Are cheap/free dates still dates?

Hi ladies, I (30F) recently met a man who plans dates but some of the dates are free/cheap, like hiking or meeting his dog in the park. He's paid for a few other fun dates. I've made it clear to him that I don't go over to people's houses. Luckily he understood and respected that. Should I be thankful that he's planning dates albeit cheap/free ones? He's been kind so far, no major red flags but I am tsling things slow. Any thoughts on this? Thanks!!