No Valentine's Day Plans? No Prob—Check Out This List Of Unique Ideas
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Ah, Valentine's Day. It's one of the most romantic days of the year to celebrate all types of love. While it might feel like there's a ton of pressure to plan the "perfect" date due to rom-coms and social media, there's one thing you should do with your S.O. first to remove some of that stress:"Have a conversation around what your expectations are," says Morgan Cutlip, PhD, a relationship expert at My Love Thinks and Flo.
Seriously, get into the nitty gritty about whether or not you’ll exchange gifts, go out or stay in, and who (if not both) will take on planning. Contrary to what you might be thinking, this logistical convo actually won’t take any fun out of the holiday, she says. Instead, it'll prevent you (or them) from becoming disappointed day of if you two don't have any plans.
After that convo, it's time to plan the date. Of course, Valentine's Day expectations usually boil down to flowers, chocolate, and dinner for two. And while you've probably gone the traditional route tons of times—I mean, they're classics for a reason!—there's a major benefit of thinking outside the box with Valentine’s Day dates.
Meet the experts: Morgan Cutlip, PhD, is a relationship expert at My Love Thinks and Flo. Terri Orbuch, PhD, is a relationship therapist, professor at Oakland University and the University of Michigan, and author of 5 Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage From Good to Great. Betsy Chung, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and relationship expert based in Los Angeles.
For instance, it can help you "change things up just a bit" and "create excitement and passion" in your relationship, says Terri Orbuch, PhD, relationship therapist, professor at Oakland University and the University of Michigan, and author of 5 Simple Steps to Take Your Marriage From Good to Great. To do so, she recommends choosing an activity for your Valentine's Day date that is at least one of these three things: creative, physical, or new.
Luckily for all you lovebirds out there, you don't have to work too hard to come up with a unique Valentine's Day date idea that will wow your partner (or your crush, or your situationship) this year. Whether you’re a foot rub-on-the-couch kind of person or more interested in a night out with your S.O., we've got you covered. Check out this list of 45 cute, creative date activities to find the one that's just right.
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 contributions—maybe some chocolates for a fondue feast or burrata for a cheese board—and share. Or, throw all of the hard work out the window and purchase a charcuterie board bundle (and if it includes a heart-shaped board—extra points!).
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. Don't forget a vase and extra accessories, like ribbon!
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. I'm talking hair masks, foot scrubs, and massages—the whole nine yards. Dim the lights, put the piano music on in the background, and pamper each other to leave the date in a completely relaxed state of mind. After all, the couple that face-masks together, stays together...right?
4. Go on a take-out tour.
Any foodies out there? Then you defs shouldn't limit yourself to just one meal this Valentine's Day. Instead, go on a take-out tour in your neighborhood by picking up different dishes at different restaurants and bring them home. My biggest suggestion? Take this opportunity to 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 even better...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 going to the same restaurant—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.
Yup, you read that correctly. Get extra creative this year and plan a day full of activities that doesn't cost a thing. Go for a bike ride or walk, explore a new area you've always wanted to go to, have a picnic with the food from your fridge, or do an online yoga class together. The more creative you can get with it, the better.
7. Make cocktails (or mocktails).
In lieu of a resy at that new cocktail bar, learn how to make your favorite drinks yourself. There are plenty of fun tutorials on Instagram and you can even attend an in-person or virtual mixology class if you want to learn from a pro. Make the cocktail or mocktail from scratch with store bought ingredients, or find a fave local restaurant or bar that sells at-home cocktail kits. If you have the tools and need the ingredients, go with this zero-proof set or this Negroni kit.
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, hot 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. (Hi, Virgos!)
"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. Well, when you put it that way...
10. Get lost together.
To put this simply, pack a bag and head out without a set destination in mind. Drive onto a highway or just start walking, 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. 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 out, including their high school, old neighborhood, or even college will certainly bring you guys closer. This can renew a sense of excitement and curiosity in the relationship, according to Chung.
12. Fill your day with challenges.
Pack your day with a list of fun, special, or even hot 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 hot fantasy to act out.
13. Get vulnerable with a deck of card prompts.
Valentine's 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.
And to make it all even *spicier*, you can opt for a fun game of Truth Or Drink. The questions range from subtle to super steamy.
14. Make playlists for each other.
This one is for all the music enthusiasts. In my personal opinion, there's nothing more romantic than creating (or receiving) a playlist that your S.O. made just for you—and your relationship is no exception. 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?
