It can be hard to find love in this economy.
Recently, it's been hard to spend under $50 just about anywhere you go. So what do you do when you don’t have the extra dough to dish on a little romance? If you’re trying to keep the spark alive while you build your savings, then we’ve compiled the perfect list for you - here's some Totally Free Date Ideas In Austin.
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photo via atx.spotter instagram
Plane Spot at ABIA
How about a cozy picnic while watching planes soar into the sky? Pack up your favorite snacks from home, grab a speaker for some mood-setting tunes, and head to the ABIA Family Viewing Area. This is the perfect spot for you and your date to snuggle up and enjoy an unobstructed view of the 9,000-foot east runway. It’s like your very own movie scene, complete with the thrilling backdrop of planes taking off and landing. The viewing area has a convenient paved parking lot and picnic tables, perfect for setting up a free, romantic date night.
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photo via facebook
Do Something Good
Whether you're helping take care of animals in need or beautifying the city, there's something extra romantic about helping the community together. We've compiled a huge list of volunteer opportunities around Austin, so sit down and pick one out together for your next free and rewarding date.
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Stargaze
Watching the stars together is just about as romantic as it gets. Austin Astronomical Society hosts weekly public star parties, and The UT Department of Astronomy hosts free viewings on the Painter Hall Telescope every Friday and Saturday while UT is in session. If you're wanting to do something more private, check out our list of The Best Places to Stargaze Around Austin. Bring a blanket, some snacks and drinks from home, and you've got yourselves the perfect date night.
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PHOTO VIA A PHOTOGRAPHIC ESSAY: ST. EDWARDS PARK BY KIM HEASTON
Various locations
Get your heart rate pumping alongside your honey. While you work towards meeting your step goal for the day, you have the opportunity to take in nature’s best and learn more about a person. Love often prevails through a few sweat stains so, don’t be shy to take on a steep hike or climb when you’re out and about. Check out our article on The Best Hiking Spots on Austin for more insight on each of the free trails that are worth checking out.
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PHOTO CREDIT: ROGER HO
Congress Ave.
Ah, yes. There’s nothing more romantic than watching sky vermin fly into the sunset. Seriously, we mean that. There’s something about watching these funky little creatures that’ll really bring out the glimmer in your partner’s eye. Head over to the bridge on Congress Avenue from spring to late fall to watch the notorious Austin bats take flight at dawn.
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photo credit: Roger ho
It's easy, fun, and puts you in touch with that cottagecore lifestyle you've always dreamed of. With such a bounty of grassy parks and picturesque spots in this city, Austin invites us to get outside and dine al fresco. So make a plan to pack up some food, grab your cute picnic blanket, and grab a cute date!
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photo credit: far out lounge facebook
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When times are tough, use what you’ve got. It’s no secret that if you walk around the city for five minutes you’ll magically bump into a lounge with live music and string lights. So take the time to conduct a quick search on our site for the spots that are hosting free shows this week. Then just strap on your boogie shoes and dance the night away
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Various Locations
Recommended for couples with a competitive edge, trivia night is the perfect time to bond. Let the hosts of a variety of Trivia Spots Around Austin quiz you and your partner over obscure topics and test your ability to work together. This is a date that's guaranteed to bring out the best (or worst) in a person, so why not give it a go? You might be surprised by the things you’ll learn about each other along the way!
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photo via facebook
Splash Around
Did you know Barton Springs offers free admission every day from 5 AM to 8 AM, and 9 AM on Thursdays? It's the perfect early yet cost-free morning date. Dive into the refreshing water together for a cool start to your day. Barton isn’t the only free option for taking a dip, Austin is home to tons of pools that are always free to access. Use our guide to Pools Around Austin to find the one closest to you for your next day date.
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photo credit: Roger Ho
Various Locations
Belt out your best high notes with a classic karaoke night. You’ll make memories that’ll stick with you both as you sing a duet or take turns getting on the stage solo. However, you might want to start rehearsing in the shower before you get ready–those vocal cords won’t warm themselves.
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Movie dates can add up quickly. After the ticket, popcorn, drinks, and the usual post-movie meal to discuss plot holes – you’re paying an arm and a leg. So why not skip the expenses and opt in for a more budget-friendly solution? The Austin Parks Foundation and The Community Cinema & Amphitheater offer Austinites a night out to the movies at no cost at all. This date is both casual and comfortable for all ages. Bring a blanket or some lawn chair and get ready to watch a film under the starry night sky.
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1100 Congress Ave
This date is for history buffs and anyone that wants to plan less and learn more. All visitors have the option of taking a guided tour or navigating through the historic building on your own time. Both ways are great opportunities to gain quality time with one another. You’ll never run out of things to talk about and this piece of Texas is a must-see stop.
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photo credit: Yelp
2201 Barton Springs Rd
With its free admission on Tuesdays, the Blanton museum is beckoning you to spend some time with their exhibits. Wander around the halls while asking your date what they think each art piece means. You’re bound to hear some pretty interesting takes and dive into deeper conversations as you both take in the pieces of abstract symbolism hung on the walls around you. For more museums, check out our entire list of Free Museums in Austin.
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Got a free date idea?
