Watch CBS News

The Good Life For Less: Be A Cheap Date!

That's right, you heard me. I want you to be a cheap date -- or at least go on one.

If Valentine's Day or an anniversary is on the horizon and you find yourself low on cash, the Twin Cities is one of the best places to find a really good variety of free, romantic dates to go on. Here is a list of some of my favorites (good for both winter and summer):

Centennial Lakes - Edina

If you've got a pair of skates, you can't help but want to take a swing around this picturesque lake with your sweetheart. No skates? No worries! They rent them in the warming house for a nominal fee. In the summer, enjoy the trails that meander around the area.

Minnehaha Falls - Minneapolis

Even in the winter, the falls are a thing of beauty. Pack a thermos of hot cocoa and cuddle up with your loved one on a bench overlooking the frozen falls. When it's warm out, there are paths and picnic spots speckled all over the area.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory - St. Paul

No need to buy flowers when you can be surrounded by them! Check out the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory and get a taste of summer even when it's 10 below. This greenhouse is warm and cozy! Their Winter Flower Show is happening now through March 20 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. every day and it's free!

Walker Art Museum - Minneapolis

If you don't mind sharing gallery space with other deal-finding daters, the Walker Art Museum is a wonderful place to get cultured as a couple. They have 'Target Free Thursdays' and 'First Free Saturdays' when you can get free gallery admission and programs from 5-9 p.m. every Thursday, and free admission on the first Saturday of each month too. In the summer stroll around the sculpture garden with a view of the city in the background.

Love don't come cheap -- but celebrating it can!

- Alison Lorge is a web producer and consumer blogger at WCCO. Text WCCODEALS to 84816 for deals of the week.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.