It's that time of year again -- the season of love. Cupid's favorite holiday, filled with dozens of opportunities to celebrate your wonderful other half just a little more than usual, and maybe even spoil them a little bit more than you already do. But when it comes to planning romantic date nights, why settle for another boring movie night when Idaho has so many cozy spots, filled with romantic ambiance? Depending on your own unique style as a couple, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect place dine, make memories, and celebrate your love for one another -- or just escape the day to day grind.
1. Take a romantic cruise on Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Every year, Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruises hosts a Valentine's dinner cruise, complete with champagne and picture-perfect sunset views over the water. It's also a dreamy marriage proposal opportunity!
2. Bundle up and stroll through the trees at a Cedar grove.
There are plenty of places to get lost with your S.O. in Idaho's wilderness, but you know you've always wanted to take one of those cute, couples' blanket photos that fill your Pinterest board... and Hobo Cedar Grove is the perfect place to make it happen. A short, woodsy trail leads through the trees and a few picnic tables and firepits dot the grove if you feel like stopping to look into each other's eyes. Or, just enjoy the togetherness and sounds of nature.
3. Catch a film screening at a historic theater.
Built by Milburn Kenworthy in 1935, the Nu Art was one of several theaters that Kenworthy developed in Moscow. Today, it is a beloved arthouse, movie theater, concert venue, and historic landmark. It's one of dozens of historic theaters that dot Idaho, all of which make the perfect retro movie night without the crowds - plus, odds are you'll catch a film that isn't quite mainstream and you'll both walk away more cultured.
Nowhere near Moscow? Check out the Flicks or the Egyptian in Boise, the Roxy Theatre in Cascade, the Wilson Theatre in Rupert, or the Panida in Sandpoint, just to start!
4. Enjoy an extended vacation at the top-rated resort in Idaho.
The Shore Lodge was just recently ranked the top resort in the country, even over the stunning waterfront Coeur d'Alene Resort, and for good reason. Come for the romantic views of Payette Lake, but stay for the food, wine, dancing, award-winning Cove spa, and ultimate luxury.
If you're looking for a romantic getaway, but suites are all booked up at the Shore Lodge, check out our posts here, here, and here for more cozy inns, B&Bs, and themed places to stay.
5. Swoon over a candlelit dinner at one of Idaho's most romantic restaurants.
Whether dining in front of a cozy fireplace is your idea of romance, or maybe a waterfront view is in order, check out some of our favorites in this post. But recreating Lady and the Tramp at an Italian eatery is never a bad idea either!
6. Grab some blankets and drink in a sky full of heavenly beauty.
Choice spots for a night spent stargazing is just about anywhere relatively treeless and far from light pollution. Craters of the Moon, the Owyhee wilderness, Heyburn State Park, Bruneau Observatory, or even the Herrett Center for Arts and Science in Twin Falls -- each have their own pros and cons. But going for a drive and getting lost en route to your own secret stargazing haven is half the fun!
7. Check out Woo at the Zoo in Boise
A night of dinner, spirits, chocolate, photos, and learning about the mating and wooing rituals of our wild counterparts will surely set the mood for you and your special someone. However, this even is only offered right before Valentine's Day, so you won't want to miss it! This year's event is Saturday Feb. 11, 2017 from 4-7pm.
8. Take a fiery dance lesson at Heirloom Dance Studios.
Is there anything more romantic than getting "thisclose" to one another, laughing, having fun, and enjoying great music? Heirloom Dance Studio in downtown Boise offers drop-in nights for uber cheap in just about every style you can think of. Lindy Hop, East Coast, West Coast, Salsa... try your hand at them all, and grow closer in the process!
If you're outside of Boise, check out DanceTales Studio in CdA, or Spectrum II in Moscow for class and drop in schedules.
9. Stop and smell the roses at the Julia Davis Rose Garden in Boise.
While a stroll through a fresh, colorful, perfectly-manicured garden may not be possible in colder months, it's no doubt a lovely and simple date idea that will get one another's hearts fluttering. If snapping a few selfies in front of the flowers is too enjoyable for just one stop, check out the Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise as well, meander through the expansive grounds at the U of I Arboretum, or the Sawtooth Botanical Garden in Ketchum (which is open during the winter season as well).
10. See Idaho from a new perspective.
Pack a picnic, grab a camera, and head up to one of Idaho's best scenic overlooks for a view that will take your breath away. Sharing the magic of Idaho with your special someone only makes our state's natural beauty even better! Check out these overlook areas as a starting point, or find your own secret spot.
What's your favorite way to do date night in Idaho?
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