Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and the pressure is on for those looking to wow their partners with the perfect date. Restaurants around town are putting together rich, sumptuous five-course-meal for lovers to indulge in and the sweets and wine shops are doubling their stock. For health-conscious couples, this love-focused holiday can be tricky to navigate, but if there’s one thing we know, it’s that couples who play together stay together.
We’ve got five active Valentine’s Day date ideas that guarantee to heat things up with a little bit of sweat and a whole lot of fun.
There’s nothing like a little adrenaline rush to amp up the excitement in a relationship. It may be cold outside, but the local rock climbing gyms offer duos looking for a fun night out a great alternative to the traditional dinner and drinks. Most gyms have all the gear you could possibly need for rent on site. If it’s your first time on a wall, staff walk guests through everything they need to know. And what better way is there to declare the strength of your love for one and other than by literally putting your lives in each other’s hands as you belay each other over and over throughout the evening.
The crisp air of an early spring and spectacular views make for an unforgettable romantic experience. Trails that were perfect for fall are great this time of year too, but the difference in season offers hikers something new. Pack a picnic lunch or some tasty snacks and some bubbly to enjoy when you find the perfect place to enjoy a scenic moment. If you cover enough ground, you may even have the appetite for a calorie-heavy evening meal.
You haven’t strapped skates to your feet since you were in grade school. It’s time to pull on those leg warmers, crimp your hair and head to the roller rink. Valentine’s Day skate sessions at local skate facilities are sure to include a couple of your favorite power ballads giving you and your sweetheart the opportunity to hold each other’s sweaty palms and be transported back, back —way back—to a time when greasy pizza and dizzying circles led to true love.
A little competition can make sparks fly on the court and off. Grab your rackets and head to the nearest net for a game or two of tennis. This activity is also great for double dates. Hours of sprinting after balls and sweating like its summertime is sure to build players’ appetites. Pre-arrange evening plans so you have time to clean up and then hit the town for a bite with friends after you play.
There’s nothing wrong with indulging every once in a while. Go ahead, enjoy that five-course-meal. Then head out for a night of dancing and work it off. Check local dance studios for special themed events. From salsa to swing to hitting the club, there are a variety of ways to hit the floor after filling your belly.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean a night of stuffing yourself with sweets (though you surely can). From scaling rock walls to dabbing like you’re a middle-schooler, there are plenty of active options for sparking romance. Don’t be afraid to try something different this year. After you’ve worked up a sweat, a little indulging will surely feel a whole lot better.
Want more date ideas? Try these fun winter adventures before the seasons change!