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Showing posts with label weeknights. Show all posts
Showing posts with label weeknights. Show all posts

Friday, May 28, 2010

188. Summer Sunset Cruise

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Setting sail at sunset sounds soooooo romantic!
This might get my vote for top romantic yet cheap date idea! At 50% off (like a BOGO deal), you have 2 cruise options in Newport Beach: either free appetizers OR an unlimited drink package. For my fellow cheap dates in LA, there is a cruise in Marina del Rey too. Seriously, we are so lucky to live by the water because this date idea won't work everywhere.

Spirit of Tasmania I
Originally uploaded by WilliamBullimore

Option A: 90-Min Cruise with Unlimited Drink Option
WHEN: 5:30 PM Fiesta Cruise or 7:30 PM Sunset Cruise.
WHERE: Newport Beach.
HOW: Buy your voucher now (deal expires 5/31) online via SwoopOff.com and use anytime until 12/30/10, reservation required via CruiseNewportBeach.com.
COST: Only $13 Flat ($26 Regularly).
BONUS: Enjoy all-you-can-drink for a mere $15pp more! Decide later and pay on board. Let me put it this way: How much do you spend on drinks within 90 minutes anywhere else in LA & OC?

Option B: 2-Hour Cruise with Complimentary Appetizers
WHEN: Thursdays 6:30 - 8:30 PM (June - September).
Where: Newport Beach.
HOW: Buy tickets online with 50% discount code EMA42 via Hornblower.com.
COST: $14pp + tax = $16.58pp total ($28pp Regularly).

Option C: Same cruise as Option B but in Marina del Rey.
WHEN: Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 PM.
WHERE: Marina del Rey.
HOW: Buy tickets at least 24 hour in advance on Goldstar.com.
COST: $18pp + $4 fee = $22 total ($28 Regularly).

The SwoopOff deal sounds like the best because you can buy it now and use it later. That's 7 months to plan your romantic yet cheap date! More importantly, it will be a fixed total cost on the beverages, which can easily add up elsewhere and end up not being a cheap date.  Just make sure to buy your $13 voucher on SwoopOff before the deal ends (or worse- sells out)! By the way, these vouchers make for a great gift for a birthday or anniversary too. However, if you prefer free food (apps) over drinks, check out Hornblower but I'm not sure when the 50% discount code will expire. For either cruise, boarding begins 30 minutes, so make sure to arrive early or the boat will leave you! For a free cruise in Long Beach Harbor (no free apps or all-you-can-drink option), check out Cheap Date Idea #145. Have fun!

UPDATE 06/19/10: Bad news: Option-A is no longer available. Good news: Here's a good deal for another sunset cruise BUT better because it's offered on weekends, Thursdays-Sundays.

OPTION D: 90-Min Cruise with Unlimited Drink Option
WHEN: 7:00 - 8:30 PM Thursdays - Sundays with advance reservation by phone or web
WHERE: Newport Beach
HOW: Buy your voucher now online via @DealPerkOC and use later until Sept 30th (that's over 3 months to plan your cheap date).
COST: $12.50 pp (Regularly $25) + $8 Parking (Click HERE to buy voucher now)
BONUS: This deal includes complimentary chips and salsa. Enjoy all-you-can-drink for a mere $15 pp more! Decide later and pay on board.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $13-19 pp.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $52-61 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @swoopoff & @newportbeach

Saturday, May 8, 2010

172. Free Bowling at Lucky Strike

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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:
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

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

166. Learn Improv for FREE

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Learn improv for free or just laugh for cheap!
Do you enjoy cheap laughs? Come and see the improv group called Monkey Butler Comedy! You have 2 choices here: (a) Learn improv for FREE or (b) Watch for $2-5. If you want to be part of the act, this organization offers FREE workshops and classes. Yes, you heard me- you can learn how to improv on weeknights at various locations throughout Los Angeles (see schedule online). Make it a group date: learn for free at the next one on 4/29 and invite friends to watch you for $2! Or come another day to sit back and watch the pros for a mere $5. Either way it's a cheap date idea.

Thanks, monkey butler!
Originally uploaded by Eric K.

The upcoming shows are usually 8-10 PM but check online for schedule update and more info:
  • Thurs 4/29 in Culver City (learn for free or watch for $2)
  • Wed 5/5 in Hollywood (watch for $5)
  • Fri 5/21 in Studio City (TBD)
  • Mon 5/24 in Culver City (learn for free or watch for $1)
Most comedy shows are not truly cheap date ideas due to the 2-drink minimum. However, Monkey Butler Comedy is open to all ages (AKA family-friendly) since no alcohol is served. Depending on the location, light snacks and water may be available. The best bet is to grab a bite beforehand.

