All the old people around us keep saying how bad the economy is at the moment, so we know we should be watching our pennies. We know we shouldn’t be recklessly spending our money. And we know we should probably take a time out from all smashed avo on toast we keep ordering.
But you know what doesn’t take a time out, guys? LOVE. Love doesn’t know when there is a recession. Love doesn’t suddenly disappear because the housing market has taken a nose dive. And love doesn’t say “Sorry, you’re really cool and all, but I can’t date you due to the looming financial crisis.”
We still need to go on dates, regardless of the state of our economy. So here are 15 of the best cheap dates in Perth that aren't totally lame. So you can still be free to love, even if your parents keep telling you to buy a house instead.
Have A Laugh
The Brisbane Hotel has brought comedy back, with Oasis Comedy Club on every Saturday and Sunday from 8pm. Tickets are just $25 each—not bad, considering you're getting some of Australia's funniest stand ups. Plus, you'll also score 10% off food and drink too.
Soak Up The Twilight Vibes At King’s Park
Yes, some people think it's lame to picnic at Kings Park, but it's not. Be proud of this magic city and its picnic-appropriate climate and get around it. If you’re vibing somewhere less mainstream, you can always check out our favourite picnic spots in Perth.
Order All Of The $1 Tapas You Can Handle
Pinchos is the perfect date spot, because they have (delicious) dishes starting from a dollar. One. Dollar. No explanation required.
Get A Little Competitive
Palace Arcade is Perth’s one-stop-shop for all things retro game related. Challenge your date to a play-off and head down for their Wednesday Super Sessions at any of their locations (in Fremantle, Northbridge and Vic Park). Think half-price wings (drool) and free games all night when you spend $20 at the bar. You heard us. Don’t forget about their MASSIVE pizza slices, which are too darn good to pass on.
Flaunt Your Bowling Moves
Bowling, live music, and cocktails? What more could you want? Head down to Amplifier with your date and wow them with your bowling, and maybe your dancing too.
Go For A Wholesome Hike Or Walk
Our top pick for this would be Serpentine Falls—it’s a natural beauty, and who doesn’t love a romantic stroll to a pretty waterfall? If that’s not your jam, we’ve got a list of the best walks in Perth for you to check out, and don’t forget that our amazing beaches were also made for walkin’!
Get A Hole In One
There’s nothing better than cocktails and mini-golf, so why not treat your date to both at the same time? Swing by Holey Moley to score a hole in one in this neon playground, with 9 holes for $18 each.
Have A Drink On A Rooftop
Treat your date to a little something special at The Aviary. With great happy hour prices, including their $5 schooners and $8 espresso martinis, you’ll look like a champ and save money too.
Grab A Taco And Shoot Some Hoops
Donnie Taco is the perfect spot to unleash your inner Michael Jordan and also feast on a tasty taco or two while you’re at it. The tacos are reasonably priced and daytime play on the courts is free, so what are you waiting for? Let’s play ball.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Billy van Creamy has some of Perth’s most incredible gelato around, so grab a scoop (or two) and walk the few blocks down to Hyde Park so you can settle on the grass or take a stroll around the lake.
Show Off Your Knowledge
Impress your date with your IQ by heading to The Local in South Fremantle for FREE Thursday night pub trivia. If you really like them, perhaps buy them a beer as well. If you’re a little more from the northern ‘burbs, why not head to Nowhereman Brewing Co in Leederville for “The World’s Least Shit Pub Trivia”.
Get Snacking At A Farmer’s Market
Sure, it will be an early date, but it will be cheap. These are our favourite farmer's markets in Perth, and pretty much all of them are a food-lovers wonderland. Buy your date a hot coffee and a danish and go for a wander.
Canoodle At The Drive-In
Galaxy Drive-In is the perfect place to cuddle up to your date and catch the latest movies. Head down on a Tuesday where it’s only $22 per car, so you can enjoy the movie without worrying about how light your wallet is feeling ATM.
Skate Onto The Ice Rink
Hit up the winter wonderland of Perth, located in Cockburn Ice Arena. Show off your skating skills to your date, and do it like a money pro: Cheapskate Tuesdays allow you to use the rink and includes skate hire for just $15. If you’re feeling extra, head to the rinkside bar for a post-skate bev.
Let Your Tastebuds Take Flight
Take a seat in the stunning new digs at Republic Of Fremantle's bar and distillery and sample all their award-winning sips for only $25. Your flight comes complete with their signature vodka, full bodied gin and aromatic gin along with a selction of sodas, tonics and seasonal garnishes so you can keep it neat or mix it up however you like.
If you need more ideas, check out the best cheap eats in Perth.
Image credit: Elle Borgward