.

12. Go on a house hunt

Look for a house where you both would love to live in the future. Discuss the pros and cons of staying together under one roof, sharing responsibilities, managing your schedules for each other, and most importantly, planning the budget for maintaining the house. This would be a great way to discover shared preferences and understand each other better. But do not pressurize each other into this decision, as the interest should be mutual.

13. Have a movie night

Enjoying a movie together will bridge the gap between you and your partner. Set time aside and go on a virtual movie date. You can stream in the same film simultaneously and be on a call while watching the movie and chatting about it. Get comfortable in your bed, dim the lights, and watch a romantic film together as you imagine yourself cuddling with your partner.

14. Get flexible with a yoga class

Join an online yoga class together for having virtual dates to stay fit and active. Exercising together will keep you both motivated to achieve your fitness goals. Challenge each other and set days for competitions; this could be fun and exciting with added benefits of a fit body, mind, and soul. Watch a yoga video on YouTube or use any yoga app for easy access to your virtual yoga class together.

protip_icon Quick tip
Many yoga instructors take yoga classes online after the pandemic. You can make most of it by taking a class together.

15. Go hiking

Virtual hiking date with long distance boyfriend
Image: IStock

This needs a dedicated holiday time for each other. A virtual jungle date with your partner will leave you with an adrenaline rush, fresh air, challenges to accomplish together, exciting activities, and a feeling of doing a team activity. You can make a to-do list like:

  • Bird watching
  • Reaching to the waterfall
  • Hiking to the top
  • Exploring the wildlife

Pack your hiking bags together and remind each other the important items to take along.

16. Grow a garden

Sow the seeds/ saplings and watch them grow, just like your love for your partner. It will be more fun if you both plant the same variety of plants. Buying seeds, garden soil, and pots, and setting an area for planting and clicking pictures and discussing these details will help your relationship to grow. Take photos of your plant and send them to your partner. Spend a Sunday together doing some pot painting and seed studies.

17. Create a photo album together

Decide on a theme like your anniversary, your firsts, love story, adventures, wedding, favorite places, date nights, or honeymoon. You can create an album on your phone, Google Drive, Dropbox, Power point,Facebook, or any photo collage app.

18. Put on your dancing shoes

Join a virtual dance class together. Dancing will give you an adrenaline rush, and you can enjoy each other’s moves by watching them on screen. A Zumba or aerobic dance class will help you both burn calories together. Try having weekly competitions to stay motivated to learn new dances. You may choose a song or theme and practice couple dance steps by imagining your partner. Additionally, you can set up a virtual dance party with your favorite tunes, and groove together through video chat.

19. Online relationship course

Enroll in an online relationship or communication course together to strengthen your bond. The shared experience of learning and applying new relationship skills deepens your connection and equips you with valuable tools to navigate challenges. As you work through the course, you’ll find yourselves communicating more effectively and resolving conflicts with greater understanding, ultimately enhancing the quality of your relationship.

20. Stargazing

Stargazing
Image: Shutterstock

On a clear night, look up at the same stars and constellations, sharing your thoughts and stories about the night sky while on a call, and feel the wonder of the cosmos connecting you across the distance.

21. Cook and eat dinner together

Cooking takes time, which allows you both to interact and strengthen your bond at an intimate level. It will help you better understand each other’s tastes and preferences. The activity will make you associate certain dishes with your romantic virtual cooking date, and you may cook those dishes more often to feel near to your beloved. Add in classic wine or some good cheese and chocolates to feel more romantic.

22. Answer the famous “Questions that Lead to love”

This activity will add an element of suspense and curiosity. It can lead to deep conversations that will make you fall in love all over again and uncover various aspects of your partner. Asking silly questions can make you realize how well you know each other. You can choose questions according to your mood or phase of your relationship. Find the perfect topic for engaging yourself in deep talks, like:

  • Childhood and growing-up
  • Family and relatives
  • Food choices
  • Life philosophy and beliefs
  • Career and studies
  • College life and friends
  • Travel and trips
  • Parties, celebrations, and functions
  • Romantic and intimate questions
protip_icon Point to consider
Questions form an essential part of any relationship. So ask interesting questions and know their likes, habits, quirks, and everything else.

23. Create art together from afar

You can paint or complete an art project together on a video or audio call and enjoy silly mistakes made by each other. Check for each other’s progress. Plan to make some DIY items to send them to each other. You may try jar painting, yarn lamps, tea and coffee cups with a message, and mark keys with nail polish for identification.

24. Share your bucket lists

Discuss your individual bucket lists and see how many goals you have in common, making plans to achieve them together. As you work toward checking off items from your lists, you’ll bond over the excitement of achieving your dreams, whether they involve travel, personal achievements, or meaningful experiences, making your relationship even more fulfilling.

