And just like that, it’s finally that time of year. It’s time to whip out those rusting baking skills, put together a romantic gesture, and, most importantly, show the people you care about just how much they mean to you.
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, this list of creative ideas is sure to give you a helping hand, no matter what the occasion or budget.
Travel to a new world at the movies
Not only is taking someone to the movies a classic date idea, but there are ways to make these moments even more special. Take your date to a movie under the stars with the star lights on the ceiling at the Avalon Atmospheric Theater in the Bayview neighborhood. This vintage theater is beyond beautiful and will create the perfect setting to wow your date. Plus, there are many movies to choose from so you can pick whichever one suits you best!
If you want to watch a special romantic movie for the occasion, head over to the Waukesha Civic Theater and catch its showing of the classic movie “When Harry Met Sally“ for $5. This is a one-night-only event on Valentine’s Day, so make sure to plan ahead!
Rather stay inside? Grab some blankets and watch “Booksmart” on Hulu, limited series “Hollywood” on Netflix or “Saving Face” on Amazon Prime.
The way to someone’s heart is through their stomach
Feeling like food might be the way to go? Check out some ideas that are sure to please.
Shaker’s Cigar Bar is having a Valentine’s Day murder mystery dinner. This Is It will host Caba-Rai! with Milwaukee legend Rai Hudson.
If you aren’t the most confident chef, go out to eat! If you want to go the fancy route, reserve a table at Onesto for their special Valentine’s Day menu.
Make a home cooked meal; there’s no better way to show you care than food. You can make this extra special by planning an indoor picnic: simply lay out a blanket, hang up some string lights and add a few flowers.
Plan a special outing
Looking to go out-of-the-box and plan an activity-based celebration? Here are some non-conventional ways to show someone how much you care.
Enjoy plants and nature? Make a reservation to visit the Mitchell Park Domes! Celebrate Valentine’s Day early over the weekend since the park is not open Feb. 14.
If you are looking for a relaxing Sunday activity to woo pet-lovers, head to the Sip and Purr Cat Café for Cat Yoga at 10 a.m.! Not only do you get to pet these loving cats, but you can also get your daily work-out in at the same time.
Take your favorite book lover to the Milwaukee Public Library for a reading date. Between the beautiful historic architecture and the endless shelves of books, this is the perfect place to sit back and delve into your favorite novel together.
Special gestures
Finally, after the perfect outing, surprise the person you care about with an extra special gift.
Write a letter to someone you care about and have it posted on the Summerfest gate. All the proceeds from the event will go to the Next Door Foundation Books for Kids Program. Use the link to submit your note.
Create a playlist! Whether you create it online or burn a CD, sharing music with someone you care about is both thoughtful and personal. If you use Spotify, you can print out the playlist code and incorporate it into a card or art piece which brings me to my next idea…
Make a piece of art! You can use any supplies you have lying around and create a card or even print out pictures to create a photobook or get some hodgepodge and make a jewelry dish or vase. These gifts are not only on the inexpensive side but are fun to make.
Go classic with some flowers. Grab the perfect bouquet for your boo at 414loral or Mod Gen both.
Write a heartfelt note. It’s simple, sincere and something that you can hold onto for years to come.
No matter how you spend Valentine’s Day, whether it be with a significant other, your friends or with family, it’s important to take the time to show others that you care. Hopefully these ideas help you to make this Valentine’s Day one you won’t forget!
This story was written by Anna Houston. She can be reached at [email protected].