There are two types of people in this world: Those who think Valentine’s Day is fun, special and wholesome, and those who think the “made-up holiday” is just like any other day on the planet. Both are valid, of course, but we forget that, as creative humans with free will, we can make February 14th anything we want it to be.
If you’re not interested in the conventions of the holiday, there are always alternatives. Instead of dinner reservations, why not camping reservations? Instead of a movie, why not … moving your body? Instead of living out a rom-com scene, why not a change of scenery? Romance, my friends, is subjective. Whether you’re solo, in a relationship or prefer to make it more of a Gal/Pal-entine’s affair, we’ve got some ideas that will leave all kinds of adventurers with hearts in their eyes.
For the Ultimate Adventure Couple
If you’re both outdoorsy types, then naturally you’ve already decided Mother Nature will be your third wheel. For the couple that doesn’t mind being outdoors in February, what’s more romantic than bundling up, traversing a new trail and ending the trek with a campfire dinner? For the more extreme couple—those who can’t let a heart-themed holiday go by without increased heart rates—some date ideas include: heli-skiing, free climbing, tandem paragliding, whitewater rafting or, if you’re willing to travel, volcano boarding. And after? Extreme doting.
For the Indoorsy-Outdoorsy Duo
You two share so much common ground—but one of you isn’t willing to sleep on it. That’s OK. They say “opposites attract” for a reason. If you’re the indoorsy type with an outdoorsy beau, or vice-versa, the best way to celebrate V-Day is with a Beloved Happy Medium. There are plenty of amorous activities that involve just the right amount of movement and fresh air. For example: a hot yoga class, an extra-long walk to a restaurant, exploring a scenic view by car, indoor rock climbing, a winery tour by bike or birding from your living room. You can have it all!
For the Solo Adventurer
Let’s give a big shout-out to your no. 1, your muse, your ride-or-die, your sunshine when the skies are gray: yourself! Treat the person who’s always been there for you to a fabulous adventure in the name of self-love. Think about the one outdoor activity you love doing the most; something that brings you more joy than anything else. Yes, that one! OK, here’s what you’re going to do on Valentine’s Day: Exactly that.
For the Group Chat (That Makes It Out of the Group Chat)
It only took 7,820 messages to coordinate plans, but the group chat is getting together on Valentine’s Day! Everyone agrees: There’s no better way to spend the day than celebrating your love of friendship. Unfortunately, not everyone agrees on how to spend the day. With such a wide variety of interests, why not try a general crowd-pleaser—something Picky Patty, Chill Chris, Insistent Ingrid and Down-For-Whatever Danny can all enjoy: a picnic! Whether you’re setting up on the living room floor or outside on the living Earth floor, grab a fun blanket and tell everyone to pack their favorite snacks and dishes. Don’t forget to B.Y.O.W.T. (bring your own wine tumbler). Then enjoy the reason for the season: togetherness.
For the Fresh-Air Family
So you’re going to spend V-Day with the kiddos. It happens. Good thing romance isn’t limited to one day a year. And good thing there are plenty of fun ways to get outside with those you adore most. Your first stop is a visit to Inspiration Station, which includes ideas like a family bicycle ride, a backyard camping adventure, a long-overdue ski trip and a nature-driven scavenger hunt. No matter what your crew gets into, it’ll be apparent love is in the (fresh) air.
For the Indoorsy Couple
Sure, you both prefer the likes of heaters and walls, but maybe you’re each a little curious about taking up a new hobby. Perfect. The best date for you two—stop us if you’ve heard this one before—is a trip to REI. First of all, it’s indoors. Second of all, what’s more exciting than getting inspired to try something new? Maybe you’d get a kick out of picking out new kicks for each other; or finding matching jackets for a winter walk; or deciding it’s finally time to get really into kayaking. Either way, and most importantly, the date’s inside.