25. Write love letters – an old school romance

You can spray the letter with your perfume
Image: IStock

At times, writing what we feel is easier than explaining face to face. Love letters emphasize why you love, admire, value your partner, and cherish having them in your life. Love letters are souvenirs of your relationship and written proof of your abundant love. You can spray the letter with your body mist or perfume to make it even more personal.Send the letters by post to each other, and after receiving them, read aloud on the call.

26. Have intimate times with no limitation to the imagination

Flirting is healthy and romance is a must in a relationship. Get intimate with your long-distance partner through sexting, phone sex, video chats, and naughty talks. Recall and recite the sex you had last time when you were together.

Talk about your fascination that you want to try the next time you meet. You can also share romantic and naughty videos. Get comfortable expressing your feelings in words to enjoy the intimacy. Plan a surprise visit to have real physical intimacy.

27. Wake up to the sunshine and get sun-kissed

Set alarms, get up early, and wake up your partner to witness the sunrise together. Enjoy the sunrise or sunset while sipping a cup of your favorite beverage.Watching sunrise together will keep you both in a good mood throughout the day. Seeing the beautiful colors of the dawn fills you with joy and gives you new inspiration in life. Click pictures of the beautiful sunrise at your place to send it to your partner.

28. GoPro with excitement

GoPro has an excellent video quality and is a lightweight, small, and handy camera to carry when on a trip. You can live-stream all your fun activities with your partner and take them with you on a virtual tour. Install the GoPro app for live streaming. The cameras are waterproof, so you can go parasailing or snorkeling while live-streaming it to your partner; let them see what you see and enjoy your expressions and excitement.

29. Meet the family

Meeting families means taking your relationship to the next level, where you believe in being forever together in the future. Your partner is serious about you if they introduce you to their parents.Include your friends and families in your virtual dates, as they all are part of your life. Dates with families are a lot more fun and will make you both happier, as you get the support from all the important people in your life.

30. Online escape room

Online escape room
Image: Shutterstock

Participate in virtual escape room challenges that require teamwork and problem-solving skills to escape within a time limit, and feel the adrenaline rush as you work together to crack codes and unlock mysteries.

31. Send gifts

No matter how small or big,gifts are the statement that you care for your partner. Sending gifts as a gesture of love can rekindle life memories. You should have an unboxing gift date on a video call to see the expressions of surprise and joy on your partner’s face. You may order online to have a hassle-free delivery. You can choose a variety of gifts online, depending on the occasion.

32. Learn something together

Learn to say “I love you” in different languages or a new language altogether. Joining an online photography learning session could be a great idea, as you can communicate with photos. Learn to make cocktails for each other or take an online creative writing class together. You both can also learn to play a new instrument or pottery.

33. Online comedy show

Watch stand-up comedy shows or open mic nights online and enjoy a good laugh together, sharing hilarious moments and inside jokes that keep the laughter going long after the show ends.

34. Dream journaling

Keep a shared online dream journal where you both record your dreams and discuss their meanings and symbolism. By delving into the significance of your dreams together, you gain a unique insight into each other’s subconscious thoughts and emotions, allowing for a more profound connection.

35. Plan a trip together

Plan a trip together
Image: IStock

It could be about planning a short weekend trip or vacation for many days together. You can spend time choosing a destination, a place to stay, sightseeing venues, and the means to finance the trip. It will be very special because you will be spending time together after being separated for some time.

36. Check your goals together

It can be discussing your couple’s goals or individual goals or talking about vague dreams. What is important is being on the same page as you plan your future. You can vow to workout together or quit smoking or save for your future house. Your goals might change over time as you evolve, so don’t get stressed out but do plan. Feel free to get carried away in dreams with your beloved. Discussing your goals with each other will keep you both motivated.

37. Interactive storytelling

Immerse yourselves in the world of storytelling by creating a unique narrative together. As you take turns adding paragraphs or sentences to the story, you’ll exercise your imagination and forge a deeper connection through co-creating a cherished tale.

38. Go on a coworking date

Miss the time when you guys used to work together? Get yourself a work-from-home day, turn on your webcam, and enjoy the company of your partner as you get productive together. You both can visit a coffee shop and work while sipping the brew and chatting along. This date will give you a glimpse into their work routine. Don’t forget to take a lunch break or a tea break together.

39. Try your partner’s favorite activity

You will feel closer to them as you explore something that they love. This will help you unctronic gadgets close to you in a spa. So, how can you make this work? You can always put their call on the speaker and share your experiences. Talk about the aroma oils being used, how relaxed you are feeling after releasing the pain from your stiff muscle, and how smooth your skin feels. A ‘couple spa date’ will enable you to have a shared experience with the most special person in your life.

