In an economy that seems to always be on the verge of collapsing, there are a number of ways to go out dating without having to file for bankruptcy protection. Most people will remember the unique dates long after they’ve gone out to an expensive, trendy restaurant, and it’s important to remember the purpose of dating is to spend time with someone you care about, learning about them, rather than showing how much money you’ve got in your bank account to spend. And it doesn’t matter in summer, fall or other seasons of the year.
1. Artistically-minded date
The artistically-minded date consists of going to the local artist areas of the city and exploring the shops and galleries there. Even if you don’t have the money to buy a coloring book and a box of crayons, it’s always a treat to discover what the local talent in the area is producing.
This kind of date also allows the couple to discover the creative sides of themselves, discovering the artistic aspect of one another. Just because someone looks like they might be into French expressionism doesn’t mean they won’t get along with some who appreciates a good post-Modern realism portrait.
2. Private movie night
If you want a date that lets you remain in the comfort of your home, you might consider having yourself a private movie night. Each of the participants brings their own favorite movie — or they can bring their “guilty pleasure” movie.
In some cases, it’s a good idea to find out early on that the person you’re dating thinks that Adam Sandler is a comedy genius before it’s too late. (On the other hand, if both parties think that Adam Sandler is a comedy genius, they might consider getting married on the spot, since they will never find a more perfect match.)
3. Animal-loving date
The animal-loving date finds a couple heading to the local zoo. This sort of date works best when the weather is mild, since there isn’t really anything overly romantic about walking past the gorilla pit during the peak of summer. In the spring and fall, however, the zoo is a wonderful place to just spend time, taking in all the wonders of nature and talking about childhood experiences dealing with zoos.
4. Nomadic-themed date
The nomadic-themed date consists of literally getting into the car with a picnic basket and heading for parts unknown. If the date participants pick a place that neither one of them has ever experienced, it gives both of them the chance to have a unique memory created. Rather than going to a restaurant where other dates have occurred, this allows the date to consist only of fresh memories — and these memories might well serve as great anniversary spots, if the date goes well.
5. Civic-minded date
The civic-minded date is perfect for two people who want to make the world a better place. Rather than spending time in a restaurant or on a picnic, the couple can find a location to volunteer.
It can be a homeless shelter or a soup kitchen or a Goodwill shop that needs a hand. The important thing is that the two of you will spend time actually making a difference in the lives of others.
So, there you have it — dates that you can manage without having a huge bank account…and that will create wonderful memories.
