Recently I was being interviewed about ways to have a great date without spending a ton of cash. I reeled out my typical rejoinder of things like ordering ice water, going during the lunch hour when prices are cheaper, purchasing a bottle of wine to enjoy at home after your date rather than paying the same price for a couple glasses at a restaurant, spending only the change you find in your house and car, etc. Most of you already know all of those tips. It’s straight up amateur hour. I wanted to focus in today and tell you how you can specifically save in Indy when it comes to date night. While I am the Queen of Free, I know the value of investing in a relationship. But you can still have a great time without breaking the bank.
1) Check the Visit Indy Free Events Calendar. I’m not sure there’s a better place around that categorizes events to let you know what’s going on in Indianapolis at a glance. You can categorize by Spectator Sports, Music, Theater, Dance, Film, and more but my favorite area is the Free Events section. It’s a quick and easy way to see what you might be able to do without spending a dime.
2) Check out area Museums, Civic Organizations, High Schools, and Churches. There are a number of free or well priced opportunities at all of the above. From a BOGO opportunity at the IMAX to High School productions of broadway musicals, you can support a cause you believe in while having a great time. I LOVE i heart my spouse and their great date ideas. One of their upcoming events is a prom for married and engaged couples at the Conrad in downtown Indianapolis and tix are only $65/couple right now for dinner, dancing, fine dining, and more!
3) Enjoy the Great Outdoors. I know, I know it’s a little chilly right now but nothing feels better than moving with your significant other. Indianapolis has more beautiful trails and walkways than you can shake a stick at {or use a walking stick on}. I’d love taking a stroll on the White River Canal more than any fancy pants date. Keep it simple and walk together, both physically and metaphorically.
4) Dine Progressively, On the Cheap. Instead of a typical date night where you go to one restaurant and park it for a couple of hours, turn your dining experience into an adventure. Choose 1 place to have an appetizer {Check out Happy Hour deals! I like the $2 Bar Menu at Mesh on Mass}, 1 place to have an entree {SO many places to choose from but a Bru Burger sounds delightful to me}, and 1 place to have dessert {$4.50 Elephant Ear at Thr3e Wisemen or a yummy cupcake somewhere}. Set a budget before you go, spend cash, and split if you can to maximize your savings.
There you have it Money Saving Lords and Ladies, do your homework {the #1 way to overspend is not to have a plan} and have fun with your special lady or fella. Indianapolis is an incredibly affordable town to have a great time on a date.
Where do you save on Date Night in Indy?