Being far can teach you how to be closer. Long-distance relationships can work well as you put sincere effort into them.derstand their passion and give you a common relatable topic to talk about. Trying new activities will help you learn and grow together and fight the fear of beginning new things. Put them on a video call and let them watch you do their favorite activity.

40. Virtual LEGO building challenge

Virtual LEGO building challenge
Image: Shutterstock

Embark on a virtual LEGO building challenge and unleash your creativity. As you construct structures or sculptures in separate locations, the unveiling moment during a video call becomes a testament to your shared creativity.

41. Have a spa date

You cannot keep your ele You reserve a dedicated time for each other, think about them and their preferences, try to make yourself more lovable, and eagerly wait to meet them. All of this will enhance the bond between you.

42. Share childhood photos

Sharing old photos and stories from your childhood is a beautiful way to connect. By sharing your childhood stories associated with each picture, you’ll gain insight into each other’s pasts, experiences, and the events that have shaped you into the people you are today. It is also a good way to laugh at your childhood antics and share heartfelt memories, strengthening your emotional connection and creating a sense of shared history.

43. Write a story together

Collaboratively writing a short story or novel can be an exercise in creative synergy. Take turns adding paragraphs or chapters to the story, letting your combined imagination take the plot in unexpected directions. This shared storytelling experience will showcase your creativity and strengthen your ability to work together, fostering a unique connection built on mutual creativity and storytelling.

44. Online poetry night

An online poetry night is a beautiful and creative way to express your feelings for each other. You can share your favorite poems or compose poems dedicated to one another. Poetry can be a powerful means of communication, and this activity will allow you to express your love and appreciation in a unique and heartfelt way.

45. Online karaoke

Online karaoke
Image: Shutterstock

Online karaoke sessions are all about having fun and letting your creativity shine. Sing your hearts out to your favorite songs, take turns performing, and share the joy of music even when you’re miles apart. The laughter and camaraderie that come from these karaoke nights will boost your confidence and provide a creative outlet for expressing yourselves, strengthening your connection.

46. Watch TED Talks

Watching TED Talks separately and discussing your thoughts and takeaways afterward is an intellectually stimulating date night idea. By exploring topics of interest and sharing your thoughts, you’ll engage in thoughtful conversations that strengthen your intellectual connection. This activity allows you to support each other’s curiosity and interests, creating a strong foundation for your relationship.

47. Online sensory experience

Share detailed descriptions of what you can hear, see, taste, touch, and smell in your respective environments. This sensory journey lets you intimately connect with each other’s surroundings, fostering a sense of togetherness.

48. Online learning swap

Exchange knowledge and expertise by taking turns teaching each other something new, whether it’s a foreign language, a creative craft, or a valuable skill. This shared pursuit of personal growth strengthens your relationship while expanding your horizons.

49. Digital fortune-telling

Whether using tarot cards, astrology charts, or creative storytelling, this activity can lead to moments of laughter and curiosity. It’s a delightful way to explore the endless possibilities of your shared journey ahead, making your bond even stronger.

51. Record video messages

Start your day or wind down at night by sending sweet video messages to each other. Dress up, find good lighting, and record heartfelt messages like you’re on a reality TV show. It’s a thoughtful and budget-friendly way to connect.

52. Wake up or go to bed together

Share intimate moments by starting or ending your day with a phone call. Mixing up the usual time of connection can make it feel fresh and exciting. Adding variety to your conversations can help maintain the spark in your relationship, whether sharing dreams and aspirations in the morning or recounting the day’s events before bedtime.

53. Order their favorite dish

Use a food delivery service to surprise your partner with their favorite meal. Seeing their smile when it arrives can brighten their day, even from afar. It’s a small gesture that shows you’re thinking of them and want to make their day special.

54. Send a care package

Create a personalized care package with reminders of home, snacks, comfy clothes, and other items your partner will love. Include a heartfelt card to make them feel cherished. Don’t forget to tuck in a photo album with cherished memories to remind them of the love and special moments you’ve shared.

55. Virtual bubble bath

Virtual bubble bath
Image: Shutterstock

Set up your device safely away from water, run a bubble bath, and call your partner. While it’s not the same as sharing a bath, it can be a relaxing and intimate experience, especially with some champagne and candles.

56. PowerPoint party

Create fun and silly PowerPoint presentations on topics you’re passionate about. Enjoy drinks while taking turns presenting your slideshows, making each other laugh during this unique date.

57. Virtual breakfast date

Kickstart your day with a virtual breakfast date after your morning workout. It’s a motivating way to connect when you’re both feeling refreshed. Share your goals or discuss your plans for a healthy and energizing meal for the day ahead.

