The adults come out to play at LA's Best Museum Party Night!
Last year, the Natural History Museum of LA won a Best of LA Award for their Museum Party Night. On First Fridays for the first half of the year (Jan-June), NHMLA offers a sophisticated event for adults to enjoy culture and music. The fun begins with DJs and a free guided museum tour at 5:30 PM and the party continues until 10:30 PM. For the line up at the next (and sadly last) FF on June 4th, click HERE.
The FF tickets are $15 pp, which not only gets you into the concert hall but also the museum. Regular museum admission is $9, so that's a mere $6 more for a night of fun. As for parking, the lot across the way is $10 unless you get lucky with street parking. Purchasing tickets in advance online is highly recommended because the event usually sells out early. Note: June 4th is the last FF event of the year. I'm so sad that I'll be out of town, but other fun events are brewing at NHMLA.
Lines start forming at 7:30 PM with the doors of the performance hall opening up at 8:30 PM for the opening act and then the headliner goes on at 9:45 PM. The hall capacity is 500 but you can also watch the performance on projected screens throughout the Grand Foyer. To capture the fun, 3D photos are taken by NHMLA and posted on their Flickr (see example on right here). Bring your own camera and smiles! If you can come earlier and beat traffic to Downtown LA, bring a picnic too and enjoy the sunset with dinner in the middle of Exposition Park, which is right next door to NHMLA.
If you miss this event, mark you calendar for monthly FREE Museum Day at NHMLA on the first Tuesday of the month (next one is June 1st). While you're in the area, get free admission to the sister museum too, La Brea Tar Pits on Cheap Date Idea #89. Now that's called back-to-back FREE date ideas!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $15 pp.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $40 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @CourtneyLTucker
Showing posts with label january. Show all posts
Showing posts with label january. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
List: Date Ideas for January
Outline of creative date ideas posted this past month...
- 66. Dolphins & Whales at Dana Point
- List: Date Ideas for December & More
- 67. Professional Bullriding Championship
- List: Day Date Ideas in LA & OC
- 68. Jon Lovitz Comedy Club Universal Citywalk
- 69. FREE Film: Adventures of Robin Hood - 1/23
- 70. 2 Buck Bowling, Beers & More
- 71. Day Trip: San Diego Harbor Cruise
- 72. FREE Bowling on Your Birthday & More
- 73. Latte Love with Free Coffee
- 74. FREE Birthday Skiing Bear Mountain
- 75. Tide Pools by Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
- 76. FREE Coffee Bean Ice Blended Drinks - 1/14
- 77. Laugh for FREE at The Comedy Store
- List: 1 Month 'Til Valentine's Day
- 78. FREE Meetup Hiking in Griffith Park
- 79. Spa Day at Glen Ivy Hot Springs
- Calendar: January Date Ideas
- 80. Free Holiday Mondays at LACMA - 1/18
- 81. Mountain High Skiing 2-for-Tuesdays
- 82. Jamba Juice & $1 Oatmeal
- 83. 1/2 Off Lift Tickets at Snow Valley
- 84. Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
- 85. Champagne Brunch Cruise II
- 86. dineLA Retaurant Week is Back!
- 87. Pajama Night at Cafe 50's
- 88. Love Can Be Magical - 2/14
- 89. Free Day at La Brea Tar Pits
- 90. FREE Ice Skating at OC Great Park - 1/30
- 91. LA Friday Night Skate
- 92. FREE Meatballs of Comedy, CityWalk - 1/31
- 93. FREE Live TV Show Tapings
- 94. Scavenger Hunt on Bikes
Saturday, January 23, 2010
86. dineLA Retaurant Week is Back!
Restaurant Week is a cheap way to discover local eateries!
Enjoy 3-course lunches and dinners during dineLA Restaurant Week. Actually it's more like 2 weeks: Jan 24-29 and Jan 31 - Feb 5. On their website, you can easily sort through restaurants by name, lunch/dinner offering, price, cuisine, and neighborhood.
dineLA: ford's filling station
Originally uploaded by bluepupae
Originally uploaded by bluepupae
$ Deluxe Dining: $16 Lunch, $26 Dinner
$$ Premier Dining: $22 L, $34 D
$$$ Fine Dining $28 L, $44 D
By the way, you can register online for a special American Express promotion, where you will receive a $20 credit after going to lunch or dinner 3 times during dineLA Restaurant Week (minimum $20 per meal, so this offer excludes only the deluxe lunch at $16pp). For example, if you go to 3 premier lunches at $22 each, then after the $20 credit, your final cost will have been $46 instead of $66 for 3 lunches or on average only $15 each!
Support your local businesses, especially the smaller ones. If you are on a budget, this is an excellent way to go out for lunch and dinner on a fixed amount. Everyone has to eat right? So you might as well try something new and different! Enjoy!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = As low as $16 per lunch plus tip.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoSantaMonica
Friday, January 22, 2010
85. Champagne Brunch Cruise II
It's like a mini-romantic getaway in Newport Harbor!
If you missed out on Cheap Date Idea #65 in Marina del Rey earlier this month, you've got one more chance in Newport Beach this upcoming Sunday, Jan 24th, at Noon-2 PM. Or if you simply loved it so much, you want to go again! Hornblower Cruises does host the same excursion in multiple locations along the coast, including San Diego.
Boarding time starts 30 minutes before the boat disembarks. Once aboard, you two may enjoy a scrumptious brunch buffet plus free-flowing champagne for two full hours while cruising around Newport Beach. Enjoy your breakfast inside, then head outside to enjoy the ocean views with a glass of champagne in hand. Do remember to bundle up with sunblock and sunglasses (and a camera) to thoroughly enjoy your time together outdoors.
