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Good Inexpensive Date Ideas for College Students
College is expensive. And so are dates. But there is a way to do both without breaking the bank and still having a good time!
Note: These date ideas are only fun with the right person. If the person you're dating is not enjoying it and it's something you enjoy, reconsider your dating partner.
#1: Make Cookies!
You can do it from scratch or pre-made and just throw it in the oven! Making it from scratch can be lots of fun when you do it together and it allows for conversation, getting to know one another, and maybe some games or dancing!
Setbacks: If you don't have kitchen supplies or a kitchen/oven, it makes this date idea a bit harder to accomplish.
#2: Paint night
This can be a lot of fun for creative couples, or even people who aren't super creative. There are plenty of very simple painting ideas on Pinterest and you can do this while talking or with a movie on or some music. Then you also have a little momento from your date together.
Setbacks: You'll need some paint supplies, but they're usually pretty cheap if you don't go overboard and you can use them multiple times.
#3: Cook Together
This is similar to cookies, but instead, cook a whole meal together. You'll feel good about what you've accomplished and it can show you what the future might look like together. Also, this saves you some money from eating out, by buying your own food to prepare it. And it also will probably be a lot healthier than dining hall food.
You can talk over dinner and have some fun while cooking! If the person you're dating can make mundane things, like cooking, seem fun, then you'll know you have a keeper!
Setbacks: Again, you'll need a kitchen and cooking supplies to be able to have this date.
#4: Go To A Park or On A Walk
This is perfect in the fall or spring. You get some exercise, without going too crazy, and can have a nice talk or play a game. It's also a beautiful time to take pictures together and take in nature together.
It's also free! (Unless you go to a park that has admission...)
Setbacks: Be sure to pick a nice day, not too hot or cold and look out for rain. Also, know the trail or place where you're walking so you don't get lost or end up walking a lot more than you planned and dehydrate or something (that's never a good time on a date). The planning may be hard but definitely worth it!
#5: Play Some Games!
Whether it's board games or card games, this is a great way to get to know someone while not just sitting there talking. Many games can generate a good conversation and plus, it'll be fun to see what games you both like to play together!
This will also show the competitive side of your partner, which can be good or bad. But definitely something you should know about and decide if you can handle it.
Setbacks: You'll need to have at least one game to do this. You could play video games as well, like Mario Kart or Super Smash Bros. Also make sure the games you have can be played by only two people. If not, maybe make a double date plan!
#6: Picnic
This can be very cute and very relaxing. Pack a lunch or dinner, maybe something else romantic in the bag, and a blanket. Go to a pretty park or place on campus you enjoy and have a picnic! It's a good time for talking and relaxing. You can lay down together and look at the stars or clouds. You could pack a game to play like frisbee or catch or maybe water guns! It can be very cheap and easy, but very romantic and enjoyable.
Setbacks: There aren't really any, unless you can't get to a nice place for the picnic. You'll also need to check the weather for this. And have a good picnic blanket!
#7: Bowling
Bowling does cost money, I know. But many bowling places have deals and can be very cheap for a few games. It's a fun outing to do together and can be fun to share a plate of cheesy fries together. It's also a fairly easy game to play and holds many laughs when you mess up. Couples with a good attitude would be great for this!
Setbacks: If there isn't a bowling alley near you, then I'm sorry that's a bummer. But otherwise, it's a pretty cheap and enjoyable date!
#8: Go to some Local Museums
Many colleges are located near small towns or big cities, so there is bound to be one museum somewhere nearby. Even if it isn't one you think you'll enjoy, still go to it. Museums are pretty cheap with admission and hold many things you've probably never seen before. Many of them have interactive activities and special events you can go to.
Setbacks: This is a very occasional date idea, if the admission price is too much or if the museum doesn't change the exhibits very often. But it's usually worth it! Especially if you discover a museum you like and haven't been to before.
#9: See a Play at School
Almost every college has a theater program and they put on shows at least once a semester. It's a good way to get to know your school more and have some culture. It provides plenty of conversation afterwards on a walk or when you go to dinner. Also tickets for school shows are usually very cheap or even free when you're a student of the university, so that's a big plus!
Setbacks: This is another very occasional date depending on when the theater department puts on their shows. But it could become a cute tradition to go to the shows every semester!
#10: Check Out What's Going On Around Town
There are plenty of bulletin boards around universities where people post events and activities nearby or on campus. You can find something fun to go to by looking at one of those. Many of them are cheap or free and can be loads of fun to bring a date.
Setbacks: It may take awhile to find something for your date, but can add something new to your relationship. There is always something going on around town or campus; just check the boards!
(Pictured: Michael and I at the Cinco De Mayo Festival! You never know what you'll find!)
Let me know which dates you're thinking about planning with your sweetheart in the comments section down below!
Happy living!