5 dates that WON'T break the bank.

Valentine's day is coming up & we're smack dab in the middle of "cuffing season" as the kiddies call it. I LOVE love, but dating can be an expensive habit these days & you should NEVER have to sacrifice financial freedom for a night out.

Sometimes the best bonding experiences are the ones that cost the least! In this pic, I'm making escargot at home for my wife Linda on one of our first dates. She loved it and now we're coming up on 30 years together!

Here are 5 fun memorable dates that WON'T break the bank.

1.Take a stroll.

Moving makes your body feel good. It's also FREE. When Linda and I started dating, we walked everywhere. Exercise boosts energy, is good for you, and it gives couples a chance to talk! Why not take a hike or a bike around town? Rent a cheap pair of skates? Bonus: you're getting a jump start on a healthy relationship. Literally!

2. Explore a museum or art gallery.

I'm not just talking about dinosaurs and mummies. I'm talking about cool modern exhibits on art and music. A few winters ago there was a Patti Smith exhibit at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. Linda and I loved it! Scan a local events calendars - most cities offer free admission on certain days of the month!

3. Board it up.

Have a competitive streak? Pull out a couple of classic board games and challenge your date to a night of Monopoly. Many cities have board game cafes these days where the cost of a coffee or a beer will grant you access to stacks and stacks of hames! It's good, cheap fun and you'll earn extra marks for creativity. .

4. It's just brunch.

By now, you know not to waste money on lavish dinners. So why not go out for brunch or lunch instead? Fancy restaurants are far more affordable in the A.M. than in the P.M. Some places offer outrageous deals and specials to fill seats during the midday dead zone. Bonus: you'll get to see what your date looks like in the cold hard light of day.

5. Dinner & a movie - with a twist. 

There's something to be said for keeping with tradition. No harm in following a tried-and-true formula. But forgo the $18-per-ticket summer blockbuster and pull up Netflix. If you're gifted with culinary prowess, make dinner yourself.

If a person you're trying to impress tries to convince you that you should go broke trying to please them, tell them they're dead to you and RUN.