Love is in the Air
9 unique Austin date ideas for Valentine's Day — and every day
They say that Paris is the city of love, but Austin most definitely has a bit of romance to offer.
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we've found the best dates around the Capital City, ranging from art lessons to hot air balloons. This year, not matter who you're celebrating with, these nine Austin date options are the perfect way to spend time with those you love.
Cozy up to a movie at the drive-in — now through February 15
From February 1-15, Blue Starlite Drive-In is hosting a special Valentines at the Drive-In program series. Sob your eyes out to The Notebook or admire Wesley’s undying loyalty in The Princess Bride. Other films screened this month include Roman Holiday, True Romance, Say Anything, and "A Very Harry Potter Valentine's Day." This is the perfect excuse to cuddle up and witness the stars on a chilly February night in Austin.
Pick out and plant a succulent — February 8 and 9
Skip the dozen roses this year and give someone you love a succulent this Valentine’s Day. Succulent Native is hosting a Valentine’s Day party on February 8 and a Galentine’s Day party on February 9. What better way to symbolize a growing love story or friendship than with a sprouting succulent?
Adorn your apron and chef’s hat— February 14
They say that cooking is the way to the heart, so learn to woo with newfound culinary skills at Kitchen Underground’s cooking classes. In this special Valentine’s Day class on February 14, learn the beginning steps of creating handmade pasta at home. This skill is sure to impress all year long.
Paddle (or drift) down the lake — February 14-15
Enjoy a day on the water with a reserved kayak outing for two on Lady Bird Lake. The Valentine’s Day Cupid’s Cruises, provided by Congress Avenue Kayaks, will be available from February 14 until February 15. A decorated two-person kayak, bar of chocolate, and 36 questions to fall in love will be included. Happy Valentine voyage!
Dress up for the ballet — February 14-16
Treat that special someone to ballet performances choreographed by two of the world’s most accomplished choreographers, George Balanchine and Christopher Wheeldon. Restless Hearts, running February 14-16, features two separate ballets ("Ghosts" by Wheeldon, "Rubies" by George Balanchine) and are sure to wow with hauntingly romantic music and choreography.
Channel your inner artist — February 15
Get your Ghost on with Melissa Ross’ private wheel throwing lessons for couples on February 15. Or, bring your family to clay and glazing workshops for adults, teens, and kids from February 7-9. This artist has something fun to offer everyone.
Snap some photos with Austin’s murals
Instagram feed looking a little outdated? Tour Austin’s Austin Mural Tour is the perfect excuse to snap a photo of yourself, with a date, or with friends in front of Austin’s famous "I Love You So Much" mural. Visit several of the city’s most popular works of art and finish it off by shopping at the Austin Visitor Center.
Float in a hot air balloon
Love can make you feel as light as a feather — just like a trip on an Austin Aeronauts hot air balloon ride. Experience the Texas sunrise in a night flight, drift over Lake Travis, even pop the question mid-air. Austin Aeronauts provides a variety of private and semi-private flights for booking.
Pedal and picnic on the lake
Float graciously on the water in Capital Cruises’ swan pedal boats this Valentine’s Day or any day. Bring a picnic lunch for two (don’t forget the chocolates) and enjoy the Austin city skyline.
