Other Things You Can Do on a Date

The season of love usually brings to mind overpriced menus and the subtle pressure of a waiter hovering nearby to turn your table for the next seating. A candlelit dinner may be a classic, but it’s only one of many ways to plan a memorable date.

If you’re looking to swap the steak tenderloin for something a bit more active, here are the best ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day without setting foot in a bistro.

Escape Rooms

If your love language is solving problems under pressure, head to an escape room to get your adrenaline pumping. Breaking out of a wacky art installation owned by an evil philanthropist or a faux-1920s office becomes an immersive test of communication to flourish, especially with the clock ticking.

Mini-Putt

For something more lighthearted, a miniature golf course makes the perfect low-stakes date. The competitive element invites playful banter, and it’s one of the few outings where terrible outfits and terrible swings actually improve the night.

Pottery Classes

For couples who want a physical memento of the evening, a pottery class is hard to beat. Working with clay is tactile and grounding. Even if your masterpiece ends up looking like a lump, the experience naturally encourages bonding, and you leave with a new skill.

Hiking

Good weather turns a simple hike into a uniquely romantic experience no restaurant can replicate. Reaching a summit already feels rewarding, and sharing the moment makes it even better while building coordination and trust along the way.

Concerts or Live Performances

Standing side by side while listening to a favorite act easily becomes a memorable date. Whether it’s a local production or a major artist, live performances create a shared emotional experience and give you something to talk about long after the lights go down.

Cooking Classes

Without the restaurant chaos, a cooking class lets you enjoy your favorite meals while learning how to make them yourself. You get the gourmet meal and the skills to recreate it, making the process just as enjoyable as the eating.