Cuffing season is upon us, and everyone seems to be going on dates. From Center City dinners to the classic chocolate–and–flowers combo, showing affection for your significant other can be emotionally and fiscally tolling. But Valentine's Day shouldn't break the bank. We've done our research and found different date ideas in Philadelphia—all under $10! Philly may be associated with its fine dining, but there are less expensive—and arguably more original—ideas out there.
Do you enjoy the outdoors and February temperatures? Consider ice skating.
Blue Cross Riverrink Winterfest offers ice skating for only $4. Fortunately, it is still showing availability for this Friday, with availability from 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. or 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased here. Skate rental is an additional fee, but between the world–class rink, fairytale–like lighting, and view of the river, this is a romantic date idea that is inexpensive and thrilling.
Q: Like sports and don’t want to leave campus? A: Penn Men’s Basketball Game.
At 7:00 p.m. this Valentine’s Day, the Penn Men’s Basketball team will play Brown right here at the Palestra. Luckily, student tickets are free! This is a more casual date idea if you’re not looking to go far, or want to hang out in a group setting. Depending on how well this Penn sporting event date goes, football tickets in the fall are free as well.
Want to take movie night to the next level? Check out Philadelphia Theatre Week.
Skip the movie at home this time and try something a little more special for the holiday. The timing works out this year, and Valentine’s Day falls during Philly Theatre Week, which means ticket specials! There are actually free tickets available. The week will consist of over 300 events, with some landing on Valentine’s. Tickets can be found here.
Want to venture off campus and take in the city? Here’s an idea.
Grab your significant other, and take the chance to appreciate our city. You can walk from campus to Rittenhouse square. For people watching, window shopping, and wandering, this is a perfect idea. After enjoying Rittenhouse, go and take in a glorious view of the city. Enjoy the 15–minute walk with your date and head to City Hall for the observation deck. Here, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the entire city without breaking the bank, with tickets starting at $6. 883 feet above Center City will be an unforgettable view, and subsequently, an unforgettable date.
Feeling up for some walking? Try a Skyline Stroll.
A Philadelphia Skyline Stroll is a cheap and romantic date idea—an incredible way to absorb and view the city for free and take in all the sights of this historic and beautiful city, while walking the Ben Franklin Southside Walkway. You can end your walk with a visit to Shane Confectionery. Different chocolate drinks range from $3 to $8.
For all the foodies, don’t worry—we still have an idea for you: happy hour!
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Friday this year, restaurants are sure to be full of late–night dinner reservations. Beat the crowd and save your money—try happy hour instead. Here are some of the best Happy Hours in the city. Attico offers a rooftop experience and different food and drink options for under $10. The Prohibition Taproom is gastropub offering $4 select taps from 5 – 7 p.m. Sampan boasts discounted prices on their infamous Scorpion Bowls, as well as different food for around $5, $5 wine, and $9 cocktails.
