List: Weekend Cheap Date Ideas

There are so many free and cheap things to do this weekend in Los Angeles and Orange County that I wanted to make a special list for y'all! Click on each link for the details.

Joe's Dollar
Originally uploaded by Thomas Hawk

Saturday, May 22nd:

• 4. Star Gazing at Griffith Observatory - Free monthly party
• 32. FREE at The Getty Center - Enjoy the sunset and Leonardo da Vinci plus free parking after 5 PM.
• 44. Tide Pools at Crystal Cove - Hiking 9 AM & free tide pool walk 11 AM
• 57. Tide Pools at Abalone Cove - Free tour at Palos Verdes
• 104. Shoot Arrows like Cupid for FREE - Beginner archery lesson
• 122. Kayak though Naples Canals
• 181. OC Greek Fest - FREE coupon admission
• 182. Cinespia Cemetery Screenings - The Thing
• 183. Devil's Night Drive-In - Pretty in Pink
• 154. XIV Happy Hour by Michael Mina
• Click HERE for more things to do on Saturdays

Sunday, May 23rd:

• 14. FREE Helium Balloon Rides
• 38. Find Peace at Lake Shrine - Free hidden gem near Malibu
• 44. Tide Pools at Crystal Cove - Nature photography walk 9 AM
• 50. Farmer's Market in Santa Monica
• 92. Meatballs of Comedy Show, CityWalk
• 112. FREE Cooking Classes - at a Williams-Sonoma near you
• 114. Cheap (& FREE) Laughs at UCB Theatre
• 115. Wine & Dine for Only $10-20 - Filet mignon or halibut for only $10!
• 122. Kayak though Naples Canals
• 181. OC Greek Fest - Free coupon admission
• 185. Free Malibu Beach Safari - 5/23 - Final tours!
• Click HERE for more things to do on Sundays

No matter what you do, just be a fun cheap date!

179. Summer Live Music at Malibu Wines

Wine + live music = romantic date idea, even a first date idea!
Starting Memorial Weekend, the Summer Live Music is back at the Malibu Wines tasting room! The winery, Malibu Family Wines provides live music for free starting May 28th until October 24th by night (Fri-Sat 7-9 PM) or day (Sat-Sun 1-3 PM). This is definitely something worth checking out at least once in the next 5 months, especially when the weather is perfect for an outdoorsy activity. The property is family-friendly during the day, so the kids and adults can enjoy the mid-day concerts (1-3 PM) on Saturdays and Sundays. After 6 PM, it's adults only for the evening concerts (7-9 PM) on Fridays and Saturdays.

Drink, drink and be merry!
Originally uploaded by 365 Cheap Dates

My friend took us here last summer since it's her favorite spot and then we were pleasantly surprised (as you can tell by my photo here) by a live band coming onto stage. There is one requirement for admission: a purchase of at least one bottle of wine by each group. That is unless you catch the wine tastings before it ends at 6 PM, however sharing a bottle is more cost-effective. Invite your friends to share a bottle (or two or three) and make it a group date! Bottles range $14-27, so that could be as cheap as $3.50pp on a double date! As for parking, it's free along Mulholland Highway, but carpool and come early as these events get packed. Bring a picnic and a blanket, otherwise some food is available for purchase there and tables are reserved for minimum purchases.

While you're up in Malibu, make it a full day of fun by combining it with one of these other things to do:

• Cheap Date Idea #96: The Getty Villa offers free museum admission but reservations are required.
• Cheap Date Idea #38: Lake Shrine is a beautiful spot for a day date plus it's FREE.
• Cheap Date Idea #10: Point Dume State Beach is a nice beach with lots of activities, including rock climbing.

Whatever you decide to do, have fun!


Approximate cost of creative date idea = $14-27 per bottle.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by Miss W., @stephschneider & Derek @malibufmlywines

172. Free Bowling at Lucky Strike

Free bowling is a great group date idea!
Lucky Strike at L.A. Live is offering a free game with free shoes on Wednesday, May 12th. All you have to do is show up and say the magic words, "Bangerang Bowling", in honor of the movie, Hook. The alley will be open at 11:30 AM til 1 AM (must be 21+ after 7 PM). Depending on when you go, games are about $6-7 and shoe rental is $5. If Wednesday doesn't work for you, pay for bowling on Monday 5/10 and get a free entree. If free bowling wasn't enticing enough, maybe free food will?

