Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to go out and celebrate it with a significant other, your loved ones, friends, or even by yourself. If you do intend to celebrate it, there’s plenty of things you could do! Chicago is a place of endless opportunities, so it makes for a perfect city of tourism and hang outs. Here is a list of activities you can consider if you’re out of ideas for this Valentine’s Day!
1. Make Your Way to the Theater
You can never go wrong with checking out a new film at an AMC theater. Released on February 9, you can now view the anticipated “Fifty Shades Freed”. Directed by Clint Eastwood, the exhilarating true story of “15:17 to Paris”, which casted the actual heroes of the event. For a lighthearted alternative, check out “Peter Rabbit”!
Alternatively, lovers of older films can watch “Princess Bride” at the Music Box Theater on February 14.
2. Indulge in a Great Meal
Never underestimate the power of going out for a great meal. My most memorable dates have always involved a nice dinner date. Sushi Para is perfect for sushi lovers who love the idea of an all-you-can-eat meal for just $20 per person. Other recommended places to check out include La Creperie, Butcher & the Burger, and Cafe Ba Ba Reeba. And if you’d like to spend a little more and feel fancy, you could always try The Walnut Room downtown!
3. Skate the Day Away
Skating is perfect for the freezing February weather. Whether you’re a skating pro or never touched a rink, it’s always a great activity for anyone! Everyone has heard of skating at Millenium Park, but you can now skate at Wrigley Field’s newly established ice rink. If you’re a new skater, there’s no shame because it just adds to the fun.
4. Are You Orchid-ding me?
Take a leisurely stroll through 10,000 breathtaking Orchids at the Chicago Botanic Garden. From February 10 to March 25, you can now attend their new orchid show. On weekdays, you can arrive as early as 10 a.m. and tickets for adults are at a sweet $10 per person. This is a refreshing Japanese-style event that you wouldn’t want to miss.
5. The Art of Love
Art lovers and students alike can agree on one thing, and it is that a visit to the Chicago Institute of Art is an ideal way to spend your day. It serves as a sophisticated and easy-going date, where you can have conversations about the art or just silently observe it. General admission for adults prices start at $25.00, but if you’re a Chicago resident student you pay $14. Spend your Valentine’s Day at one of the highest-rated art museums in the United States!
6. Have an Out-of-This-World Experience
The Adler Planetarium is a favorable experience, as one gets to learn more about the wonders of astronomy through remarkable visuals and exhibitions.
Tickets for general admission adults is at a superb $12 price. Adults 21 years and older can participate in Adler After Dark on February 15, an evening event that happens every 3rd Thursday of the month. It includes live entertainment, special guests, and full access to exhibits and galleries.
7. Come Down to Chinatown
Chinatown Square during the nighttime is a dazzling idea for new couples. There are plenty of things to see, including gift and candy shops! There are so many restaurants to choose from, but Joy Yee Plus is a popular pick by regulars. Chinatown Square after hours is beautifully lit, giving a cozy and romantic feel.
8. Visit the Pier
Between February 12 and 17, it is Theatre Week at Navy Pier! This means that you can get a discounted price for shows at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Navy Pier during the evening is dreamy. Wander your way to the beloved Centennial Wheel, where you experience its 196 ft height, giving you a view of Chicago like none other. Visit Chicago’s tourist hot spot!
9. Let’s Play a Love Game
Gamers can take the opportunity to spend the day doing something they love, such as visiting an arcade! The Ignite Arcade Lounge and Dave & Buster’s are classics, and fun for all ages. Gamers 21 years and older can make their way to Emporium Wicker Park, where they can hang out at the bar and play classic arcade games.
10. Have a Low Maintenance Day
There’s no shame in wanting to spend the day in. The great thing is, you can spend it alone or with someone else. So order yourself some Chicago classics like Giordano’s deep dish pizza or Portillo’s Italian beef, and put on your favorite movies. Indulge in chocolate covered strawberries and set the mood with music by Ed Sheeran, Cigarettes After Sex, and The XX.
Alma Tovar
Freatures Reporter