50 Affordable Date Ideas (That Feel Priceless)

Whether you're just starting out, engaged or happily married, the golden rule is never to stop dating each other. But let's face it: regular date nights with drinks and a fancy dinner can get expensive fast, not to mention a bit predictable. That's where cheap date ideas come in. They're just as special but much easier on your wallet.

The Knot 2024 Relationship and Intimacy Study asked 1,009 US adults between the ages of 18-44, all of whom were single, casually dating or in a serious relationship, how they typically pay for dates. Just over half said they pay for themselves and their date. Most of these dates, at a high of 85% amongst premarried respondents, were as predicted: dinner and/or drinks.

Of the 1,003 married adults surveyed, 90% also said they went out for dinner and/or drinks in the last three months. Regardless of relationship status, the second most popular date activity was attending a movie. For those not yet married, playing video games ranked third, while married couples preferred taking a road trip. Rounding out the top five for both groups were attending live events and engaging in physical activities as their fourth and fifth most common dates over the past three months, respectively.

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

While these dates may seem like they require a bit of spending, we'll show you how to reinvent these popular activities into fun, budget-friendly options. From creative at-home activities that make the most of your streaming subscriptions to outdoor adventures no matter the season, we've rounded up the best affordable date ideas to make lasting memories with your partner.

In this article: Best Free | Best Affordable | Romantic | Fall | Winter | Spring | Summer

The Best Free Date Ideas

Imagine enjoying a fantastic date with your partner without spending a single dollar. Sounds too good to be true? Well, it's not! These completely free date ideas are all the proof you need that memorable experiences don't have to come with a price tag.

1. Stream a New Show or Movie

The Knot 2024 Relationship and Intimacy survey found that attending a movie was the second most popular date choice amongst premarried and married respondents in the last three months. Between the price of tickets and marked-up popcorn, candy and soda, the seemingly simple activity can add up. Why not make the most of the streaming membership you likely already pay for monthly? Turn your home into a private movie theater and dive into that show or film you've been putting off. Gather every plush pillow and soft blanket to create a cozy nest or fort for your viewing area. Dim the lights, light some candles (if you're feeling fancy), and break open that microwave popcorn hiding in the back of your cupboard. (Pro tip: Put away your phones and settle in for the ultimate movie night experience.)

2. Take a Walk

Channel the vibes of "I Would Walk 500 Miles" by The Proclaimers—because sometimes a scenic walk is all you need to reconnect. Whether you explore a favorite nature trail or see how far you can wander through your city, it's a great way to soak up some sun and enjoy each other's company. For added fun, turn it into a photo scavenger hunt by creating a list of things to find and capture along the way.

3. Curate a Playlist Together

Take turns sharing your favorite songs and explaining what makes each track special to you. If you both vibe with a song, add it to a shared playlist. That way, when you're in the car or cooking up a storm, you can easily DJ with your favorite tunes at your fingertips.

4. Hit the Open Road

Windows down and radio up. Belt your favorite songs (perhaps from your new playlists) as you see where the road leads you. Many places have scenic overlooks that make for a perfect destination, especially at sunrise or sunset, giving you a chance to enjoy a peaceful drive and take in stunning views of your town from a whole new perspective. Don't be surprised if you see other couples riding by, too; 26% of premarried and 37% of married survey respondents took a road trip as a date in the last three months.

5. Free Museum Days

From art galleries to history exhibits or interactive nature and science museums, many community attractions offer free admission on certain days. Check each event's calendar in advance so you don't miss the opportunity to be a tourist in your hometown.

6. A Volunteer Session

Combine a date with a volunteer session at an organization close to your hearts. Whether you help out at a food bank, play with pups at a pet rescue or spend time with the elderly you'll be doing good and feeling good, all for free.

7. Disney Sketchbook Night

Unleash your inner artist! Disney+ subscribers can tune into "Disney Sketchbook," a documentary series that provides step-by-step lessons on drawing your favorite Disney characters. For more artistic inspiration, YouTube has a wealth of tutorials across various art mediums that you can follow, too.

