Valentine’s Day may be around the corner, but you do not require a fancy reservation to make the day feel special. If you are hoping to plan something memorable, consider this your ultimate guide. Below are a few thoughtful ways to spend Valentine’s Day with your significant other, whether you are working with a tight budget, craving a high-energy activity, or planning for a meal worth putting on your best fit for.
Low-budget
- Go on a hike: Yes, it is cold. That is why layers are essential! Bundle up, enjoy the scenery close to home and end the outing back indoors with a warm cup of hot chocolate.
- Craft Night: Spend the day showcasing your artistic skills by building a photo gallery of your favorite memories together. It is also the perfect excuse to finally tackle the vision boards you have been putting off all month.
- At-home Spa Date Night: There is nothing better than unwinding after a long week. Light a candle, bring out the face masks and turn your space into a low-effort oasis.
- Enjoy a meal and movie at home: If you truly want a low-cost option, try a home-cooked meal and finish the night with a movie from the comfort of your couch.
Action-packed
- Hit up the Arcade: Free Play Bar Arcade in Providence offers drinks and classic ’90s games for 21+ couples. If you sadly don’t fit that age group, Level99 at Providence Place or Time Mission at R1 Indoor Karting deliver fast-paced challenges that exhaust all that youthful energy.
- Escape some Rooms: What better way to spend Valentine’s than testing your teamwork skills? Riddle Room RI: Escape Room offers immersive escape rooms and even makes for a fun double-date option with friends! ririddleroom.com
- Take a cooking class: Whether in person or online, spend the day making your favorite meals with our partner! Mixology classes work too.
- Catch a Broadway Show: A little bird told us the touring cast of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child will be stopping at the Providence Performing Arts Center on Valentine’s Day. For more information, visit ppacri.org.
Good Eats
- Gracie’s: With its low, intimate lighting, attentive service and thoughtfully crafted tasting menus, Gracie’s sets the tone for a refined Valentine’s dinner. 194 Washington St., Providence. $$$$. graciesprov.com.
- The Patio on Broadway: Known for its Best of Brunch of RI title, this neighborhood favorite is offering a Valentine’s prix fixe three-course menu featuring classic dishes and desserts. 166 Broadway, Providence. $$. thepatiori.com.
- Champa Thai & Lao Restaurant: Discover the amazing flavors of Thailand in Providence by visiting this cozy, authentic restaurant that’s sure to bring a smile to your face. 93 Hope St, Providence. $. richampa.com.
- Haven Brothers Diner: Who said Valentine’s dinner needs to be fancy? Check out this iconic food truck that serves the best after-midnight snack you could ever ask for. 12 Dorrance St., Providence. $. havenbrosdiner.com.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to make your reservations ahead of time!
Now let’s be honest. Holiday fatigue is real, and having to plan yet another round of gifts for a special occasion can feel overwhelming to some, especially those on a tight budget (trust me, I see you). No need to despair yet! Put down the CVS flowers and oversized Valentine’s Day teddy bears, and take the time to find the perfect gift using this mini gift guide. A thoughtful gift does not have to be expensive to be meaningful.
- Loves flowers but lacks a green thumb? A LEGO botanical set will ensure their favorite flowers never wilt away. Find options at local Walmarts, Providence Place LEGO store or browse lego.com for a wider selection.
- Create a photo album that captures all your favorite memories with your partner!
- Put together a self-care basket designed for stress relief and an easy date night in.
- Personalize a piece of clothing with custom embroidery.
- Treat them to a spa day at Bodhi Spa, with three locations across Rhode Island. thebodhispa.com.
- For gym rats, curate a basket of workout essentials like socks, pre-workout drinks, weight straps and so much more!
- Book lovers are by far the easiest giftees. If you’re looking to get creative, a personalized gift of their favorite book will do the trick or a rechargeable clear book light makes a practical, thoughtful gift.
- In need of a new hobby? Give them a crochet kit or a coloring book paired with a set of quality markers.
- Create a customized Funko Pop version of your significant other, for a playful, significant touch. funko.com/pop-yourself.html.