Valentine’s Day has come and gone—which means your wallet is probably recovering from an overpriced dinner or garish gifts. But if Cupid’s holiday is good for one thing, it’s a good reminder to take time out of our hectic lives to do something fun and different with someone we love.
So this weekend, whether you have a long-time love or new crush, try one of these fun, cheap, and romantic date ideas.
See the Sunset
Sure, this quintessential date idea is nothing new, but something about watching that big ball of fire drop behind the Pacific Ocean, the Rocky Mountains, or the New York skyline never gets old. Not only is that late afternoon glow quite possibly the most flattering light ever, but there is something nostalgic yet hopeful in a sunset that makes us want to honor the good times passed and get excited for something new. And if that’s not great for your relationship, I don’t know what is! Check Yelp for the best viewing points in your area, pack a bottle of wine and a picnic, and snuggle up to enjoy another day rolling magically into night.
Go Dancing
There’s nothing like music and movement to get that heart beating, so grab your honey and hit the dance floor! Whether you like to rock to your favorite live band, sweat it up in the club, or two-step at the honky tonk, dancing is a great way to connect. Save that serious conversation for another time and let your body language (and those sexy lyrics!) do the talking. If dancing isn’t your thing, don’t count it out entirely—just sign up for partner dancing lessons. There’s nothing like a slow dance to rekindle that flame or ignite new sparks.
Do Something Daring
Let’s face it, uncomfortable situations tend to bring people together. We’ve all seen The Bachelor rappelling down skyscraper walls with a pretty young thing gripping to him as if her life depended on it, only to fall in love upon touching ground! OK, maybe it’s not that easy, but certain experiences (think military boot camp or fraternity hell week) are designed to encourage us to rely on others to make it through. So think of something that scares or excites you—whether it’s jumping out of a plane or sitting through a horror film—and make a plan to do it with your sweetheart. It’s sure to bring you out of a slump or nudge you into the next stage of your relationship.
Hit the Road
There is something innately romantic about a road trip. Not only are you getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and going somewhere fabulous, but you also get to enjoy hours of alone time with nothing but the open road, a good playlist, and intimate conversation. Plus, there’s something about the journey that holds promise: promise of a great weekend away, promise of a new step in a relationship, or the memory of promises made in the past. So, plan to go somewhere fun, but don’t forget to enjoy the ride!
