It's fall and you know what that means, hot cider, hayrides, and holding hands to keep warm. Here are a few cheaper date ideas where you can have fun and not bust your wallet.
18 fall date ideas in metro Detroit that are $15 or less
By Metro Times editorial staff on Mon, Oct 23, 2017 at 9:11 am
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Share fall treats at a Cider Mill
Yates Cider Mill at 1990 E Avon Rd., Rochester Hills.
The Yates river walk skirts around the Clinton River, offering a gorgeous scenic stroll as the leaves turn colorful and crunchy. It’s a great place to meander, see baby goats and eat classic fall treats. The donuts come in plain, powdered and cinnamon sugar - plus, there’s cider, fudge, caramel apples, and a grill. And if Yates is a bit of a drive, there are a number of other cider mills scattered across southeast Michigan - each with their own amenities, but all prime for a fall date night. Free admission, splurge and stockpile food at your own discretion. Photo via @eat_detroit.
Yates Cider Mill at 1990 E Avon Rd., Rochester Hills.
The Yates river walk skirts around the Clinton River, offering a gorgeous scenic stroll as the leaves turn colorful and crunchy. It’s a great place to meander, see baby goats and eat classic fall treats. The donuts come in plain, powdered and cinnamon sugar - plus, there’s cider, fudge, caramel apples, and a grill. And if Yates is a bit of a drive, there are a number of other cider mills scattered across southeast Michigan - each with their own amenities, but all prime for a fall date night. Free admission, splurge and stockpile food at your own discretion. Photo via @eat_detroit.
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Party together at Oktoberfest celebrations
Dakota Inn Rathskeller at 17324 John R St., Detroit.
Grab yourself a hardy stein glass, because there are plenty of Oktoberfest festivities throughout the month. Per one suggestion, the Dakota Inn Rathskeller offers polka dancing and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Grab a chicken hat at the door. Seating starts around 8 p.m. $3 per person admission with live entertainment. Photo via @dakotainnrathskeller.
Dakota Inn Rathskeller at 17324 John R St., Detroit.
Grab yourself a hardy stein glass, because there are plenty of Oktoberfest festivities throughout the month. Per one suggestion, the Dakota Inn Rathskeller offers polka dancing and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Grab a chicken hat at the door. Seating starts around 8 p.m. $3 per person admission with live entertainment. Photo via @dakotainnrathskeller.
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Enjoy fall drinks at a cute coffee shop or tea house
Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters at 36 S Main St., Rochester.
“Would you like to grab a cup of coffee with me?” That’s usually all it takes for two people to wind up seated in an enclave at a local cafe, getting to know each other and hoping for something to bloom. Coffee shops or tea houses are everywhere, and a warm drink isn’t too pricey either. Photo via @dessert_oasis_coffee.
Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters at 36 S Main St., Rochester.
“Would you like to grab a cup of coffee with me?” That’s usually all it takes for two people to wind up seated in an enclave at a local cafe, getting to know each other and hoping for something to bloom. Coffee shops or tea houses are everywhere, and a warm drink isn’t too pricey either. Photo via @dessert_oasis_coffee.
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Hey, go on a hayride.
Three Cedars Farm at 7897 6 Mile Rd., Northville.
You’ve picked each other, now parse through some patches. Imagine a cool, picturesque day getting jostled around on a fun hayride with someone who makes you happy. You can pick some fixings to go into pies, while enjoying the view from atop your hay bale. Rides are $5 per family/group, pumpkin prices is based on the size. Photo via @stephense.
Three Cedars Farm at 7897 6 Mile Rd., Northville.
You’ve picked each other, now parse through some patches. Imagine a cool, picturesque day getting jostled around on a fun hayride with someone who makes you happy. You can pick some fixings to go into pies, while enjoying the view from atop your hay bale. Rides are $5 per family/group, pumpkin prices is based on the size. Photo via @stephense.
