1. Dating on a dime: It's okay to be a cheap date
Dating can be expensive, especially when you're trying to impress your first date on a college budget,
but it doesn't have to be. Here are a few date ideas on a dime.
Twilight Thursdays at Churchill Downs
The words 'cheap' and 'Churchill Downs' typically do not go in the same sentence. However, the last
two Thursdays in September are Twilight Thursdays at the track. There are dollar beers, food trucks
and live music. General admission is only three dollars. Considering this is Churchill Downs, this is a
fun, cheap date idea and it allows you to soak up the nice weather before winter hits. You can visit their
website www.churchilldowns.com for more information.
Walking Bridge & Schimpff's
A long romantic walk is cliché, but it works. An evening stroll on the Big Four Walking Bridge offers a
beautiful view of the Louisville skyline at no cost. The prime time to go is in the evening, when the day
has cooled down and the sunset serves as a romantic backdrop. A popular favorite is Schimphff's
Confectionary, on the Indiana side just a short walk from the bridge. Go ahead and treat your date to
some candy and if you stop in at the right time, you can watch the candy makers in action. Not to
mention, the old-fashioned candy museum has an operational soda fountain and free tours.
Iroquois Park
Depending on what you choose to do, Iroquois Park has much to offer for a cheap price. A popular
venture is hiking to the top of hill where you can see the entire city of Louisville. For a more romantic
setting, you can hike in the evening for a gorgeous view of the sunset and then watch the stars come
out. Some of the concerts and events held at the amphitheater are free. A full schedule of events can be
found at www.iroquoisampitheater.com.
Flea Off Market
Something that most Louisville natives know about is The Flea Off Market. This is a fun setting for
shopping, eating, and occasionally listening to music. Typically located in the NuLu or Butchertown
area, this market offers an array of items ranging from locally made jewelry and furniture to antiques.
Vendors offer a unique selection and are happy to talk with customers. If you get hungry, no worries.
Some of Louisville's delicious food trucks have been known to stop by. This event is usually once a
month and is usually held outdoors. More information can be found on their Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/thefleaoffmarket.
Village 8 Theaters/Baxter Avenue Theatres
Baxter Avenue Theaters is located in the heart of the Highlands. It not your average movie theatre
which is what sets it apart. There are hand-painted murals by local artists on the walls and its aesthetics
features add a vintage feel. Village 8 Theaters is owned by the same corporation and continues to be
known as Louisville's only 'discount house' that operates seven days a week. Both theaters show first-
run independent, foreign films. For an updated schedule of showings visit www.village8.com.
21C Museum
Located downtown, 21C Hotel and Museum is open 24 hours. While the hotel is not free, the museum
is and has a variety of showcases year around. The museum is worth a walk through if you have never
been. The 21st
century art is memorable and gives you something to talk about on your date. Not to
mention, it is simply fun. The restaurant and bar that is attached to the hotel is not in the “cheap date”
category. However, if your date is in the mood for a drink, Garage Bar is a short drive away and is a

2. more relaxed atmosphere. If you are craving a cup of joe, there is also the Heine Brothers Coffee shop
nearby.
Sports Bars – The Sports & Social Club and Gerstle's Place
Football season is here and soon basketball will be too. Hitting the bar to watch the game and have a
beer is a good go-to date for anyone who enjoys sports and the loud atmosphere. The Sports & Social
Club on Fourth Street Live often have happy hours and cheap beer during their Football Watch Parties.
Gerstle's in the Highlands is another recommended bar to attend during games. Sources say it is a
Vikings fan bar. Of course you know that the University of Louisville's previous star football player,
Teddy Bridgewater, now plays for the Minnesota Vikings. It might be worth checking out.
Hop on the Trolley
There are two trolley hops in Louisville. One takes you to the downtown/NuLu area and the other along
Frankfort Avenue. The ZeroBus Hop along downtown will take you to restaurants, galleries, and shops
along Main, Market, and South Fourth Street on the first Friday of every month. The Frankfort Avenue
Trolley Hop will take you to visit restaurants, galleries, and shops along Frankfort on the last Friday of
every month. This is a fun way to explore Louisville. Please note that while the trolley is free, the cost
of purchases you make along the way is up to you. Information for each trolley can be found at
http://www.fatfridayhop.org/ and http://www.firstfridayhop.com/.
Explore Old Louisville
Here's a fun fact: Louisville has the third largest historic preservation district in the US and one of the
largest neighborhoods of Victorian homes. Take a walk through these old neighborhood streets and be
taken back in time with their classic architecture and history. The full area is 48 blocks, but if you need
some guidance head to the Old Louisville Visitors Center. Keep in mind that the St. James Court Art
Show, located in Old Louisville, is coming up the first weekend of October and would be another great
date setting.
Enjoy the Outdoors at the Parklands
For those who like to stay active, the Parklands provide a variety of options from hiking and biking, to
canoeing. You will not be bored. The scenery will be beautiful as the seasons begin to change. You will
have to rent equipment from another vendor if you choose to canoe, kayak, or paddle board. For hiking
ideas visit www.parklands.org.