10 Toronto date ideas your boyfriend will actually be excited for, according to locals
If you're planning an outing with your favourite guy but aren't sure where to take him, we've got you covered. There are so many incredible date spots in Toronto that your boyfriend will actually get excited about, from sports games to patios and more.
In a recent Instagram Q&A, we asked locals for the best spots to take your boyfriend on a date in Toronto. They shared their top places, and we put together a list of the 10 best recommendations.
Whether your guy is looking for a fun-filled night out or a relaxing experience, the list has something for everyone.
Here are 10 dates your boyfriend will actually be excited for, according to locals.
Go to a Jays game
Price: Ticket prices vary
When: Select dates until September 29, 2024
Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: There's nothing more quintessentially Toronto than going on a date to a Jays game. You and your boo can cheer from the stands as you watch the team compete to win.
You can also dig into some food and drinks during the game, including brisket sandwiches, loaded Mac and cheese, sangria and frozen margaritas.
On every Tuesday home game of the 2024 season, you can get $1 hot dogs, or "Loonie Dogs," making it a perfect night out without breaking the bank.
See a movie
Price: Prices vary
Why You Need To Go: Another date idea guys enjoy, according to locals, is going to the movies. This is a classic romantic outing that never gets old.
You can fill up on popcorn, treats and more while enjoying a film on the big screen together.
There are lots of spots to catch a movie in Toronto. You could treat yourself to a Cineplex VIP experience or visit an independent local theatre such as Revue Cinema.
You can even grab some blankets and enjoy a free movie at the park this summer with the Toronto Outdoor Picture Show.
Ride a water bike
Price: $70 + per hour
Address: Sir Casimir Gzowski Park, 1751 Lake Shore Blvd. W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: You'll make a splash with this romantic outing. Locals suggest taking your boyfriend on a date to Toronto Water Bikes.
The experience lets you water bike along Lake Ontario while taking in the stunning city views. You can rent single bikes or, for a more romantic option, a tandem bike, which allows the two of you to share the ride and paddle across the water together.
Go mini golfing
Price: $14.95 + per person
Address: 26 Duncan St.,Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: Another recommended date is mini golf, but not just any mini golf. Par-Tee Putt is the place to go for a fun night out with your favourite guy.
The mini golf experience features 27 themed holes, including installations like ET and Twister.
The venue offers Detroit-style pizza as well as appetizers, snacks and boozy drinks including beer, shots, cocktails, ciders, and wine.
Every Monday, there is a Date Night special where you get a round of golf for two and one ACES PIZZA for $52.95.
Indulge in tapas
Price: Prices vary
Why You Need To Go: Forget dinner and take your boo on a tapas date. There are so many drool-worthy tapas spots around Toronto where you can fill up on all sorts of dishes.
Locals suggest Bar Chica and Rasa for the best tapas date spots.
Bar Chica is a Spanish restaurant serving elevated tapas and you can dig into seafood, steak and more.
Rasa serves up everything from grilled octopus to ice cream sandwiches.
Unleash your inner artist
Price: Prices vary
Why You Need To Go: You and your boyfriend can let your inner Picassos shine during a paint date in Toronto. The city has several spots where you can create a work of art while enjoying food, drinks and more.
Venues include Pinot's Palette, where you can paint a masterpiece while sipping wine, and Paint Cabin, where you can have fun at DJ Paint Parties and indulge in cocktails, beer, wine and more.
Visit the Toronto Islands
Price: $9.11 return ticket per adult
Address: 9 Queens Quay W., Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: According to locals, the Toronto Islands are a great spot to bring your boyfriend for a date. Located just a short ferry ride from downtown, the islands boast beaches, attractions and more for a fun-filled day.
You can rent a tandem bike and pedal your way around the area or check out the historic Gibraltar Point Lighthouse.
There are several beaches where you can relax on the sand and soak up some city views as well as restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.
You can also enjoy some relaxing time together at Toronto Island Park which offers lots of space spread out and gaze at the city skyline.
Head to a patio
Price: Prices vary
Why You Need To Go: During the summer, there's nothing better than relaxing on a sunny patio with cold drinks and delicious food.
Toronto has so many patios to enjoy, from rooftop spots to waterfront destinations.
In 2023, Narcity asked locals what the very best patios in the city were, and answers included Oretta, Pennies, Bar Poet, Añejo, Lapinou, Lavelle and 23 Cafe, so it may be worth a trip to one of these venues.
Go to a board game cafe
Price: $10 game admission per person
Address: Multiple locations
Why You Need To Go: Let your competitive sides shine during a games night at Snakes & Lattes. With several locations in the city, this board game cafe makes for a fun and unique date spot.
The venue boasts endless board games for you and your partner to enjoy, from childhood favourites to new and exciting options.
Aside from the games, you can dig into all sorts of food and drinks, such as burgers, pasta, brownies and sangria.
Party at the ROM
Price: $40 per adult
When: Multiple dates
Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON
Why You Need To Go: According to locals, a trip to the ROM after hours is the perfect date idea for guys. The ROM After Dark events allow you to "explore the museum in a whole new way," according to the website.
The 19+ themed after-hours event series includes "curated music, visual arts, pop-up performances, and distinctive food and drink" for a fun night out.
There are several events taking place throughout the summer, including a Summer Solstice party and Catnip party.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
