As a single girl living in LA, you’d think I’d have my pick of fantastic dates at exciting locales. But unfortunately the guys that my friends and I meet seem to think that watching a movie at home and eating a frozen pizza (which is a step up from the guy who offered me his leftovers… no thanks) is an appropriate date given the economy. It seems that these 20-somthings have turned our present economy into an excuse for their former frat boy persona and laziness. Dates don’t have to be expensive and elaborate but they do take a little creativity,  so show this to your significant other or plan it yourself and forget about another date with the couch.

Getty, courtesy of Flickr user Philar Sharmim.

1. Pack a picnic with some yummy foods from Whole Foods or Bristol Farms and take your gourmet lunch to a museum with free admission and sit on a grassy knoll like at the Getty in LA. Even better? Come after 5, and parking is free! This can be a great date because after your picnic you can go and explore the artwork. Just make sure it is more fun commentary rather than the dry intellectual lecture your art history teacher used to give.

2. For a lunch date go to an open air market, but make sure it is one with more than just produce. For example, check out Grand Central Market in LA, New Amsterdam Market in NYC or the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market in SF. More than just lunch, you get to sample all different foods, walk around, and chat while you people watch. Meals are cheap too and almost all foodies will be satisfied.

Jazz Club in Florida, courtesy of Fickr user aneye4apicture.

3. Let google and yelp become your best friend and search for jazz clubs in your area. Live music makes any date more fun and maybe even take a spin or two on the dance floor. Unfortunately, food at these establishments can be on the steep side, so go with an appetizer and drinks. Afterwards, try a new restaurant and split an amazing dessert as a treat for busting a move.

4. Fitness buff? Get free passes for an exclusive gym around town (most offer 3-5 day trials) and go experience all it has to offer. Take a class together, enjoy the sauna and end it all by relaxing your tired muscles in the hot tub. Stay with the health theme and go get ingredients for a healthy, yummy dinner from Trader Joes to eat at home.

New York, courtesy of Flickr user MaO.

5. Coupled up but don’t have money for that getaway you’ve been wanting to plan? Try a staycation, where you explore your own city like a tourist. I bet there are tons of things you have never done in your very own city that people travel from all over to experience. Get food at a local cheapie establishment, take a long walk and check out your city’s tourist attractions. You’ll not only have a great date, but you’ll realize why your city is so cool.