By Julia DeFoe, Feb. 13, 2024
The typical Valentine’s date just isn’t practical for college students on a tight budget. Keeping students in mind, The Poly Post curated a list of date ideas within a 10-mile radius to campus, varying in affordability to ensure students can find something that works for them and their wallet.
$$$ Round1 Bowling & Amusement | 1600 S Azusa Ave #285, City of Industry, CA 917468
Round1 Bowling & Amusement center is a versatile spot to grab some food and drinks, kick back with good company and compete in thrilling games. Popular group hangout spot, Round1 is in the Puente Hills Mall in the city of Industry.
Guests are bound to find an enjoyable activity that fits their company, as this location offers arcade games, karaoke, bowling, ping-pong, billiards, as well as an indoor sports complex.
It is recommended that you visit its online booking platform on Round1’s website in order to book prior to arrival.
$$$ Color Me Mine | 483 N Citrus Ave, Covina, CA 91723
Color Me Mine presents the “Color Me Valentine Paint Date” this Feb.14 branch wide.
West Covina Color Me Mine is managed by Cal Poly Pomona alum, Brian Clodt, who shared that it is a popular spot for university students looking to try out something new and channel their creativity.
For $50, the event includes supplies needed for two as well as a Valentine’s Day gift box that contains candles, hand painted coasters, a box of candies as well as two studio passes for future use. Pottery pieces are purchased in addition.
“It’s a two-hour (reservation) time, and you get to keep the piece too, so you can always remember that time,” said Clodt.
However, for those who may not be able to snag a reservation or are looking to keep costs down, Color Me Mine is always offering its $9 studio fee (per person) selection. All pottery pieces are purchased in addition.
$$ Cat Cafe Rescue | 14850 Pipeline Ave, Chino Hills, CA 91709
For the animal lovers out there, the non-profit Cat Cafe Rescue in Chino Hills is a spot where students can get their coffee and cat fix at the same time.
All the cats (besides the owner’s sphynxes) are actively looking for their forever home after being surrendered to the rescue. Maegan Forshey, an intern at the cat cafe shared the owner, Rossana Mitchell, is glad her passion for animals has become something that everyone can enjoy. Forshey is inspired to open her own cat cafe one day.
“She’s just always wanted to help animals and that’s her main concern right now,” said Forshey. “If we could, we’d have more but space is limited.”
Cost is $20 per adult, and that provides 45 minutes of social time with the cats. Coffee can be purchased for an additional price.
FREE – $ Sycamore Canyon Park Trail | Diamond Bar, CA 91765
For those looking to get out and keep costs low, the Diamond Bar trails are a go-to spot. The Sycamore Canyon Park trail is in the Grand/Golden Springs neighborhood, only about 15 minutes from campus.
This trail is a popular hiking spot showcasing breathtaking views of the city as well as the wildlife in the area. There are many viewpoints along the walk, featuring a canyon setting and waterfall.
The out-and-back trail is a little over a mile in length, allowing for a peaceful adventure while still working the daily steps in. Nearby are some cafe spots such as The Grid coffee and Bageloo to bring along and enjoy a picnic as well.
FREE ASI Valentine’s Day Gala | 3801 W Temple Ave, Pomona, CA 91768
CPP’s Associated Students, Inc. is hosting a Valentine’s Day Gala Feb. 16, intended to be shared with a date, friends or solo.
There will be plenty to enjoy as ASI lined up a live band, Valentine’s inspired DIY activities, specialty hors d’oeuvres, drinks, a caricature artist, as well as a flower vendor selling personalized bouquets.
Janine Cabral, ASI Beat member and event lead, shared the mission behind this year’s gala.
“We wanted to promote different types of love, not just romantic love,” said Cabral. “Valentine’s Day is about love in general.”.
The event is free and open to all CPP students and their non-CPP guests. ASI encourages formal attire, but it is not mandatory. For more information visit the ASI portal.
Feature image courtesy of Becca Tapert
