If you’re lucky enough to have family in town who get excited to host your kids and send you out for a date night, that’s double-amazing because, combined with this list, you’re gonna be saving some serious cash. For the rest of us who need to balance out the budget for a sitter and plan something cost-effective for date night, here are some ideas to keep the rest of your outing low-cost…or even free.
— Head to a Night Swim
What’s more romantic than a night swim with your partner? Barton Springs Pool is open late (until 10 pm), and Austin Motel Pool has day passes and evening events (adult swim is 5 pm – 10 pm) that are sure to make a special and memorable date night. Also check out Natural Swimming Holes, FREE Pools and if you’re in the mood for a little swank, check out which local hotels offer day passes for swimming.
— See a Show
Some upcoming free and low-cost shows include:
- Third Thursdays at the Bullock Museum (FREE)
- Zilker Botanical Garden’s Music in the Garden (Included in the cost of admission at $8)
- Concert at Lake Travis Community Library featuring musician Trevor Helt (FREE)
- Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park (FREE)
— Hit up a Farmer’s Market
A Farmer’s Market day-date is such a sweet, rom-com kinda outing. Check out these local Farmer’s Markets.
— Scope Out a Free (or cheap) Movie
Check out where to see Free and Cheap Movies this Summer, or Head to the Drive-Ins for an old-school night of nostalgia and stars.
— Take a Spin at the Roller Skating Rink
Playland Skate Center has adult-only skates on Saturday nights from 9 pm – 12 am, as well as discount skate sessions (Sk8 for $8) on Thursdays from 12 pm – 10 pm. Check out their schedule and pricing here.
— Cozy Up at a Book Store
Imagine curling up with a book, some quiet together time, and a glass of wine. At Vintage Book Store and Wine Bar, you can pick out a book, grab a glass of wine, sit in their living room, and spend some time introverting together with your loved one. Their wine list features sparkling, whites, reds, rose, and orange, as well as beer and canned cocktails.
— Go For a Hike or Walk Together
Our friends at Do512 made a list of The Best Hiking Spots in Austin, or for something a little less challenging (hey, maybe it’s not that kind of date night), check out our roundup of the 10 Best Hikes in Austin for Families.
— Stargaze
Hit up a star party or spend a few hours on your date night stargazing and enjoying the peace of nature. Here’s Where to Stargaze Around Austin, as well as where to attend a star party.
— Visit Museums and Galleries
Many local museums have free admission days and you can check those out here. We always love a picnic at Laguna Gloria (especially on Free Thursdays!) for an uber-special date you won’t forget. And here are a few of our favorite local galleries that are always free for perusing:
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