To be honest, I "tried' improv in high school drama class and let's just say that I appreciate the talent (it's worth the $2-5 to me). If you're brave and looking for a unique date idea, this is a winner! For more cheap (and FREE) laughs in LA & OC, click HERE for a list.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free to learn or $1-5 pp to watch.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @remywriter

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

137. Holy F*ck FREE Comedy

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No joke, it's 100% free to laugh here, no 2-drink minimum either.
Come enjoy 2 hours of free laughter tonight at the Downtown Independent in Downtown LA. If you miss it, Holy F*ck is there every other Tuesday at 8-10 PM. Come early and enjoy a drink beforehand (optional). Beer and wine are $4-6 each. I haven't been here yet, but it is on my list of cheap date ideas to do! But seriously, it's free! Comedy shows are also a great idea for a group date, especially when it's free.

Street parking is free and easy after 6 PM on Tuesdays. For the line up and more info, click HERE. For directions and venue info, click HERE. If you love cheap laughs, then you should also check out: Cheap Date Idea #114 at UCB Theatre or Cheap Date Idea #92 at Universal CityWalk.

UPDATE 04/05/10: Tomorrow's free comedy show is 9-11 PM on April 6th.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = 100% Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @LAhappenings

Monday, March 22, 2010

136. FREE Movie: Hot Tub Time Machine

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Free movies = great group date idea!
Get your 2 free tickets for the advance movie screening of Hot Tub Time Machine. Based on reviews, this comedy is worth watching for free.

As of this moment, tickets are still available for various locations across the US, including:
  • Tues 3/23 in San Diego
  • Wed 3/24 in San Diego and Burbank
  • Thurs 3/25 in Orange
Click HERE to register and print your 2 tickets. A special request can be made for groups of 10, so make it a group movie date night! New advance screenings always become available across the US, so check the website for one near you. Hurry and get your free tickets now!

UPDATE 03/23/10: The 3/25 showing in Orange is sold out BUT tickets are still available for TOMORROW in Burbank.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = Free.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $21 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @FreeIsMyLife

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

132. Cheap Movie Date Night = $10 Total

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Wow, movies CAN be a really cheap date idea!
And I'm not talking about DVD movies either! Watching movies are not usually a cheap date idea anymore.... Except a few special secret spots offer movie tickets at ONLY $2-3 per person ($5 for 3D). Boy, I don't remember movies being this cheap even when I was a kid! So you might say, "Sure, the movie tickets might be cheap, but the food and drink add up to a pretty penny." Well, how about 10 bucks total for a Movie Date Night? Yes, only $10 for 2 movie tickets, 2 popcorns AND 2 sodas. That's one for each of you, no sharing required, even though it's more romantic that way in my opinion.

Here is a list of the special secret spots for cheap movie theatres:
(1) 4 Star Cinemas in Garden Grove
  • $3 every Tuesday and Thursday all day 11 AM - 9 PM
  • $5 for 3D, only 2 bucks more on Tuesdays and Thursdays
-and-
(2) Regency Theatres every day at multiple locations
  • $3 EVERY day ANYTIME in Huntington Beach or Ventura
  • $2 before 6 PM at the Pasadena location (even on weekends, AKA matinee)
  • $3 after 6 PM in Pasadena
  • $10 Total for the Movie Date Night Special on Wednesday nights only after 6 PM in Pasadena or Ventura
  • Click HERE to find a Regency Theatre near you
In order to be more affordable, the films typically have been out for awhile in theatre. But now you can watch The Hurt Locker, award winner of 6 Academy Awards, and don't have to wait for it on DVD. I personally recommend Sherlock Holmes and It's Complicated playing at Regency Theatres. I might have to drag my man to see Alice in Wonderland in 3D (which is still a fairly new release) for only $5 at 4 Star Cinemas. I don't think anything can beat this deal besides a free movie like Cheap Date Idea #125. Enjoy!