Get discounted tickets through Goldstar.com for $35 per person plus a $5 service fee. This does not include the gratuity, which will be suggested at $15 off the original price $55 pp, which is not abnormal to do ($16.50). The convenient parking lot is $8 or park across the way on PCH for free. Although this may not be quite the cheapest date idea yet, it's like a mini romantic getaway that's local and won't break the bank. It's just too bad that they are not offering the same deal for Valentine's. This Sunday is the last date available at the moment for the Champagne Brunch Cruise in Newport Beach, so stay tuned for schedule updates...
UPDATE 02/06/10: New cruise date has been added for Sunday, Feb 21st (unfortunately, not for Valentine's Day). Check Goldstar.com for more dates.
UPDATE 03/10/10: A special cruise for St. Patrick's Day has been added for Sunday, March 14th, at 6:30 PM (board at 6 PM and return by 8:30 PM). Buy tickets online at Goldstar.com by the Friday afternoon prior to the cruise. Please note that the $20 ticket price + $3.50 Service Fee does include complimentary appetizers, but not alcohol.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $35 Per Person + $5 Service Fee + Tip (or $23.50pp on 3/14).
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $120 Total + Tip.
If you missed out on Cheap Date Idea #65 in Marina del Rey earlier this month, you've got one more chance in Newport Beach this upcoming Sunday, Jan 24th, at Noon-2 PM. Or if you simply loved it so much, you want to go again! Hornblower Cruises does host the same excursion in multiple locations along the coast, including San Diego.
Boarding time starts 30 minutes before the boat disembarks. Once aboard, you two may enjoy a scrumptious brunch buffet plus free-flowing champagne for two full hours while cruising around Newport Beach. Enjoy your breakfast inside, then head outside to enjoy the ocean views with a glass of champagne in hand. Do remember to bundle up with sunblock and sunglasses (and a camera) to thoroughly enjoy your time together outdoors.
Get discounted tickets through Goldstar.com for $35 per person plus a $5 service fee. This does not include the gratuity, which will be suggested at $15 off the original price $55 pp, which is not abnormal to do ($16.50). The convenient parking lot is $8 or park across the way on PCH for free. Although this may not be quite the cheapest date idea yet, it's like a mini romantic getaway that's local and won't break the bank. It's just too bad that they are not offering the same deal for Valentine's. This Sunday is the last date available at the moment for the Champagne Brunch Cruise in Newport Beach, so stay tuned for schedule updates...
UPDATE 02/06/10: New cruise date has been added for Sunday, Feb 21st (unfortunately, not for Valentine's Day). Check Goldstar.com for more dates.
UPDATE 03/10/10: A special cruise for St. Patrick's Day has been added for Sunday, March 14th, at 6:30 PM (board at 6 PM and return by 8:30 PM). Buy tickets online at Goldstar.com by the Friday afternoon prior to the cruise. Please note that the $20 ticket price + $3.50 Service Fee does include complimentary appetizers, but not alcohol.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $35 Per Person + $5 Service Fee + Tip (or $23.50pp on 3/14).
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $120 Total + Tip.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
83. 1/2 Off Lift Tickets at Snow Valley
Are you addicted to skiing or snow boarding?
Then head to Snow Valley every day for 1/2 off! Why go solo though? Drag a date and call it a 2-for-1 deal if you need a reason for a date... Just an idea! This is an even better deal than going once per week on Tuesdays at Mountain High (see Cheap Date Idea #81),
Buy your tickets online with the discount code RUN1. Or be spontaneous, and simply bring 1 printed coupon (click HERE to print). The coupons are good the whole season through March with a few black out dates AND good for 6 people, so it can be a "group date" if you want to triple the fun. This skiing resort is about 30 minutes before Big Bear, so it's a bit of a drive from LA and OC, but at least the coupon is good anytime, even on the weekends. If you are addicted, I assume you've got the equipment and this is a pretty cheap date idea for you!
UPDATE 02/18/10: Click HERE to download the new coupon with ZERO black out days! Say thank you to @Snow_Patrol!
UPDATE 03/24/10: Snow Valley is still open for 2-for-1 skiing and snow boarding! Lift tickets only $27 per person and only $22 midweek!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $27 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $108 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @Snow_Patrol
Then head to Snow Valley every day for 1/2 off! Why go solo though? Drag a date and call it a 2-for-1 deal if you need a reason for a date... Just an idea! This is an even better deal than going once per week on Tuesdays at Mountain High (see Cheap Date Idea #81),
Buy your tickets online with the discount code RUN1. Or be spontaneous, and simply bring 1 printed coupon (click HERE to print). The coupons are good the whole season through March with a few black out dates AND good for 6 people, so it can be a "group date" if you want to triple the fun. This skiing resort is about 30 minutes before Big Bear, so it's a bit of a drive from LA and OC, but at least the coupon is good anytime, even on the weekends. If you are addicted, I assume you've got the equipment and this is a pretty cheap date idea for you!
UPDATE 02/18/10: Click HERE to download the new coupon with ZERO black out days! Say thank you to @Snow_Patrol!
UPDATE 03/24/10: Snow Valley is still open for 2-for-1 skiing and snow boarding! Lift tickets only $27 per person and only $22 midweek!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $27 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $108 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @Snow_Patrol
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
82. Jamba Juice & $1 Oatmeal
Jamba Juice and oatmeal are good for the body!
Enjoy oatmeal with your Jamba Juice drink for only only one buck more! In case you can't make it in the morning for a breakfast date, don't worry because this special deal is good all day every Wednesday until February 3rd. Take advantage of this deal for a quick lunch date or an afternoon "coffee break" for the caffeine-free folks out there. Heck, it's good anytime of the day on Wednesdays. Click HERE for more info about the Jamba Juice special.
