30 Romantic Fall Date Ideas

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Whether you've been together two months or two decades, in any relationship it's critical to keep things fun (when you can, that is). A date night can help coax a long-term partnership out of a rut, or give new couples a chance to bond. We turned to relationship experts and therapists for these romantic fall date ideas, from harvest festivals, and a mini road trip to cocktail tasting and every affordable thing in between. So toss on your cutest autumnal outfit, and schedule an activity that'll remind you and your partner to stop and smell the... pumpkin-scented candles.

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Enjoy an Oktoberfest.

"There are so many great fall festivals and Oktoberfest is a biggie," says Rachel Federoff of Love and Matchmaking. "It's drinks, food, dancing, and games all in one. Having fun and letting loose makes a person feel those endorphins, which can lead to romance." Check your local listings to find one in your area.

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Rent a cabin in the mountains.

"This is a perfect weekend getaway," says Federoff. "You can cuddle up by the fire with a bottle of wine or get romantic in a hot tub while star gazing. This allows you both to really connect and unplug from the world."

Visit a drive-in movie.

"Nothing says romance like the drive-in," says Federoff. "Grab the popcorn—and each other—while watching a Halloween movie or retro classics from the 80's and 90's. This date is sure to get the romance in high gear. It worked for our parents!" None left in your neighborhood? A projector, and your wall will also do the trick for a DIY theater experience at home.

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Read together.

"Taking turns reading aloud to one another is the perfect way to connect," says psychologist and life coach Dr. Cheyenne Bryant. By focusing on just the passages (and each other) this experience can help foster intimacy, she adds. Need a suggestion? Check out our list of some of the best fall books to read now.

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Take a scenic walk.

What better season than fall to take a nice leaf-peeping stroll? "Exploring nature reduces stress and enhances calmness, while walking and being present releases the happy and love hormones: serotonin and oxytocin. This promotes bonding and betters your shared mood. It's a perfect date to relax and get to know one another," says Dr. Bryant. Feel free to bring along a (spiked) cider.

Read the full story here: 30 Romantic Fall Date Ideas That Go Beyond the Pumpkin Patch