Different people will have a variety of ideas about what a perfect date is. But one thing to keep in mind is that perfect and romantic dates don't have to be super expensive...and they can be healthy, too! Here are a few that will blow her and his mind away if you plan it right (keyword fellas: PLAN!).
1. Free Concerts/Fairs.
This is a great idea for the summer, when there are plenty of free outdoor performances and local fairs being showcased. Make it even more of a romantic experience by packing some treats into a picnic basket. Similarly, many cities offer movies in the park programs, where you can sit under the stars with your sweetie and watch popular films.
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2. Speaking of Picnics
Grab a blanket, pack up a delicious meal, bring along a bottle of wine, and head out to a local park or lake. If you're doing this at night, drive until you find a scenic location far from city lights. It's a great way to spend quality time with each other. After your picnic, take advantage of the peaceful surrounding by skipping rocks, flying a kite, playing frisbee or, lie in the grass and watch the clouds go by while taking in the natural beauty. Don't forget to enjoy the sunset!
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3. Hit the beach (or Lake).
Many beaches and lakes are free to visit, which makes them an ideal spot for a romantic rendezvous. Try having a sandcastle-building competition!
4. Tour a local winery or brewery.
Many brewery and winery tours are low cost--and most include free samples! Visiting either is a great way to learn about new brews or wines and have a great time getting a little buzzed, while having a lot of fun.
5. Visit a gallery/art show.
Most major cities have local art shows or photography exhibitions that are free to visit. Some even offer complimentary hors d'oeuvres, like wine and cheese. Look in your local newspaper or city's website for listings near you, then go enjoy a little culture together.
6. Be A Tourist In Your Own City.
A relaxing drive does wondrous things for the soul, and offers a great opportunity for couples to catch up in a quiet, relaxed environment and go to places in the city that you've never been. Bring good tunes and snacks to round out the moment.
7. Set Up Your Own Personal Drive-In.
Instead of spending crazy money at the movie theater, try watching a movie in the park. Many cities host summer movie festivals for no charge - all you need is a blanket, some snacks, and some drinks, and you and your date are all set for an amazing evening.
In addition, you can also have a very romantic time just staying home and watching one of your favorite films together. Take turns picking the movie(s). You'd be surprised how much you can learn about someone from their movie selection. Or, you can also watch a TV marathon of your favorite TV show (especially if there's a season you missed).
8. Get active.
Going on a date AND burning some calories? Great idea! Even better, there are so many possibilities. Like to walk? Pack some water and healthy snacks and go for a hike. Want to explore? Go for a scenic bike ride and discover new areas together. Want to stick to the park? Play catch with a Frisbee, shoot some hoops, or even relive your childhood and revisit the playground. Feel like staying indoors? Many studios offer complimentary trial yoga or other fitness classes.
9. Volunteer.
If you share a passion for animals, volunteer at a local pet shelter. If you're more interested in hefting a hammer, look into Habitat for Humanity. There are volunteer opportunities for all passions, so just find the one that best suits you both and have fun!
10. Attend amateur night at a coffeehouse or bar.
Many local coffeehouses and bars have amateur nights, where people can come in and perform or read poetry and you get a great night's entertainment for the price of a cup of coffee or a drink. You never know what kind of performances you'll find, so expect the unexpected. If you're bold, you might even jump in and participate!
11. Learn something new.
Bond the intellectual way by learning something new together. Take a cooking class, go to a museum, head over to the local library, form your own book club for two by reading and discussing books that interest you both, or test out your foreign language skills by borrowing/downloading a foreign language program. You can also tap into the Internet for infinite learning possibilities on culture, history, art, politics, and more.
12. Cook together.
There are few things more romantic than planning and whipping up a delectable meal together. Whether it's a shared favorite dish, or you want to try out a new recipe, shop for the ingredients, figure out who's going to chop, mix, or prepare what, then enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor with your sweetheart.