For extra savings, pick up discounted gift cards for Jamba Juice at your local Costco: 2 cards for only $40 with a face value of $50 total or $25 each. You can't find a better deal than this at 20% off! Keep both cards for yourself or give one to your sweetie. Either way, it's a sweet deal.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $5 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $10 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @SlinkyTams
Enjoy oatmeal with your Jamba Juice drink for only only one buck more! In case you can't make it in the morning for a breakfast date, don't worry because this special deal is good all day every Wednesday until February 3rd. Take advantage of this deal for a quick lunch date or an afternoon "coffee break" for the caffeine-free folks out there. Heck, it's good anytime of the day on Wednesdays. Click HERE for more info about the Jamba Juice special.
For extra savings, pick up discounted gift cards for Jamba Juice at your local Costco: 2 cards for only $40 with a face value of $50 total or $25 each. You can't find a better deal than this at 20% off! Keep both cards for yourself or give one to your sweetie. Either way, it's a sweet deal.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $5 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $10 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @SlinkyTams
Monday, January 18, 2010
81. Mountain High Skiing 2-for-Tuesdays
What are you doing after the holiday?
Grab your sweetheart and go skiing and snow boarding at Mountain High tomorrow! If not tomorrow, this buy-one-get-one free (BOGO) deal is good every Tuesday through the end of March. However, you do need to buy your 2-for-1 lift tickets in advance online and bring the voucher with you. The lift ticket is good for 8 hours of fun in the snow. Bring your own equipment or rent some on-site for $30-35 per person depending if you're skiing or snow boarding.
Mountain High is a quick 90-minute ride from LA and OC, so it's a nice day trip compared to Big Bear. If you can't get away during the day, run over there after for for some weeknight skiing. You can buy "The Quad" Night Tickets for $79 (4 tickets break down to $19/ticket). These tickets are fully-transferable, so you can share it with a date or split it with friends on a double date. You can buy it at your local sports specialty shop (click HERE for more info).
If you're new to this sport like me, then take advantage of the "3-Peat for Success" Beginners Package. For $129, you can get 3 days of lessons, including rental equipment and lift tickets (4 total lift tickets), which is an awesome deal. That breaks down to $43 per day for everything! This deal is available only for first-timers at Big 5 Sport Goods stores, so buy it before you head to the snow.
For those born in January, February, and March, go skiing or snow boarding for FREE on your birthday! You can either go to Mountain High again or go somewhere else like Big Bear Mountain (check Cheap Date Idea #74 for more info). Just remember to bring a photo ID on your actual birthday.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free + $55 Day Pass + $30-35pp Equipment Rental..
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $110 Lift Tickets + $60 Rental.
Kiss & Tell Idea by @OCdeals
Grab your sweetheart and go skiing and snow boarding at Mountain High tomorrow! If not tomorrow, this buy-one-get-one free (BOGO) deal is good every Tuesday through the end of March. However, you do need to buy your 2-for-1 lift tickets in advance online and bring the voucher with you. The lift ticket is good for 8 hours of fun in the snow. Bring your own equipment or rent some on-site for $30-35 per person depending if you're skiing or snow boarding.
Mountain High is a quick 90-minute ride from LA and OC, so it's a nice day trip compared to Big Bear. If you can't get away during the day, run over there after for for some weeknight skiing. You can buy "The Quad" Night Tickets for $79 (4 tickets break down to $19/ticket). These tickets are fully-transferable, so you can share it with a date or split it with friends on a double date. You can buy it at your local sports specialty shop (click HERE for more info).
If you're new to this sport like me, then take advantage of the "3-Peat for Success" Beginners Package. For $129, you can get 3 days of lessons, including rental equipment and lift tickets (4 total lift tickets), which is an awesome deal. That breaks down to $43 per day for everything! This deal is available only for first-timers at Big 5 Sport Goods stores, so buy it before you head to the snow.
For those born in January, February, and March, go skiing or snow boarding for FREE on your birthday! You can either go to Mountain High again or go somewhere else like Big Bear Mountain (check Cheap Date Idea #74 for more info). Just remember to bring a photo ID on your actual birthday.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free + $55 Day Pass + $30-35pp Equipment Rental..
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $110 Lift Tickets + $60 Rental.
Kiss & Tell Idea by @OCdeals
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Calendar: January Date Ideas
Instead of reading every day, check out the calendar for date ideas by specific dates or days of the week or days of the month or whenever you are free...
Saturday, January 16, 2010
79. Spa Day at Glen Ivy Hot Springs
Only $19 pp for a relaxing day at the spa with your sweetie?!?!
Glen Ivy Hot Springs is extending their special offer for 1/2 off on Wednesdays as well as 2-for-1 on Tuesdays and Thursdays through the month of February (UPDATE 03/04/10: Offers extended through the end of March!). Regular admission during the "cool" season is $38 on weekdays and $49 on weekends and holidays. Based on photos, it looks like that some areas are co-ed, so this can be a day of pampering with your sweetheart. Too bad Valentine's Day doesn't fall on a weekday this year, but you can always celebrate early (hint hint). There is one year-long promotion for a free spa day on your actual birthday, so I might hold off until my birthday on a Sunday during summertime. Click HERE for more info about all the promotions.
Glen Ivy
Originally uploaded by vancouvergirl
Originally uploaded by vancouvergirl
Being open daily 9:30 AM - 5 PM during the winter, this spa day may be more of a "day trip" depending on where you live. I don't think it will be hard to find a place to relax within the 11 acres with 15 areas from which to choose. Let's just say that I was sold after seeing the property map (click HERE). However, if the hot springs in Corona is too much of a trek, there are 2 smaller facilities called "Glen Ivy Spas" in Valencia and La Brea. Unfortunately, these 2 locations only offer the birthday promotions at the moment.