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $3 pp or $10 Total for the Movie Date Night Special.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $16-40 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @OCDeals & @mamimaria

Monday, March 15, 2010

129. Hollywood Bowl Summer Concerts

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Outdoor concert + picnic = Good combo for a classy date idea.
Even if you don't love classical music, the Hollywood Bowl is always fun to do during the summertime. The last two times I went to the Hollywood Bowl, it was for a rendition of Looney Tunes in 2006 with my now-fiance (the symphony played lived with cartoon snippets of Bugs Bunny and the singing frog, see my photo below) and Star Wars (yes, Star Wars!) in 2008 with friends (but my fiance would have loved this). I guess it's that time to go again since it's 2010. This date idea is fun to do more than once every two years though; the dates are coincidental. The Hollywood Bowl is perfect for a one-on-one romantic date as well as a fun group date idea.

The Hollywood Bowl is open all year long, but the first lineup for the summer is the Playboy Jazz Festival on June 12-13th at 2 or 2:30 PM. The cheapest tickets are $20 per person with a convenience fee of $7 per person. This is not the cheapest date idea yet, but stay tuned for discounts through the venue itself and Goldstar. Supposedly tickets can be as cheap as $1, probably for bench seats last minute on weeknights. Fourth of July weekend is a good time to go too if you love fireworks. Bugs Bunny is coming back in mid-July! It's not all Beethoven and Mozart, the concerts include music from Beetles, Sting, Abba, Dave Matthew and more.

Doors open as early as 4 hours prior to the show, so pack a picnic- wine and cheese, nothing fancy unless you want to splurge. I love pouring myself a glass of bubbly when the symphony starts playing! Parking is limited at the Bowl. I've done it both ways: on-site parking and public transportation. On-site parking is ok if you get there early, so that you don't get blocked in. However, nothing beats public transportation being easier and cheaper, only $5 for a pre-paid round trip unless you carpool with a group. Check the website for pick up locations near you.

UPDATE 05/21/10: Get discounted tickets for Sunday, June 13th, via Goldstar.com: $16.25 + $6.50 = $22.75 Total per person.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $22.75 pp + $5 Transportation.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $67 Total.

Friday, March 12, 2010

127. Grunion Run 2010

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This is something worth doing at least once...
The grunion are back to spawn on our California beaches again, like they do every March - August (closed season is April and May). These silvery fish are up for grabs in 2-hour windows around 11 PM - 1 AM on designated days. If you have never done this before, it's worth checking out at least once. When I was a teenager, we went and caught them for dinner in San Diego. It's not my cup of tea, but I can say that I've been there, done that.


Originally uploaded by
Birch Aquarium at Scripps

For a learning experience, come out earlier at 8 PM at the (almost) semi-monthly events at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium on: 3/17, 3/31, 4/30, 5/15, 5/28, 6/14, 6/28, 7/13, and 7/27. Click HERE for the schedule and more info, including some videos showing the laying and hatching of the eggs. CMA does charge $5 per person or you can hit one of the beaches on your own for free, but Cabrillo Beach is supposed to be a good spot.

Watching this spectacular act of nature is free, but technically anyone over 16 years needs a fishing license if you "fish" with bare hands and take your catch home. Since it's still nippy out, make sure to bundle up and bring a flashlight and a camera. Waterproof shoes or boots would be good too. For more aqua adventures, check out the free tide pool tours (click HERE) or go on Cheap Date Idea #6. If San Pedro is too far from you, the grunion are running up and down the coast, so check it out a beach near you.

UPDATE 03/30/10: RSVP is not required, but you can on Cabrillo Aquarium's Facebook page for tomorrow's event 3/31 8-11 PM, click HERE.

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $5 pp at CMA but FREE otherwise.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

125. Alice in Wonderland for FREE

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A movie date CAN be a cheap date idea!
You are cordially invited to a FREE film screening of the new Alice in Wonderland in 3D for this weekend, courtesy of Walden University. The passes are good for the first show time at 11 AM either on Saturday 3/13 or Sunday 3/14 at LA Live in Downtown LA. You must RSVP either by phone 310.733.6072 (correct) or by email to maya.gaddie@waldenu.edu. Include your name, phone number, first and last name of your guests, and then wait for your confirmation via email and phone. For more info, click HERE.

Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Originally uploaded by Lillipops_

Tickets for 3D matinee are regularly $13 per person! Since it is first come, first serve on the seating as always, come early. Without movie ticket validation, parking is $5 for the first two hours and then another $5 for every half hour thereafter. FREE movies are a great group date idea too, so pass this onto your friends (re-tweet or email)!

