Dating doesn’t have to break the bank every time you and your special friend get together, stop throwing money away on overpriced meals and cocktails and get creative. We’ve put together a list of five solid, totally free date ideas that double as a great way to get to know the cultural scene of our beautiful city. 

Enjoy a guided tour of the Maricopa County Parks

There’s something happening pretty much every day at one of the Maricopa County Parks, with activities like educational walks, sunset hikes, and guided bird watching excursions. Be sure to register early on the parks department website and secure a pair of spots for you and your date to enjoy these intimate adventures through the Arizona wilderness. maricopacountyparks.net // @maricopacountyparks

Take advantage of the free museum days around town

Everywhere from the Heard Museum to the Desert Botanical Garden to the Phoenix Art Museum offer free admission on select days every month. Enjoy our rich, varied museum scene without breaking the bank as you and your date check out the best our cultural curators have to offer. Expect special exhibitions, live music, DJ sets, film screenings, and much, much more at these can’t-miss parties.

Check out First Fridays

A huge variety of local artists, makers, and craftspeople pop up every month for the First Friday Art Walk, taking over the Roosevelt Row and Historic Grand Avenue art districts. Check out special performances, and gallery openings while exploring the private studios of some of the best up-and-coming artists in the city. If you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a spot or two offering some light refreshments! First Friday of each month, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Downtown Phoenix; visitphoenix.com // @visitphoenix

Grab a pre-brunch workout

Meet up early on Saturday mornings for a 9am workout in the courtyard of The Churchill. Instructors and styles change weekly, but this hourlong workout is always set up to cater to people of every experience and fitness level. These rigorous but accessible classes are sure to get your blood flowing before grabbing brunch and browsing the wares for sale from local vendors set up around the courtyard. Saturday 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.; 901 N. 1st St. Phoenix, AZ; thechurchillphx.com // @thechurchillphx

Visit the farmer’s market

Who doesn’t love the farmer’s market? Grab your special friend and meet up early one Saturday morning to cruise around and check out some of the best quality, locally-sourced produce you can find. Cruise around and try a free sample or two before picking up some choice ingredients and heading back to your place to cook a delicious meal together. Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 720 N 5th Street Phoenix, AZ; downtownphoenixfarmersmarket.org // @dtphxfarmersmarket