Per the website, the "admission price includes: parking, use of all pools, sauna, steam rooms, Roman Baths, red clay mud bath and Wafa, towels and lockers. Please bring your own swimsuit, beach towel, robe and an old swimsuit for the red clay mud bath. Individual spa treatments and The Grotto are additional to admission rates." Whatever you do, wherever you go, whenever you go, just relax because you deserve it!
UPDATE 03/04/10: Offers extended through the end of March!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $19 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $72 Total.
Kiss & Tell Idea by @OCDeals
Thursday, January 14, 2010
77. Laugh for FREE at The Comedy Store
Comedy Clubs are always a casual date idea anytime!
Wow, this offer at The Comedy Store is even better than Cheap Date Idea #55 at The Improv (both freebies are located in Hollywood). The coupon is good through the end of this month (1/31), but it is first come, first serve.
@TheComedyStore did assure me via a tweet response that going on weekdays should be ok, but Fridays do tend sell out. You can laugh every night of the week. Most show times start anywhere between 7-9 PM, but check online for the schedule.
By the way, some people mentioned that this place is more of a mix between a bar and comedy club, which may be more appealing than it's competitor, The Improv. I've been to The Comedy Store before, but don't recall the best bet for parking on Sunset Blvd. I think metered parking is free in the evening, but I'll post an update once I've gone. Have fun!
UPDATE 03/10/10: Get FREE admission into The Comedy Store, good for anytime during the month of March. Download and print the coupon HERE. Each pass is good for 2 people and up to 3 coupons may be used per group, so this is a good group date idea too! Great date idea for St. Patrick's Day as well. @TheComedyStore just mentioned that it's $7 for a pint and shot on St. Patrick's Day!
UPDATE 04/03/10: Get FREE admission during the month of April. Click HERE to print coupon. Great idea for group dates (up to 3 couples).
UPDATE 05/07/10: Click HERE to print the coupon for the month of May.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE Admission + 2-Drink Minimum
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $10-60 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @TheLAScene
Wow, this offer at The Comedy Store is even better than Cheap Date Idea #55 at The Improv (both freebies are located in Hollywood). The coupon is good through the end of this month (1/31), but it is first come, first serve.
@TheComedyStore did assure me via a tweet response that going on weekdays should be ok, but Fridays do tend sell out. You can laugh every night of the week. Most show times start anywhere between 7-9 PM, but check online for the schedule.
By the way, some people mentioned that this place is more of a mix between a bar and comedy club, which may be more appealing than it's competitor, The Improv. I've been to The Comedy Store before, but don't recall the best bet for parking on Sunset Blvd. I think metered parking is free in the evening, but I'll post an update once I've gone. Have fun!
UPDATE 03/10/10: Get FREE admission into The Comedy Store, good for anytime during the month of March. Download and print the coupon HERE. Each pass is good for 2 people and up to 3 coupons may be used per group, so this is a good group date idea too! Great date idea for St. Patrick's Day as well. @TheComedyStore just mentioned that it's $7 for a pint and shot on St. Patrick's Day!
UPDATE 04/03/10: Get FREE admission during the month of April. Click HERE to print coupon. Great idea for group dates (up to 3 couples).
UPDATE 05/07/10: Click HERE to print the coupon for the month of May.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE Admission + 2-Drink Minimum
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $10-60 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @TheLAScene
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
75. Tide Pools by Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
Exploring tide pools is a cool AND free day date idea anytime!
The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium offers a FREE 90-minute tide pool tours once per day on most weekends. The walk usually starts anytime between 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM, depending on the low tide, with a informative slide show. Then the tour continues long the shore of Point Fermin State Marine Park in San Pedro. The next ones are scheduled for Sat Jan 16th at 2:30 PM and Sun Jan 17th at 3 PM, but click HERE for the online schedule of the rest of the first quarter.
Valentine's Day falls on a Sunday this year, so a special 2-hour tide pool walk is scheduled for February 14th, 1:30 - 3:30 PM. This is the only tour that is not free, but it's still a cheap date idea at a mere $3 per person. The exploration will not only include the tide pools and salt marsh, but also the examination of fossils, native plants and a beach wreck. Afterward stay an extra hour or two for a romantic stroll along the beach. Bring a picnic blanket or beach towel and maybe chocolates or something sweet to enjoy at sunset...
Outdoor clothing and sneakers are always recommended for tide pool walks. And don't forget sunblock and your camera. Pack a snack and a bottle of water for your beach walk too. I also suggest bringing a towel and plastic bag to wipe off your shoes before getting back into your car (I learned the hard way once).
If you love tide pools, check out Abalone Cove in Los Angeles (see Cheap Date Idea #57) and Crystal Cove in Orange County (see Cheap Date Idea #44). No matter where you are, tide pools are always a nice day date idea by the beach!
UPDATE 03/16/10: Here's the schedule for the next quarter for FREE tide pool tours.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium offers a FREE 90-minute tide pool tours once per day on most weekends. The walk usually starts anytime between 10:30 AM and 2:30 PM, depending on the low tide, with a informative slide show. Then the tour continues long the shore of Point Fermin State Marine Park in San Pedro. The next ones are scheduled for Sat Jan 16th at 2:30 PM and Sun Jan 17th at 3 PM, but click HERE for the online schedule of the rest of the first quarter.
Valentine's Day falls on a Sunday this year, so a special 2-hour tide pool walk is scheduled for February 14th, 1:30 - 3:30 PM. This is the only tour that is not free, but it's still a cheap date idea at a mere $3 per person. The exploration will not only include the tide pools and salt marsh, but also the examination of fossils, native plants and a beach wreck. Afterward stay an extra hour or two for a romantic stroll along the beach. Bring a picnic blanket or beach towel and maybe chocolates or something sweet to enjoy at sunset...
