Love

10 Date Night Ideas That Won't Break The Bank

picnic couple

If you're looking to impress, dinner and a movie will make more of an impact on your wallet than your date. With a little bit of creativity inspired by these date night ideas, it's easy to score big even on a little budget.

These five are free:

1. Beach blanket bingo. Whether you are near a beach or not, you can find a romantic place to gaze at the stars and one another. Take a board game or the 'Would You Rather' book with you and watch the sparks fly.

2. Hey good lookin', what ya got cookin'? It doesn’t matter what's being served. If you heat things up in the kitchen and cook for your partner or make a meal together, you'll leave feeling satisfied.

3. Match point. Find love by squaring off on the tennis court, bike path, hiking trail, basketball hoop or first base. Playing a sport together will charge up your endorphins and get you ready for the other games you'll be playing later on. Plus, there's nothing sexier than a hot shower together.

4. Free your mind. Bookstores and college campuses often host free events with authors. Although it's encouraged, you're not required to buy the author's book, but you can get an hour of great entertainment and culture (and often a free glass of wine) just for swinging by with your date.

5. Toys for hots. If you're at a point when you feel comfortable in your relationship but possibly a little bored too, it's time to shake things up.  Luckily you don't have to go to a sex shop to change your bedroom experience. Start out with a strategically placed ice cube or scarf as a blindfold. Once you get comfortable you can work up to more adventurous tools and techniques.

These five are inexpensive:

1. Discount dinner. There are many websites where you can get discounts if you plan ahead. On Restaurant.com, you can purchase gift certificates for less than their printed value for hundreds of restaurants that you probably already frequent.

2. Art and culture. Many museums have "free days" where you can enter at no cost. Usually it's a little busier than other days, but that just means your date will have to snuggle up close to you to see the exhibit. Alternatively, many cities offer art walks where galleries open up their collections for free to 'prospective buyers.'

3. Happy hours. Many bars have adjusted happy hours to go later in the evening or run on the weekends. Research your options in advance so you can have a great time and an even better buzz at half the cost.

4. Membership. It's nice to belong somewhere, but it's even nicer to get a discount. If you support many non-profits including museums, zoos or public radio stations even at their lowest level, you can get free or reduced access to a variety of venues. The best part is you're doing something to help a great cause while getting something in return. Plus, your donation will be tax deductible.

5. Groupon and Living Social. No more coupon clipping on Sunday afternoons. Get your deals delivered to you daily via email. Find reduced rates on the activities you already enjoy or get new date night ideas when their offers arrive in your inbox. Even if you do not use the discount voucher before it expires, the value you paid can be applied to a future purchase.

Most people will appreciate date night ideas that require effort over an expensive — yet unimaginative — night out. It is possible to have a romantic evening that doesn't break the bank, or your heart, in the process.

For more fun date ideas visit DearMrsD.com. If you're looking for love, Dear Mrs D can help. She a certified dating coach who met her husband online in 2003 and has been helping singles find love ever since. Her best dating advice can be found in the new book Spin Your Web: How to Brand Yourself for Successful Online Dating. Turn your dating life around today with our FREE 15-minute PROFILE EVALUATION.

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