So you just asked out that person you’ve been eyeing for a while now. You catch a break when he/she agrees to go out with you, until you realize you need to come up with a great first date idea to win them over-on a tight budget. Not to worry. Whether you are going on a first date, or going on your hundredth date, here are some fun and cheap date ideas around Chicago.
You can make a date this upcoming winter season to join in on some holiday activities. November 22, 2008 is the annual Magnificent Mile Parade of Lights on Michigan Avenue. With over 1 million lights illuminating The Mile with a grand finale of fireworks over the Chicago River, this is sure to be a romantic evening on the town. Also, check out the fun at Navy Pier for the 8th annual Winter Wonderfest from December 5, 2008-January 4, 2009. There is sure to be enough festive activities to keep you entertained.
AVERAGE PRICE: FREE
Catch a Cheap Flick
The Brew and View at the Vic in Chicago is an inexpensive theater ($5) where you can enjoy a great movie while drinking a cold beer or cocktail. Spice up your usual weekday routine. Make a date night when they offer $2 drink specials Monday through Wednesday.
AVERAGE PRICE: $5-10
Get Cultured Together
First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art put the happy in Happy Hour. With a cash bar, free Wolfgang Puck appetizers, and live music from local DJs, it sure makes getting cultured more exciting. First Fridays are from 6-10pm and you can sure make them last by joining in on the after party fun at the hottest spots in Chicago. Save money by buying your tickets for $10 in advance online.
Also, take advantage of these museums in Chicago when they offer free days throughout the year:
- Art Institute of Chicago (Thursdays, 5pm-8pm)
- Museum of Science and Industry (Dec. 24, 31; Jan. 5-31; June 1-5, 19)
- Field Museum (2nd Mondays of each month, plus list of regular free days)
- Museum of Contemporary Photography (Free everyday)
Indulge in a Juicy Burger
If you want a fun atmosphere and a good old fashioned burger, RJ Grunts is where you will find it. With their mouth-watering half pound burgers averaging $8.50, you can’t go wrong. Not a meat lover? They also have a huge salad bar with variety ranging from fresh veggies, nuts and berries and even chocolate chip cream cheese. You’re sure to find something to delight your taste buds.
“This place hasn’t changed a bit from when I was in my twenties-which was 30 years ago,” said Mary Kopel, a Chicago resident, “They have the same great music and fun atmosphere as they did back then.”
They are located right across from the Lincoln Park Zoo, so afterward you can take a stroll and check out the animals.
AVERAGE ENTRE PRICE: $8.50
Ice Skating In Millenium Park
Bundle up in your winter coat, scarf and gloves, grab a partner and head down to Millenium Park to go on an ice skating adventure. McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is tentatively scheduled to open November 19, 2008 and is free to the public plus $10 skate rental. If you can’t beat the cold you might as well join in and when you’re done and frozen, you can warm up with some hot chocolate or coffee. Or better yet, use the cold as an excuse to snuggle and keep warm with your other half.
AVERAGE PRICE: FREE + skates
Pictures by: Associated Press/Jeff Roberson, Associated Press/Beth A. Keiser, Associated Press/Charles Rex Arbogast
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