Romance doesn’t have to mean champagne, candlelight, and a $200 dinner bill. Thanks to movies, TV, and other people’s Instagram feeds, it’s easy to feel like you have to spend a ton of money to have some good, old-fashioned romantic dates.
Luckily for your wallet, that just isn’t true. There are plenty of totally free date ideas that will sweep your sweetie off their feet without landing you in the poorhouse.
When you’re with the right person, anything can be a romantic activity – even walking down the street! Try one of these totally free date ideas to make your special someone feel like a million bucks.
Sunset Hike
Get away from it all and connect with your person in nature. Plan a hike around sunset so you two can enjoy the most romantic time of day surrounded by trees, beauty, and each other. For extra bonus romance points, pack a little picnic to share under the sun.
Free Concert
Lots of cities offer free events throughout the year, but especially in the summertime. Keep your eyes peeled for a free jazz concert in the park or a local music conservatory recital. Even if the music on offer isn’t usually your thing, keep an open mind and experience something new with your boo. Learning new stuff will strengthen your bond and they’ll love going on adventures with you.
Game Night
Hosting a game night can be great for a lively double-date, group-hang, or an intimate one-on-one session. If you’re hosting other couples, ask everyone to bring some snacks to share. You provide the games and some bevs, and let the good times roll. Just promise not to get mad if your honey whoops you at Scrabble.
Free Museum Nights
Check to see if your local museums offer free nights to residents. Spending an evening holding hands in the art museum or learning about space travel or local history is a fun and educational experience to share. Plus, you’re sure to have plenty to talk about as you explore what your city’s museums have to offer.
Movies in the Park
In that same vein, your city might show movies in a local park or even at your library. Check out a classic film together and get ready to cuddle up!
Volunteer
Make the world a better place and get closer to your crush by volunteering together. You can sign up for shifts at a local soup kitchen, get involved with a political cause you both care about, or help take care of pets in a shelter. It will feel good to do something good for others, and those endorphins will carry over to your relationship too.
Desert Island Albums
Are you obsessed with your record collection? Ask your sweetie to pick three desert island albums, you know, the ones they can’t live without. Pick three yourself, then take turns playing them and sharing what makes each song special to you. You’ll get to know each other in a whole new way.
Go Ghost Hunting
Have you heard any local legends about haunted spots in your town? Head out under cover of darkness with your darling and see if the hauntings are really true. You know how scary movies make for great dates? If you’re brave enough, this could be a truly next-level date.
Movie Night In
Netflix and chill is a classic for a reason. Sometimes there’s simply nothing better than curling up on the couch together and watching movies. Make it extra romantic by lighting candles, making an awesome dinner, and keeping your mouth shut *wink* during the good parts.
Go With the Flow
Depending on the season, there are tons of fun and free activities that would make perfect date nights. Go for a stroll together to look at holiday lights in winter, or hit the beach together in summer. Wherever you are can be a great date if you approach the situation with care, creativity, and love!
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