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Pumpkin carving
At any location you feel comfortable, can safely/legally wield sharp carving tools and are able to make a mess with pumpkins.
Not afraid of a bit of a mess? You can opt for a classic jack-o-lantern with triangle eyes, write a funny message, or if you’re a pumpkin picasso, create an intricate design to wow on your date. A pumpkin carving kit is typically less than $4 at the grocery story, or you can make use tools you already have at home - just make sure both you and your partner stay safe. Photo via Shutterstock.
At any location you feel comfortable, can safely/legally wield sharp carving tools and are able to make a mess with pumpkins.
Not afraid of a bit of a mess? You can opt for a classic jack-o-lantern with triangle eyes, write a funny message, or if you’re a pumpkin picasso, create an intricate design to wow on your date. A pumpkin carving kit is typically less than $4 at the grocery story, or you can make use tools you already have at home - just make sure both you and your partner stay safe. Photo via Shutterstock.
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Time to tailgate
Where there’s a grill and a game.
Gear up, and head over to the game together. It’s a great time to eat, drink and get pumped up as you join forces to cheer a team onto victory. Whether it’s a local game or a big league, what more could you ask for on a fall date? Your favorite team, and your favorite person. Photo via @michelle_jackson.
Where there’s a grill and a game.
Gear up, and head over to the game together. It’s a great time to eat, drink and get pumped up as you join forces to cheer a team onto victory. Whether it’s a local game or a big league, what more could you ask for on a fall date? Your favorite team, and your favorite person. Photo via @michelle_jackson.
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Bundle up and hold hands on a nature trail
Stony Creek Metropark at 4300 Main Park Dr., Shelby Charter Township.
If you’re looking to go on a date where you can relax, talk, marvel at Mother Nature’s handy work, listen to birds chirp and just enjoy each other’s company, you can’t go wrong with a nature walk. The trail at Stony Creek is one of many, many options. This date idea comes equipped with a picture perfect backdrop wherever you go in Michigan. Free. Photo via @authentic_mi.
Stony Creek Metropark at 4300 Main Park Dr., Shelby Charter Township.
If you’re looking to go on a date where you can relax, talk, marvel at Mother Nature’s handy work, listen to birds chirp and just enjoy each other’s company, you can’t go wrong with a nature walk. The trail at Stony Creek is one of many, many options. This date idea comes equipped with a picture perfect backdrop wherever you go in Michigan. Free. Photo via @authentic_mi.
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Cuddle up at a Drive-In Theatre
Ford Drive-In at 10400 Ford Rd, Dearborn.
It’s always a double feature at the Ford Drive-In, check showtimes to see which two films you can catch with your main squeeze. They sell soup and pizza at concessions, but you can always bring your own snacks. Open seven days a week, the movie lot has five screens and plenty of room. $9.75 per adult. Photo via @amanda_mcafferty.
Ford Drive-In at 10400 Ford Rd, Dearborn.
It’s always a double feature at the Ford Drive-In, check showtimes to see which two films you can catch with your main squeeze. They sell soup and pizza at concessions, but you can always bring your own snacks. Open seven days a week, the movie lot has five screens and plenty of room. $9.75 per adult. Photo via @amanda_mcafferty.
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Three words. Couples. Halloween. Costumes.
Wherever the party’s at.
Whether it’s a dress-up event or a costume contest. Regardless of where you are - a bar, a club, a friend’s place. Couple costumes can definitely spice up a date night. They range from cute and clever to over-the-top and cringey, but if tapping into your creativity is something you’re both up for, have some fun with it. Some get-ups can come cheap at the store, and you can save even more if you’re crafty. Photo via @legrandchaton.
Wherever the party’s at.
Whether it’s a dress-up event or a costume contest. Regardless of where you are - a bar, a club, a friend’s place. Couple costumes can definitely spice up a date night. They range from cute and clever to over-the-top and cringey, but if tapping into your creativity is something you’re both up for, have some fun with it. Some get-ups can come cheap at the store, and you can save even more if you’re crafty. Photo via @legrandchaton.
