A cheap date: 17 tips and tricks

How to have a cheap date, without being a cheapskate. There is not a reason in the world that dating, or spending quality time with somebody you love should be a budget buster. Like most money-saving ideas, it's all about thinking outside the box. And seriously, how many times can you out for the predictable "dinner and  movie" routine before being just a bit bored with it?And if nothing else, those of us that are cheap dates probably go out on more dates ;-) 

1. Stay home- Go ahead, do the whole restaurant thing. Have fun cooking up appetizers, an entree and dessert together, and enjoy them at the candlelit table for two. To really take it to the next level, get a decent bottle of wine and dress up.
2. Go stargazing- Head out to a top of a hill in the area, or lay out a blanket in the yard and enjoy the stars. Challenge each other to find constellations  like the big and little dippers.
3. Movie Marathon- Bring the joy of the movies into the comfort of your own home. Grab some favorite flicks, make popcorn, hit the lights, and bring the whole experience home.
4. Day at the beach- If you are fortunate enough to have a beach in your area, take advantage and spend the day there. Have a sandcastle building contest! Don't live near the beach? See #12.
5. Learn something new- Share a hobby or interest? Sign up for a class that interests the both of you at your city or town's recreation center, and have a weekly or bi-weekly date! You may be surprised at the variety and selection.
6. Make it a date at the dollar movie- Catch that film you missed before it goes out on DVD. Most metropolitan areas host at least one movie theatre where admission is only $1.00-$2.50. The refreshments at the concession stand are also notably cheaper.
7. Go back to school- Watch a play or musical put together by members of a local high school's drama club. You may even be lucky enough to catch their production of a classic, like Romeo and Juliet.
8. Museum hopping- Admissions are either inexpensive or free. Make a day of going to several and enjoying all the exhibits. This can be done frequently without getting too old because the exhibitions are ever-changing.
9. Get active- Go outside and play a game of Frisbee, tag football, jogging and running, golf or any other sport you enjoy. This is an effective way to spend some time together, release endorphins and get heart-healthy exercise.
10. Know when the carnival is- Carnivals are tons of fun, and a frugal alternative to the rides at theme parks. Pay attention to when its coming to your town, and spend the day (and night) riding the tilt-O-whirl and eating funnel cakes.
11. Enjoy nature- See if the town you live in, or a neighboring city has a botanical garden (admissions range from free to $5.00), or any public park. Pack a picnic, and make it as casual or romantic as you want.
12. Visit the lake- Renting a paddle boat is inexpensive, and chances are one of you hasn't done it before
13. Laugh it out- Admissions to amateur comedy clubs are cheaper than a movie ticket. Who knows? You may be one of the first to see a rising star.
14. Discover historic sites- Prices are usually reduced or free around the "anniversary" date.
15. Local rock & roll- Local and aspiring punk, rock and roll, and indie bands play live music just about every weekend, with the ticket price under $10.00
16. Host a couple's party- Have a few couples pitch in for food, beverages and possibly some drinks and have a fun and frugal night socializing at home. For variations, have theme parties such as barbecues and pool parties.
17. Go to open mike night- Many coffee houses have what is called "open mike night" where local talents sing, dance, recite poetry and other acts. Admission is generally free.