Cheap Dating is the In-Thing.

The past year has been filled with disasterous news about the economy, appalling job loss figures, and a grim outlook for the future global economic condition. 

Yet despite all the doom and gloom, reports indicate that people are not dating less because of the recession. In fact, online dating websites such Match.com, are reporting tremendous growth during the hard times.  There’s nothing quite like a bleak outlook to ignite those romantic feelings, is there?

Good economy or bad, human beings will seek companionship and romance, and when times are tough, the pricey courtships have become passé.

She’s looking money but your wallet is looking empty – where do you take your lady on a low or no budget? Sometimes the best dates are the inexpensive ones…

With empty pockets and depleted bank accounts in mind, we’ve compiled a list of five (5) dirt-cheap and sometimes free dating ideas:

5. Coffee Shop

Taking a date to a coffee shop is a great way to save some bucks and get to know each other.  The coffee shop date offers an opportunity to get a sense of the chemistry between the two of you.  If there is chemistry, it’s an easy way to transition into having dinner, drinks, or some other activity.  And if there is no chemistry, it’s a convenient forum to quickly wrap things up and bounce.  Try not to choose crowded and busy coffee chains, or you’ll spend much of the time waiting in line and listening to other people yap on their cell phones.  Cozy mom & pop shops are best.

4. Art Gallery

Checking out a local art gallery is a great way to make a first impression, or even show a lady you’ve been seeing for awhile your cultured side.  You don’t have to be an expert on art to be able to comment on the various pieces of art.  Visiting a gallery is also great for making conversation if this is a first date – you’ll have things to focus on and talk about.  Use google maps (maps.google.com) to find art galleries in your area.

3. Bike Ride

Riding bicycles together is a great way to explore new areas, and combines leisurely physical activity with a chance to talk and get to know your date.  It’s free, physical, healthy and fun.  Better yet, riding a bicycle rather than driving a car helps save the environment.

2. Cheesy Movie Night

Hit the bargain bins together for discount DVDs at Walmart, Target, Blockbuster Video, etc. and you’re sure to find your next cheesefest.  Make it a game to find the silliest, lamest, cheesiest movies, for as little mula as possible.  Pop up some popcorn, dim the lights, and have a great time laughing at or along with a couple of cheesy flicks.   

1. Local Band

Depending on the size of your city, there could be a few to dozens, or even hundreds (in the case of NYC), small bars and venues hosting local band performances and open mic nights.  Often admission to these shows is free, and your only expense will be drinks if you and your date care to imbibe.  This will be a great opportunity to enjoy local talent, or if the performance is bad, to laugh it off with your date.

BONUS:

Visit your Local Brewery

With over 1700 local craft beer microbreweries in the United States alone, you’re certain to find a regional beer brewery to tour with your gal pal.  Beer tours can be educational, interesting and fun.  Best of all, many brewery tours are FREE.  Added bonues – you’ll get to sample the brewery’s sweet nectar from the heavens at the end of the tour.  Check out this site for finding a brewery in your town: Find a Brewery at BeerTown.com

 Inexpensive Dating is…