15 ways to impress your Valentine in Detroit when you’re broke

By Layla McMurtrie on Fri, Jan 26, 2024 at 9:10 am

We’re all struggling financially out here, and then holidays come around to break the bank even more. Valentine’s Day specifically can be a lot of pressure, especially when many high-end restaurants and events are nowhere near affordable for most people. It doesn’t have to be this stressful though, as there are plenty of things to do in and around Detroit that you and your date can enjoy for cheap. Here are some things to do to impress your Valentine this year, even if you’re broke.

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1XRUN / Murals in The Market

Take them to new art exhibits

Amazing art is one thing in Detroit that you can see a lot of for free. This coming month, the Carr Center has a few new exhibits opening to the public. You can also head to the Detroit Institute of Arts (free for residents in the tri-county area) or the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit to see world-class art, or drive around and see all the murals in different parts of the city. If you want to make a full day out of art, you could even do all of it.

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Facebook, California Burgerz

Try an affordable new local restaurant

Over 50 new restaurants opened in metro Detroit in 2023, and there are others where you can have a meal for $10 or less. Whether it’s some burgers or just drinks or a nice dinner, introducing someone to something new always makes for a great experience.

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Instagram, @poetryinthepark_

Attend Poetry in the Park’s Valentine’s Day Open Mic

Every Wednesday, the Jewels of Detroit host Poetry in the Park at Rock Local Entertainment Cafe in Highland Park. Since Valentine’s Day is on a Wednesday this year, the group is making Feb. 14’s event special by adding visual artists and vendors to the mix. Take your date to the event to spit some bars, enjoy the show, or buy some new local artwork. Entry is only $10.

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Viola Klocko

Go on a tour of Detroit’s coffee and tea

If your crush is a coffee addict or a tea lover, they would probably love to try some different cafes in the city that they haven’t been to yet. They may even discover their new favorite drink or spot to work at. If you need some ideas of new places to go, Alba Coffee, Kitab Cafe, CRED Cafe, and Cafe Sous Terre all just opened in the last year.

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Facebook, Planet Ant

See a comedy show

Laughing together always makes for a great date and going to a local comedy show is sure to make that happen. On Feb. 14, Bill Bushart will be at Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle for a Valentine's Stand-up Special. Entry is just $15. Plus, Planet Ant’s weekly Hip-Prov is also happening the night of Valentine’s Day. Entry is $10.

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Instagram, @nextchapterbooksdetroit

Visit bookstores

If you and your lover are bookworms, there are many great spots in the city to check out with affordable options. For four floors of marvels, you can visit Next Chapter Books in Detroit’s Morningside neighborhood for a mix of new and used options in a small welcoming environment.

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Google Maps

Imperial Presents: Everybody Loves Tacos!

From noon-11 p.m. on Valentine’s Day, this Ferndale taco spot is hosting a special event with people’s favorite food and cocktail items from over the years, as well as regular menu options. Entry is free on a first come-first serve basis. Tacos range from $3.75-$5 and the most expensive menu item are the nachos at $11.

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Facebook, Decked Out Detroit

Play games at the Monroe Street Midway

In Downtown Detroit, the Monroe Street Midway offers mini golf, bumper cars, and more that you and your date can play for free or super cheap. Plus, Campus Martius is just a short walk away if you also want to add ice skating to the mix.

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Instagram, @_vamonos__

Kids Valentines Pop-up Market

If your Valentine this year is your kids, take them to this children’s market at Southwest Detroit community space Vamonos. If your child is a budding entrepreneur, they can sell their work at the market. The opportunity was created to give kids a space to boost their self-esteem and sell products for Valentine’s Day, so buy something to support them too. Vamonos is accepting kid vendors until Feb. 5 for the event on Feb. 10 from 1-5 p.m.

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Austin Evans Eighmey

See a movie at the Ford-Wyoming drive-in

For a classic date that has been a metro Detroit tradition since 1950, bring your boo to the drive-in and cuddle up for a movie. The price is $28 per car. If you go on a double date with another couple and split the price, this activity could be even cheaper.

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Facebook, Dequindre Cut

Take a romantic walk

Metro Detroit has a number of great hiking trails, and even when it’s a little chilly outside, taking a hike is a great way to connect with someone.

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Steve Neavling

Go to an arcade bar

As long as you don’t buy too many drinks, hitting a bar that also has games is a fun way to enjoy a date and maybe engage in some lighthearted competition too. There are lots of options in Detroit such as Checker Bar, The Yard, Barcade, and more.

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Shutterstock

Handcraft them a gift

Buying presents from anywhere can be expensive and not always meaningful. Crafting something yourself however, whether it’s just a cute card or a crocheted accessory, will always be impressive.

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Facebook, Joy Thrift

Thrift store date

Shopping at second-hand stores is always a way to have fun and get new clothes at a reasonable price. Go with your date and pick out some fits for each other. See our list of must-visit metro Detroit vintage and thrift stores for some ideas on where to go.

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