Outdoor clothing and sneakers are always recommended for tide pool walks. And don't forget sunblock and your camera. Pack a snack and a bottle of water for your beach walk too. I also suggest bringing a towel and plastic bag to wipe off your shoes before getting back into your car (I learned the hard way once).
If you love tide pools, check out Abalone Cove in Los Angeles (see Cheap Date Idea #57) and Crystal Cove in Orange County (see Cheap Date Idea #44). No matter where you are, tide pools are always a nice day date idea by the beach!
UPDATE 03/16/10: Here's the schedule for the next quarter for FREE tide pool tours.
| Saturday, March 27, 2010 • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM |
| Sunday, March 28, 2010 • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM |
| Saturday, April 10, 2010 • 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM |
| Sunday, April 11, 2010 • 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM |
| Sunday, April 25, 2010 • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM |
| Saturday, May 22, 2010 • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM |
Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
74. FREE Birthday Skiing Bear Mountain
Were you born with skis on?
Skiing is not quite the cheapest activity out there, but skiing on your birthday is F-R-E-E at Big Bear Mountain Resorts. The free birthday pass is good all day for skiing or snow boarding on both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Don't forget to bring a photo ID on your birthday! Depending on your birth date, the pass is worth as much as $53 during the regular season or $66 on holidays and weekends. If you don't borrow or own already, rental gear will run you $30 pp. Either way, you're saving a whopping $53-66 on the birthday boy/girl!
Being only 2-hours from LA, Big Bear makes for a good day trip or a day date idea. The slopes are open daily from about 8 or 8:30 AM to 4 or 5 PM on both mountains through late March. Check online for weather updates and more info. This can be a nice birthday treat for yourself or better yet a pleasant surprise for an avid ski partner. Unfortunately for me, my birthday is in August. Happy Birthday!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = 1 FREE Day Pass + $53 Day Pass + $30 Each Equipment Rental.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $166 Total.
Kiss & Tell Idea by @OCDeals
Skiing is not quite the cheapest activity out there, but skiing on your birthday is F-R-E-E at Big Bear Mountain Resorts. The free birthday pass is good all day for skiing or snow boarding on both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Don't forget to bring a photo ID on your birthday! Depending on your birth date, the pass is worth as much as $53 during the regular season or $66 on holidays and weekends. If you don't borrow or own already, rental gear will run you $30 pp. Either way, you're saving a whopping $53-66 on the birthday boy/girl!
Being only 2-hours from LA, Big Bear makes for a good day trip or a day date idea. The slopes are open daily from about 8 or 8:30 AM to 4 or 5 PM on both mountains through late March. Check online for weather updates and more info. This can be a nice birthday treat for yourself or better yet a pleasant surprise for an avid ski partner. Unfortunately for me, my birthday is in August. Happy Birthday!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = 1 FREE Day Pass + $53 Day Pass + $30 Each Equipment Rental.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $166 Total.
Kiss & Tell Idea by @OCDeals
Monday, January 11, 2010
73. Latte Love with Free Coffee
"Buy one, get one free" deals make for a cheap date!
In general, grabbing a cup of joe is a relatively cheap date idea, except Starbucks every day can add up to a pretty penny. Peet's Coffee & Tea is offering a special of "buy one beverage, get one free" now through Martin Luther King's Day (only one week left until Monday, January 18th). Either print the coupon or simply show it on your mobile device at the cash register (click HERE). By the way, you can email this cheap date idea to yourself (and your friends, share the latte love!) by clicking on the white envelope icon next to the orange Share button at the end of this blog post.
Most coffee shops provide an atmosphere for a casual meet up anytime, especially for a day date (click HERE for more day date ideas). The Peet's on Manhattan Beach Boulevard is an easy 3 blocks from the beach. After coffee, check out the Roundhouse Aquarium at the Manhattan Beach Pier for FREE (see Cheap Date Idea #6). Or find other Peet locations near you online.
If by any chance there is a lull in your coffee conversation, challenge your date! Try to make art out of the foam of your latte or cappuccino (see the heart formation in the photo on right). This is your chance to be creative and romantic. Cheers!
UPDATE 01/13/10: Check out new Cheap Date Idea #76 for a FREE coffee at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (CBTL).
UPDATE 01/14/10: Couple your FREE coffee at Peet's with a FREE bagel from Noah's (click HERE for Facebook Fan coupon and use before it expires on Jan 18th). Thanks, @LABargainHunter! For 2-freebies-in-1, the best place to go is Manhattan Beach since both establishments are on the same block. Double yum!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = One FREE beverage + $4.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $8 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @Frugalytics
In general, grabbing a cup of joe is a relatively cheap date idea, except Starbucks every day can add up to a pretty penny. Peet's Coffee & Tea is offering a special of "buy one beverage, get one free" now through Martin Luther King's Day (only one week left until Monday, January 18th). Either print the coupon or simply show it on your mobile device at the cash register (click HERE). By the way, you can email this cheap date idea to yourself (and your friends, share the latte love!) by clicking on the white envelope icon next to the orange Share button at the end of this blog post.
Most coffee shops provide an atmosphere for a casual meet up anytime, especially for a day date (click HERE for more day date ideas). The Peet's on Manhattan Beach Boulevard is an easy 3 blocks from the beach. After coffee, check out the Roundhouse Aquarium at the Manhattan Beach Pier for FREE (see Cheap Date Idea #6). Or find other Peet locations near you online.
If by any chance there is a lull in your coffee conversation, challenge your date! Try to make art out of the foam of your latte or cappuccino (see the heart formation in the photo on right). This is your chance to be creative and romantic. Cheers!
UPDATE 01/13/10: Check out new Cheap Date Idea #76 for a FREE coffee at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (CBTL).
