8 Ottawa Date Ideas For Just $5 Or Less That Are Perfect For Winter
Love don't cost a thing (well, almost) 💸

Ottawa winters are no joke. The cold and stormy weather can quickly have you and your S/O stuck on the couch binge-watching every season of The Office (yes, again). And while that actually sounds prtty good, there are so many cheap Ottawa winter date ideas that are totally worth braving the cold for.
With the holidays and the New Year both falling in the winter season, you might notice your bank account is sitting at a less--than-ideal level.
But have no fear! Every date idea on this list is only $5 or less. In fact, many of them are completely free.
From delicious breakfast spreads to incredible snow and ice sculptures, there’s a little something for everyone in the capital.
So if you’re looking to keep the romance alive and thriving during Ottawas longest and coldest season, look no further.
We’ve gathered some truly affordable and fun-filled date ideas so that you don’t have to. Because the holiday season actually doesn't have to break the bank, you know.
Don’t let the cold keep you locked inside this year. Instead, channel your inner Jim and Pam and get ready to have some fun.
So send this list to bae and start checking these romantic dates off your winter bucket list ASAP.
Breakfast Date @ IKEA
Price: $2.49
When: Weekdays until 11 a.m.
Address: 2685 Iris St., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're on a budget, going out for breakfast instead of dinner is an easy way to save a few dollars. And at just over $2 a plate, IKEA might be the perfect morning date spot.
Movie Date @ Cineplex
Price: Free
When: Saturday, December 7 from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m.
Address: Various Cineplex locations, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Under normal circumstances, a movie date at Cineplex is pretty pricey. But, for one night only, you and bae can catch your favourite Christmas classics for free.
Snow Date @ Winterlude
Price: Free
When: January 31 until February 17
Address: Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can wander through the Winterlude festivities, admiring incredible snow and ice sculptures along the way.
Hot Chocolate Date @ Cacao70
Price: $4.95
When: Hours vary by location
Address: Various locations, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: There's no sweeter way to beat those Ottawa winter chills than with a delicious cup of fancy hot chocolate.
Skating Date @ Rideau Canal
Price: Free
When: Weather permitting
Address: Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: Because did you even experience winter in Ottawa if you didn't skate on the canal at least once?
Winter Hike Date @ Jack Pine Trail
Price: Free
When: Year-round
Address: Moodie Drive, Nepean, ON
Why You Need To Go: You'll feel like you're in a fairytale as you walk through this snowy wonderland. If you're lucky, the birds will even eat out of your hands here.
Taco Tuesday Date @ El Camino
Price: $4 tacos
When: After 10 p.m.
Address: Various locations, Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: On Tuesday nights from 10 p.m. until close you can pop into El Camino for a $4 taco. The tastiest way to get warm in the winter.
Toboggan Date @ Carlington Park
Price: Free
When: Weather permitting
Address: 1640 Laperriere Ave., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can feel like a kid again as you glide down the epic toboggan hills at Carlington Park.