Looking for a meaningful and memorable date night that doesn’t cost a lot? We can help! Here are 25 ways to spend time with your significant other without spending much at all.
1. Stargazing adventure
Head to a local park, your backyard or a rooftop for a romantic evening under the stars. Bring a blanket, lie back and enjoy the wonders of the night sky. You can use a free stargazing app to identify constellations, planets, meteors or simply enjoy the uninterrupted serenity and beauty.
2. Movie night at home
Recreate the magic of a theater experience without the ticket prices. Choose a movie from a streaming service that you already subscribe to, or watch something that’s free on platforms like YouTube or Tubi. Ready the popcorn, dim lights and cozy blankets!
3. Explore local art or culture
Many cities offer free cultural experiences, such as art walks, museum entry days or live music events in public spaces. Check your community calendar for upcoming opportunities and have fun exploring them together!
4. Cook a meal together
Instead of dining out, turn your kitchen into a culinary playground. Cook a meal using ingredients you already have at home. Pick a recipe that neither of you has tried before and work as a team to create a delicious masterpiece. Don’t forget to set the table with candles or flowers to enhance the romantic vibe.
5. Take a scenic walk or hike
Whether it’s a stroll through a local park or a hike on a nearby trail, exploring nature together is a fantastic way to connect. The fresh air, scenic views and peaceful environment offer up a perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and shared experiences.
6. Host a game night for two
Dust off the board games, grab a deck of cards or challenge each other to a video game competition. For an extra layer of fun, create playful bets, like the winner choosing the next date activity or getting a homemade treat.
7. Volunteer together
Giving back to your community can be an incredibly bonding experience. Volunteer at a local animal shelter, food pantry or community garden. You’ll spend quality time together while making a positive impact on the world around you.
8. Create a memory scrapbook
Gather your favorite photos, mementos and stories from your relationship and create a scrapbook together. You can also choose to create a digital scrapbook using free tools you’ll find online.
9. Have a karaoke night
You don’t need a fancy setup to enjoy karaoke at home. Look up karaoke versions of your favorite songs on YouTube, grab a hairbrush as a microphone and let loose. Singing together is a fun and liberating way to share laughs and let your personalities shine.
10. Plan a themed night
Choose a theme, such as “Parisian Lights” or “Retro ‘80s,” and plan your night around it. Dress up, listen to music that fits the theme and curate activities or food to match.
11. Watch the sunrise and sunset
Few things are as romantic as watching the sun rise or set while with someone you love. Pick a quiet spot with a great view, bring a thermos of coffee or tea and soak in the beauty of nature together.
12. Have a DIY spa night
Turn your home into a spa by lighting candles, playing soothing music and giving each other massages or facials using items you have on hand. This relaxing and intimate activity is a great way to unwind and connect.
13. Explore a new neighborhood
Act like tourists in your own city by exploring a neighborhood you haven’t visited before. Walk around, take in the sights and discover hidden gems, from murals to quirky architecture to quaint shops. Sometimes, a change of scenery is all you need to feel refreshed and connected.
14. Revisit old memories
Spend the evening reminiscing while looking through old photos or watching home videos. Share stories about your favorite moments and milestones as a couple.
15. Take a hike
Get outside and touch grass with a shared hike on a local trail. Choose one that suits your levels and physical limits. While you’re out, stop somewhere along the trail for a quick pre-packed picnic.
16. Hit the books
If you’re both incurable bookworms, you can spend quality time together while browsing classic and just-released books at your local library or bookstore. Share your favorite reads and explore new ones together.
17. Throw a vintage fashion show
Dig out your old college clothing, prom dresses, cheerleading outfits and varsity jackets, then have a fashion show at home.
18. Draw each other’s family tree
It can be hard to keep track of your partner’s extended family. Spend some time drawing each other’s family tree so you have it documented. Ask your partner to share a warm or funny memory about each relative you add to the tree.
19. Host a ‘Chopped’ competition at home
Challenge each other to whip up a dish using only the ingredients you have at home.
21. Watch a concert at home
Enjoy the thrill of live music without a pricey ticket with a live-streamed event or recorded concert. You can dim the lights and wear fan merch to really bring the concert feel home.
21. Make your own pizza
It’s time to get creative in the kitchen! Mix up some dough and get out all the toppings you can think of for a fun and delicious activity you can do together.
22. Have an indoor picnic
If the weather isn’t right for an outdoor picnic, have one indoors instead! Throw a blanket on the floor, pack a basket and have fun!
23. Play questions roulette
Get to know each other a little better by writing down a bunch of questions, like “How would you spend an unexpected day off?” and “What’s your number one pet peeve?” and throwing them into a hat. Then, take turns picking out questions and answering them.
24. Try canvas painting
Pick up low-cost canvas boards and some paints at a crafts store, and enjoy an artistic evening together. You can team up to create a masterpiece together, or each can design their own works of art.
25. Make a relationship time capsule
Collect old notes, receipts, ticket stubs, cards and gifts to put in a box. Then hide the box and promise not to open it for at least six months. It’s a great way to celebrate your relationship and its evolution.
Enjoying a romantic evening together doesn’t need to mean breaking the bank! Use these ideas to get started.
