As college kids, there are two very important things that we tend to lack on the reg: money and enough sleep. We usually can't afford to buy ourselves dinner, let alone pay for another person. Sure, those quick coffee runs to Dunkin' Donuts (and using your Hokie P) and Chick-fil-A are cute, but they are not really special and endearing enough to count as actual dates with your other half. Luckily, Blacksburg offers many outdoor activities and local hang-out spots for the college couple to enjoy a nice, cheap date. After being able to spend my freshman year in the wonderful city of Blacksburg, Virginia, I have been able to compile a list of a few places and activities to do for a fun date night!
1. Take a walk around Virginia Tech's beautiful campus.
It is no secret that Virginia Tech's campus is amazing and magical. Taking a walk across the Drillfield and linking arms as you admire the breathtaking buildings and architecture will be time-worthy and unforgettable. You can also head over to the Pylons and sit while scoping out the entire campus during sunset. If you really want to impress your date, you'd want to head toward the outskirts of campus to find the Duckpond. It is a very romantic spot and will swoon your date off of their feet.
2. Hike the Cascades.
If you haven't gone to the Cascades yet, do you really go to Virginia Tech? JK. The (somewhat) lengthy hike to the Cascades is totally worth it right when you see the trees open and the waterfall appears. This outdoor activity doesn't require any money, just some nice walking shoes and a camera to capture the exemplary parts of the date! You can pack a lunch and enjoy it while sitting right next to the monumental waterfall. There are also plenty of other hikes and outdoor attractions around Blacksburg, such as Dragon's Tooth and McAfee's Knob that are very much worth exploring.
3. Hit up the gym at McComas Hall.
For the athletic, gym-loving couple, McComas Hall is the place for you! It has various kinds of workout equipment and a swimming pool. You can even challenge each other in ping-pong or over the pool table. I've learned that pushing each other in the gym can bring you closer and form a more special bond. Forget about the sweat and panting and focus on being there with your date and having fun. A little friendly competition never hurt anybody!
4. Head downtown to the Lyric Theater.
The Lyric Theater is a great go-to place in downtown Blacksburg when you want to catch a movie for a cheap price. They have extremely reasonable ticket prices for the struggling college students (they even take Hokie P). Their theater is adorable and the popcorn is delicious. It's the perfect date spot if you're trying to go easy on the wallet.
5. Explore the Blacksburg Farmers Market.
Every Wednesday and Saturday you can head downtown to the Farmers Market and enjoy some live music and fresh foods. Even if you do not want to buy anything, you can enjoy each other's company while chatting it up with fellow Blacksburg residents. The Farmers Market has so many different and distinctive features that will definitely spark some conversations between you and your date.