UPDATE 01/14/10: Couple your FREE coffee at Peet's with a FREE bagel from Noah's (click HERE for Facebook Fan coupon and use before it expires on Jan 18th). Thanks, @LABargainHunter! For 2-freebies-in-1, the best place to go is Manhattan Beach since both establishments are on the same block. Double yum!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = One FREE beverage + $4.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $8 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @Frugalytics
Saturday, January 9, 2010
71. Day Trip: San Diego Harbor Cruise
Taking a cruise is a classy day date idea anytime!
Get 1/2 off tickets for a cruise around San Diego Harbor in January and February through Goldstar.com:
a) 1-Hour Cruise for only $10 Admission plus $3.50 Service Fee (Regular Admission $20 pp), or
b) 2-Hour Cruise for 3 bucks more at $12.50 Admission + $4 Service Fee (Regularly $25 pp).
There are 13 cruise times from which to choose between the 1-Hour and 2-Hour Cruises, daily starting at 10 AM. I suggest reserving the last one of the day at 4:15 PM or 5:30 PM, just in time to enjoy the sunset, which is typically the first one to sell out.
Taking a cruise is a classy day date idea anytime, especially on Valentine's! Yes, this special deal is available every day, including Sunday, February 14th. I'm sure those tickets will sell out soon. If you want to splurge for your loved one, Hornblower Cruises is offering special brunch and dinner cruises that Sunday for $63-175 per person. Just some non-so-cheap romantic date ideas. More cheap date ideas to come, so stay tuned...
Parking is not too bad during weekdays and early on Sundays. Alcohol and snacks are available for sale on the boat, but you can bring your own snacks. Don't forget to bundle up, bring sunscreen and a camera. By the way, over 1,000 members have rated Hornblower Cruises at 3.3 out of 4 Stars.
Before the cruise, stop by La Jolla on the way for a hike through Torrey Pines State Beach and Park (more info at Cheap Date Idea #59). However, if you prefer to stay local in Orange County, check out Cheap Date Idea #66 in Dana Point. Whichever cruise you do, have fun!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $13.50-16.50 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $40-50 Total.
Get 1/2 off tickets for a cruise around San Diego Harbor in January and February through Goldstar.com:
a) 1-Hour Cruise for only $10 Admission plus $3.50 Service Fee (Regular Admission $20 pp), or
b) 2-Hour Cruise for 3 bucks more at $12.50 Admission + $4 Service Fee (Regularly $25 pp).
There are 13 cruise times from which to choose between the 1-Hour and 2-Hour Cruises, daily starting at 10 AM. I suggest reserving the last one of the day at 4:15 PM or 5:30 PM, just in time to enjoy the sunset, which is typically the first one to sell out.
Taking a cruise is a classy day date idea anytime, especially on Valentine's! Yes, this special deal is available every day, including Sunday, February 14th. I'm sure those tickets will sell out soon. If you want to splurge for your loved one, Hornblower Cruises is offering special brunch and dinner cruises that Sunday for $63-175 per person. Just some non-so-cheap romantic date ideas. More cheap date ideas to come, so stay tuned...
Parking is not too bad during weekdays and early on Sundays. Alcohol and snacks are available for sale on the boat, but you can bring your own snacks. Don't forget to bundle up, bring sunscreen and a camera. By the way, over 1,000 members have rated Hornblower Cruises at 3.3 out of 4 Stars.
Before the cruise, stop by La Jolla on the way for a hike through Torrey Pines State Beach and Park (more info at Cheap Date Idea #59). However, if you prefer to stay local in Orange County, check out Cheap Date Idea #66 in Dana Point. Whichever cruise you do, have fun!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $13.50-16.50 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $40-50 Total.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
68. Jon Lovitz Comedy Club Universal Citywalk
Laughing is a good ice breaker for a first date or anytime.
The Jon Lovitz Comedy Club is a place worth considering since it's nestled in Universal Citywalk, next to Universal Studios, which offers free admission to the general public. You can stroll around this entertainment area before or after the show and simply hang out.
For the comedy show, the cheapest tickets on Goldstar.com go for $7.50 Total Per Person ($5 Admission plus $2.50 Service Fee). Regular Admission is normally $10-20 pp. Discounted show times are mostly Sundays at 6 PM in January and February. Or you can pay a little bit more at $13.50 Total PP ($10 Admission + $3.50 Service Fee) to see Jon Lovitz himself (see photo on right) LIVE on Wednesdays at 8 PM for this month only. General Parking after 5 PM is $10 for the Sunday shows or you can get Valet Club Parking for only $3 with validation after 8 PM for the Wednesday shows.
For more info about Universal Citywalk, check out the previous Cheap Date Idea #56. If you love comedy clubs and you love FREE date ideas, check out Cheap Date Idea #55 at the Hollywood Improv. Per @StylesJ's tweet last Saturday, a comedy club is a good date idea! I believe that it serves as an ice breaker, where you both can laugh together and focus on the comedian instead of each other (if you want). By the way, Valentines falls on a Sunday this year, so this might be something casual (and not to mention affordable) to do that evening. Enjoy!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $7.50-13.50 Total PP + $3-10 Parking + 2-Drink/Food Minimum.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $26-46 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoldstarLA
The Jon Lovitz Comedy Club is a place worth considering since it's nestled in Universal Citywalk, next to Universal Studios, which offers free admission to the general public. You can stroll around this entertainment area before or after the show and simply hang out.
For the comedy show, the cheapest tickets on Goldstar.com go for $7.50 Total Per Person ($5 Admission plus $2.50 Service Fee). Regular Admission is normally $10-20 pp. Discounted show times are mostly Sundays at 6 PM in January and February. Or you can pay a little bit more at $13.50 Total PP ($10 Admission + $3.50 Service Fee) to see Jon Lovitz himself (see photo on right) LIVE on Wednesdays at 8 PM for this month only. General Parking after 5 PM is $10 for the Sunday shows or you can get Valet Club Parking for only $3 with validation after 8 PM for the Wednesday shows.
