Here Are 9 Of Our Picks For The Most Perfect (Inexpensive) Dates In Indiana
By Tori Jane|Published July 17, 2021
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Tori Jane
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Tori Jane is a storm chaser, writer, photographer, and the village idiot - in that order. When she's not out and about dancing with the meanest storms on planet Earth for funsies she can be found wandering, shooting landscapes, writing, editing photos, and otherwise up to no good. Legend has it that she can also be occasionally spotted typing up short bios in the third person, but those rumors are unsubstantiated.
What do you do when you want to take your special someone out for a special evening (or afternoon), but you’re a bit strapped for cash? No worries – there are plenty of awesome and totally inexpensive (under $25) options, so you can go on that date without worry. Look no further for the perfect free date night in Indiana (okay, maybe not all free, but all very inexpensive!) – we’ve got you covered, friend!
Cataract Falls is a stunningly beautiful place that's perfect for bringing that special someone. It's the largest fall by volume in the state, and it's tucked inside Liever State Recreation Area. For the most up-to-date information on park hours, closures, and things to do when you arrive, check out the Putnam County website. Entry is just $5 per person!
Address: 1317 West Lieber Road, Cloverdale, Indiana, 46128
This gorgeous 99-acre park features an impressive two miles of beach alongside beautiful Lake Michigan. There's a splash park, a marina, excellent fishing, a beautiful lighthouse and pier, and so much more. It's open until 10 p.m. and free, so it's perfect for a nice, long stroll past dark. Take a look at the official website for more information and history about the park.
Address: 6 On The Lake, Michigan City, Indiana, 46360
This serene winery located in Bloomington was named one of the Top 25 Wineries in the US by Travel & Leisure. For just $21.60 per person, you can embark on an amazing one-hour wine tasting flight. There are a few interesting add-ons, too, so make sure to visit the official website to see all of your options (and to make a reservation, which is definitely recommended).
Address: 200 East Winery Road, Bloomington, Indiana, 47404
There's just something so relaxing about a nice, quiet art museum, isn't there? The Haan Art Museum, in Lafayette, is an incredible testament to humans and their need to create. There are also lots of beautiful gardens with walking trails to enjoy, too! Admission is just $10 for adults - a great value for an inexpensive date! Currently, they're open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., so this is a great option for a daytime outing with your special someone. For the most up-to-date hours and exhibit info, visit the Haan Art Museum website.
Address: 920 State Street, Lafayette, Indiana, 47905
The Monon Trail is one of our very favorite things to do for free in Indiana. It's 27 miles of paved walkways and bike trails, and once upon a time, it was a busy rail line from Chicago to Indianapolis. Today, it's just a nice, quiet stroll with your special someone. Check out the website for more info and for ideas about where to start (and where to go!).
Another idyllic stroll on this list is the peaceful and artsy Central Canal walk in beautiful Indianapolis. It runs through the heart of downtown, and it's quite scenic. The canal was dug in the early 1800s and today the path beside it runs from White River State Park to 11th Street. Talk about a fantastic free date night in Indiana! Check out the Visit Indy website for more information!
Address: 801 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46204
No list of free and inexpensive date ideas would be complete without a visit to the breathtaking Indiana Dunes National Park, right? This still offers incredible lake views and beachside awesomeness - you can't pass this one up! The best part? It's free! Check out the official website for more details and to plan your romantic night (or day) out!
Address: 1050 North Mineral Springs Road, Chesterton, Indiana, 46304
Okay, we admit it: we're total suckers for an arboretum. If you've never been, you're missing out! For just $10 per car (so ride together, of course) you can see all sorts of breathtaking flora and fauna right in the heart of historic Valparaiso. It's open until 7 p.m. daily during the summer months. Check the Gabis Arboretum webpage for the most up-to-date hours and info.
Address: 450 West 100 North, Valparaiso, Indiana, 46305
Finally, we set our eyes on the beautiful Eagle Creek Park for another great date idea. It's the largest park in Indianapolis, and at just $5 per car, you can't beat the value. It's beautiful all year, but summer and fall are particularly special. Visit the Eagle Creek Park website for the most up-to-date information on park hours and events.
Address: 7840 West 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46254
So, what do you think? What’s your favorite idea for a free date night in Indiana? Tell us all about your picks in the comments. Need some more ideas? Check out this list of 13 things everyone in Indiana should do at least once.
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