Thinking of new and exciting date ideas can be difficult and expensive. Sometimes, the old dinner-and-a-movie doesn’t quite fit your partner, or you want to plan something different for him or her. But what is there to do when your wallet is already stretched too thin? Here are some Tucson date ideas that will be fun yet easy on the wallet.

Reid Park
Reid Park is most known for the Reid Park Zoo, but a whole park encompasses the actual zoo. With swing sets, bike paths, hills, and plenty of picnic space, it makes the perfect place for an evening bike ride. Take your partner for a bike ride around the park, then park your bikes and have a picnic. This is entertaining, intimate, and an outdoorsy way to spend time with your special someone.
www.tucsonaz.gov/parksandrec.com.

Downtown
If you have ever been to downtown Tucson, you know there is a world of fun to be had. People watching alone could entertain anyone for hours. Take your partner downtown, peruse the books in the Pima County Public Library, sit and watch the hustle and bustle, or take a look at the old Pima County Courthouse. Downtown Tucson is even more exciting on the second Saturday evening of each month, when a festival is held. St. Augustine Cathedral is also worth the trip.

Teach Them Something
One of the beauties of being in a new relationship is that you each have so much to learn from the other person. Grab some cheap painting supplies and teach your partner to paint if art is your thing. Grab boxing gloves and show her how to punch. Teach him how to cook your favorite meal. Show your partner how to sew, fish, dance, or any other hobby that makes you unique. Silverbell Lake is the perfect place for fishing.
Silverbell Lake 520.791.4873

University of Arizona
Tucsonans are lucky to live near a busy university that can provide entertainment with little to no cost. The UA has plenty of quiet places to sit and relax. Take your partner for a stroll around the university. Visit University Boulevard and watch the nightlife or window shop, walk through the bookstore, grab a Starbucks or Pinkberry, or play Frisbee of catch on the Mall. Fourth Avenue, which is close to the university, is also a great place to take a stroll.
www.arizona.edu.

Sunset
One of the most romantic date ideas is also the simplest: watch the sunset together. Arizona is known for its gorgeous sunsets and clear skies almost year round. Take your partner to Mount Lemmon, Sabino Canyon, “A” Mountain, or just head West on Speedway Boulevard until you find a place to park.