Cheap and Budget-Friendly First Date Ideas

No matter if you’re broke or just want to explore romance but lack funds, there are still plenty of budget-friendly first date ideas out there. Here are some of the best:

Concerts in the Park

Search local events and festivals to find free concerts near you! They usually feature great music and offer a relaxing way to spend the day.

Open Mic Comedy Nights

Attending a stand-up comedy night is an excellent way to explore a different genre of humor or catch an up and coming comedian before they become famous. Plus, it’s usually quite affordable for dates to enjoy while having some laughs together!

Art Studio

Painting artwork together for a fun, low-cost date idea! Many studios offer canvas painting for as little as $15 and many even provide free lessons!

Playing Games at a Community Center

Gathering friends to play games is an age-old, inexpensive way for everyone to spend quality time together. Whether it’s card or board games, having fun together is guaranteed! Spend your evening gaming together!

Cooking Together

One of the best date ideas is cooking dinner together. This can be a simple meal or something special; whatever it is, both of you will love it!

Picnics in the Mountains or by a River or Lake

Planning an affordable date can be tricky, but picnics are always an option. All you need to do is pick a location where you can bring along your picnic basket, blanket and food for some casual eating. It’s perfect for when you don’t feel like cooking!

Hiking trails make for a romantic and affordable date! Just be sure to pick an enjoyable trail that both of you will enjoy.

Feeding Ducks at a Pond

If you live in the city, chances are there are plenty of ponds nearby where you can feed ducks. This activity is cost-effective and fun for anyone to do – no travel required!

Movie Theater Scavenger Hunt

Plan an engaging, creative, and frugal date by organizing a movie theater scavenger hunt. Ask questions such as “Where do you go when you want to have some fun?” or “What were your favorite movies growing up?” Fill a box with candy that matches the theme (such as gummy bears, popcorn, and bubble gum).

Book Club

Reading a book together is an inexpensive and enjoyable way for couples to spend quality time. No matter your interests, there’s sure to be something in there for both of you to enjoy.

The purpose of this is to get to know each other’s tastes and discover new things that you hadn’t considered before. You could even swap books if desired!

Game Night

Instead of spending the money to go out and purchase a game for two, why not host a weekly board game night with your significant other. You can pick up plenty of different board games at the dollar store or just borrow one to start?

Playing Cards

Instead of buying cards, why not play a game together using cards you already own. This is an enjoyable and economical way for families to spend time together and test out their competitiveness!