Rexburg, Idaho, is a great spot for college students looking for fun, affordable, and creative date ideas. With its small-town charm, proximity to nature, and the influence of BYU-Idaho, there are plenty of options to suit different interests and budgets—especially important for students! Here’s a list of date ideas tailored for college students in Rexburg:
Outdoor Adventures
- Hike R Mountain
A short, easy hike near campus with a big white “R” on the side. Pack a snack, enjoy the views, and maybe catch a sunset. It’s free and perfect for a casual, active date. - Stargazing
Rexburg’s low light pollution makes it ideal for stargazing. Drive 10-15 minutes out of town, bring a blanket, and use a free constellation app to impress your date. Bonus points if you spot a shooting star! - Picnic at Porter Park
Grab some sandwiches or snacks from home and head to this local park. It’s got open spaces, a carousel (seasonal), and a chill vibe—free and low-key. - Explore the St. Anthony Sand Dunes
About 20 minutes from Rexburg, the dunes are great for a group or solo date. Bring cardboard for sand-sledding (or snow sleds in winter) and finish with hot chocolate from a thermos. - Visit Mesa Falls
A 45-minute drive, but worth it for the stunning waterfall views. Pack a lunch and walk the trails. It’s a bit of a trek, so it’s perfect for a weekend date.
Campus and Budget-Friendly Options
- BYU-Idaho Planetarium Show
Every Thursday at 7 PM (except August), the campus planetarium offers $2 shows. It’s a cheap, cozy way to explore the stars indoors—ideal for space nerds. - Attend a BYU-I Event
Check the university’s event calendar for free or low-cost options like comedy shows, concerts, or art exhibits. Your student ID often gets you in for free or discounted rates. - Rollerskating at the MC
BYU-Idaho hosts rollerskating in the Grand Ballroom (Monday, Saturday, and some Thursdays) for $2 with an I-Card. It’s 90 minutes of fun with a DJ—great for a lively night.
Indoor Fun
- Bowling at Fat Cats
Affordable bowling, arcade games, and mini-golf under one roof. Go early for $2 games (before 5 PM at the campus Strike Zone) or hit Fat Cats for a classic date-night vibe. - Escape Room at Rexburg Re-Escape
Test your teamwork with an escape room. It’s a bit pricier (around $20/person), but splitting it with a group keeps costs down and makes it a blast. - Bake Together
Skip the pricey dinner and make cookies or a cheap meal at your place. Blindfold one person for a fun twist—think cookie dough chaos and laughs.
These ideas lean into Rexburg’s strengths—outdoor beauty, student-friendly resources, and affordability. Whether you’re into nature, campus vibes, or something quirky, there’s plenty to do without breaking the bank. Got a specific vibe in mind? Let me know, and I can tailor it further!
