With the shape the economy is people looking to be entertained but at a lower cost. Here are some cheap, but fun ideas that you and your friends can do to have an entertaining night at a low cost:

1. Bowling- Yes, I said bowling!! One game of bowling and two pair shoe rental averages just $10 depending on where you live!! This is a cheap way of getting your friends together and getting out of the house. For bowling alleys near you click here

2. Karaoke Bar/Live Bands- Who says you need to go to a concert to enjoy a live performance? There are plenty of bars in the St. Louis Area that have live bands and karaoke. This can be a fun and entertaining night if you watch your wallet. For great places for live music in the St. Louis area click here

3. Nintendo Wii- Why not just stay in and play the Nintendo Wii with your friends? Heck, there are plenty cases of cheap beer at your local liquor store in St. Louis. Have some drinks and laughs and rack up some good memories playing Wii Sports! Just remember to strap that Wii controller to your wrist so you don’t throw the controller through your TV set!!

4. Card Games- Euchre and , Spades were games that I loved to play in college and still play today. Again, another cheap case of beer and a deck of cards and you will be laughing and having a great time. Also you can come up with great drinking game with a deck of cards. To view a list of drinking games that you can play with a deck of card, click here Please be responsible!!!

5. For the clubbers- If you still want to go out to the bar because you have that itch to go, find a bar that is walking distance or not to far of a driving distance from you. Drink at your place and then get a cab or walk to that bar. This should help cut your bar tab in half for sure which could be a cost effective night. This also a responsible solution to drinking and driving as well!!

Do you have any recession proof entertainment ideas?