Originally uploaded by arnthora

If those days don't work for you, pick any day during the week! Their Lunch & Bowl special sounds like a pretty good deal too: Pay $7.95 for lunch and get a free game and shoes between 11:30 AM - 4 PM on Mon-Fri. If you prefer drink specials, then Lucky Hour is 4-7 PM daily (yes, including weekends!): $5 well drinks, $3 draft beer, $4 shots, $5 house wine by the glass and various food specials. Check out the website for other specials on Sundays and Tuesdays for 1/2 price bowling. As for parking, L.A. Live parking lot charges $5 for the first 2 hours.

If downtown LA is too far for you, check out these other bowling date ideas:

• Cheap Date Idea #61: Sunday brunch and bowling plus $2 mimosas!
• Cheap Date Idea #70: 2 Buck bowling, beer & more!
• Cheap Date Idea #72: Free bowling on your birthday and more!

UPDATE 05/26/10: The next FREE bowling day at Lucky Strike will be June 14th. To get a free game and shoes, the secret code is "The Dude sent me".


Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $22 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @LuckyStrikeLA and @Andres_ocon

156. Free MoLAA Sundays

Free admission, Free parking, Free audio tour!
Museum of Latin American Art (MoLAA) in Long Beach is open 11 AM - 5 PM on Wed-Sun. The best day to go is Sunday, so you can save yourself (and your date) $9 each on general admission (say thank you to Target!). The free Sundays are on the MoLAA calendar through the month of July 2010. Here's an interesting feature at this museum: FREE cell phone tour. You can simply dial the phone number next to each art piece and listen to the audio tour. No need to rent equipment. This works out nicely on Sundays when cell phone minutes are free anyways. For this upcoming Sunday 4/18, enjoy Venezuelan art, food and music too!

Cacti
Originally uploaded by W Daniels

Based on 51 kind reviewers on Yelp, MoLAA is rated a 4.5 out of 5 Stars. Several claim this is a must-see for both locals and tourist, so now it's on my list of cheap date ideas to do! In addition to the free audio tour, check out the free docent tours at 2-3 PM on most Sundays (check the calendar online for updates). Several museums offer free days, but this museum offers free parking too!

If Sundays don't work for you, there is a 2-for-1 (BOGO) coupon  good for any day in April (print HERE). For more cultural date ideas, click HERE. Or if you simply want something else free and cheap to do on Sundays, click HERE. Whatever you do, just enjoy your Sunday Fun Day!

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free Admission + Free Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $18 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @StealthWarp

List: Cheap (and Free) Laughs

Comedy shows are good ice breakers and great for group dates!
Laugh for free or cheap at any of these comedy clubs in Los Angeles & Orange County:

Originally uploaded by uhoh over

• Hollywood Improv: Free-$4 via Goldstar.com or Hollywood Improv (sign up for their e-newsletters), dates vary (see Cheap Date Idea #55)
• The Comedy Store in Hollywood: Free admission anytime with Twitter coupon (see Cheap Date Idea #77)
• Jon Lovitz Comedy Club at CityWalk: Free-$10 on Sunday and Wednesday evenings (see Cheap Date Idea #92)
• UCB Theatre: Free on Sunday and Tuesday nights at 7:30 pm or $1 with Jeff Garlin on Sundays at 6 PM, plus it's BYOB! (see Cheap Date Idea #114)
• Downtown Independent Theatre: Free every other Tuesday evening, no 2-drink minimum (see Cheap Date Idea #137)

Got any recommendations for other cheap laughs? Please do kiss & tell by leaving me a comment.

