Let’s face it, dating can be stressful and Sydney has an expensive night life (and day life). The last thing anyone wants is to be thinking of their wallet instead of having a good time. Luckily, Sydney’s free alternatives can put a stop to the worry and let you focus on more important things when getting to know that special someone.
#1 Visit An Outdoor Cinema
What’s more attractive than good taste in movies? Outdoor cinemas are perfect for snuggling up at a movie under the stars, and is an intimate night that won’t cost a fortune. You can see an independent film screening or even go to events like Tropfest if your timing is right.
Places like Cinewest Cinematheque frequently present cultural and artsy film festivals and have events like the Short Soup International Short Film Festival in late January 2018, as well as many others. Strathfield Park is also hosting films like How the Grinch Stole Christmas for the 2017-2018 season. They allow picnic spreads, blankets and chairs, so you two can get comfortable.
#2 Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
Are you an art enthusiast, or just want to impress with your cultural tastes? The gallery has tonnes of free exhibitions, and the collections are always changing, so it doesn’t matter if your date has been there before. There are free guided tours and spotlight talks that happen daily for you to join. Or you could simply explore the museum together. Best of all, just outside is Circular Quay. So, afterwards you both are guaranteed a view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, not to mention well-priced fish, chips and ice-cream to enjoy.
#3 Have A Beach Day
It’s Summer and the beach is a perfect excuse to show off your beach body (if you thought far enough in advance to get one). Go for a walk along the shore together. Bask in the sun, get that vitamin D intake going, or just enjoy the waves. You can spice it up with a bit of boogie boarding, a beach game or even a picnic.
#4 Go For A Walk Or A Hike
Firstly, this is a great excuse to look good in active-wear. Walks are ideal for long conversations in a stress-free environment, and a more energetic way to get to know each other. They’re also time flexible, meaning the two of you can chose the length of the journey. After all, you want to look like you can handle movement and fitness, not look like a sweaty mess.
Some great walks in the area include the Blackwattle Bay Foreshore Walk which takes about two hours and is renowned for its attractive scenery. And for a more athletic endeavour, the Barrenjoey Lighthouse Hike offers similar views and the lighthouse is a wonderful finishing touch point.
#5 Find A Free Concert
Live music creates a fantastic atmosphere for any date. Although under the radar most of the time, there is always a free music festival or sponsored show in Sydney. Free events like the Bucket List Beach Club has quality performances every Saturday at Bondi until May 2018. These events are usually at bars or around markets, so a simple snack or drink is easy to grab together afterward.
Dating doesn’t have to leave a dent in your pocket, all it takes is a basic knowledge of what’s happening around your city. And besides, it’s not about the money being spent, it’s all about spending that quality time together.
Image Source: Soda Factory, Broadsheet, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.