Gone are the days when I enjoyed spending my Valentine’s evening in a crowded restaurant with a bland prix fixe menu. After two years of this new normal, I’ve learned that I much prefer spending romantic moments without a crowd. Maybe your reasons for spending Valentine’s Day a little differently are for health concerns, or maybe not. No matter your reasons for wanting to celebrate safely, this list of COVID-conscious ideas will hopefully inspire you to create a safe and fun Valentine’s Day date!
Outdoor Ideas
If you live in an area that isn’t freezing in February, these outdoor ideas are for you!
- Outdoor Dining
This option is perfect if you’re less concerned about being around others, but still prefer fresh air. Find a local restaurant with a gorgeous view or a cute patio. Spend some time researching a restaurant with a beautiful aesthetic and a mouth-watering menu. Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to try the restaurant at the top of your wishlist! - Outdoor Picnic
An outdoor picnic makes a romantic and thoughtful date. You can completely customize the menu to you and your partner’s favorite treats! If you’re having trouble deciding, order a picnic or gift box online from a company like Mouth for a ready to go picnic in a box. Then all you need is a big blanket, drinks, and a romantic spot!
Indoor Ideas
These ideas are perfect if it’s still too cold outside, or you’re comfortable spending time together safely distanced from others.
- Stay In, Take Out
You can easily have a fun Valentine’s Day from the comfort of your own home! Splurge on the take out food you’ve both been dreaming of trying. Pick up some yummy valentines treats from a local bakery or order some chocolate dipped strawberries for delivery. Make it extra special by dressing up or decorating! This is a great time to use your special occasion plates and glasses. - Museum Date
A quick google seach of “museums in my area” will give you great options for your date. This is a great option for art, history, or science lovers! If you don’t feel like you’re “museum people,” I bet you have a local museum you’d enjoy. Museums with interactive exhibits and art museums are the two I recommend to everyone. Museums in your area may require masks, but if not museums are usually large enough to allow for a personal space bubble. - Escape Room
An escape room can be a great date if you or your partner enjoy solving puzzles under pressure! This fun and challenging activity requires teamwork and great communication. Escape rooms are COVID safe because you and your date (or your group) will be the only people in the room. You can find escape rooms in your area here.
Online Ideas
If your valentine is quarantining or just far away, meeting up online over Zoom can still be fun and romantic!
- Watch a movie together
Even though you’re apart, you can still see a movie together! The Chrome extension Teleparty allows you and your valentine to watch in sync on Netflix, Hulu, Disney +, and Amazon in HD. Teleparty features text chat, so if you prefer talking during movies you’ll still need to use a videoconference program. - Cook Together
A perfect date option if you both enjoy cooking or like to try new things! Create your own cooking class: pick out a recipe together, get the ingredients, and cook together over Zoom or Facetime. Cooking together can be challenging but fun! Compare your creations and enjoy the meal you’ve created together.
