Thrifty Date Ideas: Athens, OH Edition

(Pictured: Hiking with my yellow lab, Bleu, at Strouds Run.)

College students aren't the only people who pinch their pennies, even in a college town. Whether you're a student strapped for cash or simply looking for a different kind of date night, here are a few ideas that won't break the bank:

FREE: Kennedy Museum of Art

Now that the University is renovating many of the buildings up on the Ridges, this quiet spot will soon gain steady foot-traffic, which will only add to its charm. The Kennedy Museum of Art has free admission and is a great way to spend a quiet afternoon. The exhibits change every few months, so you can make several trips a year without seeing the same things. For students, the museum is within walking distance from campus. Students can also take the CATS bus up the hill. There are also free parking spaces for guests (although it is worth nothing that they only have 4 free spots, and the rest of the spots use ParkMobile). Great for first dates!

FREE: Book-A-Bike at the Athens Public Library

If you are a resident of Athens county (or a student with an off-campus address), you can get a library card at the Athens Public Library. You can do the usual things with your library card (borrow books/DVDs/video games, rent a computer, take classes, join clubs, etc.) but here in Athens, you can also "check out" a bike! They have a variety of bicycle styles to choose from, including a hand trike! Rentals last 3 hours long and are completely free with your library card. The library conveniently sits right off the bike path, so strap on your helmet and enjoy the riverside views.

FREE: Hiking

You don't have to drive all the way to the Hocking Hills to hike in Athens! The Hocking Hills is a great place to hike, but if you don't want to make the drive, you can hike up on The Ridges, off E. State Street, or stroll along the bike path.

$3-5: Putt People First Mini Golf

This outdoor putt-putt golf course is open during the summer and proceeds go towards a good cause. Putt People First raises autism awareness and provides a way for everyone in Athens to have a good time on a tight budget. The course is located on The Ridges, near the Kennedy Museum of Art, and is within walking distance from campus. Students get a discount, so bring a picnic lunch and strap on your fanny pack!

$4+ Dow's Rollarena

Nothing says throwback like a skating rink straight out of the 50's. Dow's Rollarena was established in 1952 and hasn't changed since! It is located out towards Nelsonville, a few miles past Movies 10. You can bring your own skates, food, drinks, and even host your birthday party here! Skates are also available to rent. ** They do not accept cards, only cash or check.

$5+ Movies 10/The Fun Barn

The Fun Barn/Movies 10 is one of the greatest treasures of Southeastern Ohio. They feature current, new-release $4 movies, a cheap but yummy snack bar, and an entire arcade to bring out your inner child. You'll need to drive or catch a ride out to Movies 10, and you'll probably never want to leave!

$6+ Athena Grand

If you don't want to take the trek out towards Nelsonville, there is a more local option on E State Street. Recently, they decided to lower their ticket prices to better compete with Movies 10, so you can see new-release films for $5. Their snack bar is more expensive but also has more choices, including flavor options for popcorn, and they have special event showings throughout the year. Students can catch a ride on the Athens Public Transit for free with your student ID!

$10+ Rollerbowl Lanes

Rollerbowl Lanes is located on Palmer Street, so while you're counting down the days until Palmer Fest, hit up the bowling alley! The staff is great and you can even BYOB (just remember, families also bowl here). They feature theme nights like cosmic bowling, and even have Quartermania on Mondays, where you pay $8 to get in and everything else is 25 cents! Come hungry, because they have a snack bar stocked with pizza, hot dogs, and more!

$10+ Stuarts Opera House

Stuarts Opera House, located in Nelsonville, is a great place to catch live band performances and experience some Athens County culture. You can also catch community theater shows put up by the ABC Players. Past performances have included: "The Little Mermaid," "Shrek the Musical," "Elf, Jr.," and "The Addams Family." Ticket prices vary by show, and can be purchased online or at the door. If you have a car, you can even audition for shows!

$20+ Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is the most expensive item on this list but definitely worth mentioning! It is a great piece of history and one of the most unique ways for students to experience Athens county outside of the college bubble. There are a variety of train rides to choose from, all varying in price, including a ride with Santa around Christmastime, a New Year's Eve celebration with fireworks, and even a ride experience where you get "robbed" by Old West bandits! It's a perfect experience for a classy date with that special someone.

These are just a few examples of some thrifty date ideas for Athens, OH and the surrounding areas. Whether you are going on a first date, going with a group of friends, or catching a rare night out from the kids, Athens has plenty of places to spend some time without leaving a hole in your wallet.