Fun and (almost) Free Date Ideas around Dallas

Going on a date requires thought and creativity. Sorry to say, dinner and a movie isn’t going to cut it every time. Understandably, dating costs money (especially for guys who are expected to pay for everything) but it doesn’t have to break the bank. I’ve found lots of fun activities around Dallas that will require little to NO cash.  Some of the best dates don’t even require any money. Remember, it’s the thought that counts! If you don’t have a honey to take out, all of these things can be done with your best friend as well.

Fun and (almost) FREE Date Ideas around Dallas

Walk around the Dallas Farmers Market. The Dallas Farmers Market is opened (almost) all year long and it’s completely free to look around. Cut costs even more and take the DART Red Line.  If you plan on buying anything here, bargain with the retailers to get the best deals. For the best selection of products, come early in the day. For the best deals, come late in the day.

Go window shopping at Highland Park Village. This premier shopping area has over 100 stores and some of the best designer boutiques around. Although you might not be up to purchasing anything, it’s always fun to look at the high end fashion. If you’re feeling ballsy, enter the stores, try on the fashionable wears and have your own fashion show.

Take an ArtWalk Downtown. Public ArtWalk Dallas! is a free, self-guided art walk promoting a healthy lifestyle through increased awareness and appreciation of public art in downtown Dallas that lasts 3.3 miles.

Check out a movie at the Dallas Public Library. What’s that you say? You don’t have a library card? No worries, as long as you have an ID with a Dallas address you are able to get a library card for free! There are over 25 Dallas Public Libraries and you’re able to check online which location has the movie you want. Easy does it.

Take a class together at Klyde Warren Park. Did you know that Klyde Warren Park‘s classes are free? Klyde Warren Park offers a variety of activities from Boot camp to Guitar lessons. If you want to spend a little bit of money, stop by one of the many food trucks that frequent the area.

Take in the scenery at White Rock Lake. Bring your bike, roller skates, or tennis shoes. Take a stroll around the lake and enjoy in the sun. If you want bonus points, bring along food for a picnic. If you want to stay inside, drive around the neighborhoods that border the lake, they are gorgeous.

Discover Uptown on the M-Line Trolley. The trolley is completely free to ride (donations accepted) and will take you up and down Mckinney Ave. Jump on and off the of the trolley to check out the many bars and stores that line the street. *Bonus* You’re allowed to bring your “well-behaved” pup on the trolley with you!

Leash your puppies and take them to a dog park together. So simple, but still lots of fun. Find a dog park around you and stop by for an hour or two.

Show off your athleticism. Grab a ball or your tennis rackets and make a stop at your local park. Take advantage of the park and use it to the fullest. If you’re feeling brave, pack a picnic and some wine.

Venture through Half Price Books. Learn about each others interests. Half Price Books has a little bit of everything and books are dirt cheap. Head to the clearance section and see who can pick the best book.

Practice Yoga and Meditate. Cosmic Cafe has yoga and mediation classes Sunday through Thursday for free. Try these classes before enrolling in any classes that cost money.

Start a project. The Home Depot offers free weekly workshops. Find all the Home Depot Workshops here, be sure to plan ahead because you have to register for each class.

Get back in shape. Workout together or train for an upcoming 5k. Set a goal to get back to the weight you were when you two met. Take a jog on Katy Trail. Make it a friendly competition. Whoever wins, has to do something for the other person.

Get Inspired by Art. The Dallas Museum of Art now offers free membership. The free membership includes general admission viewing the museum’s collection galleries and most exhibits. Check their website before going, there are charges for late night visits and some exhibits!

Shake your groove thang. Yes, you read that right. Get out and let loose. Don’t spend all your money at the club. Have a few drinks at your place then head out towards the end of the night to dance the night away.

Cook a meal for each other. You can make the main dish and your better half can make the dessert or vice versa. Use My Fridge Food to type in the food you already have in your fridge and it will pull up many recipes for you to choose from.

Visit the Dallas Zoo. You can spend all day at the Dallas zoo watching and mocking animals. Ride the DART there and receive a discount.  If you visit during off season, tickets can be as low as $5! Connect with them online so you know when Dollar Days roll around.

Shop at Estate Sales. Look for Estate Sales in some of the nicest neighborhoods. These sales are not only awesome because of the amazing finds, but the houses are gorgeous and it’s always fun to look around.

Jam at Sundown at Granada. They offer lots of free events from live music to movies! More information can be found on their website.

Keep Learning. Search online for lectures, watch TED, and expand your knowledge. Here is a good starting point: http://ocw.mit.edu/index.htm

Grab a drink at a dive bar. I hate paying tons of money for my drinks. I completely understand when you’re making me a fancy schmancy drink that involves LOTS of ingredients, but if you’re making me a well vodka and coke and charge me over $10, then you suck. Going out can be expensive, especially if you’re picking up the tab for you and your significant other. If you’re thirsty, head to a local dive bar for cheap drinks and a good time.

Volunteer your time. Not only will this make you feel better by helping those less fortunate, you’re doing good at the same time. I encourage you all to volunteer AT LEAST once at North Texas Food Bank. They are always in need of volunteers!

Tour Deep Ellum Brewery. On Saturdays from noon til 3pm Deep Ellum Brewery hosts an open house for you to come and check out the space. There are brewery tours at 1pm and 2pm. The open house costs $15 at the door but you can order tickets online for $12. During the open house you will get 3 beers and a DEBC logo glass!

Play House at Ikea. Ikea will suck all the time out of your day. The place is massive and there is so many things to look at. Take your loved one there and check out the cool gadgets. Maybe even make a list of things to buy in the future.

View the Grassy Knoll. The grassy knoll of Dealey Plaza is a small, sloping hill inside the plaza that became infamous following the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

Follow local bloggers online.  Many of us work with local companies, so we’re always having giveaways to events, movie screenings and more. Trust me, it pays off! Check out this list of local Dallas bloggers.

Take Advantage of Deal Sites. I check Groupon often. They usually have museums or restaurants on there that I wouldn’t usually pay full price for so I like to snag those deals any chance I get.

Give Thanks.  Thanks-Giving Square is a private, interfaith and educational venue welcoming people of all nations, culture and religious traditions. The unique spiral-shaped building is the “Home of American Thanksgiving” and features a nearby meditation garden.

Indulge in Chocolate. Stop by Dude, Sweet Chocolate to taste test their amazing sweets. Pick out your favorite to purchase and enjoy it on your next date.

Set up a Potluck Dinner. Invite over your other couples and enjoy a potluck dinner. Organize the event to make sure all aspects of the dinner is covered.

Spend the day partying at Texas Live! 

Make a Bucket List. Each of you can write down things you want to do in the area. Each month try to mark off one item on the list.

The best dates don’t have to be expensive, just fun!  What is your favorite (cheap) date idea?