Three cheap, fun date night ideas in Austin for under $50

Austin, the dog days are upon us, and navigating the labyrinth of summer love – and more importantly, your budget – is practically an art form. But who says you need to break the bank to find that special spark? This August, we're diving back into our Dating on a Dime series, your guide to how to thrive in Austin's date scene without emptying your wallet. After all, a girl needs options, even if she's secretly hoping for a fairy tale ending with a prince (or at least a man who knows how to properly load a dishwasher).

From nostalgic speakeasies downtown to mini golf and local sweet spots, we're serving up date ideas that hit all the right notes – and keep your budget firmly in the sweet spot of $15 to $50.

$15: Zilker Summer Musical and Sandy's Hamburgers

Broadway magic under the stars? Nope, it’s the free Zilker Summer Musical. Through August 16, you can experience "Bring It On: The Musical."

Imagine yourself nestled on the hillside as the cast brings this story of competitive cheerleading to life. You tap your toes and exchange knowing glances about the drama unfolding onstage. It’s a truly communal and utterly charming experience that won't cost you a single dime for admission.

Because no perfect date is complete without a sweet finish, just a short, wistful drive away lies an Austin institution: Sandy's Old Fashioned Hamburgers. Stepping up to Sandy's is like a step back in time — it's a quintessential, no-frills roadside stand that's been serving up simple joys since 1946. You'll order up your cones – maybe a classic vanilla, or perhaps a swirl of chocolate – and savor the creamy, dreamy goodness under the glow of their retro neon sign.

Sandy's: 603 Barton Springs Rd. (512) 478-6322. sandysaustin.com.

Zilker Hillside Theater: 2206 William Barton Dr. (512) 479-9491. zilker.org.

$35: B.Y.O.B. Peter Pan Mini Golf

For those days when you're craving a dose of playful nostalgia and a dash of friendly competition, I propose Peter Pan Mini-Golf. You'll grab your putters, choose your colored balls, and embark on a miniature golf adventure. You'll laugh, you'll strategize and maybe even discover a competitive streak in your date. It's a good setting for lighthearted banter and showing off your charming, if not always accurate, golf swing. Playing 18 holes will cost you $10 per person.

And because even the most enchanting adventures require a little refreshment, just down the road you'll find The Austinite Market. Before your mini-golf triumph (or endearing defeat!), swing by to grab some cold drinks (Peter Pan is B.Y.O.B). Just remember, no glass is allowed.

The Austinite Market: 1017 Barton Springs Rd. (512) 474-4866. austinitemarket.com.

Peter Pan Mini-Golf: 1207 Barton Springs Rd. (512) 472-1033. peterpanminigolf.com.

$50: Video store speakeasy and Jones Center

Picture this: It's a Wednesday or Thursday evening and you and your date stroll hand in hand to The Contemporary Austin at The Jones Center. It's free on these magical weeknights. You'll wander through the galleries, debate the meaning of pieces, perhaps even giggle softly at an abstract piece that looks suspiciously like your ex's artistic efforts. It's chic, it's thought-provoking, and it sets a wonderfully sophisticated tone without costing a dime.

Once your minds are sufficiently expanded, it's time for a little nostalgic indulgence. Just a walk away, you'll discover the Back 2 the Video Store: A 90s Speakeasy Bar at Wanderlust Wine Co. You'll pay your $19.54 (tickets available online at bucketlisters.com) per person to step into this retro wonderland, and that price includes your first film-themed cocktail or mocktail. As you sip your drinks, you start chatting about your favorite films from the era. You might even find yourselves planning a future movie night.

Back 2 the Video Store: A 90s Speakeasy Bar: 610 N. Interstate Hwy 35. instagram.com/backtovideostore.

The Contemporary - Jones Center: 700 Congress Ave. (512) 453-5312. thecontemporaryaustin.org/jonescenter/.