Want some inexpensive Valentine's Day date ideas? Figure out what really matters to you and build your date around that. Instead of a full dinner, for example, modify it to fit your budget.
Here are a few frugal date ideas to make your February 14th special.
Lunch instead of Dinner
You can still go out for a lovely meal on Valentine's Day. Just make it earlier in the day. Even the best restaurants are less expensive when you go there for lunch rather than a full dinner.
Star Gaze
When was the last time you looked up to the skies for inspiration? Check out a book on astronomy from the library and see how many constellations you can identify. Bring hot chocolate and a blanket to make your star-gazing experience even more romantic.
Ice Skating
Even if you live in a warm part of the country, there are plenty of places for indoor skating. If you live where it's cold this time of year? Even better. Work up an appetitive with a few laps on the ice and then sit down with a thermos full of soup for a light dinner after.
Scavenger Hunt Date
Create a list of places and unique things that you and your partner can search for under the guise of a scavenger hunt. Be creative in the things you need to find. For example a "moon" could be a heavenly body or something a bit more risqué! Remember to take your camera so you can document your night in a scrapbook later.
Home Dates
There's no shame in staying at home on Valentine's Day. Rent a favorite romantic movie and brainstorm as a couple to plan the meal. Be sure to prepare the meal together rather than just having one person do all the work. Eat at a beautifully decorated table by candlelight. Then snuggle up with a blanket and watch your flick.
Thrift Shop or Dollar Store
Who says shopping can't be a fun date? Have you seen some of the goods you can find in your local thrift shop? You're bound to find a few things to remind you of your childhood. What better way to get closer to your mate than by having him or her open up about their life?
Walking Tour
If you and your partner are history buffs, take a walking tour of your town. Many convention or visitors centers will even plan a "romantic-themed" route, which highlights marriages, couples, sex, and romance of famous folks in your local town.
Museum
Some museums plan special exhibits geared toward the romance of Valentine's Day. Check your local museum to see if they have such a showing, or do some research yourself. Find out information on the paintings or exhibits in your area museum and create your own February 14th-themed tour.
Take a Restaurant Home
Often times the most expensive parts of a meal out are the drinks and appetizers. Instead of eating an entire meal out, order the main entree alone as takeout. Many restaurants will pack up an entree and sides to go. Then, crack open a bottle of wine at home and enjoy your favorite restaurant meal – with a frugal twist.
Remember that it's the time you spend together that makes for the best date. Don't worry about spending a fortune just because the calendar says it's February 14th. Take a moment to tell your partner how you really feel about him or her, and enjoy your night together.
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