24 First Date Ideas in Kuala Lumpur That’ll Guarantee You a Second One

Planning a first date in Kuala Lumpur may be a little tough, especially if it isn’t something you do often. There are so many things to do in the city, and it’s hard to choose the perfect date activity. Luckily for you, we’re here to help! When you’re looking for a chance to spend quality time with someone you like, here are 24 date ideas in KL that range from free and cheap activities to those on the fancier side! 

Romantic yet affordable first date ideas in KL when you don’t feel like being fancy

1. Have a romantic picnic at Perdana Botanical Gardens

For a lot of people, planning a cute picnic is one of the best date ideas in KL. Not only do you get to share a homemade meal, but you also get to dress up and spend time together. One of the best picnic spots in KL is Perdana Botanical Gardens. It’s the largest recreational park in the city, which means spacious grounds and a stunning environment to have a first date. After your picnic, you can explore the rest of the gardens’ attractions, including flower parks, playgrounds, a massive lake, and smaller themed gardens. 

2. Hike the nature trails and inhale the fresh air at Taman Tugu

Sometimes, a morning date is better than one that happens in the late afternoon or at night. A huge reason for this is that you get to spend time with someone before anyone else does. If you like the idea of waking up early to see that potentially special someone, then we highly recommend going on a refreshing nature walk or a hike. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that there are numerous hiking trails in KL, including Taman Tugu. 

The park is famous for its forest trails, tree-planting initiatives, and lush green forests. In fact, the views here during sunrise make it one of the most romantic places in KL. 

3. Watch the skies change colour at sunset in Bukit Antarabangsa

Catching the sunset is an underrated date activity in KL, and there is plenty of spots in the city to watch the colourful skies. KL Eco Forest may be a popular choice, but you can also get dazzling views in Bukit Antarabangsa in Ampang District. 

Many couples love to come here because of the free parking and peaceful surroundings. Plus, the green slopes of the park may remind you of the lush green hills of Cameron Highlands. A few minutes before sunset, take a seat on a green slope and get comfy, because we’re about to watch the skies glow over the KL skyline. 

4. Visit an Instagram-worthy bookstore (or two!)

KL is no stranger to having Instagrammable spots, including aesthetically pleasing bookstores. If the person you’re planning to ask out is a major bibliophile, there are a few bookstores to check out! 

In the heart of Bukit Bintang, you’ll find the recently opened eslite spectrum at Starhill Gallery. This Taiwanese lifestyle bookstore is home to a wide selection of Chinese, English, and Malay books. Afterwards, take the MRT to Pasar Seni and walk to RexKL for BookXcess. The whole bookstore is a maze of endless bookshelves and hidden reading nooks, which is perfect if you want a private moment to read a book together. 

Likewise, Tsutaya Bookstore at Pavilion Bukit Jalil is a book lover’s dream, especially with its minimalist black interiors and abundance of shelves. At the end of each visit, consider spoiling your bibliophile date with a book haul. We promise you they’re going to love you for it!

Also read: 12 Beautiful Libraries & Bookstores to Visit Around Asia

5. Explore the creative hub of Pasar Seni

Besides its reputation as a famous tourist attraction, Pasar Seni is actually a popular spot for fun date ideas in KL. Some of its most popular attractions include Central Market, Kwai Chai Hong, Petaling Street, and the previously mentioned RexKL. 

Kick off your date with a visit to Central Market, one of the oldest marketplaces in the country. You’ll come across many arts and crafts and tons of souvenir shops. Afterwards, you can explore the bustling stalls of Petaling Street and admire the lively environment. Finally, stop by Kwai Chai Hong to take pictures in front of their famous murals of Chinatown during the 1960s. Occasionally, they’ll have seasonal art installations so do be on the lookout for that!

Also read: 10 Free Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur, as Recommended by Locals

6. Check out the best museums and art galleries in KL

Also on our list of fun date ideas in KL is checking out local museums and art galleries. This is perfect if you want to go somewhere fun and immersive. 

