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Date Ideas on a Budget
Let’s face it – dating can be expensive. Dinner and a movie on a Saturday night can add up quickly. The good news? You can be romantic on a budget! Plenty of fun date ideas won’t break the bank, allowing you to connect with your partner (or someone new) without the money stress in your way.
Our Northern Nevada area offers a variety of activities and experiences that are perfect for a memorable date night. With some creativity and planning, you can enjoy the region’s natural beauty, explore cultural attractions, and make the most of budget-friendly options while saving up for bigger nights out in the future.
Warm Weather Date Ideas in Northern Nevada
The warmer months are perfect for planning outdoor picnics, hikes, and other cost-free dates. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Go for a Sunset Hike at Mayberry Park
Mayberry Park is set against the beautiful Truckee River, with miles of hiking trails, a paved bike path, various individual picnic areas, and much more. The hiking trails vary from easy (a flat, 1.5-mile out-and-back) to more challenging and eventually connect to the Steamboat Ditch trail. Regardless of your fitness level, you can find a trail that suits you and your date. You can see all of Reno from the Steamboat Ditch trail – talk about a romantic backdrop for your date!
Cost: $0
Stargaze in Your Backyard
Looking for more of a nighttime date? Nothing beats stargazing with your partner. If you have a backyard unaffected by light pollution, this date is as simple as grabbing a blanket or two and heading outside to stare at the stars. Want to elevate this date and take it outside of your home? Drive to a local trailhead (like the Hunter Lake trailhead) and sit out under the stars there. You could even drop the back seats in your car, open your trunk, and stargaze from there.
Cost: $0
Truckee River Walk
Take a romantic stroll along the Truckee River Walk, enjoying the scenic views, local shops, and relaxing atmosphere. Whether you grab a coffee or just enjoy the sights, it’s a perfect low-cost date.
Cost: $0+
Visit Wilbur May Arboretum
Spend a day exploring the Wilbur May Arboretum, a beautiful botanical garden with plenty of picturesque spots to enjoy a picnic or a peaceful walk with your partner.
Cost: $0
Play Mini Golf
Mini golf is a lighthearted and fun date idea that’s affordable and interactive. It’s a great way to show off your competitive side while enjoying each other’s company.
Cost: Around $10 per person
Cold Weather Date Ideas in Northern Nevada
Looking for something fun when the temperatures drop? Here are some great indoor-friendly dates:
Visit the Nevada Museum of Art
What’s more romantic than casually strolling through an art gallery hand-in-hand with your date? Not much, which is why the Nevada Museum of Art is a great low-cost date idea.
If you’re a member, your admission to the museum is free. If you aren’t a member, expect to pay $15 for adult admission and $13 for senior and student admission.
Cost: $0 – 15 per person for admission
Go to the National Automobile Museum
Car enthusiasts or history buffs will love a date at the National Automobile Museum. With a vast collection of classic and rare cars, it’s a unique and exciting way to spend time together.
Cost: $15 per person
Catch a Matinee Movie
Many theaters offer discounted matinee showings, making it an affordable way to catch the latest films without spending a fortune on evening ticket prices.
Cost: Around $10 per person
Go Bowling
Bowling is a fun and inexpensive way to spend time together. Many local bowling alleys offer discounted games during off-peak hours, with one game typically costing under $10 per person.
Cost: Under $10 per person
Trivia Night
Put your knowledge to the test with a free trivia night at a local bar or cafe. Trivia nights are free to join, so you only spend what you want on food or drinks.
Cost: $0+
Visit Fleischmann Planetarium
For a unique and educational date night, visit the Fleischmann Planetarium and enjoy an immersive show about space and the universe.
Cost: $10 per person
Volunteer Together
Using your time together to volunteer for a cause that matters to you both can help to bring you closer together. Not sure how to get started looking for volunteer opportunities? Check out our Community Page for ways to get involved.
Cost: $0
Budgeting for Date Night
If these dates aren’t quite your style, Northern Nevada has plenty of other date night options. From Food Truck Friday to local concerts and events, as long as you’re building date night into your budget, you can enjoy it stress-free.
Check out the latest events at visitrenotahoe.com
Looking for resources to help you have fun while meeting your financial goals? Visit our Financial Resources section for budgeting tools, financial calculators, and more!