UPDATE 03/12/10: As of yesterday, I learned that the tickets are all taken. No additional tickets can be purchased for the 11 AM showing in case you wanted to bring extra friends. However, there is a wait list. I'm not able to go, but I was able to transfer my tickets to a fellow Tweeter. There is a high chance that people on the wait list will be able to go. Good luck.

UPDATE 03/16/10: If you missed the free movie last weekend, the next best cheap date idea is to see it for ONLY for $5 right now on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4 Star Cinemas in Garden Grove! Yes, ONLY $5 in 3D! Click HERE for more info about this deal by @OCDeals. If you have already seen Alice, check out the other movies available at $3 on Tuesdays and Thursdays (click HERE).


Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE Admission + $5 Parking.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = $31 Total.
Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @TheLAScene and @Downtown_LA

Sunday, February 28, 2010

115. Wine & Dine for Only $10-20

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Going out for a nice dinner is not usually a cheap date but...
I was strolling through the Fashion Island Shopping Center in Newport Beach on Friday with my best friend when I discovered one of the best "cheap date" dinner date ideas! My friend just informed me that the French 75 turned into Brasserie Pascal here. If it's anything like the French 75 in Burbank, the ambiance here is classy and the food, delicious. New menu options were recently introduced at a price point ($10-20), which is quite reasonable for a French Bistro. The best part is that this special is good anytime, any day of the week, any time of the day!

Cheap Date Idea #115
Originally uploaded
by 365 Cheap Dates

Where else can you get Surf & Turf for $20 per person!! Or you can "settle" for a filet mignon (or halibut or a specialty crepe) AND an appetizer or dessert- 2-course meal for just $15! One of you can get the appetizer with your entree and the other, dessert, then split it, or go for double the dessert. Every entree comes with fixed sides. There are at least 3 choices for each course. My best friend has personally tasted the filet mignon when it was part of the $10 menu and confirms that Brasserie Pascal is a great cheap (yet classy) date spot.

I took a photo of the meal-deal ad (see right), but check out the full menu online (click HERE). Reservations are available online through either their website or on OpenTable.com. Actually, this is good deal for large birthday parties or group dates, because the bill is easier to split with set prices. The restaurant must have picked up on this because the one limitation in fine print is the $15 deal is not good for parties over 6 guests. By the way, parking at Fashion Island is free and plentiful.

Looking for something more casual than dinner? Check out their happy hour 4-7 PM on weeknights (website says 5-7 PM, but I called to confirm that it does start at 4 PM). For a mere $5, you have the choice of several champagne cocktails, some house wine as well as all well drinks. Based on Yelp reviewers, the "Pascal Patchwork" sampler tray for 2 more people is worth it at $10 per person. I'm definitely going to ask my significant other to come back here with me!

UPDATE 05/11/10: The Le Parfait Deal is back for the months of May and June. For a mere $10, enjoy 3 special meals almost any time any day except for dinner on the weekends (after 5pm on Fri-Sat and after 4pm on Sunday). I'm not talking about sandwiches either, but rather 2 sides with a main entree of grilled filet mignon, sauteed halibut or plat du jour (French for chef's daily special). I'd love to come here on a weeknight for a nice early dinner during happy hour (hint hint if my better half is reading).

Approximate cost of creative date idea = $10-20 per person + tax + tip.
Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.

Kiss & Tell Date Idea by Mrs. Roberts

Thursday, February 25, 2010

114. Cheap (& FREE) Laughs at UCB Theatre

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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).

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

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

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

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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:
  • 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

    Tuesday, February 9, 2010

    103. Ballroom Dance Lessons

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    Ballroom dancing can be a cheap yet classy date idea!
    Even if you have 2 left feet, come join the other brave folk on Wednesdays evenings (7-11 PM) through the Santa Monica Bay Woman's Club. The $10 admission (probably cash only) includes a quick dance lesson 7-7:40 PM, so make sure to show up on time! 40 Minutes may sound quick, but you have the rest of the night to practice your new moves. No partner is required, because you'll find plenty on the dance floor. Better yet, grab your partner and learn how to Tango together! Or how about Salsa, Swing, or Cha Cha? A new dance is featured every 1-3 weeks with lessons starting from the basics and building each week. By the way, you can go on any Wednesday night, but don't miss out on the 1st anniversary party on March 3rd (check website for details).
    ballroom dancing
    Originally uploaded by captain byrne

    Be prepared for 4 hours of fun: wear comfortable shoes, bring bottled water for yourself and your partner (light snacks are provided). $10 sounds quite reasonable for a 40-minute lesson immediately followed by 3 hours of putting it to good use. More importantly, there's plenty of room for 2 left feet here on the 3,000 square foot ballroom dance floor. With that much space, I'd assume that the air conditioning in here is sufficient. If you're already an expert, 10 bucks seems to be a pretty good deal for 4 hours of fun. As for parking, there are several parking lots in Santa Monica for a $3 flat rate after 6 PM (click HERE for parking map).