One of the most popular free museums in KL is the Bank Negara Malaysia Museum & Art Gallery. It’s a fun place to learn more about money, and admire Southeast Asian art — including those from Malaysia. On the other hand, the Balai Seni Negara (or the National Art Gallery) is another way to fall in love with homegrown art. Its exhibitions feature many works of local artists, and many have found the art pieces on display captivating. 

Finally, the Art House Gallery Museum of Ethnic Arts in Pasar Seni is a hidden gem filled with native art from East Malaysia. They house West Malaysia’s largest collection of native art from Sabah and Sarawak, including over 2,000 artefacts and antiques. However, unlike the previous spots, the Art House Gallery charges an entrance fee of RM5 per visitor. 

Also read: The Ultimate 6-Day Singapore-Malaysia Itinerary For First-Timers

7. Stay in and have a simple movie night

In the mood to stay in for your date? Plan a movie night! It’s one of the best cheap date ideas in KL, especially when you don’t feel like doing anything. All you have to do is grab a few snacks from your pantry, put on your most comfy clothes, and select a couple of movies to watch for the rest of the night. 

If you want a comfier experience, build a fort out of pillows, a blanket, and a mattress in the living room. That way, you won’t have to worry about dozing off on an uncomfortable couch in the middle of the movie. 

Also read: 15 Gorgeous Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals in Kuala Lumpur You’ll Want to Live In

8. Pick up a new recipe and bake or cook something together

If you’re anything like me, you have a short attention span when it comes to watching a movie. When the idea of sitting through a two-hour movie sounds less than ideal, make something together! The act of learning a new recipe together is a great way to get to know someone and have a little bit of fun. You can either bake and decorate a cake together, or cook a three-course meal from scratch. Plus, this also works if you want to personally cook for someone for a date.  

9. Bring out the board and video games and have a game night!

Solving a game together is honestly one of the most underrated date ideas in KL. It’s perfect for those who are feeling lazy to go out and want to stay at home instead. If you’ve got board games and puzzles lying around, bring them all out and have a game night! Spend the rest of your date completing a puzzle or challenging the other to a game of chess. If not, you can totally plug into your console video games and have fun with Just Dance or Mario Kart! 

10. Go for a drive around the city when you have nowhere else to go

On days when you really have nowhere to go, hop into the car and go for a morning or late-night drive. It’s a fun way to spend time with each other and enjoy the wholesome vibes. Better yet, you can have more intimate conversations in the comfort of your car. But if you’re not in the mood to talk, it’s time to plug in the aux cord and indulge in a carpool karaoke session! All you have to do is belt out your favourite tunes and serenade your date. 

Memorable date ideas in KL when you’re in the mood to treat someone 

11. Take a day tour to Putrajaya

Are you looking for cheap date ideas near KL? Look no further than Putrajaya — it’s one of many underrated destinations in the city that are filled with fun activities and historic landmarks. Hence, there are many things to do in this nearby city!

For starters, you can go kayaking on Putrajaya Lake. It’s one of many popular activities for visitors in the district because it’s beginner-friendly and really cheap to rent the kayaks for an hour. Plus, you get to enjoy unobstructed views of the district. 

On your first date, rent a double kayak and paddle around the serene lake for an hour. At sunset, sit back and enjoy the view of the Putra Mosque as it reflects over the water. 

Also read: 15 Famous Buildings in Malaysia: Where to See Architectural Attractions

12. Go cafe-hopping around Mont’ Kiara, KL’s fancy neighbourhood

If you know your date loves food and taking pictures, why not take them cafe-hopping? It’s one of the top date ideas in KL, especially when there are so many spots to choose from. While Pasar Seni has long been famous for this, there’s another location that’s just as great for cute cafes: Mont’ Kiara!

This affluent suburb is located 20 minutes away from Bukit Bintang. Though many associate the neighbourhood with expats and wealthy people, the area has tons of aesthetically pleasing cafes that don’t require you to spend a fortune. Some of our favourites include Kopenhagen Coffee, Jasyln’s Cakes, VCR Stacks, and ALLO by The Owls Café. From savoury brunches to yummy desserts, you’ll be able to enjoy a great time over great food with your special person. 

