15 fall date ideas in metro Detroit for under $15

By Metro Times editorial staff on Tue, Oct 1, 2024 at 3:09 pm

Fall is here, and it's time for cozy dates with hot cider, hayrides, and warm hand-holding. Metro Detroit offers plenty of affordable date spots, and we've rounded up the best ones that won't break the bank.

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Share fall treats at a Cider Mill

Yates Cider Mill at 1990 E Avon Rd., Rochester Hills

The Yates river walk skirts around the Clinton River, offering a gorgeous scenic stroll as the leaves turn colorful and crunchy. It's a great place to meander, see baby goats, and eat classic fall treats. The donuts come in plain, powdered and cinnamon sugar - plus, there's cider, fudge, caramel apples, and a grill. And if Yates is a bit of a drive, there are a number of other cider mills scattered across southeast Michigan - each with their own amenities, but all prime for a fall date night.

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Facebook, Brown Iron Brewhouse

Party together at Oktoberfest celebrations

Dakota Inn Rathskeller at 17324 John R St., Detroit

Grab yourself a hardy stein glass, because there are plenty of Oktoberfest festivities throughout the month. Per one suggestion, the Dakota Inn Rathskeller offers polka dancing and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

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Facebook, Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters

Enjoy fall drinks at a cute coffee shop or tea house

Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters at 36 S Main St., Rochester

Would you like to grab a cup of coffee with me? That's usually all it takes for two people to wind up seated in an enclave at a local cafe, getting to know each other and hoping for something to bloom. Coffee shops or tea houses are everywhere, and a warm drink isn't too pricey either.

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Go on a hayride

Three Cedars Farm at 7897 6 Mile Rd., Northville

Imagine a cool, picturesque day getting jostled around on a fun hayride with someone who makes you happy. You can pick some fixings to go into pies, while enjoying the view from atop your hay bale. Rides are $5 per person or $10 for a family/group. Pumpkin prices are based on size.

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Pumpkin carving

At any location you feel comfortable, can safely/legally wield sharp carving tools and are able to make a mess with pumpkins.

Not afraid of a bit of a mess? You can opt for a classic jack-o-lantern with triangle eyes, write a funny message, or if you're a pumpkin picasso, create an intricate design to wow on your date. A pumpkin carving kit is typically less than $4 at the grocery story, or you can make use tools you already have at home - just make sure both you and your partner stay safe.

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Time to tailgate

Where there's a grill and a game.

Gear up, and head over to the game together. It's a great time to eat, drink, and get pumped up as you join forces to cheer a team onto victory. Whether it's a local game or a big league, what more could you ask for on a fall date? Your favorite team, and your favorite person.

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Jason Tester, Flickr Creative Commons

Cuddle up at a Drive-In Theatre

Ford Drive-In at 10400 Ford Rd, Dearborn

It's always a double feature at the Ford Drive-In. Check showtimes to see which two films you can catch with your main squeeze. They sell soup and pizza at concessions, but you can always bring your own snacks. Open seven days a week, the movie lot has five screens and plenty of room. It's $28.50 per car these days, but if you split the cost or make it a double date, the price is cheaper.

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Three words: Couples. Halloween. Costumes.

Wherever the party's at

Whether it's a dress-up event or a costume contest. Regardless of where you are - a bar, a club, a friend's place, couple's costumes can definitely spice up a date night. They range from cute and clever to over-the-top and cringey, but if tapping into your creativity is something you're both up for, have some fun with it. Some get-ups can come cheap at the store, and you can save even more if you're crafty.

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Warm up the kitchen with fall recipes

Home sweet home

Look up some recipes, go classic or try something new. Either way, stay-in for the night and prepare a fall feast. There's so much two can do: something as American as apple pie, hearty comfort foods like an autumnal pot roast, make your own pumpkin spice lattes - you know you want to. With no admission fee, simple recipes and some smart shopping, this is a can-do economical experience.

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Bike the Dequindre Cut

Dequindre Cut Greenway, Detroit

Grab your bikes, race each other down the Dequindre Cut, and enjoy the artwork along the pathway. It's a great way to keep fit, explore the city and enjoy the brisk autumnal air. Cute date selfie optional, but encouraged. It's free!

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Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts

5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit

Wander around a cavernous institute dedicated to showcasing masterful works of art with someone special to escape the chill of a crisp fall day. Surrounded by so many intricate pieces, it'll be easy to come up with things to talk about. Whether you're ogling at a gorgeous landscape, theorizing about the meaning of things, coming up with your own backstories for the portraits/statues or just enjoying getting lost in such a beautiful museum together. Free admission for Macomb, Oakland and Wayne County residents.

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Marvel at sugar skulls during Dia de Los Muertos

Lorenzo Cultural Center at 44575 Garfield Rd., Clinton Township

Every year the Lorenzo Cultural Center hosts a lively and festive Day of the Dead Celebration, co-sponsored by the Mexican Consulate in Detroit. Pairs can peruse vibrant photographic exhibits, traditional ofrenda (altars), see presentations and partake in workshops. Free admission.

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Fall in love over a glass of wine

Where there's a will, there's a way.

Ticket prices to wine dinners, tastings. and vineyard tours can be pretty pricey. Another option is to get innovative, and make your own mulled wine with your loved one. Recipes usually call for apple cider, a bottle of red wine, honey, an orange, and spices.

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Steve Neavling

Self-guided Detroit street art tour

Various Detroit locations

This one requires a bit of imagination, GPS skills, and a sense of adventure. Hop in the car and cruise Detroit to take in some world-class art. From murals in Eastern Market to quirky neighborhood installations like the Heidelberg Project, nearly every Detroit neighborhood has an art story to tell. Crank up the A/C in your Hyundai, put on some tunes, and take in the sights from a safe distance. Also, did someone say a cheap date idea? This is a perfect one for the art lover lovers

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Cody Ross, Detroit Stock City

Give back and spend a date volunteering together

Search for some organizations you admire or causes you believe in.

Are you and your date both passionate and philanthropic? Plan ahead and connect with an organization or group that is working to make a positive difference. As the fall weather begins to shift towards chilly, with winter on the horizon, there are populations within every community that could use support or assistance. Whether it’s spending some time at a food pantry or shelter, reading to young kids or even putting together blessing bags for the homeless. With this option, you can spend a day giving back - instead of spending any money.

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