Valentines Day Ideas: Date Night on a Dime

Here are just a few Valentines Day ideas for Date Night on a Dime!

Romantic dinner at home: Make dinner a production. Turn the music on, grab a glass of wine and cook dinner together. Have something special you might not have normally. Light the candles and have dinner after the kids are in bed.

A love-ly scavenger hunt: This one takes a little more preparation, but not a ton. Brainstorm a list of ideas of love-themed places or things. Grab your camera and your sweetie and go. Work as a team or make it a friendly competition on who can find the best photos. I think we’re trying this one this year. And of course, since this is Philly, we’ll be making a stop at the famous Love Park statue for a pic.

Movie marathon: Turn down the lights and find a couple great movies (modern or classic). No movie marathon is complete without a big bowl of fresh popcorn (and I like to throw in a few M&Ms for the perfect sweet/salty combination).

Museum-hopping: Those museum memberships quickly pay for themselves, especially when you’re looking for stuff to do with the kids throughout the week. But don’t forget them as an option for date night, either. Leave the kids at home and enjoy a whole different (quiet!) experience. Check out what special events your local museums or zoo might be hosting this weekend.

Romantic readings: Check your local bookstore or library for free author appearances and readings. Live near a college or university? That’s another great place to check for free and low-cost events.

Concerts on the cheap: Local coffee shops and bars are a great place to find some free/cheap live music. There’s not always a cover charge, so your max investment may be a drink or two. Not bad for a night of live music.

Architectural amor: Grab your camera and look for letters found in the architectural details in buildings. This is one of our favorite activities with the kids. With your other half? Challenge yourself by creating a “word search” – spell out words like “love”, “marriage” or maybe your last name. Snap photos of each of the “letters” and frame them for a lasting memory.