15. Head to your favorite bookstore and buy each other a book.
If you're hoping to keep your Valentine's Day activities on the DL, this activity is perfect. The assignment is simple: Just go to your favorite bookstore and both of you can buy a book for the other one to read. Maybe it's a book that's on their reading list, or a new book in their favorite genre. Then, spend the night in reading to each other, or on your own, but still together. Light some candles and get comfy!
16. 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 laugh. And if the show is a total bomb and super cringey? Your favorite episode of The Office is waiting for you two at home.
17. 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 early days of dating can bring levity to your relationship. Plus, you can incorporate special touches that show you really know your partner now, Cutlip says, like making your S.O.’s favorite dessert.
18. Bring drive-in movie theater vibes to your 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, create a makeshift fort with plenty of blankets, pick up your favorite movie theater snacks and make popcorn—with extra butter—and cuddle up for a movie neither of you have seen before. Cutesy pajamas required.
19. Try something new during hot 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 hot 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.
20. Plan a themed 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. (Or hit a disco bar!) "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."
21. Teach each other something new.
Want to amp up your bond? Invite your S.O. into your world, and vice versa. And I'm not talking about just catching the football game on television together if your S.O.'s favorite team is playing. Let's get creative here: Maybe your partner walks you through a few jiu-jitsu moves, then you teach them the perfect stance for archery. You’ll share your passions—and have fun doing it.
22. 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 be OOO (if possible) and enjoy each other’s company undisturbed. Do a whole lot of nothing, cook together, or go for a long morning run. Maybe you even do all of the above? After all, the day is all yours.
23. Buy sex toys for each other...and then try them together.
Think of the book date, but sexier. Shop for a few vibrators or other sex toys and then make a night of trying them out together. Best case scenario? You'll learn something new about yourself in the midst of several Os.
24. 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.
25. Bake together.
Cooking and baking are very different, so if you choose to make a cake or cookies with your S.O. this Valentine's Day, know that you might learn a little extra something about them. Pick a yummy heart-shaped cake or cookies to bake, and put on some romantic music as you're making the recipe. Pink frosting = required!
26. 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 (or, the full kit).
27. Find a pro photographer.
Hear me out. This date idea *might* seem like it's straight out of The Bachelor, but once you have those adorable couples photos, you won’t think twice about it. 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.
28. Volunteer somewhere together.
I'm betting volunteering isn't something you two do together often. 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 babies need love, too!).
29. 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.
30. 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.
31. Make your own beer.
Honestly, who made champagne the official drink of Valentine’s Day? If you and your partner prefer 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 the process easy.
32. 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 of classes you can take virtually, too, if that’s more your speed.
33. Paint and pour.
Explore your creative side with your partner...and sip on a yummy cocktail or mocktail while doing it. Just like with the cooking class, you're making something special together—and this time, you'll have art to remind you of that one really awesome V-Day for years to come.
34. 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.
35. 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.
36. 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 hot 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.
37. Plan your next trip.
Discuss your dream trips and plot out your ideal travel 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 together can turn into an all-night affair.
38. 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. Don't forget to bring lots of sandwiches and snacks for the day. It'll be so romantic to get out in nature when it's just you and your S.O., promise.
39. Rent a cabin.
Remove yourself from the day-to-day grind and find a cabin on Airbnb for a week or long weekend. Once you get settled, spend the night stargazing together or getting cozy by the fireplace. Bonus points if you whip up some hot cocoa or cider!
40. Play games.
This date can range from a night of board games and appetizers at home, to going out to your favorite arcade and playing your fav old school ones. Heck, even shuffleboard and bocce ball are both super-fun games that can spark some healthy competition between you and your boo. That's right—your grandparents know what’s up.
41. Cook a fancy brunch.
Is anything better than brunch? No need to answer that. Put your egg-poaching and pancake-flipping skills to the test with a next-level V-Day brunch (preferably in bed). Remember to pick up lots of fun toppings for your pancakes or waffles. Bonus points for cranberry mimosas!
42. 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. Baking scones is a whole fun collaborative date idea in itself, after all.
43. Play some one-on-one basketball.
Yup, it's giving Love & 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 simple, chances are you haven't played in a while, right? Wanna make it even more interesting? Loser pays for your next date. If that doesn't make it *extra* competitive, IDK what will.
44. 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 you don't find anything noteworthy, well, at least you can laugh about it later since it's a new shared memory.
45. 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 what the town has to offer. (Maybe they're known for their cheese, so you tour the best restaurants and create a day out of cheese tasting!) You'll be surprised how different the world can be just a few miles away. And if you only have time to stay in town, you can make it feel new again by playing tourist and staying in a charming hotel.
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