Love is in the air! Valentine’s Day is coming up and it can be hard to find something a little different from a regular date night to celebrate. Elbert and I celebrate Valentine’s every year because, honestly it’s fun. Plus, I get how it shouldn’t be only confined to a day bla ba blah, but we have a good time doing something special.
Every couple is different, and you might find something else works specifically for you! I’m the romantic type so I love celebrating the little things as frequently as possible. PS: If you love romantic stories, my Valentines post last year is a collection of love stories
When I was single 4.5 years ago, I still would like to make a point to see my girl friends for a fun Galentines Celebration. So really, it isn’t only for couples!
So whether you’re celebrating with your girlfriends, looking to impress a special someone or just looking for activities in the City of Vancouver, check out my 7 Unique Vancouver Valentine’s Day Date Ideas:
Date Idea #1: Dessert for Dinner at Glenburn Soda Fountain and Confectionery
If you and your significant other/girlfriends have a sweet tooth, this is the place to be!
Located on Hastings in Burnaby, this retro style confectionery will take you back in time to the 1950s.
They have the best sundaes from classic hot fudge to a one of the most impressive banana splits in Vancouver. Their milkshakes are also hand stirred with an old-style machine.
PS: If wine is more your jam, I went on a really fun Wine Tour in Abbotsford– great idea if you both love the vino!
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Date Idea #2: Get relaxed and rejuvenated with a Couple’s Spa Day
This is a great way to bond and unwind from your regular routine without having to go too far.
Of course, there are some amazing spas out in Whistler like the Scandinave Spa which has massages, special treatments and multiple baths and steam rooms to enjoy.
You can also make a day trip to explore some of BC’s Hot Springs at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort perfect for a cold winter day.
If you’d rather stay local and getaway in the heart of the city, one of my favourite places is the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. You’ll both be so relaxed you’ll forget you’re still in Vancouver!
Date Idea #3: Learn about marine life and explore the Vancouver Aquarium After-Hours
The Vancouver Aquarium is a perfect date spot for anyone living in the city. It’s located in beautiful Stanley Park so you can take a walk and enjoy the sights before you head in and learn about BC’s marine life.
This year, they have an adults-only, after dark experience on Valentine’s Day where from 6pm-11pm you can enjoy all the galleries and special shows all with a delicious cocktail in hand.
Elbert and I spent a day at the Aquarium during his birthday a couple years back and it was the best time!
Date Idea #4: A romantic walk or bike ride at one of Vancouver’s many nature paths
Here’s something that doesn’t cost a lot and incorporates a little bit of exercise, a romantic walk or bike ride is the way to go!
Iona Beach is a stunning beach connected to a pathway that extends into the water located in Richmond. It’s both people and dog friendly!
Another option is to either walk or bike around Stanley Park. There’s so much to see and it was voted one of the most beautiful parks in the world. Fair warning, a walk might take you 3-4 hours while a bike ride is about half the time!
Elbert and I love to go tandem-biking, mainly because I don’t know how to ride a bike. SO, if you’re like me, this is a fun way to stay close, and enjoy the ride without pedaling too much.
Oo, it might be super snowy now but Joffre Lakes is stunning in the summer, and I believe you can also do a hike in the Winter!
Date Idea #5: Laugh the night away at a comedy club
An underrated date idea in Vancouver is checking out some of the local comedy clubs! My favourite one is the Improv Show on Granville Island- it’s SO GOOD.
There’s also Yuk Yuk’s in Vancouver! I haven’t been but it’s on my list.
Date Idea #6: A classic date idea – Dinner in Vancouver’s big food scene
Dinner seems like a typical date idea but with Vancouver’s food scene there’s lots of new cuisines to try!
Here are some of my favourite, more unique food locations for a Valentine’s Day Date:
East is East – Middle Eastern Fare
East is East is this cozy, vibrant restaurant that serves Afghani and Middle Eastern food. They also do live music to complete the whole experience. Middle Eastern cuisine has lots of delicious spices and is both meat and veggie friendly for my vegan/vegetarian friends. I’d recommend the Chai Feast so you can try a mix of everything
Minami – Japanese
Vancouver is known for their seafood and sushi so what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than some delicious fish. Minami does a twist on the classic sushi with their famous Aburi style sushi where they sear the fish on top before serving it.
Zefferellis Spaghetti Joint – Italian
If you’re walking down Robson, you might miss this little Italian gem. It’s a 2nd floor restaurant that serves up classic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza and Chicken Parmesan. They have a variety of pastas dishes that will satisfy all Italian fans.
My favourite? The Linguini al Salmone!
Coast – Seafood and Happy Hour
Arguably one of the best happy hours in Vancouver in my opinion. Coast is a Glowbal restaurant that specializes in seafood and west coast classics. A great place for dinner or for some drinks before your reservation. $5 drinks and $1 oysters!
Date Idea #7: Celebrate by getting creative with a Paint Night or Craft night by candlelight
There are so many options for getting creative nowadays. With Paint Nights or pottery classes all over the city, you can book some time to get to know each other through art and learn some new skills.
If you would rather have a cozy Valentine’s Day Date in, it’s just as easy to set one up at home. Head over to Michaels and grab some paint, a canvas and maybe a snack and light some candles. Elbert and I did paint night where we both painted this slug emoji that we both LOVE from Facebook Messenger- it’s a sure win for many laughs.
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I hope this gives you some inspiration for your Valentine’s Day Date. Whether you’re celebrating with a special someone or just having a fun night with your girlfriends, spread the love and be kind.
Happy Valentines beauties,
xoxo Sam
