Looking for a date idea in Providence that won't break the bank? Try one of these.

There are a lot of options if you're trying to plan a date in Providence.

The city offers romantic restaurants, sports games, classy cocktail bars, theaters, museums and even gondola rides in the summer.

But some of that can get just a little bit pricey.

A good date, though, doesn't have to be expensive. In a city this big, there are plenty of low-cost options that promise the right setting for a potentially good date. (You'll have to actually do the talking and listening to make sure it is a good date.)

Whether it’s with someone you know well or someone you’re just meeting, here are seven ideas for a memorable date that will still cost less than $50.

If you’re looking for something playful

If you’re competitive or loved arcade games as a kid, check out Free Play Bar, 182 Pine St., Providence.

For a $10 cover on Fridays and Saturdays and $7 any other weekday you get, as the name suggests, unlimited play on all the games — and there are a lot of games. Pick from the wall of pinball machines, challenge each other at a classic like Skee-Ball or air hockey, or play one of the dozens of arcade games. Don’t worry about using those quarters you're saving for laundry. Go wild.

As for what to do with the $30 left in the budget, it’s also a bar, so pick up a couple of drinks to toast the occasion.

More: Interactive time-travel game makes RI its first US location

Play indoors: 20 fun things to do in Rhode Island this winter when you don't want to go outside

If you’re looking to woo a foodie

Reminder: Really good food does not have to be expensive. And, in fact, this year two Providence restaurants that won’t break the bank were nominated for James Beard Awards. How cool will you look dropping that fact on your date?

For a fun dinner choice, go with Pizza Marvin, 468 Wickenden St., Providence. They have pizza options ranging from House Cheese to Chowdah Pie for between $20 and $26. Split a pizza, and enjoy.

Bon appetit: 10 ways to enjoy the taste of France in Rhode Island

More: 3 Rhode Island chefs nominated for James Beard Award. Here's what they're cooking

If you want to do something classic

In the category of classic dates, there is nothing quite like a movie, and if you want to make it dazzling take them to the Avon Cinema, 260 Thayer St., Providence. The film you pick isn't necessarily the point of this date. A large part of what you’re experiencing is the building itself — a 1938 art deco marvel with a marquee that will take you back in time. General admission is $12.

If you really love to laugh together

If comedy is kind of your thing, get tickets to one of the shows at Comedy Connection, 36 Warren Ave., East Providence. They host comedians from all over, some who are well-known and some who are up-and-coming. Ticket prices vary, but a lot of shows are $20, and some are less. For this date, we highly recommend getting a ticket in advance from their website.

If you love to be outside

Go for a walking date. Seriously, walking and talking is a great simple date. Add a hot drink and you’re golden. Try the Providence River Walk if you’re looking for something in the city. It’s 2.4 miles, with great views of the city, making the city itself an easy conversation topic if you get stuck. It’s dog-friendly if you want to bring your pup with you. And there are plenty of places along the River Walk to hop off and get that hot drink.

Up for a hike? These 10 Rhode Island trails should be on your bucket list

If you’re trying to impress a book lover

This is a daytime date, given the hours, but the Providence Athenæum, 251 Benefit St., Providence, is a book lovers' dream. Older than the public library system itself, the member-based library has been acquiring books since 1836. As a result, they have a robust rare book collection. Spend the day talking about your favorite books or book-related memories while wandering through the stacks. There’s a suggested donation of $5 for non-member entry.

Shop local: 5 great independent bookstores in RI worth a visit

If you're looking for something for an art lover

The RISD Museum is the classic choice (and free on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays and Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m.), but if you want to do something a little more unexpected, consider visiting the galleries of the Providence Art Club. The club has three galleries, open Sundays through Fridays from noon to 4 p.m., where they exhibit primarily the work of the local artist in the club. It's a great way to get a taste of the current art scene in the city, and it's free to the public.

This story was updated January 2024.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Providence dates: 7 cheap but great date ideas for under $50