Sometimes it’s better to ditch the traditional restaurant date on Valentine’s Day and opt for a new experience. Maybe not even new, but a new way to celebrate the holiday. T and I aren’t very big on Valentine’s Day. We always do something, but it comes and goes without too much fuss. However, over the years, we’ve come up with a few fun things to do. So I listed some unique Valentine’s Day date ideas below to help inspire your February 14th.
Ice skating (or similar activity)
My personal favorite Valentine’s date T and I have done was when we went ice skating last year. Super simple, but just so much fun. We don’t ice skate often(or ever), so it was a change of pace and felt more like a special night. Obviously not everyone has ice skating available, so if you live in warmer climates, try a hike or go for a bike ride. Something out of the norm!
Cooking at home
With so much emphasis on romantic dinners on the 14th, why not skip the reservation list and cook at home? There’s no way you’ll find us fighting crowds at a restaurant on Valentine’s Day. Trying a new recipe or simply making a more special meal at home is much more meaningful. If you need ideas, try this baked spaghetti – it’s T’s favorite & you can’t go wrong.
Celebrate on a different day
I get that holidays are meant to be celebrated day of, but sometimes doing your own thing turns out to be way more fun. The 14th lands on a Thursday this year, so a weekend road trip could be fun. Or a surprising Monday night outing would feel extra special. Everyone is typically out and about for the actual day, so celebrate your own way, whenever it’s convenient for you!
Be a tourist in your own city
This is my favorite idea. We get so stuck in our routines, sometimes we forget to look around and experience new things in our own cities. I think the idea of trying something neither of you have done in the city you live in sounds so fun! I’ve always wanted to do an escape room or tour the Des Moines capitol building. Two awesome date ideas!
I’d love to know – are you a Valentine’s Day traditionalist or will you be trying something new?
xoxo. B
That is the most gorgeous photo of you two! These all are great ideas – Ryan and I are all about doing different things (and usually not on the actual holiday!). Knowing us, we’ll probably end up at a movie this year!
Thanks Karly! It is actually one of our engagement photos, but we haven’t changed much.. so it still works 🙂
Glad we’re not alone! We’re planning a homemade pizza night in & I’m all for it. Have a fun date night!