51 Romantic Things to Do on Valentine's Day That You'll Never Forget
Get ready to fall in love with these ideas.
Sure chocolate and roses make good Valentine's Day gifts, but what about the gift of quality time? To help you dream up the perfect date idea this year, here we give you 51 romantic things to do on Valentine's Day (to go with the sweet card where you tell your significant other why you love them, perhaps with inspiration from these Valentine's Day wishes and messages!).
No matter your personality types or what your idea of fun is, this list of ideas for activities is sure to inspire couples of all ages, from students to seniors, and all stages of relationships from a first Valentine's Day to a 50th. Whether you go out or find a special way to stay in (perhaps for a Valentine's Day dinner for two that ends in a decadent Valentine's day dessert?), they're all sure to make for a romantic date night. Though it's likely cold outside near you, there are still lots of destinations you'll find, or a night at home in your comfy PJs for a Valentine's Day movie might be what this year calls for.
Without further ado, here are our 51 ideas ofr things to do on Valentine's Day. Here's to making February 14 a celebratory one!
Book tickets for a night out.
Peruse local events calendar to see what plays, concerts, or other events are going on and buy tickets in advance. You could even just go see a movie in theatres together. Whatever you choose, be sure to dress up and take a picture together at some point in the night.
Re-create a memorable date.
A fun way to relive the past and enjoy the present it to think of a favorite date you went on together or even your first date and then plan how to recreate it. Twist it up by doing an at-home version with a little extra creativity.
Take dancing lessons together.
You’re never too old to learn how to dance. Research dance studios in your area and book a lesson for Valentine’s night out to learn to ballroom dance, salsa, cha cha, samba, mambo, and more together. You’re sure to leave feeling more connected than when you entered.
Do a puzzle together.
Connect with your significant other by clearing some time on the calendar to simply put together a puzzle. You might even buy a new one that depicts a place you have been together or another common interest.
Plan a progressive dinner.
Why eat at one restaurant when you can crawl your way to a different one for drinks, appetizers, a main course, and dessert? You can plan an at-home version by each doing a round of takeout orders to enjoy without the crowds of Valentine’s Day.
Go to a skating rink.
Ice skates or roller skates—your choice for a playful and romantic night out. Don’t forget to encourage each other if it takes a little while to get in the groove of skating again, and simply enjoy one another as you make circles around the rink.
Book a staycation.
You don’t have to go far from home to have a getaway. Book a night at a nearby hotel or resort and leave your kids with a sitter or family member. Upon arrival enjoy a night away from your to-do lists and ordinary routines. Order room service, watch a movie, read together, or do whatever says “quality time” to you and your partner.
Watch the sunset or sunrise together.
Take some time to take in the sun’s natural artwork in the sky together. You can wake up early and enjoy a breakfast treat or cup of coffee together for the sunrise, or pour a drink and grab some cheese and crackers to watch it set.
Reminisce about your wedding day.
If you are married, relive your wedding day by look at your wedding photo album together or watching your wedding video and talking about memorable moments from the day that you said, “I do.”
Dance at home.
Sure, it’s fun to dance at weddings and parties, but you only need a party of two for a good dance floor—and it’s all the more romantic without a crowd. Slow dance or pull out your best swing moves or line dance routines.
Plan an indoor picnic.
If the weather is frightfully cold, you can still switch up the mealtime routine and enjoy a picnic without leaving home. Clear some space in your living room and lay out a blanket, and then feast on cheese and crackers, sandwiches, salads, and cookies together.
Go to an arcade.
It’s important to not be serious all the time together, so head to an arcade to let out your inner child. Take on your partner in a friendly competition in a shooting or racing game, and grab some drinks and food while you are at it.
Have a heartfelt conversation.
Often in the rush of day-to-day life, there’s not time to talk about why you fell in love with your partner and articulate what you appreciate about them now, so take some time to do just that. You can make index cards with questions to prompt conversation topics too.
Plan a coffee date.
This year, Valentine's Day falls on a Wednesday, which is, unfortunately, not the most romantic day of the week. Between work and getting kids where they need to go, you may need to sneak in a few romanic breaks in your day. Start off strong with a special coffee date for two. Either pick up Starbucks, meet at a coffee shop, or sit down together for a few minutes in your own kitchen.
Take a bike ride.
If you're fortunate enough to live somewhere with warm weather in February, head outside for a couple's bike ride. It makes a great low-pressure idea for those who are newly dating and still getting to know each other.
Plan a photo shoot.
When was the last time you had your picture taken, just the two of you? For a lot of couples, it only happens on vacations (or even at their wedding!). Hire a photographer, or, for an inexpensive option, have a friend or even one of your kids take a few casual snapshots. A selfie stick will do in a pinch! Then (and this is the most important part), actually print them out and display them in your home. Make this a new Valentine's Day tradition.
Dinner with friends.
This might seem counterintuitive, but it's actually a great idea for couples who have not been together very long, or for couples who have been together forever! Take the pressure off of planning the perfect night for two by making it a double date. Cook at home, or share a babysitter and it a fun restaurant.
Play a game.
When was the last time you played a game with just the two of you? Pick a favorite from the closet, or try a new Valentine's Day game for adults, like Talk, Flirt, Dare or Our Moments.
Make playlists for each other.
Spend some time putting together playlists for each other on your favorite streaming service. Choose Valentine's Day song that spark memories of your relationship or simply tunes you know your significant other will love. Then pour some wine, turn on the music, and reminisce. It's a gift you'll listen to year-round.
Take a hike.
Even if it's cold where you live, taking a scenic hike is a great way to unplug and unwind this Valentine's Day. Maybe there's a favorite spot where you live, or you might want to try one of the best hikes in the U.S. Either way, you're bound to have a fun time because you're in great company.
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