The following article was my very first contribution to The Urbaness as a member of the writing team. I was assigned to research and write a piece on cheap summer dates in Chicago. This was my first published piece on the site. SEE THIS ARTICLE ON THE URBANESS
Down to your last dime? Never fear. We bring you five cheap and sweet dates summer memories are made of.
Just like Danny and Sandy from Grease, we all want that perfect summer romance. There’s nothing better than sun-drenched days and star lit nights, when shared with someone special. This summer you can have the perfect romance, and you can do it all for next to nothing. Luckily for you, our great city is known for its abundance of free entertainment. Whether it’s with that special someone or someone new, here are a few of our favorite ways the two of you can enjoy all Chicago has to offer, without breaking the bank.
Catch A Movie Under the Stars
If you think that dinner and a movie are the oldest tricks in the book when it comes to date ideas, then we have some news for you. Once summertime hits, you can make what was old new again by spending an evening at Cascade Drive-In Movie Theatre. With only a little over 300 drive-ins left in the country, they are each a piece of history, and will make for a very romantic night. Cascade is open seven nights a week rain or shine and offers two movies a night, which change weekly. Tickets are $9 for adults, with a special discount on Tuesdays.Take in a Free Concert
Chicago is known for its many opportunities to enjoy free live music come summertime. One great way to do this is at the Millennium Park concert series. Pack up a blanket, a French baguette, some cheese, and your favorite bottle of wine for a perfect evening of music on the lawn. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion makes for a very picturesque setting beneath the skyline, and you will be thanking your lucky stars you and your date decided to skip out on that overpriced stadium concert ticket. You can find the full schedule of events here.Put on Your Dancing Shoes
All summer long at the Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park you can bring your dancing partner and get your groove on. With over 4,900 square feet of space to dance, you can do your thing as you swing, waltz, cha-cha, or just enjoy the live music. If your two left feet and historically bad dancing have left you a little apprehensive, you can even come early for an hour dance lesson before the fun begins. The best part is that it is all absolutely free! So gather up some of your favorite couples and hit the dance floor. The genre of music changes weekly so make sure to check the schedule so you never miss a beat.Head to the Market
While discovering a new eatery always makes for a memorable evening, it is often hard on the wallet. Instead of spending your night in a four star restaurant, why not have a romantic meal at home prepared with fresh produce from one of Chicago’s farmers markets? You can feel good about what you’re eating, have fun preparing something together, and also save a buck (or $50). Plus, you’re lying if there aren’t at least a few new recipes you’ve discovered on Pinterest that you’re dying to try. From Lincoln Park, to Bucktown, to Daley Plaza, these fresh farmers markets can be found all over the city. Here is a listing of all the farmers markets by neighborhood.Get Active
When the weather is nice, there is nothing like being outside to enjoy it with a new crush. There are endless outdoor activities perfect for a date, but one that is especially great in the summertime is biking. Why not play the part of the eager tourist and ride through all of Chicago’s sights? Test out the city’s new bike-sharing program—Divvy—and ride about town without having to haul your old Schwinn up from the storage room. Afterwards, stop for a little something sweet at Black Dog Gelatoon Damen, or Scooter’s Frozen Custard on Belmont.