Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if the thought of planning the *perfect* date stresses you out, take a deep breath. There's an easy way out of this holiday headache—no Cupid's bow required.
"The easiest way to relieve this pressure is to have a conversation around what your expectations are of this day," says relationship expert Morgan Cutlip, PhD, a relationship expert with health app Flo. Consider where you’re at in the relationship, and then talk about whether or not you’ll exchange gifts, go out or stay in, and who (if not both) will take on planning. This won’t take any fun out of the holiday, she says, but will instead help you avoid awkward moments on V-Day.
When it comes to Valentine's Day expectations, they tend to include flowers, chocolate, and dinner for two. But this year, surprise your boo by suggesting one of these creative Valentine's Day date ideas instead. You've probably gone the traditional route sooo many times that you've run out of ideas anyway. Whether you’re a foot rub-on-the-couch kind of person or more interested in going out on the town with your S.O., you're covered.
Plus, going on an unconventional Valentine’s Day date can help you "change things up just a bit" and even "create excitement and passion" in your relationship, says Terri Orbuch, PhD, relationship therapist and author of 5 Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage From Good to Great. To do that, she recommends going on a date that includes one of three things, or all three if possible: a creative activity, a physical activity, or a new activity.
Meet the Experts:
Morgan Cutlip, PhD, is a relationship expert at My Love Thinks and Flo.
Terri Orbuch, PhD, is a relationship therapist and author of 5 Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage From Good to Great. She is also a distinguished professor at Oakland University and a research professor at University of Michigan, Institute for Social Research.
Betsy Chung, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and relationship expert based in Los Angeles.
Luckily for all you lovebirds out there, you don't need to scratch your brain to come up with a bunch of unique Valentine's Day date ideas that will wow your partner (or your crush, or your situationship) this year. Check out this list of 50 cute—not cheesy—date activities to find the one that's just right for you and boo:
1. Have a charcuterie night.
Is there any truer love than that between a couple and their charcuterie board? Ditch the typical prix-fixe Valentine’s dinner for a DIY charcuterie board night and snack on all kinds of goodies. Both of you can come to the date with your own spin—maybe a fondue board or a burrata board—and share. Or, let someone else do the hard work for you by purchasing a charcuterie board bundle (complete with heart-shaped board—adorable!).
2. Try a floral arrangement class.
Getting a V-Day bouquet is kind of a given, so switch it up by channeling your inner florist. Attend a floral arrangement class or take it into your own hands by picking out various blooms at the grocery store and see what you both come up with. You can also order seasonal floral design kits from companies like Poppy Flowers, which will deliver different flowers and design instructions.
3. Have a spa date.
Instead of stressing yourself out to plan an intricate evening, try something different like a DIY at-home spa day for two. Pamper each other and leave the date in a completely relaxed state of mind. After all, the couple that face-masks together, stays together (amirite?).
The 19 Best Essential Oils Diffusers To Turn Your Space Into A Spa
4. Go on a take-out tour.
Any foodies out there? Then don’t limit yourself to just one meal this Valentine's Day. Instead, go on a take-out tour in your area by picking up different dishes at different restaurants. Try a cuisine that you would never have tasted otherwise.
5. Test your rock-climbing skills.
Orbuch recommends planning a date that involves physical activity or exercise because it’ll increase your adrenaline—and arousal. "This creates excitement and can reignite the passion in your relationship," she says. So if you’ve been together long enough to have a Valentine’s Day tradition (especially one that revolves around sitting down), now’s the time to break it.
P.S. Rock climbing specifically requires trust and communication, so it’s basically the perfect bonding activity.
6. Have a money-free date.
Plan out a day full of activities where no money is allowed to be spent. Go for a bike ride, have a picnic, do yoga together... The more creative you can get with it, the better.
7. Take a cocktail-making class.
Instead of going out for drinks, learn how to make them yourself. There are plenty of fun tutorials on the 'gram and in-person or virtual mixology classes to choose from. In lieu of a resy at that new cocktail bar, find a fave local restaurant or bar selling at-home cocktail kits. Voila, Valentine’s Day just got much more special (and boozy).
