It’s that time of year again. Superstores are stock piling chocolates, teddy bear’s reading, “I Love You!” or “Hug Me,” are on every corner, and restaurants are sending mass emails for early reservation deals. That’s right, we’re quickly approaching Valentine’s Day.
While you and your significant other might be feeling pressured to pull off that special “dinner and a movie” date, here’s a wide spectrum of alternate things you could do instead:
1. Do something active.
Spending the day hiking with your significant other is a sure fire way to get to know them. Whether you choose a short easy hike, a trail up the side of a mountain, or a trip to a beautiful scenic waterfall, you’ll love the chance to explore with someone you care about. If hiking isn’t your thing, many gyms offer training classes that would be perfect for a couple who loves staying active and getting in shape.
2. Order a pizza (or anything that delivers) and have a movie night.
Although fancy dinners and movie theaters are great, nothing beats ordering in and curling up for a movie night at home.
3. Have a picnic at the nearest park.
There’s something sweet about packing up a lunch and blanket and taking a trip to the nearest park. Picnics are a lot less pressure than fancy dinners, and they still provide a fun and easy way to get to know someone.
4. Have a game night.
You learn a lot about someone when you’re competing against them: that’s what makes game nights so much fun. If you spend a night playing card games or Mario Party with your SO, you’re sure to see a whole new (fun) side of them.
5. Cook a meal together.
This is a sweet, romantic way to get a nice dinner in without spending outrageous prices or having to go anywhere. It also gives you two a bonding opportunity and a fun way to spend time together. The best part is, after spending all that time together in the kitchen, you get to eat!
6. Go out for dessert.
Instead of focusing on a nice dinner, take the time to do something “sweet.” Going out for ice cream or pie takes a lot of pressure off the “dinner date.” Plus, who doesn’t love a quick ice cream run??
7. Spend the day exploring the town.
Whether it’s your hometown and you take turns going to your favorite spots or you’re exploring a town you may not know so well, this dates offers a fun day of learning more about what your SO enjoys doing. It’ll also give you an excuse to get to know your town a little better, and come up with ideas for future dates.
8. Do something artsy together.
Painting classes have become increasingly popular over the past few years. Taking your SO on a date where you learn to create a beautiful piece of artwork is a great way to spend time together and bond.
9. Go see a band you both like.
There are loads of places to catch live music on the weekends. Take advantage of this and go on a date to see a band you and your SO like. Many cities offers large concert venues for big names, as well as smaller theaters for artists who aren’t as well known. Concert dates are fun and a great way to spend Valentine’s Day.
10. Go see a band neither of you have heard of.
Just like many cities offer venues for popular bands, you can easily find a local bar or restaurant that offers live music by local artists. Go somewhere new and experience a band the two of you have never heard before. You might just find a new favorite.
While the standard dinner and a movie is fun (and who wants to turn down food?), there are plenty of alternative options for the couple who’s looking for something different to try.