For more info about Universal Citywalk, check out the previous Cheap Date Idea #56. If you love comedy clubs and you love FREE date ideas, check out Cheap Date Idea #55 at the Hollywood Improv. Per @StylesJ's tweet last Saturday, a comedy club is a good date idea! I believe that it serves as an ice breaker, where you both can laugh together and focus on the comedian instead of each other (if you want). By the way, Valentines falls on a Sunday this year, so this might be something casual (and not to mention affordable) to do that evening. Enjoy!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $7.50-13.50 Total PP + $3-10 Parking + 2-Drink/Food Minimum.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $26-46 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoldstarLA
Saturday, January 2, 2010
67. Professional Bullriding Championship
Yee-haw, the cowboys are comin' to California!
The Annual Professional Bull Riders Tour at Honda Center is coming to Anaheim on January 22nd-24th.
Goldstar.com is offering Terrace Seating on the opening night for only $11.50 Admission + $4.50 Service, or you can pay 10 bucks more to get closer to the action in the Plaza Section. Friday will be the first round, featuring the top 40 riders in the world. Cheap tickets are also available for Round Two on Saturday, but the last day of the competition, Sunday, is already sold out. Expect 2 hours of action even though a bull rider is lucky to hang on for 8 seconds! Last year, this event got rated 3.5 out of 4 stars.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $16 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $52 Total.
The Annual Professional Bull Riders Tour at Honda Center is coming to Anaheim on January 22nd-24th.
Goldstar.com is offering Terrace Seating on the opening night for only $11.50 Admission + $4.50 Service, or you can pay 10 bucks more to get closer to the action in the Plaza Section. Friday will be the first round, featuring the top 40 riders in the world. Cheap tickets are also available for Round Two on Saturday, but the last day of the competition, Sunday, is already sold out. Expect 2 hours of action even though a bull rider is lucky to hang on for 8 seconds! Last year, this event got rated 3.5 out of 4 stars.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $16 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $52 Total.
Friday, January 1, 2010
66. Dolphins & Whales at Dana Point
The first grey whale of the season was spotted on Monday!
Dana Point Harbor boasts a 85% success rate in sighting sea mammals (dolphins and whales). That's not bad for spending 2 hours on a catamaran and $14.50 per person plus $4 Service Fee (tickets are regularly $29 pp). If you are not sure about this, more than 200 people have survived so far and rated this excursion 3 out of 4 stars and another 1,340 reviewers on Zerve.com gave it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.
Did you know that Grey Whales swim south to Baja California, passing by Dana Point every year between November through April, while Blue Whales, May through October? The cruises depart daily three times per day, but you can get cheap tickets through Goldstar.com for every weekend this month of January, Fri-Sun at 2 PM. If you prefer weekdays, half-price tickets are available directly through Dana Wharf for Tuesdays throughout the season or on Wednesdays during the last month of the whale watching season, April 2010.
Make sure to be at the dock at least 30 minutes prior to departure. Parking is easy and free for 4 hours. Food and drink are available for sale on the boat. Even though the weather is expected to be partly cloudy and sunny for the next 10 days, make sure to bundle up and wear sunscreen. Don't forget your camera and bring binoculars! Just something cheap and different to do in the OC... outdoorsy and family friendly too!
UPDATE 01/27/10: More dates added for the month of February! Go on Valentine's Day!!
UPDATE 03/11/10: Buy 1/2 price tickets directly on Zerve.com for any Tuesday through April and also on Wednesdays during April at 10 am, Noon, or 2 PM. Zerve's service fee is a little cheaper at $2 per ticket. Dana Wharf guarantees that you will see a whale or come back again for free. Thanks to @DealsDiva for sharing this discount.
UPDATE 03/31/10: This is even a cheaper date! Click HERE for a $15 coupon (regularly $30) for whale watching with Davey's Locker in Newport Beach. Reservation is required, but at least there is no processing fee. Coupon expires May 15th. Say thank you to @SoCalCoupons!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $18.50 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $58 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoldstarOC
Dana Point Harbor boasts a 85% success rate in sighting sea mammals (dolphins and whales). That's not bad for spending 2 hours on a catamaran and $14.50 per person plus $4 Service Fee (tickets are regularly $29 pp). If you are not sure about this, more than 200 people have survived so far and rated this excursion 3 out of 4 stars and another 1,340 reviewers on Zerve.com gave it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.
Did you know that Grey Whales swim south to Baja California, passing by Dana Point every year between November through April, while Blue Whales, May through October? The cruises depart daily three times per day, but you can get cheap tickets through Goldstar.com for every weekend this month of January, Fri-Sun at 2 PM. If you prefer weekdays, half-price tickets are available directly through Dana Wharf for Tuesdays throughout the season or on Wednesdays during the last month of the whale watching season, April 2010.
Make sure to be at the dock at least 30 minutes prior to departure. Parking is easy and free for 4 hours. Food and drink are available for sale on the boat. Even though the weather is expected to be partly cloudy and sunny for the next 10 days, make sure to bundle up and wear sunscreen. Don't forget your camera and bring binoculars! Just something cheap and different to do in the OC... outdoorsy and family friendly too!
UPDATE 01/27/10: More dates added for the month of February! Go on Valentine's Day!!
UPDATE 03/11/10: Buy 1/2 price tickets directly on Zerve.com for any Tuesday through April and also on Wednesdays during April at 10 am, Noon, or 2 PM. Zerve's service fee is a little cheaper at $2 per ticket. Dana Wharf guarantees that you will see a whale or come back again for free. Thanks to @DealsDiva for sharing this discount.