8. Have a boudoir photo shoot.
Yes, a regular photoshoot is fun, but why not take the sexier route with a boudoir shoot? "[It's] a great way for both you and your partner to get vulnerable with each other," says Betsy Chung, PhD, a clinical psychologist and relationship expert.
You can have your partner choose your lingerie, or surprise them and grab your preferred camera (hello, sexy polaroids!). Bonus: By the end, you'll have enough photos for a private album.
9. Tidy up your space.
I know what you're thinking. Cleaning is not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a date, but don't underestimate the potential here, especially if you and your partner live for organizing and deep cleaning.
"Staying organized greatly reduces overall stress which can have a direct impact on how you and your partner get along," says Chung. Plus, you can make it fun! "Order pizza, sip some wine, and reminisce on old finds as you work together to declutter," says Chung.
10. Get lost together.
To put this simply, pack a bag and head out without a set destination in mind. Get on a highway, and let your curiosity lead the way. See a town name you've never been to? Check it out. "Spontaneity gives opportunities for couples to explore new things and solve problems together," explains Chung.
11. Switch up your home aesthetic.
If you and your partner are looking to shift the energy in your space, treat yourselves to some retail therapy. Whether you're investing in new plants or new wall art for your home, making small changes can keep things feeling fresh.
12. Drive through each other's old stomping grounds.
You'll never know everything about your partner, but taking a trip to where they used to hang will certainly bring you guys closer. This can renew a sense of excitement and curiosity in the relationship, according to Chung.
13. Make a "rule" day.
Pack your day with a list of fun, special, or even sexy challenges. Chung recommends something simple, like owing the other a kiss each time one partner refers to the other person by a pet name. You could also work towards a fun, end-of-night goal: Pick a taboo word, and every time someone says it, they get a point. Whoever ends the day with the most points has to pay for dinner...or whoever ends with the fewest points gets to choose a sexy fantasy to act out.
14. Get vulnerable with card games.
Valentines Day is the perfect time to get in your feels and open up with your partner. Playing card games like We're Not Really Strangers can keep those intimate vibes going far past the 14th. You can dig even deeper with the relationship expansion pack.
For a boozier option, you can opt for a fun game of Truth Or Drink. The questions range from subtle to super steamy.
15. Swap romantic playlists.
This one is for all the music enthusiasts. No matter your preferred streaming platform, your partner will totally swoon over the playlists you make for each other. Plus, it's a great opportunity to tap into your favorite memories together. Think about how your partner will react when you say, "This song reminds me of the time we..." Adorable, right?
16. Read to each other.
If you're hoping to keep your Valentine's Day activities on the DL, consider spending a night in to read to each other. Light some candles, get comfy, and choose a book that's on both of your reading lists.
17. Go to a comedy club.
Laughing together can promote attraction and reduce stress, says Cutlip. An outing to an improv or sketch comedy show can help you get out of your head and have a much-needed belly laugh. And if it’s a total bomb? Your most LOL-worthy episode of Seinfeld is waiting for you two at home.
18. Recreate one of your best dates.
Whether it’s revisiting your first date spot or recreating a dreamy picnic (but this time on your living room floor), reminiscing on the giggly, sweet first days of a relationship can bring levity to your relationship. Plus, you can bring in special touches that show you really know your partner, Cutlip says, like making your S.O.’s favorite dessert.
19. Bring a drive-in movie theater home.
Sure, you can go the classic dinner-and-a-movie route for Valentine’s Day, or you can level up with a slumber party-esque date at home. Grab the fairy lights, fashion a makeshift fort, make popcorn—with extra butter—and cuddle up for a new movie. Cutesy pajamas required.
20. Try something new during sexy time.
If there’s any day to experiment in the bedroom, it’s February 14. Try something you’ve both expressed interest in, whether it’s giving sexy massages or dabbling in kink with a blindfold. Experimenting with a new position or creating nude art with your S.O. can turn up the romance and spice.
