Keeping things fresh in a romantic relationship is never easy. The moment complacency sets in and all efforts for keeping the romantic flame burning stop is when the relationship takes a nosedive. Maintaining a long-term relationship or marriage requires constant effort, and while this effort comes naturally for those more creative, romantically minded partners, there are some who need a little help.
We’ve compiled a list of 10 cheap and, most importantly, easy date ideas that will help ensure you keep that romantic ember burning and that spark of love in your partner’s eyes.
Picnic
Illustration - Shutterstock | bbernard
Picnics don’t always require a basket, but baskets certainly do help. Make some sandwiches, grab a bag of chips, perhaps some fruit, a blanket, and you’re good to go! You don’t need an elaborate spread or a fantastic spot to enjoy a meal outside, but again, they do help. To add a little spice into the date, perhaps surprise your significant other with this on their lunch break.
Go to the bookstore
Illustration - Shutterstock | Don Pablo
Finding hidden gems in a bookstore is always a lot of fun. Sometimes, when I go to the bookstore, I don’t even buy anything. Instead, I browse the shelves looking for something interesting that I can share on Snapchat or with my friends. Other times, I like to go there for inspiration. What you make of the trip is entirely up to you! There’s a lot of flexibility in what type of fun can be had in a bookstore.
Puzzle night
Illustration - Shutterstock | maradon 333
Is going out to the bookstore a little too much for you? Are you and your significant other homebodies who don’t particularly crave adventure? No worries! We’ve got something for you also: puzzle night—they’re cheap, hours of fun, and can be completed of a glass, or two, of wine. Grab some candles for a little extra romance.
Game night
Illustration - Shutterstock | LunaseeStudios
Board games have changed a lot over the years. When I was traveling and wanted to have a game night with my significant other but didn’t know where to go and find one, I checked the app store. Sure enough, all of our favorites were there, and all for just a few dollars, so check it out.
Bowling
Illustration - Shutterstock | nkotlyar
A little friendly competition never hurt anyone. Couples who are more physically active will enjoy playing a couple of games, and you can take the date to the next level by adding in some wagers!
Cook together
Illustration - Shutterstock | Prostock-studio
If one of you cooks more than the other, then definitely give a joint cooking session a shot. You both get the satisfaction that comes at the end of the meal, and it’s a fantastic bonding experience.
Go get ice cream
Illustration - Shutterstock | Dusan Petkovic
Before meeting my significant other, I hadn’t been to an ice cream shop since I was a child. But on our 2nd date, she suggests we stop at a Coldstone Creamery for some scoops. We sat and talked until the shop had to close, and I would highly recommend anyone looking for something cheap to give it a shot!
Discount hunting
Illustration - Shutterstock | MichaelJayBerlin
Trying to go out, or maybe even plan a trip, but hate paying full price? Groupon is a fantastic tool if you don’t use it already. It has loads of discounts and can give you some ideas for what to do on your next date night.
Go for a long walk
Illustration - Shutterstock | Pressmaster
Grab your coats, head out the door, and start walking. It’s as simple and straightforward as that, plus it doesn’t cost a thing! Grab your four-legged fur babies and take them with you if you’ve got some. Stay out for at least an hour and you'll be surprised how much fun it can be to share a walk with the person you love.
Rooftop dinner surprise
Illustration - Shutterstock | nd3000
If you live in a building with rooftop access, this is perfect for you, but if you don’t, see if there’s a rooftop restaurant nearby and give it a try! It’s a fantastic experience to share with someone you love.
