15 fun and inexpensive date ideas

There’s a reason date planning is trending. Whether you’re newly dating, deep in a relationship, or just looking to mix things up, a little creativity goes a long way. But not every date needs to come with a hefty price tag. Some of the best dates are about connection, effort, and a touch of spontaneity rather than fancy restaurants and expensive outings.

Here are 15 fun, thoughtful, and budget-friendly date ideas to keep the spark alive without burning through your bank account.

15 cheap date ideas to get you started

Take a sunset (or sunrise) stroll

There’s something about walking together as the sky changes colour that makes everything feel a little more cinematic. No distractions, just good conversation (or comfortable silence), fresh air, and a moment to slow down together.

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Have a picnic with homemade snacks

A blanket, some homemade snacks, and a quiet spot in the park – it’s simple, but it works. Pack whatever you have on hand, grab a speaker for some music, and turn it into a low-key but thoughtful date. 

Explore a new neighbourhood

Pick a suburb or part of town you’ve never been to and just wander. Grab a coffee from a spot you’ve never tried, window shop, people-watch, or find a hidden gem neither of you expected.

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Host a themed movie night

Skip the pricey cinema tickets and create a vibe at home. Pick a theme – classic horror, childhood favourites, or a deep dive into a director’s work – make some popcorn, dim the lights, and settle in. 

Go on a thrift shop adventure

Give yourselves a small budget and explore a thrift shop with a challenge – find something the other person has to wear, pick out a book for each other, or hunt for the most absurd item possible. 

Try a self-guided food tour

Skip the pricey dinner and turn your night into a DIY food crawl. Pick a cuisine or a country, hit up a few spots for small bites, and taste your way through the best flavours in town – no reservations, no pressure, just good food and great company. 

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Visit a museum or gallery on a free-entry day

Plenty of museums and galleries have free or pay-what-you-wish days. Wander through, make up backstories for obscure paintings, or just enjoy getting lost in something new. 

Have a board game or puzzle night

Whether you’re competitive or just in it for the fun, a game night can be surprisingly entertaining. Pick something strategic, nostalgic, or just plain ridiculous. 

Go on a scenic drive

No destination needed – just pick a direction, make a playlist, and see where you end up. Bonus points if you pull over at a lookout spot or a roadside café you wouldn’t normally stop at. 

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Take a free fitness class together

Check out free yoga, Pilates or bootcamp classes in your area. Trying something new together – especially if you’re both slightly terrible at it – can be an unexpectedly great bonding experience. 

Cook a meal together

Make it about the food – whether you’re keeping it simple or making an event of it. Try a fun challenge using only what’s already in your kitchen, or take on something a little more hands-on, like rolling fresh pasta or baking from scratch. Either way, it’s about cooking together and enjoying the process. 

Go stargazing

Find a dark, quiet spot, bring a blanket, and just look up. If you want to take it to the next level, download a stargazing app and learn a few constellations while you’re at it. 

Volunteer for a cause you both care about

Giving back together is a meaningful way to spend time. Whether it’s helping out at a local charity, walking dogs at an animal shelter, or sorting donations at a food bank, it’s a chance to do something worthwhile while spending time together. 

Write each other letters and read them out loud

It might sound old-fashioned, but taking the time to put your thoughts into words and share them can be unexpectedly romantic. Stuck on what to say? Pull a prompt from Journey Deeper and let that guide you. 

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Create a ‘memory lane’ date

Revisit the place you first met, had your first date, or just somewhere that holds a special memory. Sometimes looking back makes you appreciate where you are now even more. 

The best dates aren’t about money, they’re about connection

Big, flashy gestures have their place, but the best moments are often the simplest – filled with laughter, effort, and a real desire to enjoy each other’s company.

Next time you’re planning a date, focus less on the budget and more on the experience, because at the end of the day, it’s about who you’re with, not what you spend.