20 Inexpensive Date Ideas That Won't Make You Look Cheap
When A Five-Star Restaurant Isn't An Option
Congratulations, you've got yourself a date! Now what? A date doesn't have to be a high-budget affair. In fact, sometimes the simplest and least expensive activities are more meaningful than those that cost hundreds of dollars, proving that true romance isn't measured in dollar signs, but thoughtfulness and creativity. Bypass the overpriced dinners and extravagant outings with these 20 inexpensive but meaningful date ideas.
1. Picnic
Packing a picnic is the perfect, cute date idea that’s inherently casual and low-key. The focus is purely on each other and the lovely natural environment you choose, whether it’s a park, your backyard, or the beach. You can also personalize the menu, music, ambiance, and other touches, which shows thoughtfulness.
2. Museum or Gallery
While some museums and galleries are costly, some of them have half-price days, while others are completely free. Do your research to see what’s available in your area and bring your date for some brain-expanding art or history perusing.
3. Walk or Hike
If you’re both into fitness and the outdoors, bring your date for a walk or hike in nature. Trails come in varying degrees of difficulty, so whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or something more intense, you can find one that suits your needs.
Holly Raven (Mandarich) on Unsplash
4. Watch the Sunset
One of the most beautiful parts of the day is when the sun goes to rest, presenting us with a kaleidoscope of colors—it happens every single day and it’s totally free. Find the best place in your region to pitch a chair and watch the sunset with your date for an intimate and memorable date.
5. Stargazing
Nature puts on a show for us every night when the stars come out to play like twinkle lights above our heads. Bring your date somewhere with a clear view of the stars and create a comfortable setup where the two of you can gaze up at the majestic night sky.
6. Cook at Home
Impress your date with your cooking chops or learn a new recipe together. Cooking at home is cheaper and often a more memorable experience than eating at a restaurant.
7. Game or Puzzle Night
Game or puzzle nights are a fun and satisfying way to work together to achieve something. Even if it’s a small task, solving something together is a great challenge for your relationship.
8. Themed Movie Night
While having a regular movie night might come off a bit lazy or boring, planning a themed one, like Harry Potter with butterbeer or Goodfellas with homemade Italian food, is different. It shows that you’ve put more thought and effort into it than “Netflix and chill.”
9. Camping
Camping is a special activity that lets you enjoy nature and disconnect from technology together. It also necessitates that you work together on certain tasks like setting up the tent, building a fire, and cooking, which is a great test of your relationship.
10. Farmers Market
Going to a farmers' market is an excellent date idea, especially if you’re newly dating. You can try samples of artisan foods in a lively, happy, and colorful setting.
11. Explore a New Neighborhood or Town
Take your date on the road to explore a new area. You don’t have to drive out of town—you can cruise around a neighborhood you’ve never explored before to check out something new.
12. Go To A Free Concert
Check your area’s listings for a free concert or event. Many cities have outdoor shows in the summer or jam sessions at a local pub or eatery that are free to attend.
13. Volunteer Together
Volunteering is something meaningful and free that you can do together. Whether it’s at your local food bank, humane society, or community center, devoting your time to a cause you both believe in will help grow your relationship dramatically.
14. Create a Scavenger Hunt
Creating a scavenger hunt turns a simple evening into a memorable and interactive adventure. Each clue and location can be treated like a mini surprise, with the final one being a bigger, more romantic gesture or thoughtful gift.
15. DIY Spa Night
What’s way cheaper and more meaningful than going to the spa? Having a spa night at home. Buy some massage oil and candles and give each other massages in the comfort of your own home.
16. DIY Wine/Beer Tasting
Whether you're into wine or beer, you can do a DIY tasting at home. Just buy some bottles that you've been wanting to try and plan a tasting for your date, paired with some appropriate snacks. It's more intimate and way less expensive than going to a winery or brewery for a tasting.
Tim L. Productions on Unsplash
17. Breakfast in Bed
Breakfast in bed is a bit cliché, but that doesn't mean it's not a great idea. It's classically romantic, and it's also one of the cheapest meals you can make.
18. Visit an Animal Shelter
If your date is into animals, take a trip to the humane society together for a dose of animal therapy. You can cuddle with cats and dogs, even if you don't have any of your own.
19. Go Dancing
While some dance events require pricey tickets to get into, there are plenty of free ones, especially outdoors in the summer. Many of them even offer free lessons beforehand, so you don't have to be skilled already.
20. Coffee Shop Hop
Coffeeshop hopping is the perfect date for coffee lovers. It allows you to explore small businesses in your neighborhood, and it's a lot cheaper than bar-hopping, especially if you just order espressos at each place.