8. Questions Roulette

Get to know each other all over again with a cozy date night dedicated to asking each other a mix of fun and intimate questions. Start by writing down prompts on slips of paper—anything from "What food could you eat at every meal?" to "Do you ever imagine what our future together looks like?" Mix them all in a bowl, then take turns drawing a slip, reading the question and sharing your answers.

9. Card Game Night

All you need is a deck of cards for a free and fun date night. Whether it's gin rummy, go fish or even strip poker, set some playful stakes and let the games begin around the coffee table. Want to mix it up? Learn a new card game together, master it and then share with your friends at your next dinner party.

10. Virtual Couple Yoga

Try something new together with a partner yoga tutorial on YouTube. Not only will you both get a good stretch, but you'll also practice communication and teamwork as you attempt different poses. It's a fun way to connect physically and mentally—plus, you'll definitely end up laughing at the inevitable balance challenges.

The Best Affordable and Cheap Date Ideas

From fast food drive-thru taste tests to scouring local thrift stores for new threads, these are some of the best fun, cheap date night ideas for couples around.

11. Video Game Date Night

Host a video game date night for an adventurous and affordable experience for two. It was actually the cheapest date option reported by the survey, assuming they already own a console. Whether you're teaming up for a cooperative quest or competing head-to-head, the shared excitement and playful banter will make for a fun and memorable evening. As long as you have the equipment, your biggest expense will be choosing a video game for couples. Fortunately, many games are inexpensive and available for instant download, so you can dive into your virtual adventure right away.

12. Try a New Coffee Shop

Keurigs and drive-thrus are perfect for busy mornings, but for a fun start to the day, slow down and visit a charming local coffee shop. Savor the shop's specialty coffee together while catching up after the work week, talking, reading side by side or making plans for the weekend. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and each other's company as you relax and recharge.

13. DIY Spa Night

Unwind and reconnect with an at-home spa night. Create a calming atmosphere with soft lighting, perhaps even aromatic candles, and soothing music. Then draw a warm bath with essential oils, prepare a selection of face masks and have massage oil at the ready. Pair the evening with some glasses of bubbly for an extra touch. As the night unfolds, the relaxation may lead to something more—wherever the evening takes you, you'll feel closer than ever.

14. Go Thrift Shopping

One of you is Macklemore, and the other is Ryan Lewis—so naturally, you're going thrift shopping! Set a budget—say $20 each—and hunt for a quirky gift for one another at your local thrift stores. Whether it's clothes, home goods or a funny trinket, you'll have fun browsing for unique finds.

15. Buy Each Other a Book

Reading is good for the mind and the soul. Head to your local bookshop and stage your own romantic comedy meet-cute amongst the shelves. While browsing, pick out a book you think the other will love and buy it for them (preferably a paperback to keep it affordable). Then head home, snuggle up and enjoy a cozy reading session together—parallel play style.

16. Have a Drive-Thru Party

What's your favorite late night snack? Chicken nuggets? French fries? Milkshakes. Drive around and sample each fast food chain's version of your craving. By the end of this affordable date night, you won't just be satiated, you'll finally know which spot serves up the best fries for future munchies.

17. A Canvas Painting Date Night

Noticed a surge in craft date ideas on TikTok recently? We're totally on board with the artsy trend, and so are 19% of premarried and 14% of married surveyants who participated in a creative project as a date in the last three months. Head to your local craft store to grab canvases, paints and brushes, then let your creativity run wild. You can paint each other's portraits and reveal them at the end, team up to create a single vibrant masterpiece or get adventurous with body paint and a roll of paper. No artistic skills are needed for this cheap activity for couples—it's all about the fun and playful mess you make along the way.

