20 Cheap Date Ideas for a 20-Something Year Old Budget
I don't know if I even like dates. I know when Tucker and I talk "dates" it's to do something besides watch Netflix for a change. The both of us would honestly rather stay in and watch Netflix, because at that point in your relationship, who wants to go out in public and put on jeans, especially after a long day or a long week of work. But, if you're not in a year long relationship, and Friends Season 10 is starting to judge you, here is a list of cute, (kinda quirky), outdoorsy, affordable dates to get you off that couch! (Except #6, it involves the couch)
1. Go fishing. This is less expensive if you have the equipment. I bought a $15 pole from Walmart with a tackle box just so I could "fish". I generally spend 75% time untangling the cheap line, and the other 25% playing photographer, but hey, I'm trying. And it's nice to be out in nature.
2. Play racquetball or tennis. You will most like find one of these courts in your town where you can rent cheap equipment. You will never know how fun these are until you try them.
3. Star gazing. This sounds SO cheesey, and it is. One of my favorite memories is loading up the truck with tons of blankets and pillows and watching the stars and listening to music. (Bring bug spray)
4. Read together. It's very sentimental to start a good book together!
5. Ride bikes to appetizers somewhere!
6. Set up a cozy fort in your living room and watch Netflix!
7. Go on a hike!! Even if you're tired after work, and you just want to get out of the house. A night hike can be the best (and relaxing).
8. Coffee date. This sounds boring, but it gives you a chance to just sit, relax, and talk. Tuck and I had coffee shop date on our mini bucket list, and it was a great time to just catch up and gave me similar gushy feelings to when we first met.
9. Sing Karaoke! Whether you have to go out, or stay and play on the Wii, it's free, and it gets you out of your shell! I still haven't mastered the art of getting my bf to do this...
10. Game night. Turn off the TV and invite a couple good friends over. I prefer funny games such as Apples to Apples or Speak Out.
11. Take your dog to a dog park. Don't have a dog? Take the neighbors dog to the dog park. Dog parks are wildly hilarious. I went once and just laughed for an hour. Dogs are great.
12. Hit the pool. If you're from Laramie, go to The Verge. It's free and it's a great way to cool off and relax or play sand volleyball. Beware of loud music and college kids.
13. Hit the Gym. This is a date for the committed. I took Tucker to the gym with me once after I had been working out for a month strait. He ran longer than me and didn't break a sweat, so I was mad.
14. For my fellow Wyomingites- play in the snow. Build a snowman, a snow fort, or have a snowball fight. Acceptable October- May.
15. CAMP! One night or 3.
16. Rent a paddleboard to share and spend the day at the lake.
17. Go ice skating! Obviously more of a winter activity. But, let me tell you, watching your new beau wobble and fall on ice skates can make for a hilarious date. (If they have a decent sense of humor)
18. Trivia night at the local bar. I have to say, for having carpet for flooring and still allowing smoking indoors, this is unmistakably fun. Only costs a couple quarters and tests your trivia skills.
19. Scary movie night!! I am particularly bad at this, but it's fun because I am mean and scare people during random parts. Plus, cuddling.
20. Find a Zumba workout on YouTube and do it together. I haven't tried this, but I can only imagine how hilarious and beneficial for the relationship overall.
If you have other great and adorable dates, please leave them in the comments!