50 fun and affordable group date ideas for teens

From outdoor movie nights under the stars to epic cook-off challenges, these group date ideas for teens are all about creating unforgettable memories with friends. Which one will you try first?

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Being a teenager is all about creating memories and forging strong bonds. Even when you’re coupled up, your friends are an important part of the mix.

Despite the fact we’re going back to the 80s and early 90s as far as my own teen years are concerned, I still remember those summer afternoons when the air would be heavy with heat and hormones. The boys were in a band together and we would sit and listen with adoration on our faces as they practiced their latest creations.

And when a song was written about us? Oh my!

I still nurture a fondness for bass players, even if one or two broke my heart.

That aside, whether it’s spending quality time at home or exploring the world outside, there are countless opportunities as a teen to have fun and build lasting friendships while also spending time with your boyfriend or girlfriend.

These 50 group date ideas for teens are not only budget-friendly but also a whole lot of fun. So, gather your friends and get going!

At home group date ideas for teens

1. Board games: Dust off classic board games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or Settlers of Catan for a competitive night in.
2. Book club: Read a book as a group and have regular discussions about it.
3. DIY craft night: Get creative with crafts like making friendship bracelets, decorating T-shirts, or creating custom phone cases.
4. Indoor scavenger hunt: Create a list of items to find around the house and see who can complete the list the fastest.
5. Movie night: Host a movie marathon with your favorite films, complete with popcorn and comfy blankets.
6. Learn a dance: Pick a dance routine from YouTube or TikTok and learn it together.
7. Karaoke party: Sing your hearts out with a karaoke machine or apps that offer a wide selection of songs.
8. Outdoor movie night: Set up an outdoor movie screening using these backyard movie night tips.
9. Pizza parlor: Have a pizza making competition where each teen couple prepares a pizza, and then everyone votes on the winner (here’s some pizza date night tips).
10. Summer cook off. Fire up the grill and see who can make the best of these summer grilling recipes, side dishes or salads.
11. Themed costume party: Choose a theme (e.g., ’80s, Disney, superheroes) and have everyone come dressed accordingly.
12. Video game tournament: Challenge each other to video game competitions, with prizes for the best players.

Out and about group date ideas for teens

13. Beach day: If you’re near the coast, spend a day at the beach swimming and playing beach volleyball.
14. Bike ride: Take a scenic bike ride through your neighborhood or local trails.
15. Botanical garden: Spend a serene day at a botanical garden, appreciating nature’s beauty.
16. Farmers’ market: Check out a farmers’ market and sample some local goodies.
17. Food truck hop: Try different food trucks in your area for a culinary adventure.
18. Hiking adventure: Explore nature trails and enjoy the great outdoors.
19. Mini golf: Challenge your friends to a round of mini golf at a local course.
20. Outdoor yoga or fitness class: Join a free outdoor yoga or fitness class in your community.
21. Photography expedition: Go on a photography scavenger hunt and capture the beauty of your town.
22. Picnic in the park: Pack a picnic basket and head to a local park for an outdoor meal. (Get some inspiration with these picnic date ideas).
23. Visit a museum: Explore art, history, or science museums in your area.
24. Visit a zoo: Have a wild time at the zoo, learning about animals from around the world.
25. Volunteer together: Give back to the community by volunteering at a local charity or shelter.

Cheap thrills for budget conscious teens

26. Baking contest: Bake cookies or cupcakes and have a tasting competition.
27. Campfire and s’mores: Have a bonfire and make delicious s’mores.
28. Dollar store challenge: Have a few dollars each and see who can find the most unique items at a dollar store.
29. Geocaching: Join the treasure-hunting craze by geocaching in your area.
30. Graffiti wall art: Get permission to create graffiti art on a designated wall.
31. Library scavenger hunt: Create a list of items or books to find in the library, or modify this library date night idea.
32. Outdoor stargazing: Bring blankets and telescopes for a night of stargazing.
33. Parkour park: Try your hand at parkour in a safe environment like a parkour gym.
34. Thrift store fashion show: Pick out the quirkiest outfits at a thrift store and have a fashion show.
35. Visit a botanical garden: Enjoy the beauty of nature without breaking the bank.
36. Visit a trampoline park: Enjoy hours of bouncing fun at a trampoline park.
37. Visit an arcade: Play classic arcade games and challenge each other to high scores.
38. Water balloon fight: Cool off with a friendly water balloon fight on a hot day (a fun summer date idea for teens)

Educational adventures for lovers of learning

39. Aquarium antics: Marvel at the amazing aquatic life at your nearest aquarium. (Check out How to plan a fun aquarium date).
40. Art workshop: Take an affordable art class or workshop together.
41. Botany or astronomy club: Join a local club focused on botany or astronomy.
42. DIY science experiments: Conduct fun and educational science experiments at home.
43. Historical reenactment: Attend a historical reenactment event in your area.
44. Historical site visit: Explore historical landmarks and learn about your town’s past.
45. Language exchange: Learn a new language or practice a language you’re studying.
46. Outdoor art exhibit: Visit an outdoor art exhibition in your city.
47. Podcast passion: Listen to thought-provoking podcasts on your favorite topics and discuss them afterward.
48. Science center: Spend the day at a science center, engaging in interactive exhibits.
49. Visit a local college campus: Tour a nearby college campus for future inspiration.
50. Visit a planetarium: Explore the cosmos and learn about celestial bodies.

Your teen years are meant for exploration, bonding, and having a blast with friends.

With these 50 group date ideas you can make the most of your time together, whether you’re staying in, venturing out, searching for budget-friendly options or expanding your mind.