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The 6 Best Spots for First Dates in Toronto: Cute, Affordable & Fun!
Published February 6, 2026 by Ava Sykora
With Toronto being such a large city, as a student you are constantly surrounded by experiences and meeting new people. Which means that if you’re about to go on a first date (and hey, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner!) there are lots of options to choose from. Here are some of the best spots for first dates in the city that are not only fun and cute, but also affordable as a student!
Kensington Market
The city has many great neighbourhoods to explore and one of the most popular is Kensington. This casual date allows you to make conversation while exploring what this amazing neighbourhood has to offer! As you walk around the market, make sure to step into local vintage shops and specialty food shops. I recommend stopping by one of the many cafes to grab a coffee and a treat!
We’ve got plenty more recommendations for Kensington Market too!
Location: Kensington
Closest TTC Station: Dundas & Spadina Streetcar
Price: Depends! $15-$20 at a cafe
Freeplay Retro Arcade
There’s nothing like some nostalgic games and a little competition! Spend a fun night at Freeplay Retro Arcade – once you pay your entrance fee, enjoy an unlimited range of classic arcade games and pinball machines. If you need a little break from all the fun, enjoy a drink and an appetizer from their menu. And don’t forget to end the night with a picture taken at their photobooth.
Location: College Street
Closest TTC Station: Spadina & College Streetcar
Price: Entry fee is $5 per person on Sunday through Thursday, $10 on Friday & Saturday
Note: The entry fee is cash only
The Ballroom Bowl
Bowling is a classic – who doesn’t like to bowl! Get to know each other over a fun game of duckpin bowling at The Ballroom Bowl. A unique version of bowling, where the pins and balls are smaller than what you would experience doing traditional bowling. The vintage vibes and chill atmosphere make this a cute and fun place for a first date!
Location: Young & Dundas
Closest TTC Station: TMU Station
Price: Student rate of $13.75 (+HST) per person, per hour
Royal Ontario Museum (The ROM)
Museums are a seriously underrated first date spot. Toronto has so much art and culture to experience. Spend your first date wandering around the Royal Ontario Museum exploring different exhibits. This is a great option as it is a mix of casual conversation and commenting on exhibits. Don’t forget to check out their website to see what special exhibitions and events they have featured!
This city also has plenty of other museums to choose from as well including:
and more!
Want to stay budget friendly at the ROM? We’ve got tips on How to Spend a Day at the AGO or ROM without Breaking the Bank.
Location: Bloor & Avenue
Closest TTC Station: Museum Station
Price: free admission for students every Tuesday or $26 for general admission
Twilight Cafe & Bar
This is one of the quieter options on the list, which is great for getting to know someone! Enjoy a chill afternoon or night of games where you could easily spend hours due to the large selection of games at the Twilight Cafe & Bar! They also have a menu where you can purchase coffee, specialty drinks, and more!
Location: Dundas Closest TTC Station: TMU Station
Price: First 2 hours is $6
Blue Jays Game (Baseball)
Even though we still have a few months left until baseball season, going to a baseball game at the Rogers Centre is a great first date option to add to your list, whether you know anything about Baseball or not! Baseball games are an energetic and fun setting, filled with casual conversation and possibly a stray baseball coming your way! You can get tickets in the 500 section for a fairly reasonable price. While stadium food is pricey, an added bonus is that you can bring in your own food, but I highly recommend going on a Tuesday when they have $1 hot dogs (loonie dogs)!
Location: Blue Jay Way
Closest TTC Station: Union Station
Price: As low as $25 per ticket
