Frugal Valentine's Day date ideas that won't seem cheap

So you want to impress your date without breaking the bank? With just a little thinking outside the box, you can pull off a mighty fine affair on the cheap. We're pretty certain that if you pick one of these affordable ideas below and tie your scarf right, your date will never miss a spoonful of lobster bisque.

Visit a garden even if it's cold out

There's something heart-swelling about strolling hand-in-hand through nature even if it's indoors! Most major cities have a botanical garden. While entrance may not be free, admission will definitely run you less than dinner and a movie. Here are ideas for beautiful gardens to visit in Victoria, Kelowna, Edmonton, and Toronto.

Hike to a place with a view

If you're not in a major city (or even if you are), chances are there are special spots where you and your love can be alone, admire mother nature, and get in a promising workout. Pick any destination with a pretty path, and ideally a horizon to gaze out over together. You can't put a price tag on the exhilaration a different perspective delivers, but we'll still point out that this idea is free.

Go to a fitness class together

If that hike is not your thing, this idea just might be. Did you read our article on how hard workouts lead to better sex? Now that we have your attention, consider signing up for a free trial class pass, at a place where you can both shed stress and have fun. Circus or axe-throwing are both excellent options. Laugh at yourself. Confidence and a sense of humour are attractive.

Visit a museum or art gallery

Many cultural institutions offer student rates and reduced or free admission on designated days. Read up on the exhibits beforehand to show off your wild appreciation for the arts and finish your date at the coffee bar.

Organize a scavenger hunt

Either plan your own or take advantage of a site like Bigcityhunt, where tickets go on sale for self-guided hunts in larger cities like Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto. Or write the clues yourself, taking inspiration from sites like Scavenger Hunt Fun, and make the end prize fresh-baked treats like chocolate chip cookies, bread, cookie-crumble layered mousse, or this impressive croquembouche donut hole tower.

Cook dinner together

What's more romantic or suggestive than playing house?? Grocery shop as a couple and attempt a hands-on project like dumplings or cabbage rolls. And if your date's beauty distracts you and your dish flops, check out these tips for rescuing it. We've got your back.

Try a hole-in-the-wall restaurant

Prefer a sit-down, dinner date out? Skip the stuffy experience and book a table at that hidden gem you've been meaning to try. Show you have a sense of adventure by picking a place the two of you have never been or trying a cuisine you've never tasted. What some spots lack in atmosphere, they more than make up for in experience. Aside from likely being affordable, under-the-radar spots may have bottles of wine that are cheaper too. Plus, in a year, you may have found that you started a romantic tradition by picking "your spot".

Take a boat ride

If you're lucky enough to live near the water, taking your lover out onto it is an ideal option. Remember that scene from the Titanic? Rent a double kayak or hop on the ferry for a roundtrip ride. NB: Make sure your companion doesn't suffer from aquaphobia first.

Learn a new skill together

Aside from the fun of taking a recreational class together, you might even be creating a shared hobby. There are lessons for making almost anything on the internet. Crack a bottle of wine and weave up some friendship bracelets or knotted pillows. We've got loads of ideas for the cynical crafter too. And don't be hard on yourself, it's the fun, not the end project that counts.

Curl up around a campfire

Winter fires are especially dreamy. If youlive within access (or driving distance) to a spot with designated firepits, this is the ultimate date night. Head out with your firestarting supplies, camping chairs, marshmallows, a cosy blanket and spiked hot chocolate.

As you can see from these ideas, a little creativity goes a long way when it comes to affordable date nights. We bet these will lead to the most memorable date nights too.

Jessica Brooks is a digital producer, trained chef and DIY investor.