Creative and Affordable Date Ideas

The demands of everyday life are extensive, and setting aside time to spend with your partner can be difficult. It can be easy to get into a routine that prioritizes work, household duties, school, children, and pets. Clients may wonder about practical steps they can take in addition to counseling to strengthen their relationship. A practical way to strengthen a relationship is by spending quality time together. Going on dates can be a fun and beneficial way to connect, make new memories, and foster intimacy. There are numerous fun and affordable date night options available in Chicago and its surrounding areas. 

Importance of Dates

Dates provide a unique opportunity to set aside intentional and uninterrupted time with a partner. Couples often spend time together in the same physical location but may not be fully interacting with one another due to distractions such as technology or other pressing responsibilities. A benefit of a date is that it can be planned in advance to ensure that both individuals’ schedules align, or it can be a spontaneous thing to surprise your partner. A date can provide an opportunity to have meaningful conversations, spend time laughing together, and try new experiences, all of which can strengthen a relationship. Dates do not have to be expensive and can be altered to fit within an individual's budget. Planning an affordable date in the Chicago area can seem intimidating at first, but the city offers many budget-friendly options.  

Date Idea for the Partners who like walking

One affordable date option can involve going to Beacon Donuts in Lincoln Park and then walking to the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is free. This date is ideal for individuals who want to grab a sweet treat, go on a walk, and see some cute animals. 

If you are not located in the Chicago area, this date idea can be adapted. Researching local nature preserves, parks, or walking paths can be a beneficial start to planning a date. Packing a picnic with your partner's favorite food can be a great way to show care for them. Going to a coffee shop afterwards and getting a drink could be another fun way to extend the date and spend more time together. 

Date Idea for the Partners wanting to Explore 

Another affordable date option that may involve more planning is going to the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago, or the Shedd Aquarium. These places typically offer free admission on certain days of the month. Additionally, some of these places offer online library passes for free or discounted tickets. If you are located outside of the Chicago area, you can research local museums and aquariums to see if they offer free or discounted days. 

Date Idea for the Partners who want Lunch and a Chill Afternoon

Explore different neighborhoods like Wicker Park. Grab a coffee and explore the local shops such as Myopic Books. Individuals who live outside of Chicago can research local neighborhoods they live in proximity to and plan a fun adventure. Some of the best dates can start by having a general location in mind and going with the flow. 

Date Idea for the Upcoming Summer Weekend

Typically, on Saturdays or Sundays during the summer, local farmers’ markets occur in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Logan Square, and Wicker Park. This can be a fun and casual date idea to walk around, browse the fresh produce, try new foods, and grab a coffee. After browsing the farmers’ market, it could be fun to find a place to sit and chat or go home and make dinner with some of the fresh produce bought. This date idea can be easily adapted for individuals who do not live in Chicago by researching local farmers’ markets near your location. 

Date Idea for the Chill Night In

Date nights don’t have to be elaborate. It can be as easy as making a fun dinner at home together, playing a card game, and catching up with each other.

Summary

Going on dates provides a crucial opportunity for connection and a moment to slow down and be present with one another. The act of planning a date can make your partner feel valued, seen, and appreciated. Investing in time together is a powerful way to strengthen the relationship outside of counseling. 

Linked below is a useful resource for finding free or affordable things to do in the Chicago area. https://www.choosechicago.com/explore/chicago-style/on-a-budget/ 

Article by Emma Pullen