5 Active Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day

A man and woman kissing as they stand on rocks in a river. — MRProduction/Shutterstock

If you and your honey love the outdoors and staying fit, Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be any different. You can skip the long waits at crowded restaurants and stuffy movie theaters, and enjoy a unique adventure together.

You don’t have to wear sparkly clothes, heels, or fancy jewelry to do Valentine’s Day right. Instead, you can get all sweaty exploring the outdoors and rocking those endorphins! It will create a magical day (or night) worth remembering.

We’ve included five of our favorite suggestions for an adventurous Valentine’s Day. But you don’t have to limit yourself to just one. Make it a whole weekend of adventure! Just don’t forget to pack the chocolate.

Hiking

Depending on where you live, you should be able to do a moderate hike in the winter. Of course, you’ll want to make sure you both dress in layers, wear sturdy boots, and avoid icy trails.

You can pack a picnic meal, a bottle of wine, or a box of chocolates to enjoy from a picturesque location. An insulated backpack cooler can make it a hassle-free adventure.

If you live in a snowy area, you can take a stroll around town, or even “hike” to a nearby restaurant for dinner (you can always grab a taxi or an Uber home afterward).

If you live near a beach, it can be super-romantic to stroll alongside the crashing waves.

Rock Climbing

Rock climbing together will give both of you an adrenaline boost! Who cares if you’ve never done it before? This is about getting out and having fun.

Indoor rock-climbing gyms can accommodate complete beginners, so have no fear! You’ll be in good hands.

Add a dash of playful competition if you want to turn it up a notch. For example, whoever makes it to the highest point gets to pick where you’ll go for dessert or dinner.

Yoga

Many yoga studios offer “partner” workshops on Valentine’s Day. You’ll want to reserve your spot in advance, though, as these events usually fill up quickly. These sessions are usually geared toward all levels, so it’s okay if you or your partner has limited (or zero) yoga experience. Usually, the studio even supplies the mats.

A regular yoga class is another option if the special partner sessions are booked. Stretching and limbering up next to one another can make you both feel relaxed and connected.

If you’re both members of a local gym, see if it has a yoga class scheduled that day. There might not be romantic candles and incense burning, but it’ll still be fun!

Skiing

If you live within driving distance of a ski field, plan to hit it this Valentine’s Day! Afterward, you can unwind at home in the bath or give each other a relaxing massage.

If the ski area is farther away, see if you can afford the travel costs and accommodations. If you can’t pull it off this Valentine’s Day, consider gifting a future ski day to your loved one.

Dancing

If it’s too cold or snowy for outside adventures, but you still want to do something active for Valentine’s Day, dancing is a classic option!

Take a dance class together and learn some ballroom, swing, salsa, or even Zumba moves. Often there are special Valentine’s Day dance events, so do some research and see what’s going on in your area.

And don’t forget about bars, nightclubs, or restaurants that host live bands. If no one else is dancing, who cares? You and your partner can get the party started!

Alternatively, you can have a stay-at-home dance date. Turn your living room into a private dance studio—just push the furniture aside, and you’ll be good to go! This is a great option if you have kids and don’t want to splurge on a babysitter.

There are plenty of excellent partner dance videos on YouTube. The following are all designed for complete beginners:

Every Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to involve a fancy restaurant and a movie. Get outside and climb, dance, or stretch together! You can even plan an active date at home if you want to save money. The important thing is to make sure you spend some quality time together, get those endorphins moving, and have fun!