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Warm up the kitchen with some fall recipes
Home sweet home.
Look up some recipes, go classic or try something new. Either way, stay-in for the night and prepare a fall feast. There’s so much two can do: something as American as apple pie, hearty comfort foods like an autumnal pot roast… make your own pumpkin spice lattes - you know you want to. With no admission fee, simple recipes and some smart shopping, this is a can-do economical experience. Photo via Shutterstock
Home sweet home.
Look up some recipes, go classic or try something new. Either way, stay-in for the night and prepare a fall feast. There’s so much two can do: something as American as apple pie, hearty comfort foods like an autumnal pot roast… make your own pumpkin spice lattes - you know you want to. With no admission fee, simple recipes and some smart shopping, this is a can-do economical experience. Photo via Shutterstock
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Bike the Dequindre Cut
Dequindre Cut Greenway, west of St. Aubin Street.
Grab your bikes, race each other down the Dequindre Cut and enjoy the artwork along the pathway. It’s a great way to keep fit, explore the city and enjoy the brisk autumnal air. Cute date selfie optional, but encouraged. Free. Photo via @dubinthed.
Dequindre Cut Greenway, west of St. Aubin Street.
Grab your bikes, race each other down the Dequindre Cut and enjoy the artwork along the pathway. It’s a great way to keep fit, explore the city and enjoy the brisk autumnal air. Cute date selfie optional, but encouraged. Free. Photo via @dubinthed.
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Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts
5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit.
Wander around a cavernous institute dedicated to showcasing masterful works of art with someone special to escape the chill of a crisp fall day. Surrounded by so many intricate pieces, it’ll be easy to come up with things to talk about. Whether you’re ogling at a gorgeous landscape, theorizing about the meaning of things, coming up with your own backstories for the portraits/statues or just enjoying getting lost in such a beautiful museum together. Free admission for Macomb, Oakland and Wayne County residents. Photo via @windowonder.
5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit.
Wander around a cavernous institute dedicated to showcasing masterful works of art with someone special to escape the chill of a crisp fall day. Surrounded by so many intricate pieces, it’ll be easy to come up with things to talk about. Whether you’re ogling at a gorgeous landscape, theorizing about the meaning of things, coming up with your own backstories for the portraits/statues or just enjoying getting lost in such a beautiful museum together. Free admission for Macomb, Oakland and Wayne County residents. Photo via @windowonder.
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Marvel at sugar skulls during Dia de Los Muertos
Lorenzo Cultural Center at 44575 Garfield Rd., Clinton Township.
Every year the Lorenzo Cultural Center hosts a lively and festive Day of the Dead Celebration, co-sponsored by the Mexican Consulate in Detroit. Pairs can peruse vibrant photographic exhibits, traditional ofrenda (altars), see presentations and partake in workshops. Free admission. Photo via Shutterstock.
Lorenzo Cultural Center at 44575 Garfield Rd., Clinton Township.
Every year the Lorenzo Cultural Center hosts a lively and festive Day of the Dead Celebration, co-sponsored by the Mexican Consulate in Detroit. Pairs can peruse vibrant photographic exhibits, traditional ofrenda (altars), see presentations and partake in workshops. Free admission. Photo via Shutterstock.
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Fall in love over a glass of wine
Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Ticket prices to wine dinners, tastings and vineyard tours can be pretty pricey. Another option is to get innovative, and make your own mulled wine with your loved one. Recipes usually call for apple cider, a bottle of red wine, honey, an orange and other spices.
Where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Ticket prices to wine dinners, tastings and vineyard tours can be pretty pricey. Another option is to get innovative, and make your own mulled wine with your loved one. Recipes usually call for apple cider, a bottle of red wine, honey, an orange and other spices.
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Give back, and spend a date volunteering together
Search for some organizations you admire or causes you believe in.
