Inexpensive Date Ideas You’ll Actually Enjoy
Going on a fun date night doesn’t have to break the bank! It’s totally doable to have fun together and build on a connection while on a budget. These are our top suggestions for budget-friendly date nights around Omaha.
Music bingo
There are multiple spots in town where you can play music bingo FOR FREE. Keep it simple by just getting a drink while you play. Or if you want to spend a little more, grab some food too.
Twisted Vine (on Thursdays)
Reserve a table ahead of time because they do fill up. You’re welcome to bring in any outside food here.
123 N Washington St, Papillion, NE 68046
Inner Rail Food Hall (on Thursdays)
No reservations. Open to all ages.
1911 S 67th St, Omaha, NE 68106
Comedy show
Omaha is home to several comedy clubs where you can grab tickets for pretty darn cheap. These are just a few suggestions. Some shows are 21+, so be sure to check the fine print.
Tickets required. 18+ to enter (or under with an adult).
1618 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68102
Tickets required.
3624 Farnam St., Omaha, NE 68131
Catch live music (at an unconventional venue)
Many bars, coffee shops, and restaurants around town host music artists so you can enjoy a lowkey show with no (or a low cost) cover charge. Some don’t have a regular schedule, so you’ll want to check out their events calendar to see what’s coming up. These are a few spots to keep your eye on.
This bar has Monday night karaoke, Wednesday open mic nights, Thursday jazz nights, and rotating DJs on Saturdays.
514 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68102
Stories often hosts local music artists at their multiple locations across town.
11432 Davenport St Ste 1, Omaha, NE 68154
This lounge frequently has shows from a variety of music artists. See their Facebook page for upcoming events.
5004 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68132
You’ll find live music at this tavern every Wednesday to Saturday night.
1215 Harney St, Omaha, NE 68102
Walk around The RiverFront & get gelato
Take a stroll downtown at The RiverFront together. These parks have a handful of free activities to keep you occupied while you’re there: firepits, hammocks, swings, and a dog park. You can also skate for free at the Skate Ribbon (skate rentals are a small fee).
Afterward, take a short walk over to Centi in The Old Market for artisan gelato and crepes!
900 Farnam St #100, Omaha, NE 68102
501 S 11th St, Omaha, NE 68102
Visit a farmers or makers market
Markets of some kind happen all year round — you just have to keep your eye out! (Or sign up for our newsletter — we’ll send ya a monthly events list so you don’t have to go searching for ideas yourself).
Play arcade games
Arcade games are the perfect way to empty out any extra pocket change you might be carrying around . . . and have fun doing it. Here are a couple suggestions for where to play these games.
Grab a drink while you play! They also allow outside food to be brought in. Minors are allowed with an adult until 7pm everyday.
1423 S 13th St, Omaha, NE 68108
The arcade games and pinball machines can be found in the back.
1209 Jackson St #2826, Omaha, NE 68102
Join a Nerd Nite
Listen to free talks on a variety of topics while enjoying a drink! Nerd Nite hosts an informal monthly get-together where you can learn something new from local speakers. See their upcoming schedule for topics and location.
Catch a show with Film Streams
Going to a movie doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Film Streams is an non-profit organization that runs two cinemas in Omaha — both venues show a variety of films including independent films, documentaries, international films, and classics. Ticket prices are super reasonable.
Tickets required.
4952 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68132
Tickets required.
1340 Mike Fahey St, Omaha, NE 68102
Tour an art gallery
Explore an art gallery together! Omaha has multiple galleries to choose from and many offer free (or low cost) admission. These are a few suggestions.
General admission is always free.
2200 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102
Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts
General admission is always free.
724 S 12th St, Omaha, NE 68102
Small admission cost.
1111 Jones St, Omaha, NE 68102
General admission is always free.
1301 Nicholas St, Omaha, NE 68102
General admission is always free.
405 S 11th St, Omaha, NE 68102