18. Craft Your Own Pizzas

When it comes to affordable dinner dates, pizza is a great choice. Making pizza at home can be twice as fun and just as budget-friendly. Try making your own dough—just remember to allow time for it to rise—then roll, toss and top it to your liking. You can each customize your pizza with your preferred sauce to cheese ratio and toppings. For a special touch, shape the pizzas into hearts or your initials.

19. Find a Trivia Tournament

It's the combination of drinks, dinner and an activity that can make dates costly. To save, check if your favorite bar or restaurant hosts trivia for a two-for-one special. The event is usually free, and you might even win fun prizes like a food gift card or a free drink. (So, in a way, you're actually making money by going out.) Plus, answering questions together provides a built-in conversation starter, which is especially helpful if you're in a new relationship. You could also look for a local bingo game or karaoke night.

20. Check Out Local Performances

Attending a live event was the fourth most popular date activity amongst premarried and married respondents. Executing a shared experience doesn't have to mean spending hundreds of dollars on The Era's Tour, though. From street festivals and outdoor concerts to open mic nights and community theater, there's often more happening in your neighborhood than you might realize. When the events feature local talent rather than professionals, tickets are usually affordable. Who knows—you might even spot the next big star before they become famous.

Romantic Cheap Date Ideas

PSA: Money can't buy romance. These affordable date ideas will help you set the mood and deepen your connection while spending less than $50—or even just $5. Embrace creativity and thoughtfulness to make your time together truly special.

21. Take-Out by Candle Light

Who said dinner and drinks had to be out of the house? Make your home feel like a five-star restaurant with a little mood-setting magic. Instead of eating take-out on the couch from plastic containers, serve it on real plates, set the table with candles and enjoy a glass of store-bought wine. You'll skip the cooking and cleanup, avoid the extra costs of dining out and still create a special experience together.

22. Backyard Camping

If you're outdoorsy and have your own gear, camping can be a budget-friendly alternative to a traditional couples trip. But if an indoor toilet is essential for your comfort, that's perfectly fine! You can still earn your quality time badge by setting up camp in your own backyard. Pitch your tent, fill it with blankets and pillows, light a flashlight and sleep under the stars. Affordable and portable mini fire pits are easy to find, so you can even cook hotdogs and roast s'mores without needing wood kindling or a big grill.

23. Have an Amateur Photo Shoot

You think your partner is beautiful and want them to see it, too. For this cheap date idea, put your phone's advanced camera to use and have a photoshoot together. Take turns posing each other until you get the screensaver, then switch to the self-timer so you can get some cute couple shots, too.

24. DIY Flower Bouquet

Try your hand at flower arranging. Go to the grocery store to pick out three to five types of flowers pre-cut but yet to be arranged in a bouquet. Then, use your creativity to organize them into a vibrant bundle for your S.O. (Psst, you can look up tutorials online.) Your DIY bouquets is still a classic romantic gesture made even more meaningful from all the hard work you put into it.

25. Take a Dance Class

Here's a cheap and romantic date that's particularly fitting for an engaged couple. Take a ballroom dance class to help you find your rhythm before your first dance at your wedding. While private lessons can add up, group dance classes usually cost between $10 and $25 per person.

26. Make Fleece Blankets

Cuddling on the couch under one blanket is sweet in theory, but ultimately, fighting for coverage is no fun. Next date night, make tie blankets for each other. You only need two large pieces of fabric (ideally fleece for ultimate comfort) and scissors. The material is pretty affordable, between $2 and $10 per yard, and you'll just need about two yards for an adult-sized blanket. Now, you are each kept warm from your head to your toes but are still wrapped in your partner's love and affection since they made it for you.

27. Rent a Swanboat

If you're near a lake or a small body of water, why not try something off-land for your next date? Rent a two-person canoe or a charming swan-shaped paddle boat for a few hours. It's a fun, inexpensive recreational activity that offers a fresh perspective of your neighborhood. Pack a picnic and have a little 'Notebook' moment as you float around.