58. Exchange perfumes/colognes

Create a sensory connection by exchanging your favorite scents. This intimate gesture can help you feel closer to your partner. A whiff of your partner’s favorite fragrance can bring warm memories to your senses, transporting you back to cherished moments you’ve shared.

59. Weekly show and tell dates

Share weekly experiences with show-and-tell sessions. Whether sentimental or humorous, it’s a way to maintain intimacy by discussing exciting things from your week.

60. Fashion show

Fashion show
Image: Shutterstock

Have a virtual fashion show where you pick three outfits from your closets, including casual, elegant, and sexy options. Take turns modeling them in front of the camera to showcase your style and have some fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is dating long distances a good idea?

Dating long distances may work perfectly fine for some, while others may find it difficult to maintain the relationship. Long-distance relationships may help you test your partner’s loyalty and differentiate lust from love. It also lets you follow your career goals. You can develop unique ways to resolve conflicts and are usually focused on making happy memories with each other. This may help you develop patience that is much required in long-term commitments.

2. What does a man want in a long-distance relationship?

In a long-distance relationship, a man usually seeks his beloved’s trust, loyalty, and assurance. He wants you to make him feel wanted and cared for. He wants you to be easily accessible through phone or video calls and may also seek to have intimate conversations. A small gesture such as getting his favorite dish home-delivered or sending him personalized gifts, cards, and hand-written letters can help make him feel special.

3. What are the pros and cons of dating long distances?

In a long-distance relationship (LDR), couples can keep their connection while leading independent lifestyles, encouraging personal development. Deeper bonds are cultivated through establishing trust and effective communication abilities. On the other hand, distant emotional and physical relationships, however, provide difficulties that breed loneliness and irritability. Disconnection may result from the inability to exchange everyday experiences, especially if there is a time difference. It takes work, commitment, and time management to keep the relationship going.

4. What are the most important considerations to make when deciding to date someone long distance?

Several significant factors should be taken into account before choosing a long-distance partner. First, assess both individuals’ willingness and commitment to the relationship. Second, analyze the viability of frequent meetings and the likelihood of making plans together. Third, understanding the emotional and physical difficulties and having reasonable expectations are essential. Finally, to build a solid basis for a long-distance relationship, compatibility, shared values, and shared aspirations are crucial aspects.

5. Is it possible to have a healthy and fulfilling relationship when dating long distances?

It is feasible to date long distances and maintain a healthy and happy relationship as long as both are willing to invest their time and effort. It necessitates continuous efforts to connect, open communications, trust, and dedication. Couples can find fulfillment in their relationship and retain a strong emotional connection despite being physically apart with commitment and efficient communication.

6. How do people stay motivated in long-distance relationships?

Setting objectives and milestones together, planning visits, and maintaining regular communication are some of the ways that people in long-distance relationships stay motivated. They manage to stay in touch with the help of video calls, thoughtful texts, and gifts. Trust, love, and shared future vision help to keep them motivated and devoted to making it work.

7. What technology can couples use to improve their long-distance dates?

Long-distance couples can use different technologies to improve their virtual dates. Face-to-face communication and a more personal experience are made possible through video calling services like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime. Online platforms and apps allow us to view films or TV shows together, play games, or cook together while on the call with each other. Furthermore, social media, messaging apps, and shared online calendars further facilitate communication and activity planning.

The digital world offers many options to stay connected and keep the spark alive in long-distance relationships. It can be fun pursuing gardening while on a video call or sharing photos of your progress. You may go for a walk while on the phone as well. Cooking together, writing letters, and creating a photo album together can deepen your love and strengthen your bonds. Achieve your fitness goals together by attending online yoga classes, setting challenges for each other, or planning a day for hiking. However, along with these long-distance date ideas, planning a vacation can be another fun real-time experience that you may plan with your beloved.

Infographic: Fun And Romantic Long-Distance Relationship Date Ideas

Being in a long-distance relationship can be challenging; however, clear communication is the key. Also, it is important to keep the love and romance alive in the relationship to keep it going. Check out the infographic below for some amazing date night ideas you can execute with your long-distance partner over an audio or video call.

date ideas to stay connected in a long distance relationship (infographic)

Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team

Key Pointers

  • You may video chat with your loved one to watch a live stream music concert of your favorite singers and bands.
  • Order your partner’s favorite food at their house and enjoy your food with them on a virtual date for the sense of being together.
  • You may watch a movie together and talk on the phone simultaneously. Scroll through for more such unique ideas.

Illustration: Most Useful Long Distance Date Ideas To Keep You Connected

long distance date ideas

Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team

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Dr. Dave Jenkins is a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and is the founder of Fredericksburg Relationship Center, LLC. After obtaining his Doctorate of Ministry in Family Therapy and Master of Divinity from Amridge University, he joined the US Army as a mental health counselor.

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