121. Persian Festival of Norouz - 3/7

It's officially Spring Season tomorrow!
To celebrate this special moment of vernal equinox, join in the Persian Festival of Nrouz on Sunday, March 7th, at The Bowers Musuem in Santa Ana. Museum hours are 10 AM - 4 PM daily except for Mondays and a few holidays. For this particular festival, the celebration will be held Noon - 3:30 PM. Spend your Sunday afternoon immersing in Persian culture, including traditional Persian dance, music, food, art, face painting, etc. General admission is normally $12 per person but it's completely free tomorrow. The event is family friendly and a casual day date idea for a group.

2009 Iranian Festival
Originally uploaded by matunos

If you can't make it this Sunday, come back on the first Sunday of every month in 2010 for FREE admission courtesy of Target. The festival theme changes every month. Here's a quick list for the rest of this year, but check the website for details about each event.

• April 11 Silk Road Festival
• May 2 Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival
• June 6 Pacific Islands Festival
• July 18 Americana Festival
• August 1 Native American Festival
• September 5 Indian Festival of Lights/Diwali
• October 3 Italian Festival
• November 7 Mexican Day Festival
• December 5 International Holidays Festival

Parking is $2 on the weekends, but nearby meters and limited street parking may be available. While we're at it, mark your calendars for the sister event, Mehregan (Persian Festival of Autumn) in Costa Mesa during early October (future date idea!). By the way, the Persian tradition calls for wearing new clothes or Persian folk outfits. Also, the belief is that whatever a person does on Norouz will affect the rest of the year. Enjoy!

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free Admission.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $24 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @mamimaria

117. Carlsbad Flower Fields are open again!

Who wants a dozen flowers when you can enjoy a whole FIELD?
As of yesterday, the famous Carlsbad Flower Fields are officially back in season. This work of nature is worth the 1-2 hour drive to the northern part of San Diego, perfect for a day trip or day date idea. The 50+ acres are available for the public's enjoyment every day of the week 9 AM - 6 PM through Mother's Day (Sunday, May 9th). According to the FAQ section, the best time to go is mid-March to mid-April, but blooming is dependent on the weather conditions, as you know. Although this is an outdoor event, no pets and no smoking are allowed on the grounds. Tip: Check the 10-day weather forecast online before making the trek.

tourist tractor at the carlsbad flower fields
Originally uploaded by rlonas

Various events are scheduled for the next 2 months, which are included with the cost of admission (AKA FREE). Check the website for details, but here are some highlights:

• 4/10 Bluegrass Day with live music
• 4/10-4/11 & 4/17-18 Arts & Crafts
• 4/18 FREE Canon Macro Photography Workshop

Tickets are available online for $10 with no service fee. However, AAA members can save $1 at the door. Parking is always free. For a short thrill, the wagon ride through the fields is another $5 per person (see photo on right). But I personally enjoy strolling along the rows and rows of flowers and think it's good for your body and soul (hmm, sounds like a milk commercial).

Dr. Chris & Dr. Kris Engagement
Originally uploaded by NixieMichelle

By the way, last year there were 2-for-1 coupons available at the local libraries in Carlsbad (Georgina Cole Library Branch and Dove Library). I'm in the process of finding out if new coupons are available for 2010. This would make it a really cheap date idea! If you absolutely love flowers that much, the season pass is worth the $20, where the break even point is only 2 visits.

A camera is a must here. The last time I went was before I had a digital camera (about a decade ago), but it's definitely worth going to visit again! Maybe next month at one of the special events... This place not only is picturesque in itself, but also serves as a perfect backdrop for a Kodak Moment with your sweetheart (see second shot on right). Enjoy!

UPDATE 05/03/10: Click HERE to print a BOGO coupon (2-for-1), so now it's a really cheap date! Remember that the last day is Sunday on Mother's Day.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $10 per person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $20 Total.

114. Cheap (& FREE) Laughs at UCB Theatre

Cheap date = cheap laughs and it's BYOB!

For a whole $1 (or 4 quarters), you can laugh with (or at) Jeff Garlin from Curb Your Enthusiasm (see photo on right) on Sundays at 6 PM at the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) Theatre in Hollywood Hills. Bring cash and get your tickets same day, but the shows have been known to sell out fast. Making advance reservations are highly recommended. For "Jeff Garlin's Combo Platter", you can pay online through paypal as soon as the line up is announced, usually 1-3 days in advance (Thurs-Sat).