    Learning some dance moves could create a spark (for new couples) or re-ignite a flame (for old couples). This could be something fun to do as a group date too! If anything, at least this active date idea gets you off the couch. Heck, ask your significant other afterward for one-on-one dance sessions (just a tip for a follow-up date). The last time I did tango lessons, all the guys were sweating bullets, making it difficult for me to hang onto my partners. Despite that one not-so-positive detail, dance lessons are a great way to meet people, if that's something you want. No matter who your partner is, think of this cheap date idea as a self-improvement project. Ballroom dancing is a skill that's handy whether you're single or married.

    Approximate cost of creative date idea = $10 Per Person.
    Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.
    Kiss & Tell Idea by @YoSantaMonica

    Sunday, February 7, 2010

    101. $30 Date Night at The Grove

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    As we all know, dinner & movies are not really cheap dates.
    Well, The Grove is making it more affordable with this special deal, $30 Date Night on weeknights (Mon-Thurs). At $30 per person, you get a 3-course meal for two, movie passes for two, and complimentary valet parking for you (which means pick up your date and carpool).

    I Love Popcorn
    Originally uploaded by Daveblog

    Bring your appetite since a 3-course meal is from start to finish: an appetizer, a main entree, and a dessert. The menus are available online for the 7 participating restaurants, which include places such as The Cheesecake Factory and Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro.

    For a current listing of the movies showing at the Pacific Theatres at The Grove, click HERE. I personally recommend...

    Saturday, February 6, 2010

    99. 1/2 Off Cirque du Soleil Kooza

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    Wow, only $20-30 pp for Cirque du Soleil in California?!
    Cirque du Soleil is not the cheapest date idea, but it can be a cheap yet classy date when it's buy one get one (BOGO) free, especially when the performance comes to your neck of the woods. Consider it saying yourself two plane tickets to Las Vegas (even though I do think "O" Show at the Bellagio Hotel is worth doing at least once in your life).

    kooza contortion
    Originally uploaded by maimerd

    The regular admission price for the Irvine show is $60-100 per person depending on the seating level. At this moment, tickets as cheap as $30-32.50 pp are available online for Thursday 2/11 through Valentine's Day. There are typically two show times per day at 4 or 8 PM, except on that Sunday it's at 1 or 5 PM. Going to a performance on Valentine's Day for $32.50 each is not a bad deal in my opinion. Please note that there is a $8 convenience fee per person and a one-time $5 e-ticket fee, so the fees do add up. Parking at the OC Great Park for this event is $10 cash.

    While you're at the OC Great Park, take advantage of the other FREE things to do, including ice skating (see Cheap Date Idea #90) and helium balloon rides (see Cheap Date Idea #14).

    If you can't make it to the Irvine showing this month, Kooza moves down to San Diego next month. Right now, you can buy advance tickets online for weekdays between March 2-12 for as cheap as $20 pp!! If you can make the trek, then this can be quick getaway for a cheap date idea. Check back later on the website for updates about the parking situation at the Del Mar Fair Grounds in San Diego. By the way, I do believe that you have to buy your tickets for the March shows by Valentine's Day.


    UPDATE 03/10/10: Additional discounted tickets are available via Goldstar.com for almost every day during March 14-28.


    UPDATE 03/22/10: Discounted tickets are still available for the last weekend at the San Diego location, 3/25-28, as low as $27 per person.

    Approximate cost of creative date idea = $30 pp in Irvine or $20 pp in San Diego + $8 Convenience Fee pp + $5 E-ticket Fee + $10 Parking.
    Actual value of the cheap date idea = $151 Total.
    Kiss & Tell Idea by @SparkOC

    Wednesday, February 3, 2010

    97. 100¢ Cocktail Night at The Edison

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    $1 Cocktails + FREE Burlesque Show = Cheap yet classy date!
    If you are going to be a "cheap date", then do it at The Edison in Downtown LA on Wed-Fri 5-7 PM. Cocktails normally cost at least 10 bucks each in LA, but during Happy Hour that's equivalent to a whopping 10 drinks at $1 each. Heck, you can afford to show off to your date by offering a free round to strangers at the bar. The best day to go is on Thursdays, so you can stick around to view the FREE burlesque show at 8:30-11:30 PM (2/4, 2/18, 3/4, etc.) or every other Thursday dance to the tunes of a DJ. The website does not quite say how long the "Centennial Celebration Cocktail Hour" lasts, but it's on the calendar through April 2010.

