In your 20’s, there can be quite a lot of struggles! Trying to find a healthy balance between work, minimal salaries, the dating scene, feeling stuck or lost, and your social life can be difficult and stressful. We all know this! We also know that after a long week of deadlines and running around, spending time with your friends is much needed! Even if it feels as though we don’t have as much time in our daily schedules as we used to, your 20s are probably the most flexible decade of your life! Before you get married, have kids, move away, or start a new, intense career, use your 20s to your advantage and take time to invest in your friendships! And although going to Sunday brunch and/or getting drinks at the bar is a fun and popular activity, it can get pretty pricy after a while. So if you are looking for some fun and affordable ideas for a best friend date, here are my top 5 favorites!
1. Sunset bike ride
My friend Shana totally got me hooked on this! I live right next to a marina town right on Lake Erie in Michigan. So with that, we have many walking/bike trails that will take you down right by the water. It was kind of a last-minute decision when Shana initially asked me to go on a bike ride with her, but I was so happy I said yes! This has easily become my new favorite way to exercise and relax in the evening.
It is also a great watch to catch up with her since we don’t see each other too often. Something about going on a bike ride as the sun is going down is so calming and peaceful! And now that the weather is getting a bit cooler these first few weeks of fall, it will be an excellent way to spend some time outdoors!
2. Tailgate
This is exceptionally fun with a large group of friends or even couples! And since it’s now officially football season, that means there is a game to attend nearly every day until February! As for college football, you have until at least December to make it one game. Even if you’re not a football fan, attending a tailgating party is still an incredibly fun and entertaining way to spend your day. And of course, to spend your time with some of your closest friends!
Keep things fun, easy, and affordable by packing your own lunch/snacks! Canned beer, homemade deli sandwiches, sliced veggies, and lawn chairs are the way to go. It’s a great way to spend time with your friends and meet other tailgaters or students if you’re attending a game at your college’s home stadium!
3. Explore a new town
Perfect if you’re meeting with a friend who doesn’t live nearby, or if you two have the entire day to spare! Take advantage of your time and plan a quick, little road trip with your bestie! If one of you (or both) loves to plan, go to Google or Yelp to look up some of the best cafés, restaurants, diners, museums, parks, bars, etc. in that area. Or, just completely wing it and really make it a spontaneous adventure!
Be sure to create a playlist for your drive as well! Whether it’s 2 hours away or a half-hour away! Save you and your friend the money by exploring a city or town that is nearby. You never know what exciting, hidden gems you may find in just a short drive from you! Not to mention, this friendship date may even become a must-have monthly thing!
4. Sunrise hike + coffee
Grab the dogs and go for a relaxing walk while the sun is rising! It is such a perfect way to set the tone for the day and include a bit of exercise for you, your friend(s), and your dogs! This can be as simple as walking around your neighborhood or driving somewhere to get the best scenery for your walk.
If you choose to drive to a further location, maybe someplace by the water or to a hiking trail, my favorite thing to do is pack my french press with me. That way, there is more coffee for my friend(s) and I to drink while we walk and for our drive back!
5. Take a cooking class
Cooking classes are not just for love interests! They are such a fun and affordable idea for a best friend date – especially when wine or vodka is involved! The best way to find local and affordable cooking classes in your area is by checking Groupon. There are tons of options on there, especially for college towns!
However, if you aren’t looking to leave the house, you could always create your own! Simply go to Youtube or check Google for healthy and fun/creative recipes that you can make in your own house. This is perfect for those relaxing girls nights that involve tons of food, binge-watching, and all the alcohol you want without having to spend money on an uber!
What’s the best fun and affordable best friend date you’ve ever had?
Let me know in the comments!
xo, Cydney
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