Also read: 15 Best Cafes in Kuala Lumpur That Will Light Up Your Socials

13. Cuddle with fur friends at a pet cafe (or two!)

Similarly, if either of you loves pets, why not go to a pet cafe together? (Although, you might want to make sure beforehand that your date isn’t allergic). If you love dogs, Huskiss Cafe is the ultimate spot for the fluffiest doggos, while Clawset Pet Cafe is the perfect place to snap a selfie with a photogenic Pomeranian. 

On the other hand, PoppyKat Cafe is a stunning cat cafe with yummy “croffles.” But if you’d like a more laidback spot for your date, Purradise Cat Cafe is arguably the best place to do so. Plus, don’t you think it’s so heartwarming to see the person you’re attracted to interact with animals? *Wink.* 

Also read: 10 Best Pet Cafes in Kuala Lumpur to Chill and Play With Animals

14. Be tourists in Kuala Lumpur for one night with a night city tour

When you’re looking for fun date ideas in KL that are perfect for a night out, the KL City of Lights Tour is your best bet. Not only do you get to skip the day crowd, but you’ll also get to savour the city from a different perspective. Specifically, on the top of the KL Hop-on Hop-off Bus. Feel the night breeze whip through your hair as the double-decker bus takes you on the journey to see the city’s best attractions, such as Merdeka Square, the National Palace, and the Salome Bridge. 

TripZilla Tip: Come 40 minutes earlier so you can get the best seats for the tour!

15. Conquer your fear of heights together at an indoor theme park

For those who have been on the hunt for “crazier” activities, definitely consider taking your date to an indoor theme park. I know what you’re thinking — but before you get into your car and drive up to Genting Highlands, you should know that there are various indoor theme parks in KL! 

At Berjaya Times Square, there’s a theme park filled with rollercoaster rides and other thrills. It’s located near Bukit Bintang, which is perfect for when you’re in the area for shopping and sightseeing. However, if you’re in the mood for something that pushes you out of your comfort zone, ESCAPE PJ is an adventure park packed with obstacle courses and zip lines. 

Additionally, Jump Street Trampoline Park is a fun playground you get to bounce around and defy gravity. No matter which park you choose, you’re guaranteed to have lots of fun!

16. Pretend the cold doesn’t bother you with an ice skating rink date at 163 Retail Park

Do you know that scene in Christmas movies where the main couple goes ice skating together? Luckily for you, there’s a chance to experience that in Malaysia! At Blue Ice Skating Rink, you get to skate on this indoor rink located at 163 Retail Park in Mont’ Kiara. 

Although it’s not as big as the one in Sunway Pyramid, it’s still one of the many date places in KL that are worth a try. If both of you are beginners, that’s totally okay! Learning how to skate and figuring it out makes a memorable time and you might even get a few laughs out of each other in the process. 

17. Put on your roller skates and move your body at a neon-filled rink

For those who aren’t a fan of the cold but want a similar experience, try roller-skating! ROLLERWA is a top South Korea-based indoor roller-skating rink, and they’ve got two outlets in KL: 1 Utama Shopping Centre and Lalaport BBCC. These are most famous for their Instagrammable rinks illuminated with neon lights and all-around great vibes. 

What’s more, there are plenty of aesthetically pleasing corners for your pictures, and you’ll get to skate around in brightly coloured skates. Doesn’t that sound so much fun?

18. Immerse yourself in the world of Vincent Van Gogh at Pavilion Bukit Jalil

Van Gogh Alive Malaysia is an immersive exhibition dedicated to Vincent Van Gogh and his works. From now until 16 Mar 2023, you can dive into a multi-sensory world filled with light, sound, and colour. Since its opening at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, many couples have flocked here and made it one of their favourite date places in KL. Each of the exhibits is themed after Van Gogh’s paintings, like the room of sunflowers inspired by his work titled Sunflowers. 

