Budget-friendly date ideas in Brisbane
Discover Brisbane’s best free and low-cost date ideas for unforgettable moments, no matter your style or budget.
From first dates to soulmates, or even solo outings, planning a budget-friendly date night can be tricky. Wondering where to go for date night in Brisbane? The good news is you don't need to spend much. Whether it's Valentine's Day or any day, we've got the best free and low-cost date ideas in Brisbane.
Take in Brisbane's best public art displays
Does your special someone have a love of art? Spend quality time strolling through the city and explore some of the best public art on offer.
Our Outdoor Gallery turns city laneways, streets, and car parks into vibrant spaces showcasing local and international artists. You'll find plenty of places to pause for a drink, meal, or share plate exist along the way. Use the Brisbane app to find the perfect spot for dinner as you stroll.
Our public art trails offer a relaxed date setting with artworks to spark interesting conversation. The trails have something for everyone, from riverfront installations to contemporary art and architecture.
Explore more than 20 heritage trails if you love strolling through Brisbane's suburbs.
Watch a movie under the stars
You might think of the cinema as an ordinary date night. What if you put a new twist on this classic date option with our Outdoor Cinema in the Suburbs events? Alternatively, book for a movie night at Dendy Powerhouse outdoor cinema.
As another option, Manly Harbour Village has a free movies in the park series. Spend the night watching a movie in the spectacular, waterfront Little Bayside Park, Manly. Feeling hungry? Share a romantic platter for 2 at Shucks Oyster Bar and Kitchen.
Blossoming love
Take a guided walk through Brisbane's most eye-catching gardens for a daytime date in nature.
To show off your knowledge of plants and the best restaurants and bars in Brisbane, visit the City Botanic Gardens! Why not spend the whole day exploring, including a walk by the river. Use the Brisbane app to find a nice place to eat and drink. End your day by enjoying a concert at Riverstage.
You will feel like the star of your own romantic comedy at Sherwood Arboretum. Imagine strolling among the tall pines with your date. With 15 hectares to explore, there's plenty to see and do. Pack a picnic and bring Fido for a dog-friendly day out.
Many people consider the Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha to be Queensland's best subtropical gardens. This makes the gardens a great date spot for plant lovers. You can enjoy the fun beyond botanical wonders! Visit the Richard Randall Art Studio or Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium as well.
Views worth sharing
Speaking of Mt Coot-tha, the views from Mt Coot-tha Lookout are unbeatable. This is true no matter what time of day it is. A trip to the lookout is one of the best free date ideas in Brisbane, night or day. Enjoy spectacular views out to Moreton Bay over a treat from the cafe.
Looking for a riverside spot for a date night picnic? Wilson Outlook Reserve in New Farm captures the majesty of the Story Bridge like no other place in Brisbane.
Head to the bayside for more striking water views. Use the Brisbane app to find the best local fish and chips place. Then, show your 'bae' the bay, on a romantic walk down Shorncliffe Pier.
Cruise through the night
Ahoy there! Board a double-decker CityCat at West End ferry terminal for a romantic cruise down the Brisbane River.
Take in the sparkling lights of the city under stars. Start with entrees at Howard Smith Wharves, enjoy dinner in New Farm, and have dessert at Eat Street Northshore.
Active dates
If you love adventure, we have fun date ideas for you. These activities will keep your heart healthy and give you and your date a rush of endorphins.
Take a hike through the Toohey Forest Park in Nathan or Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve. Choose from a variety of walking trails ranging from easy to more challenging tracks. Finish your bushwalking adventure with a scenic picnic at the Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve picnic area. We've got plenty more hike-spiration for walking and running across the city.
Try something new together and try a unique sport like pickleball, disc golf, or quadball.
Slow down with a scenic bike ride through the city or suburbs. Use the Brisbane app as your personal tour guide.
Picnic perfection
Looking for a more laid-back date? The heritage-listed New Farm Park has plenty of perfect locations to lay a picnic blanket and relax. Choose a picnic spot near the beautiful rose gardens, jacarandas, or poincianas and share a charcuterie board. Barbecue facilities are also available if you prefer to cook.
A sunset picnic with sweeping CBD views from Highgate Hill Park, Highgate is also a favourite.
Perfect spots for photos
Ready to share your love on social media? Capture a picture-perfect memory with your date at some of Brisbane's most iconic backdrops.
- Visit Mt Coot-tha Lookout.
- Explore New Farm Park.
- Stroll Roma Street Parkland.
- See the Grand Arbor at South Bank Parklands.
Need more inspiration?
Download the Brisbane app for more date ideas. Find the best places for day or night outings. This pocket-sized smartphone guide offers plenty of suggestions. It helps you start finding cheap date ideas in Brisbane.
Note: This content is for inspiration only. Brisbane City Council does not endorse businesses featured.