Top cheap date ideas in Calgary

You shouldn’t need a bank loan to enjoy a fun, memorable and romantic date.

Life is expensive these days. It’s undeniable. The price of food has gone up, the price of travel has gone up, the price of post-secondary education has gone up…and don’t even get us started on rent and housing prices.

Thankfully, love is free and cheap dates are possible in Calgary if you’re open to the idea of ditching fancy bars and restaurants (and the big bills and mandatory tips that come along with them).

Whether you're in the throes of early romance or keeping the flame alive, here's how you can add a little extra spark to your date nights without emptying your wallet.

1. Stroll Through Prince’s Island Park

Start your date with a romantic stroll through Prince’s Island Park, one of Calgary’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Located in the heart of the city, this park is the perfect escape from the urban hustle. Wander along the scenic pathways, enjoy the views of the Bow River, and if you time it right, catch one of the many free festivals and events that happen throughout the year. Pack a picnic for an added touch of charm — just grab a blanket, some snacks and enjoy a peaceful meal amidst nature.

2. Get Your Game On at Hexagon Board Game Café

If you and your date are game enthusiasts, spend an evening at the Hexagon Board Game Café. For a minimal cover charge, you can choose from hundreds of board games and play for hours. It’s a relaxed way to break the ice and engage in some friendly competition. Pair this with a cup of their delicious coffee or a snack and you've got yourself a perfect casual date.

3. Jump Around at Flying Squirrel in South Calgary

If you're looking to inject some high-energy fun into your date night, look no further than Flying Squirrel in South Calgary. This indoor trampoline park is not just for kids; it offers a ton of activities that adults can enjoy too, from dodgeball courts to foam pits and slacklines. Bouncing around this fun-packed venue is a great way to show off your playful side. Plus, the shared adrenaline rush is sure to bring you closer. The best part? It's an affordable outing that will leave you both with big smiles and maybe even a bit breathless (trampolines and love both have the ability to take your breath away).

4. Discover the Night Sky at Rothney Astrophysical Observatory

For a stellar date (see what we did there?) night, visit the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory on one of their open house nights. Located just outside the city, the observatory offers a chance to gaze at the stars through their massive telescopes. It's both romantic and educational, and if you're lucky, you might just catch a shooting star.

5. Catch a Cheap Movie at Canyon Meadows Cinemas

What's a date without a classic movie night? Head over to Canyon Meadows Cinemas where you can catch films for a fraction of the usual price. Their tickets are discounted, and they often show recent releases that you might have missed in the big theaters. It’s an old-school movie date experience without the premium pricing, and the savings mean you can splurge on popcorn for two.

6. Bike Along the Bow River

If you’re both a bit more active, you can rent bikes (or bring your own) and take a ride along the Bow River. Calgary boasts an extensive network of bike paths, and the scenery along the river is nothing short of picturesque. It’s a healthy, environmentally friendly, and intimate way to spend a day, allowing for plenty of conversations and shared discoveries.

These date ideas in Calgary show that having fun doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether bouncing around at Flying Squirrel or exploring the city’s arts and culture, each date is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories without straining your wallet.