    I normally don't blog too much about Happy Hours for cheap date ideas, but The Edison is a classy spot to take a date. When I went with my girlfriends, we were surprised by a snake charmer who came out for a free performance, but I don't know how often that happens. Needless to say, I definitely want to go back again with my man. The ambiance here is incomparable with fancy and weird lighting decor (the place is named after the guy who invited light bulbs). If you call for reservations in advance, you can grab a bite to eat there too, but be forewarned that it's not cheap here ($25 minimum per person).

    This upscale lounge/restaurant (don't forget to dress to impress) is a cool place to go anytime of the year on Wednesdays-Saturdays, but it will be open for a special event on Sunday of Valentine's Day at 7 PM. On-line tickets are going for $20, which include admission that day as well as one free martini. Valet parking is always $9 unless you are lucky enough to find a street meter.

    UPDATE 03/30/10: The price has jumped from 35-cents to $1, but that's still not bad for a cheap date! Thanks @dateonadime for the update!


    UPDATE 05/13/10: Yay, the 100¢ cocktail happy hour and free burlesque show are on The Edison calendar through the month of July 2010.

    Approximate cost of creative date idea = 100¢ Drink + Tip + $9 Parking.
    Actual value of the cheap date idea = $40 Minimum.
    Kiss & Tell Idea by @RecessionistaLA

    Monday, January 18, 2010

    81. Mountain High Skiing 2-for-Tuesdays

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    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.

    Snow Sunset
    Originally uploaded by ms4jah


    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

    Thursday, January 14, 2010

    77. Laugh for FREE at The Comedy Store

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    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

    Friday, January 8, 2010

    70. 2 Buck Bowling, Beers & More

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    Yes, $2 on weekdays, Mondays through Thursdays, after 6 PM.
    At Irvine Lanes, it's only $2 for each of the following: bowling games, rental shoes, draft beers, well drinks, chili dogs, and nachos! Don't forget to sign up for their email newsletter online to get free coupons on your birthday and more. I'm not a bowling expert by no means but have found that it's something easy (unless you are competitive, of course) and casual to do. Funny moments are bound to happen in any bowling alley.

    Bowling for Beer
    Originally uploaded by trigger.is


    If you love bowling AND breakfast buffets, then you might want to go bowling AGAIN on Sundays (check out Cheap Date Idea #61). It's only $11 total per person with special $2 mimosas. Concourse Entertainment Center in Anaheim also offers a similar 2-buck deal in the evenings for Sunday Fundays.

    Approximate cost of creative date idea = $4 Per Person + Food & Drink.
    Actual value of the cheap date idea = $8 Total + Food & Drink.

    Kiss & Tell Date Idea by @OCdeals

    Monday, December 21, 2009

    56. Free NYE Party at CityWalk Hollywood

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    Want to enjoy free entertainment AND fireworks under the stars?
    Live bands are playing at CityWalk every night during the holidays. Entrance into this entertainment center outside of Universal Studios Hollywood is always free to the public.

    Emily Osment
    Originally uploaded by Music4mix

    Typical band start times are 6 or 8 PM, but CityWalk is open on average til 9 PM this week and 11 PM next week. Check the schedule online for more info, including a list of bands. Parking is $10 after 3 PM (Tip: Get $5 parking rebate for moviegoers). By the way, Santa will be there too every night until 9 PM on Dec 23rd. Even after the holidays, CityWalk Hollywood is something casual to do year round for hanging out, eating and drinking, and watching a flick.

    Here's the best part... CityWalk boasts that they offer LA's largest FREE New Year's Eve Party: 2 stages with live bands, 2 large video screens, and fireworks. This special event is 9:00 PM - 12:30 AM.

    If you want to make it a full day of fun, buy a day pass and get a full year of the theme park for a mere $69 (best discount for Californians at the moment).

    UPDATE 12/28/09: Oops, I meant to mention that fireworks will be going off at midnight at Citywalk Hollywood. Have fun!

    Approximate cost of creative date idea = FREE Admission + $10 Parking.
    Actual value of the cheap date idea = Priceless.