Valley provides cheap alternatives for dates
Chase Micek
You have done the hard work and have finally talked that girl or guy you’ve been after into a date. You are in college, broke and running out of ideas. Not to worry, the Phoenix area is full of fun and free activities.
Whether it’s a night on the town, an adventurous day trip, or helping others, you can get by with little or no money and still have an amazing time.
For those looking for a romantic night on the town, the Phoenix area offers many different venues to catch a show or to indulge in the arts.
Tempe offers several events such as free concerts on most Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 7 to 10 p.m. at Tempe Marketplace.
“Sometimes we go to Tempe Marketplace for dinner or bars, but end up just watching the free bands,” Kyle Thomas said.
Another option is Tempe Town Lake, which gives great views and chances to take in beautiful art.
The lake offers 2.5 miles of trails, parks, and the Tempe Center of the Arts, which sometimes offers free art viewings and concerts.
Scottsdale also provides a great atmosphere and beautiful art at no cost.
ASU Student Jenn Walker, loves taking a stroll through Scottsdale.
“Scottsdale’s ArtWalk sets a beautiful mood while taking in amazing art from local artists. It’s a great place one can show off their cultured side,” Walker said.
ArtWalk is held 7 to 9 p.m. every Thursday in Scottsdale’s Old Town.
Hiking or biking one of the many local trails and summits is a great way to spend the day.
Renee Johnson, an ASU student, believes that testing oneself on one of the local hiking trails promotes a healthy and adventurous attitude for couples.
“There is nothing better than getting a birds eye view of the city,” Johnson said.
Others, like Justin Horn, prefer to beat the heat and go tubing on Salt River. “Tubing down Salt River is a great way to learn about a person,” Horn said. “You spend four to five hours relaxing on the river, and it’s a great way to beat the heat.”
Salt River tubing is available on any day, as long as the water is flowing. From the Salt Water Recreation Area, couples can rent tubes and have bus fare to the river for $15 a person.
