You’re pursuing romance and a college education at the same time? Both can be rather costly ventures. Fortunately, there are plenty of cheap and fun date ideas near Penn State University. Here are 15 inexpensive and entertaining date night ideas to lighten the load!
Although University Park has a plethora of scenic spots, the grassy expanse in front of Old Main is undoubtedly one of the most iconic. Weather permitting, pack a light lunch (lemonade, potato chips, and pre-made PB & J’s can be purchased from your nearest convenience store) and spread out on a towel for a low-key but thoughtful outing.
Limitations: Fair weather is a must.
Estimated cost: $10
The Swing Dance Club is one of the liveliest student-run organizations at Penn State. Plan on attending one of their biweekly meetings, or one of their monthly dances if you’re more ambitious. Have two left feet? No worries! A short lesson is held at the beginning of every event.
Limitations: You obviously cannot dance if you have a broken leg.
Estimated cost: Free!
2000 degrees isn’t on campus, but it’s so close, it might as well be. As one of the more expensive date ideas on this list, it’s also one of the most rewarding. The pieces available for painting range from $5 to $25, and you pay $6.50 for every half hour you spend painting. You can’t put a price on quality time spent creating. And you’ll have a pottery piece to commemorate the date!
Limitations: Artistic inclinations?
Estimated cost: $20-$30
Blocking off some time to wander around Penn State’s beautiful arboretum with your honey is a must. If either of you are social media buffs, pictures of the foliage are sure to be crowd-pleasers. The Arboretum is absolutely gorgeous during the fall.
Limitations: Fair weather is optimal.
Estimated cost: Free!
Kiwi’s is a gem for broke college students. Fill up on frozen yogurt and delectable toppings in an upbeat atmosphere downtown. Pro tip: Go during the winter; the place is usually completely empty.
Limitations: None!
Estimated cost: $5-$10
The Hub shows relatively recent releases every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night. So take in a movie without the hefty price tag.
Limitations: You and your date will need student IDs.
Estimated cost: Free!
Browse the vendors’ wares at the local farmer’s market. Seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flowers are available for purchase.
Limitations: Friday mornings/afternoons only.
Estimated cost: Depends on what you buy.
Depending on your RA, various activities are offered to residence hall occupants on a weekly basis. Game nights, pizza parties, you name it. Keep your eyes peeled for signs in the hallways advertising events.
Limitations: None!
Estimated cost: Free!
Nothing brings a couple closer than looking at cute animals and contemplating the future. Centre County PAWS is a delightful place to seek a pet or to spend some time destressing in the presence of critters.
Limitations: Don’t visit the animal shelter if you have pet allergies.
Estimated cost: Free!
The Palmer Museum of Art has some amazing pieces for viewing. Wandering through its halls, observing artistic representations of the human condition will be undeniably romantic.
Limitations: None!
Estimated cost: Donation-based
Coffee dates are timeless. Although Starbucks is known for being expensive, their coffee is undeniably good and the Hub is a convenient location for a date. After being served quickly as can be, sit on the stairs and people-watch. Chances are, you’ll witness a flash performance from one of the student clubs.
Limitations: None! If you don’t like coffee, try their tea or a fruity drink.
Estimated cost: $5-$10
Big Bowl Noodle House is an underrated downtown State College restaurant. They have great Thai and Chinese food at a reasonable price. Take your date, climb down the stairs, and stuff your faces with delicious noodles and spring rolls.
Limitations: Unfortunately, the business only accepts cash.
Estimated cost: $10-$15
Attending a women’s volleyball game is a perfect date for sports buffs. PSU fans are fans like no other, and our women’s team always goes the distance.
Limitations: None!
Estimated cost: Free!
If dancing is the name of your game, Indigo is the place to be. Get to the club before 10 and avoid the cover. To keep drinking costs down, avoid the overpriced drinks.
Limitations: Again, you can’t dance with a broken leg.
Estimated cost: Free! (If you don’t drink and avoid the cover, that is.)
Don’t underestimate the power of down-time. Turn on your favorite show, and binge-watch until the sun comes up. Enjoy!
Limitations: You should have some sort of TV subscription. (Amazon Prime, Hulu, or Netflix will do.)
Estimated cost: Free after subscription payment
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