UCB-LA | Jeff Garlin's Combo Platter | 10.18.09
Originally uploaded by liezlwashere

FREE shows are available at 7:30 PM on Sundays and Tuesdays. Unfortunately, reservations are not accepted for these free shows, so plan to get in line early (30-45 minutes is recommended). Otherwise, UCB Theatre offers at least 3 different shows every day of the week for a mere $5 or 8. As for the paid shows, improv on Wednesday nights at 9:30 PM looks hilarious where they randomly select 2 people from the crowd to publicly examine their Facebook pages. Needless to say, this particular one is not for the shy folk out there.

The doors usually open 15 minutes beforehand, but come early to get seats as this place is on a first come, first serve basis. Beer and soda are available in the lobby for $1 each. Here's the best part: It's BYOB. Yes, you heard me: NO corkage fee and NO 2-drink minimum here unlike all the comedy clubs, so this is truly a cheap date! As for parking, valet here is cheap at $5, not a bad deal for Hollywood. If you want more cheap laughs, check out Cheap Date Idea #92.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $1 on Sundays, sometimes Free, otherwise usually $5 or $8 per person + $5 Valet Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @LAhappenings

112. FREE Cooking Classes

Learning something new together can be thrilling.
Williams-Sonoma offers complimentary Technique Classes every Sunday. Class size is limited, so make sure to call in advance to reserve two spots. The start time is 10 AM at the South Coast Plaza store in Costa Mesa, Orange County, but call the one near you to confirm their schedule. There is one more class scheduled for February called Incredible Eggs on 2/28, then the theme switches to Baking Series in March.

Mocha Chocolate Souffle
Originally uploaded by lilpuddles

• 3/7 Simply Souffle
• 3/14 Cookies
• 3/21 Cakes & Cupcakes
• 3/28 Pies & Tarts

After class, follow up with a second date where you both show off your new found skills at home. Grocery shopping may seem like a mundane task, so why not make it part of your date and do it together! This is a great opportunity for DIY (do-it-yourself) and something to do indoors. While you're at it, pull out your favorite boardgames because it's perfect weather for Game Night! Better yet, invite your friends over and impress them with your culinary masterpieces. In exchange for your homemade souffles, kindly ask them to bring over some beverages (Trader Joe's offers wines under $10). Or pick another tasty dish from one of the many free recipes online at Williams-Sonoma. This is a combo anytime date idea (cooking class and game night), good for first dates, group dates and date nights for couples. Enjoy!

UPDATE 03/02/10: Bad news: The Simply Souffle class at the South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa is FULL for this Sunday, March 7th. Good news: Due to the overwhelming popularity, this store is offering the same classes on Thursdays now. Call now to reserve your spot in the Simply Souffle class for TOMORROW Thursday 3/4 at 6 PM.


UPDATE 04/02/10: Click HERE to view the current month's schedule and then call the Williams-Sonoma near you to reserve a spot for you and your partner.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

108. Wii, Karaoke, Guitar Hero Nights, What Else?

Don't be a couch potato at home, so come out and play!

Wii Nintendo is not just for kids! Playing games with your partner can bring out the competitiveness and hopefully teamwork spirit between the two of you, especially when playing against other couples. After investing some money into the gaming system itself (AKA capital), then it's a FREE date idea after that. Invite friends over for a group date night.

