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

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.

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.

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.

Go on a tour of Detroit’s coffee and tea

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.

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.

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.

Play games at the Monroe Street Midway

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Stay home and cook dinner

When all else fails, or if going out is just not your forte, cooking a nice dinner for your date is the best.