10 Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

Do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? If so, do you have a go-to Valentine’s Day date? Dan and I usually stay in and chill since fighting the crowds on Valentine’s Day in NYC is a hassle. Here are 10 Valentine’s Day date ideas, including a DIY at-home wine tasting and a trip to the bookstore…

1. DIY at-home wine tasting.

Head to your local wine shop and get a few different bottles of wine. Maybe go for a bottle of your favorite wine and then one or two that you’ve never tried before? Also grab some cheese, fancy olives, nuts, crackers — whatever you like for small-bite appetizers. Put this on the tv and chill. And just for fun, take turns describing the flavors you taste in each wine (no peeking at the label!) Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for suggestions when you’re picking out wine. The owners of our local wine shop are always happy to answer any questions and make suggestions for us.

2. Museum scavenger hunt.

If you’re up for a Valentine’s Day adventure, check out Watson Adventures. They offer fun and smart scavenger hunts for all ages and occasions. If a low-key museum visit is more your thing, wandering around with no agenda also sounds perfect.

3. Book a reservation the night before or after Valentine’s Day.

If crowded restaurants and prix fixe menus aren’t your scene, go out on the 13th or 15th. One year, when Dan and I were feeling brave, we tried to book a reservation at our favorite neighborhood restaurant. But they were completely booked. Luckily, we were able to get a table on the 13th instead. It ended up being the better scenario because we were able to order our favorite dishes from their regular menu instead of the limited V-Day menu. Plus, it was less crowded, so we didn’t feel rushed to finish up our meal.

4. Head to the bookstore and pick out a book for each other.

Bookworm or not, this is a romantic, chill, and budget-friendly Valentine’s Day date idea.

5. Take a trapeze class.

For those looking for an adrenaline-pumping Valentine’s Day date idea, consider a trapeze class. From absolute beginner (probably most of us, right?) to advanced aerialists, there is a range of classes to accommodate every skill level. For readers in NYC, check out the New York Trapeze School.

6. Take a dance class.

If you’re looking for something a little spicier than the bookstore and not as wild as trapeze class, consider taking a dance class. The Salsa, a popular partner dance, would be fun to learn on Valentine’s Day. Other fun options could be the Tango or Swing.

7. Valentine’s Day breakfast or brunch.

Another way to avoid the Valentine’s Day crowd is to go out for breakfast or brunch. If it’s the weekend (or if you can take the day off from work), consider looking for a boozy brunch special and order a mimosa (yum). Or just stay in and have breakfast in bed!

8. Take a cooking class.

My mom sent me this cute picture of herself at King Arthur Flour in Vermont. Her husband took it while they were taking a pizza-making class. How fun is that? It’d be cool to learn to cook something new for a Valentine’s Day date.

9. Take a fitness class.

Calling all fitness couples! Skip the traditional Valentine’s Day date and head to a fitness class. Try spin class, boxing, HIIT, or yoga together. You could also jog in the park together, if the fitness class scene isn’t your deal.

10. Cook your V-Day dinner together.

If you’re looking for a romantic night in, pick out a tasty recipe to make together. Then, set the mood with pretty cloth napkins and candles, and enjoy the meal you just made. And definitely don’t skip dessert!

How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day (if you do)? Have any Valentine’s Day date ideas to add? We’d love to hear…

(Wine photo by Louis Hansel. Museum photo by Watson Adventures. Trapeze photo by Philly Voice. A version of this post was published in 2016.)