Every Tuesday night, my fiancé and I enjoy a special date night. Luckily, my parents keep our kids and my brother’s kids, giving us a chance to spend some alone time together. We’re all about finding fun and free date ideas to make the most of our time.
While we occasionally splurge on a fancy date, what truly matters is that we get to bond without breaking the bank. We’ve found a ton of free stuff to do that’s even more fun than some of our expensive dates.
1. Make a Bucket List Together
This is one we hadn’t thought of yet, but I am going to see if it’s something my fiancé wants to spend some time doing together during our next date night. You can dream and plan all the adventures you want to go on — people you want to meet, places you admire, and things you dream of doing. And it gives you ideas for future vacations and other dates.
2. Movie Marathon
Having a movie marathon is a great idea for a chill date night, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. My fiancé and I are currently working our way through a Marvel marathon. We’re watching all the movies in chronological order, following the story from start to finish, rather than the order they were released. It’s really connecting all the dots! If you have a favorite series, consider adding a movie marathon to your list of date ideas.
3. Visit an Open House
Have you ever wondered what a certain house looks like on the inside? Or maybe you’re even looking for inspiration for your own house. You can stroll through the rooms, chat about what you love in each one, and dream up all the decor possibilities. It’s a super relaxed and enjoyable way to hang out, and you get out of the house without spending a dime.
4. Try Geocaching
Going geocaching on a date can be an adventurous and exciting experience. It’s like a real-life treasure hunt where you work together as a team to find hidden caches using GPS coordinates. You’ll have the chance to explore new places, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bond with your date as you tackle challenges and solve puzzles together.
Quick Tip
Don’t forget to bring small trinkets to leave in the caches you find.
5. Go Fishing
Fishing is one of my favorite free things to do. If I’m feeling like fishing with worms, I can go out back and lift up some bark or rocks, so I don’t have to spend any money. But if you prefer using lures, go ahead and bring those along. It can be even more fun if you turn it into a friendly contest to see who can catch the most fish or reel in the biggest one. If you don’t have poles, check with a friend or family member to see if they have some you can borrow.
Quick Tip
If you’re planning to keep some fish for a tasty meal instead of catch and release, it’s important to check out the rules and regulations regarding fishing seasons and size limits in your area.
6. Make a Time Capsule
Gather everything together that shows your favorite memories together and make a time capsule. It can include your favorite photos, something you kept from one of your dates or something else you hold close to your heart. You’ll have something you can look back on decades from now.
Quick Tip
You don’t have to grab a special container — it just needs to have a good seal. An old metal water bottle or lunch container works just fine. Put everything in a Ziploc bag and then into the container, and viola!
7. Go to a Home Depot Workshop
If you’ve visited a Home Depot lately, you may have noticed those tables set up for their upcoming projects. They’re usually targeted at kids, but adults can always learn something new. And trust me — you won’t be the only grown-ups there. Whether you’re into crafting, fixing up stuff around the house, or even getting your hands dirty in a little gardening, these workshops are hands-on and loads of fun for couples. Plus, it’s a chance to tap into your inner DIY wizard and team up on some nifty projects.
8. Play Cards Against Humanity
I’ve noticed a lot of people have Cards Against Humanity hidden behind an assortment of board games. If you’re a parent, you don’t have a chance to take it out often. It’s not rated G if you catch my drift. But if you have this game, whether you’re a parent or not, dust it off and grab some tissues. For real — you might laugh so hard that you cry.
9. Rearrange and Redecorate a Room
Have you ever heard that a cluttered room equals a cluttered mind? I absolutely feel this. On some of our date nights, my fiancé and I have dedicated our “just us” time to transforming and sprucing up a room in the house. We’d dash out to fetch the kids and return to discover a completely revitalized atmosphere. It’s incredible how a little rearranging and redecorating can breathe new life into our living space.
10. Visit a Historical Site
Exploring a nearby historical site makes for an awesome and wallet-friendly date idea. It’s like stepping back in time and uncovering the stories of the past right in your own backyard. You can stroll hand in hand, taking in the fascinating architecture, reading plaques with tidbits of history, and imagining what life was like in the olden days.
11. Play 20 Questions
Here’s a simple and enjoyable way to strengthen your bond with your partner: create a list of 20 interesting questions. By asking and answering these questions, you’ll learn more about each other’s likes, dreams, and quirks, deepening your connection and gaining insights into your partner’s thoughts and feelings.
12. Break Out the Video Games
If you have a video game console, challenge your significant other to a match. Whether you’re into sports games, racing, or a cooperative adventure, gaming together can be a thrilling way to bond and enjoy some lighthearted rivalry. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to share your gaming skills and maybe even discover some hidden talents in the process.
13. Learn a Language
If you both have wanted to learn a new language but struggle to find the time, try making it a fun part of your date night. You can use language-learning apps and online resources to start this adventure together. Learning a new language side by side can be enjoyable, and it allows you to practice and chat to sharpen your skills. It’s a great way to support each other’s goals and add a dash of culture to your date night.
14. Make Yourself a Staycation
Plan a staycation at home for a relaxing change of pace. Lay comfy blankets on the living room floor, grab your favorite drinks, and set up a buffet of tasty snacks. Add some fun by picking a theme like a tropical paradise or a cozy cabin and decorating the room to match. This way, you can escape the daily routine and enjoy a refreshing break right from the comfort of your home.
15. Have a Cooking Contest
Why not have a cooking contest with what you already have at home? It’s not just about making dinner; it’s also a fun competition. Challenge each other to create unique dishes using only what you already have. You can even judge each other’s creations for extra fun. It’s a great way to bond over food and see who can make the tastiest surprise dish.
