Dating on a Dime: 10 Ideas for Date Night on a Budget in Greater Grand Forks!

Hello again all!

I hope you enjoyed my previous article. I wanted to share with you some great things to do and great places to eat, that don’t break the bank! I am not a cheap person by any means but do enjoy the mix of a good meal and/or great time, at the same time! My wife and I make it a priority to go on a date night at least once a week. While we may frequent one place more than others, we do like to mix it up and enjoy some planned spontaneity!

Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy dinner, an artistic experience, or an adventurous activity, Grand Forks offers a variety of affordable date night options to suit your interests. There are even more things/places than what I will be sharing, if you have any questions feel free to reach out!

Meal deal at Joe Blacks! Pitcher of bear with appetizers galore!

Date Night on a Budget in Grand Forks: A Local Bite

The Broken Drum Bar & Grill
This laid-back spot offers hearty meals like meatballs with mashed potatoes and steak sandwiches, often under $10. It’s a local favorite for comfort food in a casual setting.

Rhombus Guys Pizza
Known for its creative pizzas and lively atmosphere, Rhombus Guys offers a fun dining experience without breaking the bank

Original Red Pepper (my wifes personal favorite)
A Grand Forks institution since 1961, famous for its taco grinders, tostadas, and late-night eats. It’s a favorite among locals and students alike

Speedway 805 Grill & Bar
Known for generous portions and daily specials, such as all-you-can-eat ribs on Thursdays. They also offer happy hour deals and a variety of burgers and sandwiches.

Bonzer’s Sandwich Pub

Known for its Schooners and filling sandwiches, you cannot go wrong with another local gem! My wife and I will split a full sandwich and be more than full enough!

Burger Time’s pricing is always within reason if you want a hearty burger with some great fries! They have more than just burgers too! They feature daily specials throughout the week!

Joe Blacks, located in the heart of downtown, has some of the best shareables you can possibly imagine. My wife and I frequent there often during their half off apps deals and also their half off taps during their steak specials!

Date Night on a Budget in Grand Forks: Inkredible Art Spots

Not hungry? You want to just explore the local scene before dinner? I got you!

The North Dakota Museum of Art has a variety of contemporary art exhibitions in a relaxed setting. Admission is FREE, making it a perfect sport for art lovers on a budget.

The Empire Arts Centerhas regular local theatre productions and plays. Check them our for your next theatre experience! You can also go a block away to the Fire Hall Theatre to catch a community theatre production for an affordable entertaining evening.

Mark your calendars for every Saturday starting on June 14th for the Town Square Farmer’s market. A great place to get your local fix on goodies!

Author Bru and friend pose with their scratch offs on a night out

Date Night on a Budget in Grand Forks: Fresh Air for Date Night!

In the warmer months, you have to check out The Greenway!

Take a walk or bike ride along the Red River. With trails, parks, and scenic views, it’s a peaceful way to enjoy each other’s company.

Want to go beyond Grand forks just a bit? Check out Larimore Dam!

The dam’s reservoir offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking/paddleboarding, with a  ramp available for easy access.​ A sandy beach area provides a spot for swimming during warmer months and is a great place to take your kids!

Outdoor and nature enthusiasts can explore hiking and biking trails that can burn off some calories! In the winter, it is a great spot for some ice fishing, if you don’t want to drive that far away from home

Appetizers photo with an array of plates on display!

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, a quick burger, or a note-worthy evening with live music, Grand Forks has plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from.

While this is only just a few of the great local places, most, if not all places have regular deals throughout the week and great happy hour specials. Try out some darts, play one of the machines or test your luck on some pull tabs from all the money you have saved from your local deals! Embrace the Greater Grand Forks area and you will always feel FULL-filled 😊

Hope to see you out there!

Couple riding bikes in Grand Forks, ND

Break Up With Boring Dates!

Check Out This Grand Forks Cooler Dating Article!

Same old, same old? Well, not anymore!

Author Bru poses in a suit for his What's Cooler Today headshot!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hi! I’m Brendan Brustad (BRU). Originally from New York, but Grand Forks is my home! I never would have thought that when I got stationed here 10 years ago, I would retire here! I fell in love with Grand Forks and literally fell in love here! I am currently the Operations Manager at the Grand Forks EDC and couldn’t ask for a better job post military retirement.

Outside of work you will likely see me and my wife and kids out at one of many Grand Forks establishments or at a concert or event! If Grand Forks is doing it, we try to be there!

I am looking forward to sharing some great times and experiences here with you all. Feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any questions! Grand Forks truly is way cooler than you think!

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