Or better yet, head out to Barney's Beanery for some fun on a weeknight. There are 4 bar locations from which to choose across Los Angeles: West Hollywood (WeHo), Burbank, Santa Monica (SM) and Pasadena. These make for good late date night since the start time is usually 8, 9, or 10 PM (check their Google Calendar online for updates at each specific location). One of these weekly themed activities should tickle your fancy:

Wii Tennis: Their Own Enemies (Part Deux)
Originally uploaded by geeky artist librarian

• Bingo Night - Something easy to do on Mondays in WeHo
• Comedy Night - Laughing is always good for the soul on Mondays in Pasadena.
• Wii Sports Night - Feel like you are IN the game with their 10-foot wide big screen on Tuesdays in SM (Wii Sports game include bowling, tennis, golf, baseball and boxing)
• Karaoke Night - Perfect for serenading your partner on mostly Wednesdays everywhere, sometimes Sundays and Tuesdays
• Trivia Night - Show off your useless knowledge on Wednesdays in Burbank and Thursdays in Pasadena
• Guitar Hero Night - Make it a group date night on Thursdays in SM

If weeknights are "school nights" for you, Happy Hour either on weekdays at all locations OR Weekend Happy Hour at the original WeHo Barney's (yes, every Saturday and Sunday!) may work for you, always 4-7 PM. Keep yourself entertained with air hockey tables, pool tables, foosball tables, arcade games, shuffleboard- what else can you ask for? By the way, I've never seen an extensive menu like the one at Barney's Beanery. Seriously, there is something for everybody's palette, plus breakfast is served 24/7!

Or if you prefer to stay at home altogether, try the couple's challenge by EA Active. Click HERE for more info. Thanks to @normzrib for sharing the DIY cheap date idea.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free Admission + Food & Drinks

Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless

105. V-Day Philanthropy: The Love Pick

Find love in the orange grove...

If you have a heart for philanthropy, take your sweetheart on a fruit-picking trip! Food Forward organizes volunteering events on various days, mostly Sundays, but check their blog online for updates and details. The mission is to donate freshly-picked oranges to local food pantries. I've personally volunteered at the LA Food Bank where we packaged canned foods into boxes for families, but this event sounds much more entertaining.

Love At First Orange.
Originally uploaded by orangebabe_

The event details (time and location) vary because it depends on the property who is donating their fruit from their backyards. As for Valentine's, the theme this year is the "Love Pick". Meet at 10:30 AM at Franklin Canyon Orange Grove (near Coldwater Canyon). Due to the limited number of volunteer spots, you must RSVP via email at Carl@FoodForward.org. Since the orange picking ends at 12:30 PM, pack a picnic beforehand and enjoy lunch at the orange grove. Since you'll be working under the sun, make sure to bring bottles of water, sunblock and sunglasses. This is definitely a casual date idea, so wear jeans, a hat and comfortable clothes.

If you can't make it this Sunday, check Food Forward's blog and Twitter for a list of upcoming volunteer events. Besides the free events, they do hold special paid events. For a mere $20 on Saturday, March 6th, join a field trip for a huge orange pick and BBQ. Take the Juice Fruit Express bus to Bakersfield for this all-day event, which includes, not only the bus ride, but also food, drinks and refreshments for the day. Click HERE for more info.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless + Good Karma.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @TheLAScene

100. Active Date Ideas on Valentine's Day

Looking for something active to do on Valentine's Day?
Go on a FREE hike in Crystal Cove State Park in Newport Beach at 9 AM on 2/14 (or also go on the other Sundays, 2/7 and 2/27). Meet at the El Moro Visitor Center (PCH inland at stoplight School-State Park). Parking is not cheap though at $15. Make sure to bring enough water (and sun block) for the 3-5 miles. The schedule online is updated every month for new activities, including FREE tide pool tours (see Cheap Date Idea #44).

Who Cars About Hearts & Flowers...
Originally uploaded by lie_inourgraves

If you prefer to stay in LA, how about a FREE yoga session at Lululemon in El Segundo. Make sure to get there early before it starts at 9:30 AM on Valentine's Day. ...Or make it an on-going date on almost every Sunday (2/7, 2/14, 2/21, check calendar online for updated schedule). Parking at the El Segundo Plaza is easy and free. I suggest bringing a bottle of water, a small towel, and your own yoga mat. Snacks are usually provided after the class, so you can socialize for a little bit afterward. If El Segundo is too far for you, check the website for a Lululemon near you for their calendar of events.

