Anyone who is in a relationship in college knows the struggle of ever having an actual “date” during school. Not only are you broke and without a car (most of us anyways), but UConn is in the middle of cow-town, which isn’t the most urban or exciting area to go out and explore. However, UConn isn’t your traditional college campus, so why should you stick to a traditional date of dinner and a movie (though that is do-able on campus!)? Before the cold catches up to us, I challenge you and your significant other to embrace what’s left of fall and try these cheap, easy, and college-friendly dates.
Starbucks Morning Date
Let’s be honest here, there is nothing better than starting your day with a Pumpkin Spice Latte during the fall. I repeat, there is NO better way! Get your Starbucks fix and some alone time by taking a stroll to the southern part of campus and have a coffee date with your boyfriend/girlfriend. It’s right next to campus so it’s a small hike, but that gives you plenty of time to talk, hold hands and enjoy the campus in the fall. If you’re slightly nerdy or feeling guilty for not doing work, you can bring your homework to Starbucks and extend your date for a couple hours. Otherwise, enjoy the cozy atmosphere and hot beverages, as well as of course you date.
Sunrise/Sunset on Horsebarn Hill
October sunrise at Horsebarn Hill (photo credit: Hayley Reissfelder)
While this is already on most UConn student’s bucket list, it should be added that watching either is twice as nice sitting next to the one you love. It’s understood that watching a sunrise or sunset is the most cliche couple activity on the history of the earth, but for good reason! Head out early in the morning and start your day not only with a romantic walk and sunrise, but you can finish your morning off with breakfast for the both of you. You can go to Whitney dining hall, close to Horsebarn hill, and known for their fresh egg breakfasts, or you can go a little further from Whitney and go to Dog Lane Cafe for a diner breakfast. Alternatively, put your date off until later and bring a blanket and bundle up as you wait for the sunset. You can finish the night by stargazing on a blanket. Cheesy? Yes, but we’re girls, that’s what we do.
Picnic at Mirror Lake
If you thought watching the sun rise at Horsebarn Hill was cheesy, how about a picnic at Mirror lake? If you’re looking to have an inexpensive (if not free) date, this is it. Sure, everyone walking by will probably hate you for being so darn cute, but who cares? I’d suggest going out mid-day when it’s warmest with a blanket and some sandwiches, either from your kitchen, a cafe, or the dining hall (shh!), and enjoy one of the prettiest views on campus.
Play Catch
Last but not least, have some good old (free) fun and throw a football or baseball around! If your significant other is a sports fan, suggesting this will probably make you the coolest girlfriend ever. Not only will you be letting them indulge in an interest of theirs, but you’d be surprised how much fun playing catch can be, even if you’re not a sports junkie. If you’re not very good, they can teach you (think like mini golf), Or better yet, if you are good you can impress them and make them swoon over your athletic abilities. It’s been proven that being active together makes couples closer, so find an open field and go play!
What are your favorite things to do in the fall? Are there any dates that should be included in this list? Comment below!