Many teenagers at Blackman High are finding themselves in relationships. These relationships require time and dedication. It’s important to spend time with your significant other for the relationship to grow and prosper. Taking your significant other on dates often is one of the best ways to do so. While dating can be expensive, it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of inexpensive and fun dates waiting to happen.  

   Some date ideas in general include going to an arcade, visiting the aquarium or bookstore, axe throwing, going on a picnic, bowling, cooking together, mini golfing going on a hike, ice skating, visiting the cinema, going to the zoo, or visiting a cafe. 

   Picnic dates are a cute way to spend time together for a low price. All you need is a couple of blankets to lay out, snacks and drinks, and an area to have the picnic in. One great place for a picnic date is Barfield Park in Murfreesboro. Barfield Park also has a trail you can walk up which leads down to a creek. In the summertime, couples can have their picnic then relax near the water. You could also have a picnic at Arrington Vinyards or even your own backyard. 

   Senior Jackson Tripp thinks a picnic date is a great idea. He states, “A picnic is a great way to, not only have a nice outdoor experience, but also allows the perfect time to really get to talk to your boyfriend or girlfriend.” 

   Flashback Arcade is another cool option in Murfreesboro for teenage couples. Tickets are inexpensive and they allow you to be able to get in and play games all day. Pair this Arcade date with some thrifting and you have the perfect ‘90’s date! There are many thrift stores located close by.  

   Another option to switch up just hanging out would be to watch one of you and your partner’s favorite movies while baking together. Cooking together can be not only fun but also funny. Then after you bake, you have something to snack on during the movie! 

   Teenagers who work out could go on a gym date together or go play their favorite sport together. If you or your significant other do not have the same gym membership, many gyms offer free day passes.  

   Ice skating is another fun idea. The Fountians at Gateway offer an ice-rink with low-cost entry. After ice-skating, couples could stop at The Soda Bar just a few feet away for a sweet treat. In the summer, roller-skating could be another option. 

   Abby Helton, senior, states, “My boyfriend now has taken me on some pretty unique dates. Last week, we went grocery shopping together and then baked a cake. That was pretty fun.”  

   Overall, there are so many dates that are optimal for highschoolers. Dating does not have to be expensive.