Dinner and a movie might be a solid dating fallback but sometimes you want to liven things up. Sharing new experiences helps to keep a relationship feeling fresh and exciting, even when you’ve been together for years or decades. And, if you’re in a newer relationship, what better way to demonstrate that you’re thoughtful and interesting than by planning a date that’s outside the box? Here are 14 unique date ideas to get you started:

1. Soak in a hot springs.

Nothing says romance and relaxation like a soaking tub for two. There are plenty of developed hot springs in New Mexico, with the largest concentration being in Truth or Consequences. For a more budget friendly but potentially less private option, hike to a primitive spring for an outdoor soak. Here are some great New Mexico hot springs.

2. Go to a drive-in.

Sure, this is similar to a typical dinner and a movie date, but heading to a drive-in will either make you feel nostalgic or this retro experience will be new to you. Nowadays, drive-ins are few and far between but there are two in New Mexico: Fiesta Drive-In Theater in Carlsbad (401 W. Fiesta Drive, Carlsbad) and Las Vegas’ Fort Union Drive-In (3300 7th Street).

3. Literally try something new at a tasting room.

New Mexico has a burgeoning craft alcohol scene and, while a beer tasting doesn’t necessarily scream romance, many of our wineries are in romantic settings.

Here are some with spectacular views.

4. Take a hot air balloon ride.

Several outfits in New Mexico offer hot air balloon rides and viewing landscapes from above is an unforgettable experience.

5. Picnic in a ghost town.

Talk about a one-of-a-kind date. You’re almost guaranteed peace and quiet and, since ghost towns don’t offer amenities, a picnic is both romantic and practical. Here are some of New Mexico’s best preserved ghost towns.

6. Go zip lining.

This might sound like a solo activity but, at Glorieta Zip Tour you can glide alongside your date. The High Five features five different sections of zip line, which offer forest and mountain views.

(Reservations required.)

UPDATE: This particular attraction has now closed on a permanent basis. However, zip lining is still available at many of New Mexico's ski resorts during the summer months.

7. Pair dinner with a side of murder.

Foul Play Café in Albuquerque (2600 Louisiana Blvd NE) provides an interactive murder mystery dinner experience that will keep you guessing for hours.

8. Donate your time to a good cause.

This date idea is thoughtful in a different way. Pick a cause that is meaningful to both of you and volunteer your time together. Whether you're working in a community garden or at your local food bank, giving back will bring you closer.

8. Sip a cocktail at a piano bar.

Piano bars are mellow and romantic venues. Vanessie,

in Santa Fe, has an intimate feel and the bartenders there make an incredible martini.

10. Eat your way along New Mexico’s chocolate trail.

This is way more fun than just buying or receiving a box of chocolates. Turn the experience into a day trip by driving between several different stops on the trail as you sample the goodies crafted by our state’s best artisan chocolatiers. For more info.

11. Cruise along a river.

Think you can’t enjoy a river cruise with your sweetie in New Mexico? Think again. Carlsbad Cruises runs boat tours along a lovely stretch of the Pecos River and, at $8 per person, an hour long cruise is surprisingly affordable.

12. Escape… together.

In recent years, Escape Rooms have gained popularity. Scenarios involve anything from hunting for a treasure map to catching a serial killer, all against a ticking clock - that’ll get your pulse pounding. Most escape rooms are designed for groups larger than two, making it a fun option for a group date. For more info.

13. Create your own art crawl.

Since art galleries are free and continually changing their inventory, viewing them is rarely dull. Don’t like the style of the art? Just head to a different one. Galleries are often clumped together making an art crawl feasible in several parts of the state. Many towns in New Mexico also organize studio tours for a weekend each year, so keep an eye out for those as well.

14. Take a hike.

There are so many trails here in New Mexico that it's easy to venture along an undiscovered one together.

Would you add any other ideas to this list? What's the most unusual date you've ever been on?