Sports/Games

Disc Golfing in Sedgley Woods Park

Disc Golfing in Sedgley Woods Park

I admit that I was a little hesitant at first (ok, resistant may be more accurate) to the idea of trying “disc golf,” “frisbee golf,” (or “FROLF” as my date likes to call it).  But after a few hours spent flinging discs, tramping through the woods, and feigning a competitive edge, I was sold.  This game is really fun!  And being that it’s totally free to play, it’s also a cheap date!  In fact, the Sedgley Woods disc golf course is actually one of the oldest free, public pole-hole disc golf courses in the United States.  A more detailed history of the sport here in Philadelphia can be found here. Disc golf also has the benefit of being an outdoor sport that takes place mostly under the cover of trees — a definite advantage for hot summer afternoons.  And much like standard golf, you can go at your own...

Read more »

Let’s Go to PEP Bowl!

Let’s Go to PEP Bowl!

    The bowling date is a classic, and one of my personal favorites. While not generally recommended for a first date (it can be a bit stilted trying to get to know someone in alternating 30 second increments while the pins reset) it is great for a group date, or for couples who enjoy a little friendly competition every now and again. “Social bowling” has experienced a resurgence in popularity recently, giving rise to slick and cavernous enterprises which seem to cater to large parties or corporate events, complete with fancy finger food, flashing lights, and frenetic music. That’s fine, but for a date it can be a little overwhelming, not to mention expensive. That’s why I was so thrilled to discover PEP Bowl at 1200 Broad street in South Philly. Small and laid-back, this six-lane establishment opened in 2009, but dates back to the 1950′s and maintains a...

Read more »

Golf at Franklin Square and Walk on Franklin Bridge

Golf at Franklin Square and Walk on Franklin Bridge

Since its renovation in 2006, Franklin Square Park has been transformed into a vibrant amusement park, complete with a carousel, two playgrounds, the impressive and historic Franklin Square Fountain, and the perfect Cheap Date diversion: an 18-hole miniature golf course designed around iconic Philadelphia landmarks like Love Park and the Liberty Bell. After battling it out on the green, my date and I cooled off by getting frosty treats from Square Burger, the park’s freestanding snack stand, and taking them on a stroll (part-way) across the breezy and beautiful Benjamin Franklin Bridge. How cheap we talkin’: $8 for a round of golf ($7 if you have a Septa pass!)$3.50-$4.75 for a rootbeer float or shake from Square Burger. Why this will impress your date: By showing that you can be a gracious winner. Or loser. Score extra points: By offering to be the one to keep score. (Do not literally score extra points by cheating). The...

Read more »

Tuesday Night Baseball & Pizza at the Piazza

Tuesday Night Baseball & Pizza at the Piazza

  Every Tuesday evening throughout the summer (or as long as the season lasts) the folks down at the Piazza in Northern Liberties throw the big game up on the big screen.  Whether you are a huge Phillies fan (because you live in Philadelphia and therefore pretty much have to be), or are feigning interest (because you didn’t always live in Philadelphia but it’s too early in the relationship to quibble about sports), this weekly event – when coupled with some take-out slices from nearby Pizza Rustica – is a downright pleasant way to spend a summer evening. How cheap we talkin’: $5-10 pp (depending on how hungry/thirsty you are).  Figure $3 or less per slice for pizza, and $2, give or take, for beverages.  Optional post-pizza treat, about $2. Why this will impress your date: Because baseball is America’s pastime, dammit. The Inside Game: Avoid your dinner getting cold by getting drinks...

Read more »