28. Become Amateur Chocolatiers

Chocolate can be considered a light aphrodisiac, whether scientific evidence supports it or not, making it the perfect ingredient for a romantic date night activity. Get your hands a bit messy and have fun crafting truffles together, then decorate with sprinkles or drizzled white chocolate to up the presentation. It's a super sweet way to bond.

29. Make Friendship Bracelets

Making friendship bracelets isn't just for Taylor Swift fans. Wear your heart on your sleeve with homemade matching couple bracelets. Our favorite idea? Choose beads that match your partner's eye color, ensuring a piece of them is always with you, even when you're apart.

30. Pick Out Each Other's Outfits

Whether you're going out for a walk and picnic or cocktails and small bites (during happy hour, of course, to keep it affordable), start the date by picking out each other's outfits. You may be pleasantly surprised by what clothes your partner thinks look great on you, and the act of hyping each other up before the date will get you feeling excited, confident and ready to show off your relationship to the world.

Free and Affordable Fall Date Ideas

Falling in love just got a lot easier thanks to these cheap (and even free) date ideas for September, October and November.

31. Carve Pumpkins Together

Start your fall date with a trip to a pumpkin patch to pick the perfect gourd for a jack-o'-lantern. They usually offer free admission but charge per pumpkin. Once you're home, get carving! You only need a sharp kitchen knife to create smiley or spooky faces. As you carve, bake the pumpkin seeds you scooped out for a delicious, crunchy snack.

32. Plan a Scary Movie Night

Any excuse to hold each other close makes for a great date idea, right? Then, a scary movie night fits the bill perfectly. Pick a classic horror film or two, if you dare, and get ready for a thrilling evening. Don't forget the popcorn (or pumpkin seeds) and candy as a reward for braving the suspense.

33. Host a Mulled Wine Tasting

A mulled wine tasting is a wonderfully simple yet creative date night idea that fully embraces the essence of fall's harvest. Simply pick up a few bottles of red, white or rose wine from the store—they don't need to be expensive, as you'll be adding your own unique twist with spices. We recommend experimenting with cloves, cinnamon and ginger for one, apples and cranberries for another, and oranges for a third—or any other flavors that pique your interest. Then, enjoy the process of taste testing together and ranking your favorites for a delightful and cozy evening.

34. Go on a Color Walk

Have you heard of a "Color Walk?" The latest twist on a Hot Girl Walk is especially fitting for autumn when the leaves are changing color. The beauty of this activity is its flexibility. You and your partner can start your journey anywhere and will choose a color to guide your route. You could also walk the rainbow starting with red and ending the outing when you find violet—or just when you're ready to rest. Plus, physical activities ranked as the fifth most popular date attended among both premarried and married respondents, so a hike might be just what you need to be #RelationshipGoals.

35. Visit a Brewery

It's kind of a fact that beer is often cheaper than craft cocktails, making it an excellent option for an affordable date night. This fall, head to a local brewery to explore their seasonal offerings like pumpkin beer and spiced apple ale. Some breweries also serve hard cider for those who prefer something other than beer. It's a budget-friendly way to enjoy each other's company outside the house in a relaxed setting.

Free and Affordable Winter Date Ideas

It's cuffing season! AKA the time of year to cozy up with your special someone indoors and stay warm from both heat and affection. Here are our favorite cheap winter date ideas.

36. Neighborhood Christmas Light Tour

No desire to go out into the cold? That's okay! Turn on the seat heaters and drive through the neighborhood looking for the best Christmas light displays. Don't forget to have Christmas carols on the radio.

37. Cookie Decorating

What's the holiday season without sugar cookies and gingerbread houses? You probably have more baking ingredients on hand than you think. Just head to the grocery store for some frosting and candy to decorate.

38. Ice Skating

Glide across the rink, enjoy the crisp winter air and make unforgettable memories in a charming, festive setting—all without breaking the bank or taking a tumble. We're talking about an ice skating date idea! Admission to nearby rinks is affordable, especially if you bring your own skates, eliminating the need to rent a pair.

