We’ve all been there. Each year we make Valentine’s Day dinner reservations at our favorite dinner spot in town all while thinking “would we have more fun doing something different this year?”. This is why I’m giving you unique Valentine’s Day dates that aren’t dinner. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with going to dinner on Valentine’s Day but it is nice to switch it up every now and again! I chose ideas that can be done in almost any city, so this isn’t Dallas specific.
Cooking at Home
What you’ll need: A recipe and a good bottle of wine
There are sooo many good recipes online nowadays; with a click of a button, you can make just about anything you’ve dreamed of. Some of my favorite recipes I experiment with come from The Defined Dish (which you can order and receive well before Valentine’s Day). And while I haven’t tried it, I’ve heard great things about the Magnolia Table cookbook (which also arrives before Valentine’s Day). Cookbooks also make for a great and easy Valentine’s Day gift 🙂
Cooking Class
Some cities have opened up interactive classes, like cooking classes! These are a great idea for someone who doesn’t want the mess in their own kitchen but still gets all of the perks of a homemade meal. Sur La Table offers online and in-person cooking classes. Don’t wait too long to reserve as I’m sure time slots are filling up fast. You could also give this as a V-Day gift and schedule after the holiday rush 🙂
Plan a Picnic
What you’ll need: a basket, blanket, pre-made food, beverages, and a location
This is a super easy yet thoughtful V-Day date idea. Central Market, Whole Foods, Eatzi’s, and places alike are great places to pick up food for your picnic. They have grab and go options that make it super simple. TJ Maxx/Homegoods have great selections for reasonably priced blankets (that can be reused or donated after use). As for locations, if you’re a Dallas local, you could do Kyle Warren Park, Turtle Creek Park, Prairie Creek Park, or any others in your area!
At Home Mixology Making
What you’ll need: recipe and ingredients
This could be fun to do before your potential dinner reservation or before you make your dinner at home. There are a ton of great mixology recipes on Pinterest (ranging from intermediate to advanced) with a variety of options. This is also fun to do with another couple and make a few different recipes!
Book a Staycation
I feel like everyone could use a staycation every once in a while. It’s nice to escape your house for a night or two and enjoy a different scenery; knowing when you leave there isn’t a long, dreadful ride home. Some local Dallas options are Virgin Hotel Dallas (so fun and great restaurants), the Adolphus Hotel, and Thompson Dallas. Don’t wait too long to make reservations for Valentine’s Day weekend.
Drive-in Movie
Some cities are now offering drive-in movies (given some city’s restrictions). Dallas now has a Rooftop Cinema Club, which are so fun if you’ve never done one! You can get cute or dress down to be ultra-comfy, I mean no one will judge you from inside your car. You can typically purchase food there or bring your own, just make sure to check the website beforehand!
Brewery
Instead of dinner, you could switch it up by going to a local Brewery or Distillery (while also supporting local businesses)! Here are some favorites in the Dallas-area:
Spa Day or Mani/Pedi
Lastly, if you’re in need of some R&R, a spa day or mani/pedi may be in the cards for you. Most spas run a Valentine’s Day special for couple’s massages all throughout the weekend. This is another great place to grab a gift card for your S/O if you plan to go at a different time.
That wraps up my Unique Valentine’s Day Dates That Aren’t Dinner. I hope this list helps you in planning something fun for you and your S/O. You can always send them this list to drop a hint 😉
Wishing you a V-Day filled with lots of fun and love.