Looking for other things to do on that Sunday? Click HERE for a growing list of cheap and free things to do on V-Day in Los Angeles and Orange County.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE + Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

96. The Getty Villa in Malibu

Museums are always a classy idea, even when it's FREE!
If you've enjoyed The Getty Center in Los Angeles (see Cheap Date Idea #32), then you have to check out The Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades, near Malibu. Of if you simply appreciate architecture and gardens, then this spot is for you. The art is interesting, but I personally love just strolling around the estate weaving in and out of the fancy statues and fountains. The weather was perfect when we went as you can tell by the photo here.

Reflecting Pool, Getty Villa
Originally uploaded by 365 Cheap Dates

The Getty Villa is a great day date idea anytime throughout the year (including Valentine's Day, hint hint) since the museum is open daily 10 AM - 5 PM except Tuesdays. Admission is always free but reservations are required by internet or phone (click ). It's also a good group date idea, but you have to call in for your reservation if more than 15 people. Parking is not cheap ($15), so carpool if you can or take the Metro.

Just like The Getty Center, various free tours are provided at the Getty Villa, so check the schedule online to plan your visit accordingly. I recommend going on the Architecture and Gardens Tour, but you can easily wander about on your own if you prefer. During the month of February at 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM (including Valentine's Day), The Villa is offering free Glass-Handling Sessions if glassmaking peaks your interest.

While you are up in this part of town, make it a full day of fun and stop by Lake Shrine for free too (Cheap Date Idea #38).

Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE + $15 Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

92. FREE Meatballs of Comedy, CityWalk

FREE laughs, FREE admission, FREE parking.
Yup, it's all free at the Meatballs of Comedy Show at the Jon Lovitz Comedy Club. @TheMeatballs invites their Twitter friends to come down to CityWalk (next to Universal Studios Hollywood) for a night of fun this Sunday, Jan 31st, at 6 PM. Parking is even free with this coupon (print HERE), which normally costs $10 on Sundays after 5 PM. The coupon is actually good after 3 PM, so that gives you 3 hours before the show to hang out and wonder around CityWalk. I'm sure this is first-come, first-serve, so arriving early is a good idea anyway. Enjoy the sunset...

Pastafarian
Originally uploaded by this_girl_daydreams

By the way, tickets are normally $10 per person to see these Italian stand-up comedians. If you can't make it out this Sunday, check out Cheap Date Idea #68 for discounts on other nights there (Sundays and Wednesdays). The other comedy clubs in Hollywood offer free and cheap nights too (see Cheap Date Idea #77 and Cheap Date Idea #55). Comedy shows are good for a first date to break the ice, but laughing is good for the soul even for old married couples.

UPDATE 02/18/10: Get FREE admission for the comedy show this Sunday, Feb 21st, at 6 PM by mentioning the secret Tweet-word "CheapDates" at the door. Say thank you to our Fellow Tweeter, @VoiceForFreedom. AND print a free parking pass good for 3 PM on 3/21 (click HERE), thanks to @CityWalkLA! Wow, free passes AND parking- I might just do this cheap date idea too this Sunday!


UPDATE 03/28/10: Get FREE admission today, Sunday, March 28th, by mentioning the tweet by @365CheapDates (yours truly). Have fun tonight!


UPDATE 04/16/10: Get FREE admission on this Sunday, April 18th, by mentioning "CheapDate".

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free Admission + Free Parking + 2 Drinks Per Person.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $30 Total + Drinks.
Kiss & Tell Idea by @TheMeatballs

91. LA Friday Night Skate

Dust off your old roller skates and let's rock & roll!
Believe it or not, a group of 40-80 roller skaters (and don't forget the roller bladers) meet up every Friday, usually in Santa Monica and sometimes in Downtown LA and once in awhile in Hollywood. You don't have to be an expert, but prepared to boogie for 10 miles or so. For motivation, a skater will have a sound system strapped to his/her back playing 70's Disco and Funk music. Consider it a big rolling block party!

Roller Skate Disco
Originally uploaded by paulinuk99999

This isn't a new organization. It looks like FNS (Friday Night Skate) group leaders have been around since 1997 and 2000. I'm guessing this activity is a "locals" secret, but now I'm inviting you all from Los Angeles and Orange County to break out your old roller skates and have some fun! This is definitely a great group date idea!

