7 Cozy Solo Dates To Take Yourself On This Winter

Winter feels like a time for couples. It’s cold outside, and all anyone really wants to do is cuddle up under the covers with someone. There’s ice skating, and mulled wine, and trying to hold hands when wearing mittens… When was the last time you took yourself out on a date that wasn’t to the grocery store, or that didn’t involve Netflix? When was the last time you really enjoyed being alone? Winter is actually a great time to indulge in a little me-time if you know where to look.

Whether you’re single or just haven’t taken enough alone time lately, here are some winter-approved date ideas for when you just need to date yourself.

1. Finally go do that touristy thing in your town you haven’t done but secretly want to.

Winter is a great time to act like a tourist in your own town, since it minimizes the amount of actual tourists you’ll have to encounter. Whether it’s getting to the top of a tall building, going to see a historical landmark, or just making your way to a really beautiful view- now is the prime time to finally go there.

2. Go for a winter hike.

Remember when you were a kid and you could play outside for hours without feeling the cold? Channel that, and go for a hike. Bundle up, and bring a hot thermos full of hot chocolate (shot of whiskey optional). Below 0 temperatures don’t mean you can’t spend time in nature.

3. Go to the museum.

If you’ve never been to an art gallery alone, it’s a completely different experience than going with someone else. Wander around and see what inspires you, sit on one of those little benches for awhile and discover the details. Find a piece you can fall in love with, even if art isn’t your thing. It’s a great way to spend a post-brunch weekend morning.

4. Get a stupidly overpriced cocktail at a cool bar.

While sitting alone at a bar might seem like a recipe for being hit on by weirdos, it doesn’t have to be. Go on a weeknight when it’s quiet and you can tell the bartender you want to be on your own, and then order one of those $25 absinthe-and-rose-petals-picked-by-an-unkissed-virgin drinks that will look great on your Instagram. Bonus points if you dress up! Extra bonus points if you manage to get in wearing sweatpants and an old t-shirt.

5. You know that adult-y thing you’ve been putting off forever? Do it.

Make a date night out of it. Light some candles, order in from your favourite place, get a bottle of wine, and do it. Maybe it’s figuring out how to start a retirement fund, or switching your car insurance, or looking at your credit statement for the first time since your vacation. Self-care is about doing things that are good for you even though you don’t want to. Make an evening of it and feel accomplished!

6. Sign up for a workshop or a class in something you’re bad at.

Have you always secretly wanted to be a ballerina but have no coordination? Have you always wanted to be an artist but can only draw stick figures? In most moderate sized towns, and in every city, there’s bound to be a class or weekend workshop for you to try out that thing you’ve always wanted to. Challenge yourself.

7. Go thrift shop treasure hunting.

You always mean to go find that designer gem or that thing you need for your apartment, but you never actually go. It costs almost nothing, and finding something good feels almost as sweet as finding actual treasure.

Don’t let the cold weather stop you from taking a minute to take yourself out! You deserve it.