Tired of doing the same old boring thing for Valentine’s Day? Dinner, chocolate, and flowers are the traditional ways to celebrate this special day. This year, wouldn’t it be perfect to be more innovative and surprise your significant other with an untraditional idea to express your love? I am not saying the traditional way is boring but let’s face it, we turn to tradition when we have no clue how to make the day even more special for our loves. We’ve got a super cute list of unexpected date ideas just in time for Valentine’s Day!
Consider what your special someone enjoys the most and incorporate it into the time you will share. If they enjoy reading, grab a book and read it together. Once you have completed reading the book, take the time to share your thoughts. If an active day is one you desire, turn on some music, dim the lights, and enjoy holding your partner as you dance.
Although this Valentine’s Day may look different, there are still some ideas that you may want to incorporate to ensure you and your love enjoy this sweet day. When it comes to celebrating love, sometimes getting a little help and thinking outside the box is needed. Below, I have compiled a list of unexpected date ideas that are sure not to break the bank. It will show how much consideration went into creating a beautiful moment. Choose one, two, or all of the ideas and make a day or week out of celebrating your love!
Bike Riding or Skating Date Ideas
Lace-up and get physical. This date is for active couples who desire to move their body. Hike and skate in your neighborhood, or head to the nearest park to take on one of Austin’s beautiful trails. Or check out Spider Mountain! Before heading out on a biking trail, be sure you have mapped out where you will go and be prepared to bring the items to need, such as water or a mini first aid kit. You’ll also want to check your tires and brakes before starting. If you are close to an ice cream shop, stop in for a cool-down treat and a break.
Camping or Glamping Trip Date Ideas February in Austin is the perfect month for a camping/glamping trip. If you’re a couple that enjoys nature, camping is an opportunity to reconnect with one another and nature. For those who are not keen on camping at one of our beautiful parks, glamping is an alternative. Whether camping at the park or camping in your backyard, grab your s’more making kits to make for your campfire. You will also want to bring along with all of the equipment you may need for camping.
Date Drive-In Movie Night Choose a new or old classic movie to watch at your local drive-in theater. Pack your snacks and blankets and watch a movie under the stars. Once the movie is over, have a discussion. Share your thoughts about the film. What were your favorite scenes? What was realistic? Does the relationship between the characters in the movie relate to your relationship? You can also discuss if you think your personal love story would make for a good film and which part of the story would be best to write and film.
Enjoy a Backyard Movie Marathon Night What is your definition of a romantic movie night? Whatever it is, grab a blanket, pillows, some delicious movie night treats, a projector if you have one, and a blank canvas for your screen. Fancy it up with fairy lights (similar to Christmas lights)and cuddle up. Not everyone has access to a projector. If you have a television, bring it outside and plug it in. Get creative! For a cool setup idea, check out Pinterest.
Family Time Date Night I understand that not everyone can go on a date night without the kiddos. I wanted to give an idea that can include your family. For my family, we love sharing this day with our girls. We enjoy the day doing fun things we love. Although they are older, we still love showering them with extra love on this day. Quality time with the family is precious. I am sure many little ones enjoy the time you spend with them. A fun day can include baking cupcakes, ordering or making chocolate bombs, and making their favorite dishes. Research fun crafting ideas and participate in some of the ideas in this list. Have conversations about what love means, share why you are grateful for one another, and watch a kid-friendly movie.
Giving Back Date Valentine’s Day is a day for giving to others. Our hearts seem to be in the right place. Let’s take this day to give to others in need. Reach out to your local shelters and agencies to see how you and your partner can make a difference. Give of your time and help how they need it most. Sharing compassion and empathy is sharing love not just to those in your home but to those who need it most. Once you have completed your tasks of giving back, have a follow-up discussion. How did you feel about helping others? Is this something you would like to incorporate into your lives?
Re-create Your First or Favorite Date Reminiscing on the moment you met or when you first fell in love can be a positive way to rekindle your relationship. Time hop back to that time and recreate a new and improved first date moment. Recall the food you ate, the outfit you wore, and try your best to imitate that day. Have a conversation about that particular moment. Did you have butterflies? Did you enjoy the meal? What do you want the future to resemble in the next five years in regards to dating? Share your favorite moment from that day.
Romantic Virtual Mixology Class Want to be romantic but not have a basic date? Step up your game by signing up for a virtual mixology class. Select a new drink or your love’s favorite drink and learn how to make it together. With a simple Google search, you will be able to find classes for an array of cocktails and mimosas. Some mixology classes include pairing the drink with a dish or even chocolate.
Stargazing Date Enjoy one another’s presence under the stars. Whether it’s with conversation or in complete silence, appreciate the time spent together. Find your handy Stargazing apps, pull them up and track the constellations in the night sky. Winter in Austin is the prime opportunity for breathing in the cool, crisp air. To fully enjoy a night of stargazing, you will want to be aware of the weather and be prepared to adjust plans if it is not in your favor.
A Trip Down Memory Lane Grab your scrapbooks, photo albums, and take a trip down memory lane. This date will is perfect for reminiscing about your favorite moments together. No matter if it’s six months or 60 years, there are special moments that will spark conversation and remind you of the foundation that you have built to get you where you are today. Spend time discussing those special moments. Select some of the photos and discuss the events of that day and what is something you may have done differently at that moment. Talk about the friends and family members surrounding the events.
Okay, I know I said ten unexpected dates but I have one more to share with several honorable mentions.
The Gardening Date What better way to see love grow than planting a garden or a tree together? Be sure to have a conversation about what to plant and how to best take care of it before planting. Once you have done your research, get out there and have fun in the dirt! Discuss what the tree and garden symbolize for you and your partner. Discuss what it will take to continue to help your relationship grow and understand what can cause problems like weeds and how you can eliminate those problems.
My Honorable Mentions
Breakfast-in-Bed Date
Picnic-in-the Park Date
Spa Day-Date
Sunset Hike Date
