While thinking of things to do for Valentine’s Day, I used to believe that getting flowers and giving chocolate would be enough to say I love you. Then, that would be it. You’d get something and give something standard, then move on. I’ve been with my husband for over 10 years, and even though the chocolate and flowers and nice, we now look at Valentine’s Day differently. It’s a time to slow down, spend quality time together and be grateful to have each other.

Receiving a gift is always nice but creating memories to share together is way more meaningful than something materialistic. So, while you’re thinking about how you want to express yourself this Valentine’s Day consider skipping the gift giving exchange. Create some memories with your partner. We live near Austin, Texas, and here are some of my favorite things to do for Valentine’s Day with my husband.

Valentine’s Day on a Budget

If you’re looking for budget-friendly things to do for Valentine’s Day, consider a romantic picnic, a cozy date night at home filled with their favorite things, or a scenic camping trip to create meaningful and memorable moments.

Pack a Picnic

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. Valentine’s Day ideas that are romantic, and on a budget, can be as simple as having a picnic in a beautiful park. Choose your partner’s favorite foods and drinks to make the experience extra special.

Austin offers plenty of scenic parks perfect for the occasion. If I had to pick a spot, I’d set up a picnic in Zilker Park or place that overlooks Lake Austin or Lake Travis. Bring something comfortable to sit on and portable speakers to listen to music. Create memories that show your romantic effort and the thought you put into the day.

More free things to do in Austin, Texas.

Romantic Camping Trip

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic camping trip in the Texas Hill Country, where the natural beauty sets the perfect mood. Pack your partner’s favorite foods, cozy blankets, and all the gear you’ll need for a comfortable getaway.

One of my favorite Valentine’s Day that my husband set up for us was star gazing with a bottle of wine. It doesn’t take much to set the mood and make the date romantic. The idea of sitting by a crackling fire under the stars offers a peaceful and intimate way to connect. Whether you’re toasting marshmallows or simply enjoying quiet moments together, these kinds of romantic getaways can you both will always remember.

Things to do for Valentine’s Day at Home

Valentine’s Day at home can be just as special when you focus on all the little things your partner loves. Romantic ideas could be cooking their favorite meal, playing their favorite board game, and creating a playlist of their favorite songs to enjoy together. You could also watch their favorite movie or surprise them with a relaxing massage to end the night.

The key is putting thought and effort into creating a day filled with everything that makes them feel loved and appreciated.

Romantic Date Ideas

For unforgettable things to do for Valentine’s Day, consider romantic ideas like dining at a rooftop restaurant, horseback riding through scenic trails, wine tasting at a vineyard, or relaxing with a couple’s massage to make the day truly special.

Wine Tasting

Celebrate Valentine’s Day by going wine tasting at one of the many wineries and vineyards all over Texas. Sip on local wines, take in the view of the vineyards, and enjoy the romantic atmosphere. Many wineries offer special Valentine’s events, from live music and food pairings, making it a perfect date experience.

Whether in the Hill Country or near the city, a winery visit is a delightful way to create lasting memories with your partner.

Rooftop Dinner and Drinks

Treat your partner to an unforgettable Valentine’s Day with a fancy dinner at a downtown rooftop bar and restaurant. Valentine’s Day dinner ideas can include taking in stunning views of the city skyline at Azul Rooftop Bar and Lounge or Zanzibar at Austin’s Marriott in downtown.

Enjoy dinner as the sun sets and the skyline lights up all around you. A rooftop venue offers a romantic ambiance with creative cocktails to make the evening extra memorable. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your love in style while indulging in a luxurious dining experience.

Couples Spa Day

Easy Valentine’s Day ideas for men and women is a relaxing couple’s massage to unwind and connect with your partner. Many spas offer special packages for the occasion, complete with soothing music, aromatherapy, and even champagne or chocolates. Sharing this serene experience allows you to focus on each other while enjoying ultimate relaxation.

Two spas in Austin that are highly recommended are Viva Day Spa and Spa Reveil at the Domain. It’s a thoughtful and intimate way to show your love while taking time to rejuvenate together.

Romantic Resort Getaway

One of the best things to do for Valentine’s Day is planning a romantic weekend getaway to escape the routine and reconnect with your partner. Whether you’re venturing far or staying close, a weekend retreat is a perfect way to celebrate your love in a memorable way.

When planning romantic getaways near Austin, consider the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa in the Texas Hill Country. It has everything from a spa, lazy pool, golfing and views. If traveling isn’t an option, enjoy a staycation in one of downtown Austin’s stylish hotels, The Driskill. The Driskill is a historic hotel in the center of Austin, built in 1886.

