All you need to play Frisbee is a flying disc and some open space, which makes it one of the cheapest outings around. A park lawn, a beach or an empty school field all work. Frisbee is a brand name, but people use it for any flying disc. A basic backhand throw, held flat and released with a snap of the wrist, is easy to learn, and once catch feels natural there's a whole sport waiting.

Disc golf is the most popular next step. Players throw smaller, heavier discs from a tee toward a metal basket and count their throws, just like golf. Courses are often in public parks, and many are free to play. Ultimate is the team version: two sides pass the disc down a field to score in an end zone, with no running while holding it. It's played everywhere from casual pickup games to organized leagues.

The Date Activity

A Frisbee date is relaxed and active, with plenty of room to laugh at bad throws. Keep a disc in the car for any outdoor date, from an afternoon at the beach to a picnic in the park, and break it out when you both feel like moving. A light-up disc keeps a summer evening game going after dark.

Disc golf makes a great second or third date. A round is a long, easy walk, often through wooded parkland, with a gentle bit of competition built in. Beginners need only one or two discs, such as a putter and a midrange, and sporting goods stores sell inexpensive starter sets. Keep score loosely or not at all.

On Your Own / With Friends

A group turns Frisbee into a real game. Ultimate needs only a field, a disc and something to mark the end zones, and it's a serious workout. For a mellower outing, play a round of disc golf together; smaller groups move along faster. Many cities have recreational ultimate leagues for adults that welcome beginners and solo sign-ups, which is a good way to meet people. Disc golf is also easy to play alone, and solo rounds are where your throws really improve.

Good to Know

Bring water, sunscreen and shoes with good grip; cleats help for ultimate on grass. On a disc golf course, wait until the group ahead is out of range, shout "fore" if a throw heads toward anyone, and let faster groups play through. In a busy park, stay clear of picnics, playgrounds and roads. Write your name and phone number on the back of your discs, because lost discs are often returned.