16. Sandcastles at the Beach
You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy a good sandcastle. Imagine yourself on the beach, shaping and molding the sand into all sorts of cool designs. Whether you’re creating an elaborate sandcastle with moats and towers or just playing around in the sand, it’s a great way to let your creativity flow and relax.
17. Test Drive a Car
If there’s a car you’ve been eyeing or a dream car you’ve seen at the nearby dealership, why not make it a fun and free date idea? Take that car for a test drive! It’s not just about checking out the car’s features; it can also be a unique and exciting experience. Head over to the dealership, get behind the wheel of your dream car, and enjoy the thrill of driving it with your partner.
18. Go Window Shopping
Stroll hand in hand through bustling streets or charming malls, checking out all the enticing displays. It’s a fun adventure to see the latest fashion trends, unique gadgets, and all sorts of interesting items without actually buying anything. It’s a relaxed and budget-friendly way to spend time together.
19. Go People Watching
This isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but a friend of mine and her husband love doing this. Find a bustling spot, park your car, and observe people’s behavior. You’ll be blown away by the quirky expressions, interactions, and behaviors you’ll spot in the crowd. It’s an easygoing activity that can trigger captivating conversations and intriguing insights into human nature.
20. Start a Book Club
My fiancé suggested this cool idea for our date nights. He’s keen on boosting his reading skills but prefers not to read solo. So, we decided to read together, which is fantastic because it keeps us both on track and helps us set chapter deadlines. Then, during our date nights, we dive into discussions about what we’ve learned from the book and share our thoughts and opinions. It’s like having our very own personal book club.
Helpful Hack
Since it’s your own, you can choose to use all your date time on this or just a few minutes.
21. Visit a Reptile Exhibit
If there is a free reptile exhibit near you, this can be a blast. You get to explore, observe, and learn about all these fascinating creatures. During my last visit, I even had the chance to hold a baby gator!
Quick Tip
Nature centers often have free exhibits too. Even if they don’t involve animals, they’re a great opportunity to learn more about nature in your own backyard.
22. Nerf War
I saw this one on social media, and my fiance completely expects to walk in from work one day to a Nerf gun and a note that says, “You’re going down!” That’s right; I’m gearing up for an epic Nerf war showdown, and I’m determined to give him a run for his money. It’s going to be a hilarious and action-packed date.
23. Plan a Scavenger Hunt
Plan a surprise scavenger hunt for your partner. Create clever clues and hide them around your home or neighborhood. Pick a fun prize for the end. Your partner will follow the clues, solving riddles along the way. It’s a thrilling way to enjoy a date night, and hiding a thoughtful handmade gift at the end can make it extra special.
24. Make Your Own Trivia
Create a list of trivia questions for your partner and have them do the same. On date night, quiz each other and see who gets more right. It’s not only fun but also a chance to discover new things together. This interactive game will keep you entertained and might even spark some interesting conversations along the way.
25. Go for a Bike Ride
Take a bike ride together at your favorite park. Pedal through the scenic trails nearby and take in the natural beauty around you. Feel the breeze in your hair as you explore the park’s nooks and crannies, and take breaks as you see pretty spots along the way. This activity not only promotes physical health but also allows you to bond as you chat, laugh, and connect while enjoying the great outdoors.
26. Explore Town Like a Tourist
Explore the area you live in through a new lens. Don’t hesitate to step into shops you’ve never explored before, and be curious about what they have to offer. Explore all the local gems and tourist-recommended spots in your area, and relish the experience of being tourists in your own town. It’s an exciting way to see your familiar surroundings in a new light and appreciate the hidden treasures right at your doorstep.
27. Give Your Dogs Social Time
If you love dogs, watching them at the local dog park can be a great free date. It’s a relaxed setting where you and your partner can enjoy watching your dogs play, socialize, and be their charming selves. It’s a simple and heartwarming way to spend time together while bonding over your shared love for your furry best friends.
28. Visit the Farmer’s Market
Heading to the farmer’s market doesn’t have to dent your wallet; it can be a fun and free outing. You can explore all sorts of stuff, not just food, like chatting with folks from different companies and checking out cool art and crafts. If you and your partner want some grown-up time without spending money, this is a great chance. You get to mingle and soak in the lively market vibes.
29. Have an Intimate Picnic
Having a romantic picnic with your partner is a treat. You don’t need to go all out with a fancy wicker basket; a trusty old backpack or even a sturdy grocery bag will do the trick. Just gather some tasty snacks and dishes from what you already have at home, and you’re all set for an outdoor adventure. It’s a simple yet wonderful way to enjoy nature, each other’s company, and some delicious food without breaking the bank.
30. Take a Virtual Field Trip
You can go on a virtual field trip right from your couch! Thanks to technology, you can explore cool places and learn about different cultures and histories without changing out of your PJs. Lots of museums, historical spots, and schools offer free virtual tours. You and your partner can go on an exciting adventure together. It’s like strolling through famous art galleries or exploring ancient ruins, all while cuddling in your living room.
Quick Tip
Freedom Homeschooling has a bunch of free virtual field trips ranging from zoos to history museums.
Plan Free Dates You’ll Both Love
With a little planning, you can have plenty of free date ideas on hand to have fun whenever date night rolls around. For example, you can pick out your favorite free date night plans from the list, along with some of your own, and put them all in a jar.
When you’re unsure about what to do, simply reach into the jar and pull out a free date idea. If it doesn’t suit your mood or the weather, just grab another one. This way, you’ll never be stuck for something fun to do on date night. Use your creativity and you’ll find lots of ways to get out and dates and connect with your person that don’t cost a penny.
