Are your money woes throwing a wrench in your dating plans? Because they sure are messing with mine. As much as I like to spend a quiet night in, I also enjoy going out with my partner for some special one-on-one time. But nowadays, it feels like it’s impossible to enjoy a romantic date night out without worrying about going into debt.
If you can relate, then you are in luck. My financial troubles have unlocked my relationship creativity and helped me come up with some romantic date ideas that are the best of both worlds. You and your partner can have a great time together, and you will stay within budget. It’s a win-win! So keep reading to learn more.
Take Advantage of the Great Outdoors
Let your date breathe some fresh air and take it out into nature because nothing is more majestic than the great outdoors! Depending on your locality and, of course, the weather, make the most of the world around you. Best of all, a romantic date outside doesn’t cost a thing.
Pack a picnic, but don’t think it has to be especially fancy. Sandwiches, drinks, snacks, or a sweet treat can be more than enough. Also, remember the timing. If you plant your outdoor date right, you can catch the sunrise or sunset for the ultimate romantic ambiance.
- Go for a hike together in the woods
- Spend some time together at the beach
- Take a stroll through the park with your partner
- Star gaze by the seaside together
- Drive out to a campsite for a picnic together
Take a Class Together
They say a couple that learns together, grows together, so why not take a couple’s class. It can be something that fits one of your interests or a completely new activity! Check out what is available in your area, from single-day classes to week-long courses. And who knows, a class may turn into a new favorite couple’s hobby.
- Get messy together at a pottery class
- Find creativity as a couple in an art class
- Refine your culinary skills with your partner in a cooking class
- Learn some new moves together in a dance class
- Make some fun drinks together in a mixology class
Make it a Not-Dinner Date
Who says a romantic date always has to be dinner at a five-star restaurant? Switch it up and go on a breakfast date! Many restaurants have breakfast and brunch deals where customers can enjoy delicious food at a fraction of the cost. If you are not a breakfast person, why not go on a lunch date at a new food truck?
Another date idea is a dessert day at a swanky restaurant. You can get all dressed and glammed up but keep the check under budget by sticking to the dessert menu.
- Enjoy a breakfast or brunch date
- Have a lunch date at a new food truck
- Get your caffeine quota on a coffee and croissant date
- Tickle your tastebuds on an Ice cream date
- Relish a dessert date at a fancy restaurant
Embrace Your Inner Child
Romance doesn’t always have to be candlelight and rose petals. A romantic date can also be laughter and some old-fashioned amusement, so go on a date that speaks to your inner child. What did you love to do as a kid? From bicycling to paintball, revisit some childhood favorites and just have fun with your partner!
- Plays games together at a local arcade
- Ride a tandem bike together
- Go to a roller rink for a roller skating date
- Play each other at mini golf
- Got out bowling together
Become Tourists in Your Town
One of the downsides of being a local is you often overlook the tourist attractions nearby. A quick google search: “free tourist spots in [your city],” will reveal a list of places you can go on a date.
Yes, you may have to pay for tickets, but it might not always be full price. Many tourist spots have discounts for locals even if they do not advertise. Also, they have special discounts during the off-season or in the middle of the week, so be sure to ask.
- Explore a local museum
- Visit an aquarium or maritime center
- Visit a local zoo
- Go art gallery hopping
- Stroll through a botanical garden
You will be surprised to learn how many events take place in your town that are absolutely free or have a minimal entry ticket. Social media like Facebook and Instagram are great sources for learning about upcoming events.
You can even do a Google search: “Events in [your city] this month” to find out what’s happening, then plan your date around it. While it is always fun to attend events you recognize, don’t be afraid to step out of your dating comfort zone and check out something quirkier.
- Enjoy music together at a free concert
- Laugh, or cringe, together at an open mic night
- Enjoy a new cuisine together at a food festival
- Explore a street fair together
Fake it Till You Make It
Now I had to keep the romantic date idea separate from the rest because this one is going to sound a little weird, but hear me out. You and your partner tour model homes or expensive properties for sale for a completely out-of-the-box date. Dress up, invent new personas, and explore the property as if you have millions in the bank.
Just don’t take it too far and actually put down an offer you can’t afford! This might seem odd, but it is harmless, costs next to nothing, and is romantic in a thrilling sort of way.
In the End
In this economy, avoiding a date night or two may seem like the financially responsible thing to do, but don’t let it stop you and your partner from going out completely.
Let me tell you, it is always worth investing in your relationship. Any meaningful time you can spend with your partner will help keep the spark alive so plan away. Use one of the romantic date ideas on this list and get excited about date night again.