Are you and your date both passionate and philanthropic? Plan ahead and connect with an organization or group that is working to make a positive difference. As the fall weather begins to shift towards chilly, with winter on the horizon, there are populations within every community that could use support or assistance. Whether it’s spending some time at a food pantry or shelter, reading to young kids or even putting together blessing bags for the homeless. With this option, you can spend a day giving back - instead of spending any money. Photo via @gina_weathersby.
Search for some organizations you admire or causes you believe in.
Are you and your date both passionate and philanthropic? Plan ahead and connect with an organization or group that is working to make a positive difference. As the fall weather begins to shift towards chilly, with winter on the horizon, there are populations within every community that could use support or assistance. Whether it’s spending some time at a food pantry or shelter, reading to young kids or even putting together blessing bags for the homeless. With this option, you can spend a day giving back - instead of spending any money. Photo via @gina_weathersby.
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Gear up for a Ghost Tour
Ghosts of Kalamazoo, locations/sites vary.
So this is technically nowhere near metro Detroit, but it's too good to pass up. Do you and your boo have a penchant for the creepy, and feel like seeking out some spirits or bothering some ghouls? Ghosts of Kalamazoo Historic Tours are owned and operated by Kalamazoo Jaycees, and staffed by local volunteers. They offer 45-60 minute walking tours that meet at different locations, and set off to explore all that is weird, haunted and historic in Kalamazoo. $11 (plus $1.27 online processing fee) per person for advance tickets, $12 walk-up registration. Photo via Facebook.
Ghosts of Kalamazoo, locations/sites vary.
So this is technically nowhere near metro Detroit, but it's too good to pass up. Do you and your boo have a penchant for the creepy, and feel like seeking out some spirits or bothering some ghouls? Ghosts of Kalamazoo Historic Tours are owned and operated by Kalamazoo Jaycees, and staffed by local volunteers. They offer 45-60 minute walking tours that meet at different locations, and set off to explore all that is weird, haunted and historic in Kalamazoo. $11 (plus $1.27 online processing fee) per person for advance tickets, $12 walk-up registration. Photo via Facebook.
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Get lost in a Lavender Labyrinth
Cherry Point Farm & Market at 9600 W. Buchanan Rd., Shelby.
You often hear about corn mazes this time of year, but what about a Lavender Labyrinth? Western Michigan is home to a gorgeous, intricate lavender expanse. If you can’t get enough of spending time with your date, it takes about an hour to make it to the center. This can definitely turn into a day-trip adventure. There are also cherry pies and other baked goods on site. Free admission. Photo via @gillette_like_the_razor.
Cherry Point Farm & Market at 9600 W. Buchanan Rd., Shelby.
You often hear about corn mazes this time of year, but what about a Lavender Labyrinth? Western Michigan is home to a gorgeous, intricate lavender expanse. If you can’t get enough of spending time with your date, it takes about an hour to make it to the center. This can definitely turn into a day-trip adventure. There are also cherry pies and other baked goods on site. Free admission. Photo via @gillette_like_the_razor.
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Grab tickets to a local theatre production
The Detroit Actor’s Theatre Company, venues vary.
It’s a great way to see a good show for an affordable price, while also supporting your local arts community. The Detroit Actor’s Theatre Company is a diverse group of performers who like to break the mold with productions you likely won’t see anywhere else. Prices vary by production, keep an eye out for free/donation-based admission or tickets under $15.. Any show at New Center park is free to the public. Photo via Shutterstock.
The Detroit Actor’s Theatre Company, venues vary.
It’s a great way to see a good show for an affordable price, while also supporting your local arts community. The Detroit Actor’s Theatre Company is a diverse group of performers who like to break the mold with productions you likely won’t see anywhere else. Prices vary by production, keep an eye out for free/donation-based admission or tickets under $15.. Any show at New Center park is free to the public. Photo via Shutterstock.
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