Who doesn’t love date night? It’s time to relax, recharge, and have fun together. Whether you’re just getting to know someone new or a married couple taking time to reconnect, these budget date night ideas let you have a great time without overspending.     

Free Local Events

From concerts in the park to outdoor festivals, free local events are made for date night (even if it’s during the day). Go online to search the upcoming events for your area and start planning what you’ll attend.

Volunteer for a Cause

Find a cause you’re both passionate about and spend a few hours volunteering together. Whether it’s cuddling pups at an animal shelter or preparing a meal at a soup kitchen, the great feeling you get from helping others is sure to bring you closer.

Experience Culture

Most museums have free or discounted admissions on certain days of the week. Even just browsing through your town’s local historical society can bring up some interesting conversational topics.

Go to a Game

You don’t have to see LeBron or Tom Brady in action to have fun at a sporting event. In fact, watching a local farm team or college game can be even more fun and a whole cheaper (maybe even free!).

Take a Hike

Lace up your hiking boots and hit a local trail. If your hiking partner is new to hiking, be sure to choose a simple trail that won’t leave them struggling.

Trade Hobbies

If you both have a signature skill (baking, playing the guitar, throwing a perfect spiral, etc) spend some time teaching the other person how to do it. You’ll come away with a renewed appreciation for one another.

Take a Tour

Chocolate, cheese, wine, beer—they all have to be made somewhere. Find a local factory, brewery or winery and take a tour. You’ll learn something new and enjoy free samples while you’re at it.

Plant Something

You don’t need a huge plot of land to get back to nature. Get a few pots, some potting soil and some herb seeds or succulents and create a small patio or window garden. You can chart the plants’ progress as your relationship grows.

Get Touristy

We’re all creatures of habit. Break out of your rut and explore beyond your zip code. Take in the local attractions with a tourist’s eye. Or simply go for a long drive and discover new neighborhoods and restaurants.

Host a Couples Potluck

Invite two or three couples over for a potluck for a double- or triple-date night. After the meal, break out the board games. Everyone will appreciate a budget date night that doesn’t break the bank.

When it comes to budget dates, these are just a few ideas to get you started. Use your imagination and get creative on coming up with your own budget date night ideas. Remember, the goal of a great date isn’t how much you spend, but the quality of the time you spend together.