21. Have a theme night.
Normalize wearing couples costumes not just on Halloween. Dress up in jazzy 'fits and head to a speakeasy for martinis, or stay at home in your grooviest '70s garb for a showing of Almost Famous. "Try to incorporate ways of having fun that are different from your normal routine together," Cutlip says. "It’s a great reminder of your compatibility and genuine enjoyment of one another."
22. Cuddle around a fire.
Go for an aprés ski vibe with drinks and s’mores around an outdoor fireplace, or build a bonfire in the backyard and live your best teen film romance life. And never underestimate the intimacy and comfort of snagging a table in front of a restaurant’s fireplace. So cozy.
23. Teach each other something new.
Want to amp up your bond? Invite your S.O. into your world, and vice versa. Maybe your partner walks you through a few jiu jitsu moves, while you teach them the perfect stance for archery. You’ll share your passions—and have fun doing it.
24. Take the day off.
When was the last time you spent quality time together, totally alone? Valentine’s Day can be the excuse you need to take the day off (if possible) and enjoy each other’s company undisturbed. Do a whole lot of nothing or go for a long morning run—the day is all yours.
25. Go on a local historical tour.
You might not be able to give your history buff beau a time machine for V-Day, but you can take them on a historical tour of your town or nearby city. Check for guided walking tours that’ll show you your home in a whole new way (some even include food and/or drink stops!).
26. Lace up some skates.
Strap on your ice skates, and take your partner out for a classic winter night they won’t forget. Even if they haven’t skated before, teaching them how is still a fun date-night activity that will bring you even closer together. Plus, someone is bound to fall at least once in the night, so you're guaranteed a few laughs, too.
27. Plan a DIY poetry night.
If you're the artsy type, why not flex your creative muscles on this day of love with an at-home open mic or poetry night? Without the pressure of a crowd, it will be way easier to read a special something to your loved one. (Or, take turns reading excerpts from these erotic novels.)
28. Have a picnic.
Depending on your locale, find the perfect spot around a fire pit, on a beach, at your favorite park, or even from the comfort of your own home. All you need is a basket, blanket, sandwiches, and a bottle of wine.
29. Find a pro photographer.
Hear me out: A photo session might feel cheesy, but once you have those adorable couples photos, you won’t think twice about how corny you looked in that Charlie’s Angels pose in the second shot. Use the session as an opportunity to have fun with each other and create memories and photos that will literally last a lifetime. Shoott makes it easy to book a session in your area, and you'll only pay for the photos you like.
30. Volunteer somewhere together.
Hopefully, you show your partner love all year round. So instead of showering each other with over-the-top romance this V-Day, give love to someone else who may need it even more. Soup kitchens and homeless shelters are always looking for volunteers, as are animal shelters (furry babes need love, too!).
31. Visit a garden.
Florals? For winter? Groundbreaking. But actually, though—just because Valentine's Day occurs in the middle of February doesn't mean you can't have a beautiful evening with a breathtaking floral backdrop. There are plenty of botanical gardens that will give your V-Day just the spruce it needs.
32. Take a pottery class.
Re-enact the scene from Ghost (you have to try it at least once, those are the rules!) in a couples pottery class this Valentine’s Day. You’ll end the evening with a new skill, a new piece, and already be in the mood to get a little dirty and a lot handsy.
33. Go snowshoeing.
Skiing is a solid winter activity, but not everyone lives near the slopes. That's why snowshoeing is a super-satisfying alternative you can do anywhere, even across your own backyard!
34. Make your own beer.
Who died and made champagne the official drink of Valentine’s Day? No one, that’s who. If you and your partner like beer, then you’re gonna love learning how to make it—and, more importantly, taking your own batch home. An at-home brewing kit makes this easy.
35. Take a cooking class.
Ditch the fancy (read: overpriced) pre-fixe dinner in favor of a fun night making a new dish. This activity-based date strengthens your bond as a couple, says Orbuch, because you get to work as a team making something. Opt for a chocolate-making class if you want to include a (literal) taste of Valentine’s Day. There are plenty you can take virtually, too, if that’s more your speed.
36. Paint and pour.
Explore your creative side with your partner...and drink while you do it (win-freakin'-win). Just like with the cooking class, you're making something special together—except this time, you'll have art to remind you of that one really awesome V-Day for years to come.
