Something that many Pepperdine students do not lack is a little extra cash. However most are lacking a little creativity in the dating department. While it may seem like the only way to impress a crush is by going to an expensive dinner and movie students can take advantage of fun and creative dates all over Malibu and the surrounding Los Angeles area that won’t break one’s buck. Here are a few ways to be a cheap date:
Pasadena Flee MarketIf one is looking for a full day of fun the search can stop here. The Pasadena Flee Market takes place on the second Sunday of every month at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. While it may be a bit of a drive one’s date is bound to fall in love with the thousands of vendors that carry everything from antique jewelry to fresh food. And with an $8 entrance fee one will still be able to treat his date to a churro and frozen lemonade.
“It would be such a great date said junior Caitlin Tallent, who recently visited the flea market. You could wander around for hours and never get bored.”
The Getty VillaThere is one word that describes the Getty Villa: Romantic. With a lunch cafe in one of its gorgeous gardens and a stunning collection of romantic art and architecture it is everything one could ask for in a day-date. Check the monthly calendar online too – garden walks and art workshops are offered adding an interactive touch to one’s date.
“It’s just a nice day said junior Meredith Grant. It gives you a chance to talk and get to know each other in such a beautiful place.”
The Getty Villa is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday to Thursday. Admission is free but parking is $10.
Bike Riding in Venice BeachIt may sound cliche but renting bikes on the famous Venice Beach boardwalk is a guaranteed success. For as little as $5 two beach cruisers can be rented for the afternoon.
“Biking in Venice is like free entertainment said junior Hannah Klodt. When it’s sunny it’s the nicest ride. And you can stop to see street performers and play games on the pier.”
Venice is never short of entertainment – from the mutant athletes at Muscle Beach to eccentric street performers this cheap date will leave one feeling like a million dollars.
And if one is feeling ambitious take a ride from Venice up to the Santa Monica pier – yet another great and cheap date spot.
A PicnicAlumni Park Malibu Pier the beach – Pepperdine is surrounded by perfect picnic spots. A lunch for two at restaurants in Malibu can cost up to $40 but the makings of a great picnic lunch can be purchased at Ralphs for less than $25. A quick bite at Marmalade will soon be forgotten but the extra effort of a beach brunch will surely stand out.
Be Part of a Studio Audience or Go to a Movie ScreeningLos Angeles is famous for its extravagant parties and star-studded red carpets. The really fun part though is what tabloids do not advertise. For shows like “The Price is Right The Tonight Show” and “Dancing with the Stars at least 100 people are needed for a live studio audience per episode. The best part: tickets are free. Take a date to a taping of his or her favorite show in Los Angeles and see the action first-hand. Some shows even allow one to meet the cast afterward.
By registering at www.movie-view.com, free movie screening passes are also available every week. Not only is it a free movie, but also one that has never-before-seen-exclusive and cheap entertainment.