39. Hot Chocolate Tasting

Treat hot chocolate like a sundae and you're in for a treat. Start with classic Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate mix (very cheap, but good nonetheless). Then add more sugar to your hearts' content from whipped cream and ice cream to sprinkles and crushed candy canes to marshmallows and Reeses. Sip your sweet concoctions while watching a classic holiday movie together.

40. Snowman Building Contest

A snowman building contest is a free and frosty date idea that'll bring out your playful side. Compete to build the tallest, cutest or most imaginative snowman or collaborate to build the best snowman in the neighborhood together.

Free and Affordable Spring Date Ideas

Breathe new life into your dating routine with these cheap spring dates ideas. They're all about enjoying the warm weather and the beauty of nature that comes with the season.

41. Visit a Botanical Garden

"Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking." Nonetheless, taking a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand through vibrant flowers on one of the first warm days would make a lovely, spring date idea for cheap. Similar to museums, some botanical gardens offer free admission on certain days, and on other times it's a small fee, usually no more than $15 per person.

42. Tea Party Picnic

A tea party with a romantic ambiance is so reminiscent of Bridgerton that you're almost guaranteed to feel swept off your feet. Your partner will love dressing up after a long winter all bundled up. Pack a thermos of hot water, a few tea packets, finger foods (such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches cut into triangles) and lay out a blanket in the park or your backyard. It's less about the menu and more about the intention behind it.

43. Attend a Baseball Game

Spring means the top of the baseball season. As long as you don't mind a bit of a bird's eye view, you can snag inexpensive tickets for an upcoming event. Also, at Coors Field, at least, if you buy a beer before the first pitch, it's only $3, which can help with your budget for food.

44. Visit a Yard Sale

Spring cleaning isn't exactly a fun date, but taking advantage of others' spring cleaning can be. Take a drive around and look for yard sales to find unique home goods at budget-friendly prices. Alternatively, you can have fun browsing through items at estate sales and creating fictional stories about them.

45. Make Garden Decorations

Even if you don't have a green thumb to keep plants alive, you can still dress up your outdoor space with garden ornaments. Visit the craft store with your partner to find a project to do together like building a birdhouse, making a ceramic stepping stone or painting rocks. Display your creation for you, the birds and the butterflies to enjoy all spring and summer.

Free and Affordable Summer Date Ideas

Summer lovin' can be yours with these free and cheap date ideas. From soaking up the sun (and your partner's affection) to cooling down with frozen treats, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season while keeping your budget intact.

46. Find a Cute Patio for Happy Hour

Summer is all about enjoying the outdoors, so when you go out for drinks or dinner, make sure it's on a patio or rooftop. We don't make the rules; we just follow them! Check out the restaurants in your area to find the best happy hours. It's like a regular date night but a bit earlier and sometimes up to 50% cheaper.

47. Spend a Day at the Beach

Sun, sea, sand and your S.O.—what more do you need? Most public beaches are free, though you might need to pay for parking. So put on your swimsuit (and sunscreen), grab some towels and head to the shore. Enjoy a romantic stroll searching for seashells, compete to build the best sandcastle or splash around in the water. You'll be amazed at how quickly time passes when you're having fun and saving money.

48. Visit a Farmer's Market

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, you can visit a new farmers market every weekend. Put on your cute athleisure, grab a tote and stroll through the stalls for fresh produce, flowers, handmade art and more. You only spend as much as you want—good luck resisting all the delicious smells, though.

49. Go Out for Ice Cream

In my opinion, the perfect summer evening includes ice cream. Save money by having dinner at home, then enjoy dessert out. Choose a creamery that offers samples so you can try all the delicious flavors!

50. Play a Round of Mini Golf

Wrapping your arms around your partner to show them how to putt is a classic flirty move. A round of mini golf can be a cheap summer date idea; especially if you score a hole-in-one on the first course and, thus, win a free second round.