Love is in the air!

It’s always a great feeling to make your loved ones feel appreciated. But as a student, it can be difficult to get out and do something with your S/O when prices surge. Businesses know when people want to get out and do something special, so they purposely increase prices around holidays, specifically Valentine’s Day. With that said, this can be avoided! I was able to scout out some date ideas around the city for under $50.

Here are 10 ideas to keep your partner and your wallet happy this V-Day:

 

Visit the St. Lawrence Market

Street view of St. Lawrence Market in Toronto

Shop around the market with your loved one from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. They have plenty of unique vendors and food to test out. You may even find one you’ve never tried before!

 

Breakfast in bed

breakfast in bed on a tray, women pouring milk into coffee,

All this requires is a trip to the grocery store and picking up all your fave breakfast foods. Surprise your loved one with a homemade breakfast in bed together! Pop on that Netflix and have some nice quality time together.

 

Try new food in Kensington Market

Houses in Kensington Market area of Toronto

Kensington Market is known for its diversity in culture, as well as tons of amazing food. Stroll around the market with your partner and check out all the coolest desserts and eats from different cultures.

 

Laugh at the Second City

Smiling audience

The Second City has two different shows on Valentine’s Day! One at 7 p.m. and another at 9 p.m. Check the event calendar for more details and tickets.

 

Take couple photos at the Toronto Lights Festival

Toronto light festival tunnel

Head over to the Distillery District for an artistic evening like no other—for free! Walk through the streets and see artwork curated for warm hearts that will put a smile on your face.

 

Be an artsy couple at the AGO

Art Gallery of Ontario from the outside

Admission to the AGO is only $19.50. From 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. you can stroll through the gallery with your loved one and look at all the artwork you want. Don’t forget to stroll through the gift shop on your way out!

 

Hit up Ripley’s Aquarium at night

Night-time view of Ripleys Aquarium.

Admission to Ripley’s Aquarium after 7 p.m. is reduced to $30.00 a person. This is ever so slightly over-budget, but it’s the perfect opportunity to take your loved one to the aquarium for just a bit cheaper while doing something exciting and romantic.

 

Get crêpes on Queen St. West

close up of two french style crepes.Some ingredients in the background

Café Crêpe can satisfy all those sweet, sweet cravings. Their menu offers an extensive savoury and sweet crêpe selection. It’s the perfect place for a romantic date at a convenient price.

 

Catch a flick at the TIFF Bell Lightbox

street view of TIFF Bell Lightbox.

Feeling like doing something different? TIFF Bell Lightbox has plenty of unique films to choose from on their calendar.

Try new ice-cream flavours at Bang Bang

Colorful scoops ice cream background concept closeup

If you haven’t been to Bang Bang Ice Cream, where have you been!? They have the coolest flavours in the city such as London Fog, Cinnamon Toast, Soybean Walnut, and SO much more. Visit them at 93A Ossington Ave.

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