UPDATE 03/31/10: This is even a cheaper date! Click HERE for a $15 coupon (regularly $30) for whale watching with Davey's Locker in Newport Beach. Reservation is required, but at least there is no processing fee. Coupon expires May 15th. Say thank you to @SoCalCoupons!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $18.50 Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $58 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoldstarOC
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
65. Champagne Brunch Cruise
It's like a mini-vacation around the harbor of Marina del Rey.
This is not as cheap as $11 Sunday Brunch & Bowling (see Cheap Date Idea #61), but $35 pp for a 2-hour cruise and brunch buffet with unlimited champagne is not a bad deal for a classy date idea (save $20 each). The boat leaves at noon, which lets you sleep in a bit and make it to the port at Fisherman's Village for boarding at 11:30 AM. Parking is validated for 2 hours.
At the moment, the offer is only available for this Sunday, Jan 3rd. Get your tickets on Goldstar.com by Friday afternoon. By the way, reviewers rated it 3.5 out of 4 Stars. Enjoy!
UPDATE 01/01/10: One more Sunday was added on Goldstar! Get your tickets now for January 10th.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $35 Ticket + $5 Service Fee Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $110 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoldstarOC.
This is not as cheap as $11 Sunday Brunch & Bowling (see Cheap Date Idea #61), but $35 pp for a 2-hour cruise and brunch buffet with unlimited champagne is not a bad deal for a classy date idea (save $20 each). The boat leaves at noon, which lets you sleep in a bit and make it to the port at Fisherman's Village for boarding at 11:30 AM. Parking is validated for 2 hours.
At the moment, the offer is only available for this Sunday, Jan 3rd. Get your tickets on Goldstar.com by Friday afternoon. By the way, reviewers rated it 3.5 out of 4 Stars. Enjoy!
UPDATE 01/01/10: One more Sunday was added on Goldstar! Get your tickets now for January 10th.
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $35 Ticket + $5 Service Fee Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $110 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoldstarOC.
Monday, December 28, 2009
63. $20 Bottomless Bubbly on NYE
Only $20.10 to toast to a New Year in 2010!
This might be the cheapest date idea on NYE: Pourtal Wine Bar in Santa Monica for all-you-can drink champagne in 3 hours for only $20.10 plus tax, which breaks down to about $7 per hour. Heck, that's about the cost of a cheap bottle of champagne!
You will have the choice of 3 types of champagne, so try all three or stick to one. I did a quick check online and confirmed that market value of one of the three is at least $13 per bottle. Since no reservations are required, make sure to get there early to find parking (local parking garages are $3 flat after 6 PM) for toasting at 9 PM. The bottomless bubbly ends at midnight, so drink up then take a stroll around the Santa Monica Pier (easy 1/2 mile walk, 2 blocks south, 9 minutes).
The pier area should be quite lively and a popular (and free) place to sober up. By the way, a full moon is expected on New Year's Eve! Actually it's called a blue moon since it will be the second full moon in the same month which happens only every 2.7 years on average. Cheers!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $20.10 plus tax per person + $3 Parking + Tip.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $47.12 Total + Tip.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoSantaMonica on Twitter.
This might be the cheapest date idea on NYE: Pourtal Wine Bar in Santa Monica for all-you-can drink champagne in 3 hours for only $20.10 plus tax, which breaks down to about $7 per hour. Heck, that's about the cost of a cheap bottle of champagne!
You will have the choice of 3 types of champagne, so try all three or stick to one. I did a quick check online and confirmed that market value of one of the three is at least $13 per bottle. Since no reservations are required, make sure to get there early to find parking (local parking garages are $3 flat after 6 PM) for toasting at 9 PM. The bottomless bubbly ends at midnight, so drink up then take a stroll around the Santa Monica Pier (easy 1/2 mile walk, 2 blocks south, 9 minutes).
The pier area should be quite lively and a popular (and free) place to sober up. By the way, a full moon is expected on New Year's Eve! Actually it's called a blue moon since it will be the second full moon in the same month which happens only every 2.7 years on average. Cheers!
Approximate cost of creative date idea = $20.10 plus tax per person + $3 Parking + Tip.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $47.12 Total + Tip.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoSantaMonica on Twitter.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
62. The Christmas Carol - Free & Live
Don't be a scrooge, go support your local theatre group!
Although Christmas has passed again, The Christmas Carol is a Dicken's classic that has been watched over and over. So why not watch it for FREE? Go watch a live performance next weekend at Warner Grand Theatre in San Pedro.
Admission is regularly $20 per person, but Goldstar.com is offering free admission + $5 service fee (limit 2) for either Sat. Jan 2nd at 8 PM or Sun. Jan 3rd at 2:30 PM. This play is a family-friendly event, but the $5 tickets for 18 and under are available directly through the venue, not on Goldstar (comes out to the same price as adults anyway). Get your tickets online before the free tickets sell out, otherwise it will be $10 admission + $3.50 service fee (a 50% discount, not free, but still cheap).
Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE Admission + $5 Service Fee per person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $40 Total.
Although Christmas has passed again, The Christmas Carol is a Dicken's classic that has been watched over and over. So why not watch it for FREE? Go watch a live performance next weekend at Warner Grand Theatre in San Pedro.
Admission is regularly $20 per person, but Goldstar.com is offering free admission + $5 service fee (limit 2) for either Sat. Jan 2nd at 8 PM or Sun. Jan 3rd at 2:30 PM. This play is a family-friendly event, but the $5 tickets for 18 and under are available directly through the venue, not on Goldstar (comes out to the same price as adults anyway). Get your tickets online before the free tickets sell out, otherwise it will be $10 admission + $3.50 service fee (a 50% discount, not free, but still cheap).
Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE Admission + $5 Service Fee per person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $40 Total.