If you’re in a relationship, you know that date nights are so, so important. If you’re married (and especially if you have kids), you likely have been given the advice to make sure you continue to “date your spouse”. Date nights can be a great chance for you and your partner to hit the pause button on your busy lives, and spend some quality time together.
How can you prioritize date nights in your relationship while still on a budget? Here are some of our favorite affordable date night ideas:
1. Get Outside
Sometimes a breath of fresh air is all it takes to feel rejuvenated and grounded. Pack a picnic, find a local park, and take in the beautiful scenery all while reconnecting with your partner. Don’t forget the bug spray!
2. Play Tourist in Your Own City
If you were introducing new friends to your city, what would you do? Where would you go? Don your tourist hats for a few hours and explore some of your city’s main attractions. You’d be amazed what you can discover if you’re willing to deviate from your normal routine!
3. Find a Movie in the Park
Depending on the time of year, several areas offer free movie nights in the park. Grab a blanket, some popcorn, and your sweetie and take in a fun flick under the stars.
4. Cook Your Way Through a Cook Book
Grab a new cookbook from your local library and attempt to cook your way through several of the best recipes. Take turns setting the menu and shopping for ingredients, and see where the spices lead you. Bonus points if you can get through an entire meal without burning the main dish!
5. Volunteer Together
According to Gandhi, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Find a local food shelter and volunteer to sort through or prepare food for an afternoon. You may surprise yourself with how much you’re able to connect to your partner while serving others.
6. Go For a Scenic Drive
In the mood for a drive? Research little day trips you can take within an hour or so (or one gas tank) of where you live. Play your favorite CD or podcast and let the backroads lead you. A change of scenery and departure from your normal highways can be just what the doctor ordered.
7. Find a Local Flea or Farmer’s Market
Shopping local is not only on-trend, it’s fun! Take a visit to your local flea market and see if you can’t find a hidden treasure or two! Have a favorite farmer’s market in your area? Stock up on some fresh produce and incorporate some goodies into your next meal.
8. Make a Photo Book
Spend a few hours creating a photo book together. These days, you can easily upload your photographs from Instagram to create a custom photo book with programs such as Artifact Uprising or Shutterfly. Of course, you could always print the photos and create a scrapbook by hand as well. It can be fun to create new memories all while looking through some old ones.
9. Game Night!
A good old fashioned board game is a cheap and easy way to have fun and unleash your competitive spirit. For even more fun, venture out to a local brewery and taste out some new IPAs while you play a little Yahtzee.
10. Share a Milkshake From Your Favorite Little Shop
Don’t get lost in the simplicity of this suggestion. It can be so fun to try out new flavors or indulge in a special treat on a warm summer day. Bonus points if you channel your inner child and ask for extra sprinkles and whipped cream.
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