Six Creative Date Night Tips

The couples who play together stay together! Gay relationships these days involve more than just having fun under the sheets, so date night is key to maintaining that spark and increasing excitement in and out of the bedroom.

Sure, who wouldn't want to take an exotic Mediterranean cruise, splurge on a staycation at the Four Seasons or first class it to Prague for a week?

Unfortunately, most of us don't live that fabulous lifestyle-even though some of us like to think we do! It also doesn't mean you have to do fall into the monotonous pattern of drinks, dinner and a movie. For the couples out there who are looking for creative (and inexpensive) date ideas, we have put together a list of activities to make playing together the highlight of your week.

1) Experiment in the Kitchen
Romantic dinners at your favorite restaurant are a popular go-to plan for date night, but weekly outings can add up. Instead of going out, enjoy one on one time with your hunnie at home and whip up a new, delicious recipe in the kitchen. With thousands of cookbooks to choose from, challenge yourself with ingredients or spices you've never used. Enjoy a glass of wine-or a bottle-and jam to your favorite playlist. You don't even have to get dressed up-hell, you don't have to wear anything at all! We recommend wearing at least an apron to protect yourself in case you are using any hot oils. Ouch!

2) Express Yourself
We all have an artistic side! Maybe you have a talent that you've yet to discover? From painting and cooking to pottery and poetry, many studios offer affordable classes that cater to gay couples. This is a fantastic opportunity to get to know your partner and let your guard down. Revealing one's self artistically takes guts. Open yourself up emotionally and show him what you're made of. You might even have a gorgeous new painting to place above the mantle.

3) Play With Toys
You remember the excitement of running into a store to pick out a new toy-it was exhilarating! Even though we've outgrown the sandbox, shopping for toys can be just as pleasurable as an adult. Take your man to an adult toy store and let him have his pick from the variety of novelties. You can spend hours browsing, laughing and exchanging fantasies, or you can rush home to start playing with your new toy. Either way, don't be afraid to get dirty and show your wild side.

4) Outdoor Action
Take your boyfriend hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, biking or camping. For the couples out there who pride themselves on staying physically fit, many of these activities provide a great workout, release endorphins and keep your blood pumping. We all remember how hot and bothered Jake and Heath were in Brokeback Mountain! Make sure to stay hydrated.

5) Go With the Flow
If making plans ahead of time is challenging, try to do something spontaneous. Take an impromptu road trip with no destination in mind, get those tattoos you keep putting off (no names!) or pack a lunch and picnic in a random spot. Be sure to capture your adventure with plenty of selfies! You'll want to look back on those photos one day and ask, "What were we thinking?"

6) Feel Him Up
A couple's massage at any spa can cost upwards of $100, so save that visit for a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary. For weekly pampering, treat yourselves to a spa day at home. Who knows your body better than your man? Light some aroma therapy candles, take a hot bath and exchange massages. Loosening those muscles with hot oils or lotions is just downright relaxing. Don't forget the facials!