• Turn an unassuming stone bridge into something special.old bridge in scotland image by John Hofboer from Fotolia.com
  
  Some of the best dates don't cost anything. There is a certain sweetness that comes from relying only on your own intimate dynamic to have a good time. A happy sense of togetherness and solidarity can transpire when stepping away from the usual commercial grind. Often dates that don't require any spending have more whimsy, which leads the way to surprises and adventure. Explore the world around you, and a pretty park, an old bridge or a bookstore can become a lasting symbol of a simple, happy date.
  
  

A Walk in the Park

• Rediscover your youth by spending a day in the park.Park image by Karin Schr??er from Fotolia.com
  
  Perfect days and evenings can happen with just some trees, flowers and a blanket. Go for a stroll through a park together and let the cheery, comfortable nature of the space slow you down. Find a pretty spot in the shade and lie in the grass. Bring books from home or the library to read. There may be birds to feed, so bring along old bread or crackers from your pantry. If a playground is nearby, jump on the swings. There may be nothing greater than climbing a tree together. In this type of setting, the degree of romance can be orchestrated. Think about walking in the late afternoon when the light turns to gold. If reading poetry aloud seems cheesy, opt for a game of tag or hide-and-go-seek. The innocent and unaffected process of playing a game can be charming. Another option worth exploring would be arboretums or botanical gardens.
  
  

Open Air Markets

• Markets are often cabinets of curiosities to open together.arredo image by guby20 from Fotolia.com
  
  If your town has a farmer's market, flea market or general street market, plan a date to explore these places together. Don't worry about buying anything; this is just about having a good time. Look for the strange and the weird. This date idea is great if you are in a new relationship, because it lessons the pressure; moving through a market is like moving through stalls of conversation starters. Flea markets and craft fairs are more likely to invite a sense of foolishness, and open art shows and farmers markets are more leisurely. Either way, the time spent should be lighthearted and carefree. If you tire of walking, find a bench for people watching, and make up stories about the characters you see. These innocent games make for easy and unexpected entertainment and will take on the nature of your personalities. Goofy or ironic, you are writing the script.
  
  

Sports and Activities

• To add instant romance, plan activities after dark.moon & water image by Sergey Galushko from Fotolia.com
  
  Grab your bikes and go for a ride through a historic neighborhood to point out the houses you like best. Take the dog, your neighbor's if necessary, and start throwing a frisbee. A person who surfs could teach the other, but learning together might be even more fun. Think about a nighttime hike with flashlights to a clearing where you can see the stars. A walk and swim at the beach in the evening can be a beautiful time. An adventurous spirit is exciting.