It’s the season for romance. As college students, we really want to impress our significant others, but our wallets usually end up crushing our extravagant dreams. But don’t worry, you don’t need big bucks to impress your date. Here are some of the best cheap date ideas for you and your SO this Valentine’s Day.
Grab some Post-Its and stick love notes around their apartment.
Writing simple, heartfelt love notes is one of the easiest (and most cost effective!) ways to show your affection. Stick post-its around their apartment on mirrors, above their desk and other hidden places to brighten up their day. You could also text them sweet reminders of your love all day long.
Step back in time at the Riverview Theater.
You can’t go wrong at $3 a ticket. Plus, the theater plays everything from blockbusters to indie art films. Check the website for a full listing of shows.
Go on a scavenger hunt.
Pull this move out of Leslie Knope’s handbook; it doesn’t matter how simple or complicated the clues are, but make it personal. I suggest going to the Mall of America and trying to find items the other person likes or hates.
Unleash your inner child.
Build a pillow fort, relax with a coloring book, eat candy, watch cartoons, play a board game, anything that makes you feel nostalgic.
Cook for each other.
Teach each other your favorite recipes from home, or try cooking a copycat recipe from one of your favorite restaurants.
Go Bowling.
Why do we not talk about bowling more? It’s relatively inexpensive, with some alleys offering discount and theme nights. The game also brings out your competitive side, but it’s relaxed enough that even the most unathletic people can have a good time. Seriously, go bowling.
Be a tourist in your own city.
We’re extremely lucky to be living in the heart of two of the greatest cities in America. Minneapolis and St. Paul have a ton of cheap museums including (but not limited to) Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minneapolis Institute of Art and free Thursday night admission at the Walker Art Center. Or go out and try to find the best Juicy Lucy (the best I’ve found is at 5-8 Club).
Instead of a fancy dinner, go out to brunch.
Can we all agree that brunch is the best meal ever? It’s much more versatile than dinner, and it’s the perfect way to start off the day.
Go to a used bookstore and pick out books for each other.
Used bookstores are one of the greatest and most underutilized resources for a fun date. Pick out books for each other, then find a charming coffee shop to sit and read in. A very relaxed date idea, but it’s also fun and makes you feel artsy.
Last, but not least: stay in.
Spend some much deserved sexy-time with your SO. You can even try new positions or switch it up with some role-playing. Who says you even have to leave your apartment on Valentine’s Day?
Making the day special for your SO takes a little creativity and a lot of love, not necessarily a lot of cash. Remembering little things they love makes the whole day more personal and memorable, so get planning!