There was no online dating, no Tinder or Grindr, and no smartphones, for a start.
But if you were taking someone out on a date during the 1980s, there were a few places you probably ended up.
We’ve put together a list of the most popular spots and activities for a date back then - perfect for anyone who wants to recreate that 80s dating experience.
Just don’t forget the big hair and shoulder pads, and be sure to leave the phone at home and arrange a meeting place and time.
All these venues and activities were cheap, and in some cases free, making them the perfect choice for young romantics back then.
Most of them are still options for a date, though some of the 80s venues have sadly closed.
If you enjoyed this trip down memory lane, you might want to take a look at these nostalgic photos showing popular restaurant chains of the 70s, 80s and 90s that we have lost.
9. A trip to the theme park
A trip to your nearest theme park or fairground was a popular choice for a date among young romantics in the 80s. The scarier the ride, the more chance there was you would end up holding hands, though there was always the risk one of you would throw up over the other./brandstaetter images via Getty Images) | brandstaetter images via Getty Images Photo: Votava
10. Stargazing
What could be more romantic than lying on your backs together stargazing? This is a timeless pursuit, but in 1986 there was a rare astronomical phenomenon not to be missed. Halley's Comet, which is only visible to the naked eye from Earth every 75-odd years, made a spectacular, albeit fleeting, appearance. If you missed it then, you'll have to wait until 2061 to see it zooming past again. | Getty Images Photo: Liaison
11. Ten-pin bowling
Bowling alleys experienced a boom in the late 80s and became a respectable choice for a date - especially a double date. What could be sexier than those shiny, squeaky shoes, after all? | Picture Sheffield/Sheffield Newspapers Ltd Photo: Picture Sheffield/Sheffield Newspapers Ltd