When you venture into The Bedroom exhibit, admire the life-sized replica of the painting and participate in the drawing class. Last but not least, watch the 40-minute digital art show — there’s a reason we’ve saved the best section for last. It’s mesmerising and you get to see Van Gogh’s various works come to life with a 360° holographic show! 

19. Fall in love with the beauty of the ocean at Aquaria KLCC

Likewise, taking someone to an aquarium is a unique way to spend a first date. That said, Aquaria KLCC is one of the most romantic places in KL. After all, few things are more fascinating than watching the beauty of the ocean before your eyes. 

Within eight themed zones, you’ll be able to witness 150 species of marine life including sharks, stingrays, and turtles. One of the best parts about this aquarium is its 90-metre aquarium tunnel where you can stand still and look up at the clear tank above your head. 

20. Befriend an alpaca at a mini petting zoo

Yes, you’ve read that right! Besides observation decks, KL Tower is also home to a petting zoo. At the KL Tower Mini Zoo, animal lovers on a date can expect more than 50 species of native and exotic animals within several areas. These include fluffy alpacas, various reptiles like iguanas, monkeys, birds, giant tortoises, and more! 

Better yet, you can even pet and interact with these animals as it’s part of the mini zoo experience. So, what do you say? Take your animal lover on a petting zoo date now!

21. Treat your partner to a fancy rooftop dining experience

For those who plan to impress their date, treat them to a fancy dining experience. Some of the more sophisticated date places in KL include rooftop restaurants and bars. Though they are incredible during the day, they are better suited at night, especially with the views of the glittering skyline. 

At restaurants like Envi Skydining, Atmosphere 360, and Blackbyrd KL, you’ll be introduced to the finer things in life with their extensive menu and classy furnishings. On the other hand, rooftop bars like Heli Lounge Bar, Jann At Four Points, and Sky Bar will take you on a trip of boozy delights amid stunning outdoor patios. A candlelit dinner at any of these spots will definitely guarantee a second date. Cheers!

Also read: 10 Restaurants in Kuala Lumpur to Enjoy Stunning Views From the Top

22. Sip on unlimited wine as you express your creativity on a canvas

On the note of boozy delights, there’s another unique activity you can do for your first date. At Art and Bonding Studio, pick up a paintbrush and join a “sip-and-paint experience.” Yes, the studio will let you sip on complimentary juice or wine as you paint. 

And if you’re worried about being an awful artist, don’t worry! The workshop is beginner-friendly and they’ll guide you through the process. At the end of the session, you can take home your canvases and hang them up on your wall as sweet memorabilia. 

23. Make rugs for each other at a local tufting class

However, if you’re not interested in a sip-and-paint experience, you should definitely sign up for a tufting class. It’s currently one of the top date ideas in KL, and like the previous activity, this one’s also beginner friendly! The difference is, you’ll get to make your own rug and choose from a variety of coloured cotton yarn for your design. If you’re interested in this kind of activity, these are some of our favourite tufting spots for you to check out: TuftMe, Tuft O’Clock, Kapetto, and Root Studio. 

24. Sign up for a pottery class together

A pottery class is lowkey one of the most fun date ideas out there, especially if you don’t mind getting a little messy. There are plenty of art studios offering beginner-friendly workshops, including A Touch of Clay, Peinto Gallery, and Life Ceramics. At any of these art studios, you get to learn how to make ceramic cups and bowls from scratch, as well as small trinkets you can gift your date at the end of the session. The classes are fun and immersive, and you get to spend time with your date in a creative setting. 

Also read: 21 Dos and Don’ts in Malaysia That Travellers Should Know About

While all of these date ideas in KL are incredibly unique and fun, what matters most is how well you’d get to know your date. Plan something that you know they’ll enjoy and be comfortable with, and you may just get the second date after all!

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Featured image credit: TuftMe | Official Website

Facebook image credit (bottom right): Blackbyrd KL Official Facebook Page