Every year, when the second week of February rolls around, we’re faced with the same dilemma. What should we do for Valentine’s Day? Apart from “dinner and a movie,” how can we make the day more memorable and fun?
Mitch and I like fajitas and margaritas, so we usually opt for dinner at our favorite Mexican food restaurant. But we’re looking for a new way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. A stress-free activity that takes standby to standout.
Are you feeling pressure to plan the perfect date with your valentine? Avoid the stress of making dinner reservations at a crowded restaurant. Take a break from tradition and get moving instead.
Here are ten heart-pumping date ideas to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your spouse. May they inspire a fun and memorable holiday that’s heart-healthy in every way!
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10 Heart-Pumping Date Ideas
Kick Valentine’s Day – or ANY date night – up a notch. Connect with your partner by getting active with one of these date ideas. Not only will you benefit from bonding with your spouse, you’ll reap some health rewards, too.
Can you think of a better reason to try one of these heart-pumping date activities?
1. Go Hiking Together
Hiking is one of my favorite activities. And if Mitch is up to it, there are SO many trails to explore together – right in our own backyard. Florida has many diverse ecosystems to explore, and the Ocala National Forest is just minutes away from our home.
Couples hiking is very rewarding, and it can strengthen your relationship. But it requires planning and balance. Pick a hike based on both of your abilities and comfort levels. Bring the right food, water, and gear for the location. Have patience. Take pictures. And enjoy the journey.
2. Take a Stroll in the Park
If hiking is TOO much activity for you and your spouse, consider a walk in the park. A Valentine’s Day stroll in a beautiful setting is a simple way to spend time together. Hold hands as you walk through your favorite park or neighborhood.
Sholom Park is the perfect place to find peace in Ocala, Florida. Not sure where to go in YOUR town? Visit the website for your town’s local park and recreation department.
3. Hit the Gym Together
Most Valentine’s Day traditions involve food. Fancy dinners, chocolate delights, sweet candy hearts. If you’re into year-round healthy living, hit the gym with your valentine for a rewarding date.
Couple workouts provides accountability and social support. If you’re more of a solo trainer, consider an exercise class instead. Pick something new to both of you, like yoga or Zumba – and enjoy your shared experience together.
4. Shoot Hoops at the Court
Active sports like basketball are definite heart-pumping date ideas. In a throw-back to your school days, play one-on-one basketball with your partner. Take advantage of a neighborhood court, or play on a driveway hoop.
Up the ante with a game of H-O-R-S-E, where you try to match your partner’s shots. Or see how many free throws you can make in a row. The loser treats the winner to coffee or dessert.
5. Go for a Bicycle Ride
You don’t need a bicycle built for two for an awesome Valentine’s date. Whether you hit the trails on an electric tricycle – or cruise together on a two-wheel model – a bicycle date is fun.
Two wheels can go places four wheels can’t. Enjoy a scenic adventure in nature. A winery tour. Restaurant hopping. Even a romantic outdoor picnic. Your bicycle is the ticket to a memorable Valentine’s Day.
6. Play Miniature Golf
Whether you’re an old pro or golf newbie, playing a round of golf is a good way to spend time with your date. But you don’t have to commit to 18 holes, or even nine. Hit up the driving range, or make a date for mini-golf.
No matter your golf skill level, an evening of miniature golf is fun and challenging. My husband and I enjoy friendly competition, with some playfulness mixed in. It’s like a fun game of flirting! If you’re in central Florida, Congo River is a fun venue. Click here to find a mini golf course near you.
7. Explore Your City
Mitch and I live in Ocala, Florida, the “horse capital of the world.” One of our favorite dates is to drive around town and find something we didn’t notice before. A new restaurant, a new store, a new street to explore.
This Valentine’s Day, explore your city together. Looking for something new can stimulate good conversation and build special memories. If you’re in Ocala, check out Downtown Ocala, Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, or Silver Springs State Park.
8. Take Dance Lessons
Forget flowers and candy. “Couples who sway together, stay together,” the saying goes. So do something exciting and new for Valentine’s Day. Take dance lessons with your spouse and get moving together.
Having mutual interests is important for any relationship. The time you spend learning how to dance – and practicing at home – can bring you closer together. You’ll have more to talk about, and more to experience together.
9. Go Bowling Together
Dates should be fun and memorable, not silent and awkward. That’s why bowling is such a great Valentine’s Day activity. It’s also a great conversation starter, whether you’re an old pro or just learning.
The bowling alley is a good place to get to know your spouse better. You’ll see your partner’s competitive side or laid-back side, based on a strike or gutter ball. Impress each other, laugh together, and have fun.
10. Play Old-School Yard Games
You don’t even have to leave home to have fun on Valentine’s Day. We’re talking about an awesome day of activity right in your own backyard – picnic optional.
Break out the badminton set, grab a cornhole bag, or dig out your old Frisbee. Play croquet. An old-school yard game might seem a little childish, but it’s a fun, retro date activity. Give it a try!
Wrapping It Up
As you can see, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be stuck in the “dinner and a movie” box. An active, adventurous date is a great way to spend the holiday with our spouse. Let these date ideas inspire you. Step outside your comfort zone and make some memories together. ◻️
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Now It’s Your Turn
Thank you for reading my post. Now it’s YOUR turn to chime in. What is your favorite heart-pumping date idea? How will you and your spouse spend Valentine’s Day this year?
Let’s fill the comments with friendly conversation. Scroll down to leave a response, ask a question, or just say hello. And if you liked this post, please give it a share.
Blessings, Annette
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