37. Go on a scavenger hunt.
Forget that super-cheesy one you did at summer camp: This scavenger hunt will actually be fun because you get to make the rules. Pick 10 to 20 items that are either hard to get (like a flower from someone else's bouquet) or just entertaining (find a $1 gift in one minute), that your S.O. has to check off by the end of the night, and have them do the same for you. You'll both end up with cool stuff and even more memories.
38. Shop at a flea market.
You never know what you’ll find at a flea market, and that’s half the fun. Set a budget and hunt for gifts with your S.O. You might learn something new about your loved one in the process.
39. Take a salsa dance lesson.
Even if you have two left feet (or your partner does), a beginner’s class can help you channel a sexy alter-ego. This will pay off long after February 14, says Orbuch, because the arousal created from this activity can transfer to your partner and relationship. And since practice makes perfect, find some tutorials on YouTube to keep the rhythm going.
40. Plan your next trip.
Discuss your dream trips and plot out your ideal itinerary—it might even be the night you spontaneously book a getaway for next weekend. Plus, scrolling through Airbnb listings and daydreaming about what it’d be like to sleep in a treehouse in the Adirondacks or a bungalow in Tanzania with your partner can turn into an all-night affair.
41. Go camping.
Yes, winter camping is a thing. It's not for everyone, but with the right gear (and attitude!), you can enjoy the outdoors any time of year, even when it's cold AF. And hey, you'll never take your partner's body heat for granted again!
42. Take a hike.
Even if you're chillin' in a colder climate (literally), you can still bundle up for an awesome hike—and cuddle up near a fire afterward. Done and done!
43. Rent a cabin.
Find a cabin on Airbnb to remove yourself from the day-to-day grind. Once you get settled, spend the night stargazing together—which, yeah, sounds kinda corny, but totally worth it once you're out there. Just don’t forget to bring blankets!
44. Play shuffleboard or bocce ball.
Your grandparents know what’s up. Shuffleboard and bocce ball are both super-fun games that can spark some healthy competition between you and your boo.
45. Cook a fancy brunch.
Is anything better than brunch? No need to answer that. Put your egg-poaching skills to the test with a next-level V-Day brunch (preferably in bed). Bonus points for cranberry mimosas!
46. Have a tea party for two.
Make your S.O.'s favorite tea, plus some sandwiches and scones, and you'll have a cute 'n' cozy Valentine's Day neither of you will forget.
47. Play some one-on-one basketball.
You don’t need to make any big or dramatic plans with your partner to do something new on V-Day, says Orbuch. So while a basketball date might seem ordinary, chances are you haven't played in a while, right? Wanna make it even more interesting? Loser pays for your next date.
48. Go for a long drive.
Drive around (and don't stop) until you find something new and interesting. Every couple falls into a relationship rut, says Orbuch, and even just driving a different route around your neighborhood can freshen things up. See what you find together! And even if the new place is a total bust, well, at least you can laugh about it.
49. Book a staycation.
You don't need to "do something outlandish," like whisking your valentine off to some tropical locale, says Orbuch. Instead, make a quick trip to the next town over and explore a hiking trail there. You'll be surprised how different the world can be just a few miles away. You can even make your hometown feel new again by playing tourist and staying in a nice-ish hotel.
50. Break out the board games.
Prepare to see another side of your partner: Board games have a way of bringing out the competitor in everyone. You've been warned!
Lindsay Geller is the Lifestyle Director at Women’s Health, where she oversees the Life, Sex & Love, and Relationships sections on WomensHealthMag.com and the Mind section of Women's Health magazine. When she's not writing or editing articles about the latest dating trends and pop culture phenomenons, she's usually watching reality TV or playing with her dog, Lucille (Go Fetch That) Ball.
Alexis Jones is an assistant editor at Women's Health where she writes across several verticals on WomensHealthmag.com, including life, health, sex and love, relationships and fitness, while also contributing to the print magazine. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Syracuse University, lives in Brooklyn, and proudly detests avocados.