Tomorrow on January 29th, skaters start gathering at 8:30 PM near Santa Monica Pier on the corner of Ocean and Colorado Ave, then start rolling by 9 PM (just look for other folks on wheels). If you can't make it, check online at www.FridayNightSkate.org for the schedule and more info, especially to find out when there will be a special theme. Since it's still "winter" time in LA, bundle up for a night of outdoor fun. It's BYOS (bring your own skates, or borrow your own skates). Oh, and don't forget knee pads and helmets (if you are clumsy like me).

UPDATE 01/30/10: @YoSantaMonica just informed me that FNS is starting a FREE skating practice on the First Sunday of every month at 11 AM in Venice. Don't be shy! That will give you 5 days to practice before the big night on Fridays. Good luck!

UPDATE 05/20/10: Skating will be in Hollywood tomorrow, May 21st.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @GoSantaMonica

90. FREE Ice Skating at OC Great Park - 1/30

FREE sledding, FREE ice skating, FREE helium balloon rides!
Celebrate Snow Day on this Saturday, January 30th, 11 AM - 4 PM, at the OC Great Park in Irvine. Where else can you go for a winter wonderland with free sledding, free snowman making, and free snow play? You don't even have to bring a sled because OC Great Park provides sleds for free on Snow Day. Just bring yourself and a fun date! Actually, this can be a good "group date" idea and even a first date idea...

SOLAR ECLIPSE
Originally uploaded by demonviper

The fun does not stop at Snow Day! It's also the opening day for the OC Great Park's "Great Skate Ice Rink". This is the ONLY ice skating rink that I know is absolutely FREE: free admission, free skate rentals, free helmets AND free parking. However, there is a small parking fee of $8 on special event days, such as the opening day 1/30. Ice skating is a pretty cheap date idea, but FREE is even better! Other rinks can cost $8-$15.50 per person in the LA and OC areas (click HERE for a list comparison), but most of the ice rinks are already closed for the winter season.

For the next month (Jan 30 - Feb 28), the rink will be open every weekend (Fri-Sun) at 11 AM - 10 PM, where skate session times start on the hour with 15 minute breaks every hour. The best time to go is on Sunday Nights if you want to skate to the music of your favorite decade: 70's at 7 PM, 80's at 8 PM, and 90's at 9 PM. Ice skating is a family-friendly activity, which means lots of kids. If you prefer less craziness, I suggest going later in the season before the rink shuts down.

Of course, this is first-come, first serve. Advance tickets are available for...

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.

Champagne Breakfast
Originally uploaded by lewishamdreamer

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.

84. Santa Monica Pier Aquarium

Santa Monica Pier is always a good date idea anytime.
The Heal the Bay Aquarium is open daily except Mondays and some holidays: 2-5 PM on Tues-Fri and 12:30 - 5 PM on weekends during winter (Oct-Mar). The admission fee is $2-5 donation. There are many options for parking as low as free for first 3 hours (check website for map).

Under Water World 2 of 6
Originally uploaded by shannonmaria

For Valentine's weekend, the aquarium is sponsoring "Whale of a Weekend" with family-friendly activities all day. Be aware that it's a kid-friendly place all of the time, so this is something fun to do, but not necessarily the most romantic. If you're lucky to have kids, admission for each child is free with a paying adult during this special event.

I suggest going on Sundays, so you can also grab a coffee and bite to eat at the Farmer's Market in the morning (see Cheap Date Idea #50). Or come later in the day to enjoy the sunset by jumping on the ferris wheel or better yet for free by laying out on the beach.

If you love ocean life, check out the Roundhouse Aquarium at the Manhattan Beach Pier for FREE every day of the year (Cheap Date Idea #6).

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $2-5 Per Person + Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $4-10 Total.

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.

sea star
Originally uploaded
by Stuart Fingerhut

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.

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.

Cruising at dawn
Originally uploaded by boiani

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.