40 creative Valentine’s Day date ideas

Sometimes the most romantic date idea is as close as your own living room.

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Throw some logs on the fire, spread a blanket on your living room rug, and hunker down for a romantic dinner for two.  

-- By Katherine West Slevin

What could be more romantic than Paris? Spring a surprise trip on your date and head to the City of Light. Stroll along the Seine, kiss atop the Eiffel Tower, and get in touch with your inner Parisian.

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Can’t quite afford a hop across the pond? Don’t despair.

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Dust off your copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking, queue up some Édith Piaf or classic French cinema, scatter a few well-placed photos of Parisian landmarks around la maison, and get ready to wine and dine your sweetie Paris-style.

Flirt with the unknown this Valentine’s Day and spend the day learning a new skill. Sign up for a rock climbing school, book an excursion with a fly fishing instructor, or attend a cooking class.

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The adventure of it is sure to spur a little romance.

No, not that plunge. Scope out a romantic river, lake, quarry or after-hours pool if you’re in a colder climate, and sneak your honey in for a late-night swim. Clothing optional.

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Valentine’s Day calls for something a bit out of the ordinary. Suburbanites, plan a night out in the city. City dwellers, head to the countryside for a romantic night away or day trip. Whether you’re kicking it into high gear with a night on the town or slowing things down with a trip to the country—the change of pace will do wonders for you and your romance. 

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Take in the scenery with a winter hike. Remember to bring along a thermos of cocoa (or spiked cider) to keep the chill away. Better yet, make a night of it. Pitch your tent and snuggle up for a romantic evening of camping.

Take in your favorite exotic species and test your animal attraction this Valentine’s Day with a trip to the zoo. Strolling around the African Savanna and Amazonia is sure to provoke some primal twinges.

There’s nothing like Valentine’s Day to incite a little nostalgia. Return to the site of your first date, where you first met, or the spot where you proposed. Take your sweetie on a tour to visit romantic landmarks of years past. Perhaps you’ll find a new one along the way. 

Pick up VIP passes to a special event. Whether it’s a concert, a sporting event, or the opera, hit the town in style and give your date a night to remember.