PAC Student Media

By Bianca Garcia 
Pulse Staff Reporter

Don’t let the idea of date night expenses ruin your plans. With a little imagination and frugality, unforgettable escapades at minimal costs are possible.

Students often undergo financial stress because of money issues, many times sabotaging their dating life.

According to debtanatomy.com, a typical full course meal and a movie with snacks reaches a whopping $107 before taxes and a tip.

“It’s nice to enjoy someone’s company, but sometimes you don’t have the money to spend. . .You both have to be kind of cheap,” said Devin Durham, a freshman Nuclear Engineering major. “Especially when. . .all your money is going toward college.”

With summer approaching, students have the ability to enjoy their time away from books, homework and electronics. This free time allows the study-weary the chance to get their love life back on track.

“Spending quality time is important. . .It just feels good to be around someone who cares about you,” said Rhiannon Hitchings, a freshman Computer Science major.

Separate yourself from “Netflix and chill,” and impress your crush with the many activities the Alamo City has to offer without breaking the bank.

Get out this summer and catch the beautiful scenery at Brackenridge Park, located at 3700 N. St. Mary’s St. It offers 343 acres of fresh air, South Texas sunshine and physical activities. Feed the ducks along the river, enjoy a romantic picnic on the lawn, take a ride on the train or bird watch. With plenty to do and see, the park is perfect for a day out. Don’t miss The Japanese Tea Garden. The garden, located at 3853 N. St. Mary’s St., offers shaded walkways, a 60-foot waterfall, arched bridges, exotic plants and Koi-filled ponds. The best part is, it’s free!

“It’s really a relaxing place to hang out and enjoy the fresh air, scenery and forget about all of your problems. . .away from the city life,” said Kathrine Perez, a freshman Education major.

Visit the popular historic Pearl Brewery, located at 303 Pearl Parkway. It provides dining, shopping and a farmers’ market. The Pearl is home to a variety of award-winning restaurants. The former brewery offers a number of free “happenings” this summer, so be on the lookout.

For a romantic date, visit the Tower of the Americas, located at 739 E. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd. The 750-foot-tall tower provides a spectacular view of the city from the Observation Deck, or you can participate in the exhilarating 4-D Theater Ride. For those over 21, Happy Hour at the Tower of the Americas is Monday through Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Happy Hour offers discounted appetizers, entrees and drink specials. To save a little more cash, visit Groupon. It offers discounted entrance tickets at nearly half the cost.

After the romantic view of the city, walk on over to the new playground and public art display at Hemisfair Park. The park, located at 434 S Alamo St., has ping-pong tables, foosball and oversized chess and checker boards to play with. Don’t forget to check out Yanaguana Garden, it offers opportunities for all ages to engage in physical activities.

So ditch the crowded, overpriced and cliché date night ‘dinner and a movie’ and go for a more adventurous, economic approach instead.