Need some inspiration for date night? While you can never go wrong with dinner for two, it’s fun to throw in a little creativity every now and then. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and those in need of a few last-minute date ideas are in luck; there are tons of quirky, offbeat and innovative date ideas in the Northeast sure to ignite some passion.
Play Like a Kid at Legoland Discovery Center
Somerville, MA & Yonkers, NY
Hit up Legoland Discovery Center Boston or Westchester for a night of fun without the kids. Held the second Wednesday of every month in Somerville and the first Thursday of every month in Yonkers, Legoland hosts an adults-only, themed evening of youthful fun at the attraction that will rekindle childlike wonder. Team up with other couples for a group date and get discounted rates, or get a sweet deal at the Westchester location through AAA.
Bonus points: Give all the prizes you win to your significant other as sweet souvenirs.
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Download NowPick a Star at Frosty Drew Observatory & Sky Theater
Charlestown, RI
Just because it’s a last-minute date idea, doesn’t mean it can’t be romantic. Visit the observatory for a night of stargazing with your sweetie. Enjoy views of the starry sky through one of the several telescopes on clear nights or head indoors for presentations by astronomers in the Sky Theater during inclement weather. Open to the public free of charge every Friday night year-round and Wednesday nights in summer.
Bonus points: Want to get super romantic? Pick a star together and call it yours (cue the “awws!”).
Make a New Friend at Mystic Aquarium
Mystic, CT
Is your loved one an animal lover? Don’t pass up the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the aquarium’s famous residents, including sea lions, seals, penguins and beluga whales. Visitors will learn more about their favorite aquatic creatures from scientists and trainers and, in some programs, can even get in the water with their new friends. Plus, you can get a discount on tickets with AAA.
Bonus points: “Adopt” an animal in your beloved’s name.
Toss an Ax at Kick Axe
Brooklyn, NY
Is your honey a wannabe lumberjack? Does the seemingly forbidden idea of throwing sharp objects excite you? Look no further than Kick Axe, an indoor ax-throwing range where you and your date will learn how to throw from the pros. Compete in games against each other, then round out the experience with snacks and pizza.
Bonus points: Buy a couple of fake axes so you can clown around at home without risking beheading your significant other.
Bowl Back in Time at BreakTime Bowl & Bar
Pawtucket, RI
Challenge your date to a game at this vintage bowling alley, which claims to be the oldest industrial recreation duckpin lanes in the Northeast. The restored alley – first built for employees of the Hope Webbing Company mill in the 1920s – provides a night of fun alongside the full bar and sizable food menu sure to satisfy your appetites.
Bonus points: Brush up on your game before heading out on your date and wow your partner!
Unleash Your Creativity With a Graffiti Lesson
New York, NY
Pair up with a graffiti pro for a lesson in all things street art. You’ll feel super cool creating your own graffiti masterpiece as you learn about the art form and the techniques of aerosol painting. Classes take place at a local park in order to further immerse students in the street art experience.
Bonus points: Paint something romantic for your loved one. A simple “I love you” is always a winner.
Compete in Go-Kart Racing at X1
Braintree, MA
Hit up the track at one of the open racing sessions for a drive experience that will excite both you and your date. Choose from multiple challenging tracks featuring turns, hills and tunnels as you speed off in pursuit of the finish line and, hey, maybe even romance! Finish off the date with a meal at the complex’s Ascari Bar & Grille.
Bonus points: Challenge your date to an after-dinner game in the billiards room and, just this once, let them win.
Attend a Glass Blowing class at Brooklyn Glass
Brooklyn, NY
Choose from a wide selection of one-day classes led by professionals at this unique glass blowing studio. Make a vase, shot glass, terrarium, beer mug or ice cream dish alongside your sweetie.
Bonus points: Make it a competition! Whose creation comes out the best?
What are your favorite, unique, quirky and off-the-wall date destinations? Tell us in the comments!
This post was originally posted in 2018 and has been updated.
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