How to Think of Free Date Ideas

The current economy is putting a damper on romantic evenings across the nation. The good news, with just a little change in thinking, you can enjoy a great afternoon or evening with your special someone without spending a dime.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Your special someone
• Creative thinking

1. Think about museums.
   Many museums offer free admission on a daily basis, while others will do so on certain days of the week or month.

2. Think about art galleries.
   Watch for gallery openings or free showings. Many openings come complete with refreshments, which is always an added bonus on a date.

3. Think about volunteering.
   Find a charity that needs some help. You will get to spend some time together and feel good about helping others.

4. Think about concerts in the park.
   Some parks host free concerts or plays. If there is an admission price, remember that sound carries and it is a lot of fun to watch or listen from a nearby hill or bench.

5. Think about window shopping.
   Visit a downtown area, outdoor mall or other trendy area, and look in the windows. These types of areas often attract street musicians or other performers, which will add fun and interest to the evening.

6. Think about festivals.
   Many local festivals and craft shows are free and you will have an enjoyable time learning about your local culture.

7. Think about bicycling.
   Pack a backpack with some fruit, cheese and crackers, then head out for a ride to the park or somewhere out in the country. If you do not have a bicycle, ask a friend if you can borrow one.

8. Think about hiking.
   Look for trails in your area. Most cities offer a bike path you can walk, if other trails are not available.

9. Think about visiting an old graveyard.
   While it might sound odd, looking at interesting tombstones can actually be fun.

10. Think about poetry readings.
    Look for poetry readings at local bookstores, colleges or nightclubs.

11. Think about attending a little league or school game.
    You will have a good time cheering and the extra people in the crowd will make the kids happy.

12. Think about reminiscing.
    If you grew up close by, visit your old stomping grounds and show your date or loved one your past.

13. Think about stargazing.
    Throw a blanket down on the ground and cuddle up for some stargazing. Check online for meteor showers or other sky happenings.

14. Think about playing at the park.
    Take advantage of the amenities offered at your local park. Play tennis or a shoot some basketball hoops. Keep it fun and light-hearted; a romantic afternoon is not the time to get competitive with one another.
    
    While you are at the park, push each other on the swings or spin each other on the merry-go-round. Let the kid in you come out. Once you wear out, put a blanket down next to a tree and read to each other.

15. Think about enjoying the seasons.
    Find a place to look at blooming flowers in the spring, build sand castles during the summer, jump in falling leaves during autumn, and go sledding during the winter. Don’t forget to build a snowman while you’re out there!

[langleycornwell]

on 9/16/2009 These are wonderful date ideas. We love to go to concerts in the park.

[bellerose]

on 9/6/2009 Thanks for all the great free date ideas. Festivals are a pretty hip and cool thing to do, so no need to even mention that you are doing them on the cheap. 5*

[NatalieJ]

on 8/18/2009 Great tips on ways to spend a date for free. I like #9. Creepy sounding, yes, but my husband and I used to wander old cemetaries just for fun. You can learn a lot about an area by dates on a tombstone. 5*

[edieness]

on 7/28/2009 Good tips on How to Think of Free Date Ideas

[jeremyjk]

on 7/22/2009 Like I always say, a good time doesn't always require spending money