Drinks at a Jazz or Blues Club

One of the most unique and romantic things to do for Valentine’s Day is visiting a jazz or blues club for an evening of live music and great ambiance. Sip on craft cocktails or fine wine while listening to soulful tunes that set the perfect mood for the night.

In Austin, popular places to check out include the Elephant Room, Antone’s and Parker Jazz Club. For those searching for Valentine’s Day ideas, this experience offers a way to relax and get dressed up for an unforgettable date. Enjoying music together is a timeless way to celebrate love.

More live music to check out in Austin!

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in the Hill Country is one of the most scenic and adventurous things to do for Valentine’s Day. With rolling hills, winding trails, and breathtaking views, it’s a perfect way to connect with nature and each other.

For those seeking Valentine’s Day ideas for men or women, the guided Maverick horseback riding tour offers a blend of romance and outdoor fun that’s both memorable and adventurous.

Whether you’re experienced or trying it for the first time, a trail ride through the beautiful Texas countryside is sure to make your day unforgettable.

Fun Things to do for Valentine’s Day

For exciting things to do for Valentine’s Day, consider fun Valentine’s Day ideas like playing mini golf, exploring an interactive art exhibit, or taking a cooking class together for a playful date.

Visit an Interactive Museum

When looking for a fun activity for the holiday, consider visiting an interactive museum or art exhibit. It’s one of the more creative and engaging things to do for Valentine’s Day. On your way to dinner, go explore immersive installations, hands-on exhibits, or interactive light displays where you can take cute pictures and create memories together.

For those looking for fun Valentine’s Day ideas in Austin, Wonderspaces is an experience that combines art, playfulness, and discovery. It’s a perfect way to bond with your partner while enjoying a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Mini Golf

Playing a round of mini golf is one of the most lighthearted and fun Valentine’s Day ideas you can do with your partner. It’s perfect for a casual and memorable date. It’s an easy option to pair with dinner, especially if you’re in the early stages of dating and want something relaxed and enjoyable.

If you’re in the Austin area, I would suggest playing at Peter Pan Mini Golf. It’s BYOB and has really fun statues around the course, perfect for taking cute pictures together. When looking for things to do for Valentine’s Day, mini golf offers a playful way to connect, laugh, and share a bit of friendly competition.

Take a Cooking Class

Taking a cooking class together is one of the most fun Valentine’s Day ideas where you’ll have the chance to connect while learning a new skill. It’s perfect for partners who love food, enjoy trying new things, or have expressed an interest in cooking.

In Austin, you can learn to make pasta and alfredo from scratch or even sign up for a sushi making class for beginners. It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day because it covers doing an activity and dinner together. Pair this with flowers, chocolate or a small gift and you’ll be golden. When looking for things to do for Valentine’s Day, this activity combines creativity, teamwork, and delicious results for a truly memorable experience.

Valentine’s Day Ideas for Him

Valentine’s Day is a time for both partners to feel special. So, consider a thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift for your boyfriend like a whiskey tour or a fun round of golf if that’s his favorite hobby.

Axe throwing

If you’re looking for a fun Valentine’s Day gift for your boyfriend, consider taking him axe throwing for an exciting and fun experience. It’s one of those fun Valentine’s Day ideas that’s perfect for most guys because it’s a little friendly competition. Axe throwing is different and the perfect idea for a date that he’ll love.

If you’re in Austin, one of best places to go is Axe Escape in Austin. Planning something special just for him is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation and make the day unforgettable.

Play a Round of Golf

If you’re looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your boyfriend or husband, surprise him by finally joining him for a round of golf, especially if it’s not something you usually do. It’s one of those fun Valentine’s Day ideas that shows you’re willing to share in his interests and make the day special for him.

If he doesn’t have a golf membership somewhere, you can pay to play at one of the public courses in Austin like Lions Municipal Course or Hancock Course. Planning a date centered around something he loves is a thoughtful way to show your appreciation and deepen your connection.

Whiskey Tour and Tasting

If you’re searching for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for your boyfriend, consider taking him on a whiskey tasting and distillery tour to explore his love for whiskey and the craft behind it. Taking a tour at Still Austin Whiskey Co is one of those fun Valentine’s Day ideas that lets you share in his interests while creating unique memories together.

Planning a date tailored to something he enjoys shows your appreciation for him and your thoughtfulness in making the day special.