12 Cheap Date Ideas That Won't Break The Bank

SEO Writer

WordPress

Yoast SEO

21Ninety

Credit: Photo Credit: Lorado

Looking for cheap date ideas that will bring you and your partner closer together? Keep reading to get some fresh inspiration.

Updated Aug 24, 2024

We all know that “love don’t cost a thang“, but

new flings

and long-time partners should never skip out on dates. A simple online search for cheap date ideas will give you hundreds, even thousands of options. Your typical dinner and a movie date can rack up a hefty bill week after week. Planning a memorable date doesn’t have to break the bank. We’ve got you covered with 20 unforgettable cheap date ideas that will bring you and your partner closer than ever!

Photo Credit: MoMo Productions

Why Cheap Date Ideas are Worth It

It doesn’t matter if you are swimming in cash or living paycheck to paycheck, you shouldn’t push your date nights aside. It’s understandable to see dates as a luxury, especially if finances are tight, or you’re planning to make a big purchase. But, couples who go on dates regularly tend to have more stable and healthier relationships. Here are some other reasons why cheap date ideas are worth it.

When you are spending quality time alone with your partner, you

reconnect.

You get to share food, laughter, and meaningful conversations without distractions. Going on regular dates definitely keeps the romance alive. Planned alone time together is key when building a strong emotional connection together. You will build positive interactions that contribute to the way you

speak your love language

in your relationship. And knowing that you have a hot date coming up gives you something to look forward to.

Long-Term Relationship Health

Photo Credit adamkaz

Without excitement, joy, and new experiences, a long-term relationship can become bland. Going on adventures together and planning cheap date ideas are amazing opportunities to grow even more together. For the

couples with children

, this is a top-tier way to model what a healthy relationship looks like.

When you’re new to dating, the cheaper options are it. If you’re going on

a lot of first dates

each month, you probably don’t want to invest a lot of your time or money until you know that there’s a connection. So, it’s best to meet for a quick 30-minute coffee and see if you click.

Going outside to frolic and flirt is one of the cheapest ideas, with a lot of them being 100% free! Check these off your day-date list.

Picnic in the Park

Photo Credit:Jarritos

Such a classic yet timeless option. You can make this

incredibly romantic

without excess spending. Pack a basket with homemade sandwiches, fresh fruit, and a bottle of wine. Spread out a blanket and enjoy each other’s company.

Nature Walks and Hikes

Research your local trails and parks and find one that fits your style. Dog-friendly, play area for the kids, and the entry fee are good to keep in mind. Plus, exercising together is hot, hot, hot!

Late Night Stargazing

A perfect cheap date idea, especially on a clear night, you and your partner can

get lost in the cosmos

. Use a stargazing app to find different constellations, or have fun making up your own. For you over-achievers, stay up late enough to watch the sunrise.

DIY Craft Night

Getting crafty is the ultimate bonding experience to have in a relationship. You both get to explore talents you didn’t know about each other, and even challenge each other’s abilities. Head to the dollar store or raid your kid’s art supplies. Take part in the viral TikTok trend of painting your partner, sure to bring out some belly laughs. You can even try something like knitting or making homemade candles. Who knows, you may just find your next side hustle.

Whip up a Feast

Cooking together is not only romantic, but cheap! Plan a menu, raid your

kitchen for ingredients,

and enjoy the process of prepping and devouring some homemade grub. There might be a food fight or mid-cooking dance off.

Movie Marathon Binge

No, we aren’t talkin’ Netflix and Chill, but it is one of the most common cheap date ideas. To make it “date-night worthy” create a cozy spot filled with blankets, pillows, and all the snacks. Throw on some of your favorite childhood classics, get deep in some documentaries, laugh it up with good ol’ stand-up comedy, or even a thriller that’s giving you good reason to snuggle up close

Family Bike Rides

Photo Credit: FatCamera

Perfect for couples that live in the city. It’s a perfect

adventure to bring the kids

and pets along for. Keep it completely free by taking a scenic route, or spend a couple bucks on some ice cream at your local parlor.

Mini Golf

Now, who doesn’t love a flirty and competitive round of mini golf? It’s affordable, a makes for a great mid-week date night idea. Find a course near you and have a little classic fun. Many mini golf courses also include arcades or even go-karts, so you can really dive into a night of nostalgic fun.

Dance Class

Couples that can choreograph an epic dance is an obvious bond we all want and love. It can be salsa, swing, ballroom, even pole dancing classes. Many community centers and dance studios offer discounts for couples, one-time classes, or a package of sessions (best for routine cheap date ideas).

Food Truckin’

Why is it that we always get hungry on a date? Maybe it’s because dates are meant to last a few hours, long enough to hit a meal time. When the weather is in your favor, you can spend an evening eating food-court style. Better yet, affordable festivals and city events typically have a plethora of food vendors to get a taste at each.

Happy Hour Hopping

Any downtown spot has a few bars, some watering holes and some super classy. No matter what the vibe is, anywhere that’s serving cocktails will have a dedicated couple of hours for cheap date ideas. Specials can be anywhere from discounted drinks, half off appetizers, free games of pool, and

even late night menus

Photo Credit: Monkey Business Images

Potluck Dinner

Friends, family, neighbors, or just the two of you. But, the more, the merrier for the end of our cheap date ideas. If everyone brings their own dish to share at the potluck, you can get away with just being the ultimate couple hosts.

Final Thoughts on Cheap Date Ideas

First date or fiftieth date, spending quality time together as a couple is priceless. Finding cheap date ideas doesn’t need to be anything about money. Traditional dates are in the past and creative, unique dates are going viral.

Get the 21Ninety Newsletter