valentine’s day: unique date night ideas
First of all, January has felt like it’s already been 66 days long! Can I be completely honest? It’s been a stressful month with work, events, and a few projects I’m working on for later this year. Later this month Matt and I are heading out of town, and I’m looking forward to it so much! It will be nice to unwind, hit the slopes (even though I’m not that great) and just stay off of emails for a little while. When we get back, it will be February, and I’m eternally grateful to head into the next month and leave the January stress behind. February is our anniversary month, so we’ll be celebrating Valentine’s Day and another year together, which is always so crazy to think about how much time has flown by with this man!
We haven’t made plans for Valentine’s Day weekend just yet, and that made me think - in the midst of the January craziness - I completely forgot to make some fun plans to celebrate. No fancy dinners for me this year, I want to get out and do something exciting! So, if you’re in the same boat and looking for an alternative to the classic “fancy dinner” with tiny artistic dishes (that leave you wanting pizza after), keep on reading! I pulled together some of the best activities in the city that will be far from an ordinary dinner night with your Galentines or Valentine!
my favorite unique date night ideas
Love at first sight - I was so impressed from the moment I walked into Chicago Magic Lounge. This is such a good way to switch up the classic dinner date night. They have great performers and awesome sleight-of-hand magicians who perform right in front of you! Definitely a fun way to add a little magic to your night.
Keep it Steamy - Who doesn’t love a good massage? What about an ultra-luxurious hydrotherapy rain shower experience at Kohler Waters Spa at Lincoln Park? Sounds incredible. Kohler has a main spa in Wisconsin, but I just found out they also have one in Lincoln Park! This is the only one on the list that I haven’t done yet, but I’m hoping to cross it off my bucket list this year.
Get in on the (Immersive) Action - If spas aren’t your thing, this immersive theater experience was hands down one of the most fun things I’ve done with Matt. The Windy City Playhouse features amazing performances that allow you to truly feel like you’re part of the show. With a seat right on stage (yes, you are right on the stage, at arms length from the actors), you get a first hand view into the story they are going to tell. This is such a fun way to spend the night! I don’t want to give too much away, but I highly recommend this. (Side note: I think this one might be a little tricky for a first date, because you don’t get to talk much and it’s good to already have a connect with your person for the night.)
Canoodle at a Cocoa Cafe - If you’re looking for something a little more slow paced, cozy, and romantic - try a chocolate bar like L.A. Burdick Chocolates! I love the idea of hulling up in a little shop, watching the snow fall, putting away the screens, and just catching up with your Valentine. This is a no fuss, affordable date night that focuses on quality time. This is also the perfect Galentines date for a group of friends (with Insta-worthy hot cocoa)!
Sultry Tunes - Head out for a night on the town and some jazzy tunes at Green Mill. The atmosphere is dark and bustling with waitresses serving cocktails and musicians cranking out the old classics. If you’re looking for something a little more energetic than the Cocoa Cafe, but not quite a full on immersive play, this is the perfect place to feel the energy from the comfort of your table. (Quick Tip: Don’t forget to bring cash, because they do charge cover at the door.)
As always, head back over to Instagram or Facebook and let me know which idea you chose for Valentine’s Day or what other fun plans you made!
xoxo,
Arika