With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, here are 10 date ideas that will put the cutest rom-com to shame

Whether you’re throwing a Galentine’s party or have been with your partner for years, Valentine’s Day is a great time to spend some time with the people you love.

From fun activities that won’t break the bank to some of Boise’s best dining experiences, here are ten date ideas to help you tap into your inner romantic this Valentine’s season.

  1. For the artist in your life…

If the paint scene in “10 Things I Hate About You” was a core memory for pre-teen you, then these two date ideas may be perfect for you and your boo. 

Pottery painting shops A Way with Clay and Ceramica provide customers with adorable pre-made pottery pieces they can paint themselves. Who knows, you may have to make another date out of picking up your pieces. 

If you’ve been on TikTok recently you’ve likely seen the wine glass painting trend. Pick up a few glasses from the Dollar Store, some acrylic paint and Mod-podge from Michaels, set out a blanket (February weather permitting) and create your masterpiece. 

  1. For the film critic or movie buff…

If you want an elevated movie night experience, check out Bodo Theater or The Flicks. With Bodo’s completely updated interior and reclining seats, you’re never going to want to watch a movie another way. Check out Cole Sprouse and Kathryn Newton in Lisa Frankenstein for a valentines flick that is to die for, literally. 

Or, make it dinner and a movie and enjoy The Flicks’ delicious cafe that will have valentine-themed goodies before your show. 

  1. For the reader or writer…

With so many fabulous book shops in Boise like Once and Future Books and Rediscovered Books, a book shopping date is perfect if you have a bookworm in your life. Put a twist on a blind date with a book and have each person pick out a book they think the other person might enjoy. 

  1. For the foodie…

With so many wonderful dining experiences available in Boise, the issue is narrowing down which restaurant to choose. The Melting Pot provides diners with so many different fondue packages and will be a meal you will never forget. Apericena is another date night spot with great ambiance and even better food. Be sure to order the tiramisu, you’ll thank me later.  

  1. Budget-Friendly Foodie Options

If you’re still recovering from spending money on spring textbooks fear not, the Treasure Valley has plenty of dining options that won’t break the bank. Luciano’s located has delicious Italian cuisine and desserts. For something a little closer to campus try Bardenay, a local restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes — every diner is sure to find something they’ll love. 

  1. For the fashionista…

Check out a second-hand shop like Thriftology or Uptown Cheapskate with your other half and pick out a full outfit for each other. The rule is you have to wear whatever you pick out for each other to dinner or the rest of the date. 

  1. For the music lover…

Although the saying says that the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, the ears have to be a close second. Browsing records can be a great way to get to know your partner better. To spice things up consider buying each other a record you think the other would love but maybe wouldn’t pick out for themselves. The Record Exchange and Rollin’ Records are two great options for getting your jam on. 

  1. For the true crime fanatic… 

If your partner loves puzzles or brain teasers, an escape room is a great way to put their skills to the test. With so many options for themes in Boise, figuring out how to escape together is a great bonding exercise for any couple. 

  1. For the athlete…

If you’ve been enjoying the unusually mild February weather, consider unlocking your active side and taking a romantic hike in the beautiful Boise outdoors. From Table Rock to Bogus Basin, Boise has a plethora of trails to choose from. 

  1. For the culture connoisseur…

Spending a day perusing the Boise Art Museum or the Discovery Center, which is currently featuring its “Impressionist Immersive” art exhibit, is a great way to see some beautiful art and is sure to paint a picture-perfect date. 

Whether you’re madly in love, in the exciting beginning stages of a new relationship or navigating a situationship (my condolences) these date ideas are sure to bring you and your partner closer and create memories you’ll never forget.

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