We go out probably 3 nights a week (out to dinner, a walk, friends place etc) but DS is 17 months and generally doesn't go to bed until about 9pm even if we are home so he is happy to be out and about. Although there is no way we were going out when he was little, I think its just too hard with settling in a different place etc.
Just do whatever you feel comfortable with, your baby, your rules!