If you’re a hopeless romantic, there is a good chance that you have read a book or seen a movie and wondered: when will I ever get taken on a date like that? From grand gestures to rented out museums, here are some romantic dates straight from the pages of your favorite romance novels that you can recreate, or dream about, this Valentine’s Day.
By Jayne Turner – Staff Writer
Museum Date
In Casey McQuiston’s Red, White, and Royal Blue, Alex and Henry finally experience their perfect date, the one Henry has always dreamed about. After hours at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, the two slow dance in a gallery filled with statues. Not only that, but they confess their love for one another in this tender moment.
You don’t need to spend a fortune renting out a museum or sneaking in after hours. A museum date is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your date and learn more about the art that they are drawn to.
A Drive-In Movie
In Emily Henry’s Beach Read, January and Gus both encounter serious writer’s block, causing them to switch genres for the summer, which, by the way, they are spending at neighboring beach houses. What better summer date than a drive-in movie?
Find your local drive-in and load up the car with blankets, pillows, and classic movie snacks. Pro tip: bring a cooler to keep drinks cool!
Don’t have a drive-in? Try this: a projector works just as well for a cozy outdoor movie vibe, and if space permits, you can still load up the car for your viewing enjoyment.
Also check out: Bookstores that Double as Coffee Shops
Horseback Riding
A common trope in romance novels, much like the one-bed trope, forces proximity and intimacy. Most common in historical, fantasy, and western genres, it also has a place in your love life. Horseback riding is a nice way to get outdoors and try something new, since many people have never ridden a horse before.
Various stables offer guided horseback rides, in groups or pairs, so don’t worry about going rogue. Simply sign up, show up, and enjoy nature. If it’s your first time, this guide has helpful tips about attire and what to expect.
The Boardwalk
As seen in Jenny Han’s The Summer I Turned Pretty, a boardwalk is a great setup for some romance. With plenty of games for healthy competition, sodas with two straws, and prizes to be won, there is nothing more playful than a Boardwalk date.
Though the Boardwalk is great for summer lovin’, an arcade might be more suitable if the weather isn’t on your side this Valentine’s Day. Do some research and find out what kinds of arcades are near you. Vintage, bar-cades, and much more await you.
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Work on a Puzzle
This date idea is great for low-maintenance couples who are trying not to go out and spend a million dollars. Puzzles are low-pressure, with no need to finish them once started. Plus, they’re great for your brain!
All you need for this is a puzzle and a cozy living room setup. Open a bottle of wine, put on some music, maybe even make a charcuterie board. This is a great date to surprise your partner with if they have been at work all day. Not only will they be grateful for the initiative, but you get to have date night in your pajamas!
