Cuffing season is here, and I know you’re running out of date night ideas. Never fret, your dating godmother is here!

I know, I know, going to the movies sounds like a go-to date night that you think anyone will enjoy — but you’re wrong. From the price of tickets and candy to not even talking to your date, this cliche is just a rookie mistake. Actually get to know your date while having fun during these creative yet easy dates.

Mid-Week Brunch

If there is one thing Manhattan has, it’s a place for brunch. You aren’t limited to the weekend; many popular spots are still open during the week. The Chef is a classic in Manhattan with hours every day and the best prices. Find an elevated retro feel with Full Circle, the latest spot in MHK. 

Now add the element of surprise and make the most of your next canceled lecture by splitting a plate of pancakes with that special someone. 

Pizza

While a little basic, this date gives you a lot of flexibility and opportunity to get to know your date a little better. AJ’s NY Pizzeria makes for the ideal spot with custom slices and student-friendly pricing. Feel free to take this date night out to a date night in with your favorite take-out pie.

Bowling Night

Learn about your partner’s competitive side, going head-to-head to see who’s better at bowling. With drinks, snacks and good company, this is a date that can go on for hours. 

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or finally making things official, at some point you’ll need to step up your game. Here are the spots in town that are worth spending an extra buck — and how much it will set you back.

Wine Dive ($75+)

A classic date night that can be as extravagant as you make it. Wine Dive is the spot to give your date what I like to call “the reservation experience.”

First, know when they are free. Now, schedule a reservation either online or over the phone. Tell your date when you’re picking them up and that you’re taking them somewhere nice. You’re giving your date an experience they didn’t have to plan, enjoying mind-blowing food and craft cocktails. 

Nico’s Little Italy ($40+)

The coziest dinner on the town, with great comfort food and an atmosphere that feels intimate enough to open up, this spot is the friendlier option on your pockets while still providing that romantic feel. 

Rounding out a nice date is all about the little things; they add to the experience. Do not, I repeat, do not wait for them in your car. Put your best foot forward by picking them up from their front door (and gain a few bonus points by opening the car door too). Put the cherry on top of your date sundae with their favorite flowers or a basket of their favorite sweet treats. 

Now, I hear you — we’re all college students and usually broke. Try out these inexpensive date nights that still show your special someone you care without telling your bank account you don’t.

Ice Cream

Pull off the easiest date night with ice cream. You can keep it casual and make a late-night run to a local ice cream spot, or be even sweeter by picking up each other’s favorite pint, staying cozy together and connecting over conversation. 

Once upon a time, someone used to keep my favorite Ben and Jerry’s in their freezer for when I had a bad day. Now we live together with our cat.

Movie Night

If there’s one thing I know you have access to, it’s a streaming subscription. I know I dogged on a movie theater date earlier, but movie night at home is an entirely different experience. For one, snacks are not movie theater prices. You also have the opportunity to talk to your date instead of nervously sitting next to each other for two hours.

Go the extra mile with popcorn flavoring and their favorite candy, letting your date pick out the movie while you put together an array of the perfect movie snacks.

Cook for Them

Getting down and dirty in the kitchen is as expensive as you make it, so you can tailor this date night to your budget. Go with something you know how to make, and do not use this as an opportunity to try a new recipe. Unless you’re a real pro in the kitchen, something will go wrong and derail your evening.

At the end of the day, the best date is something that you both connect over, whether it’s food or an activity you both are passionate about. Date nights are about making connections and time for one another amid your busy schedules. 

Time to take my wisdom and finally impress your situationship enough to get cuffed this season. I’m kidding! Mostly.