Looking for a new or interesting way to spend Valentine's this year? Forego the dinner and movie (yawn), and check out some of the adventurous alternatives that are happening around DFW. Cupid and candy not your thing? No worries. There's something for everyone.
Break a Leg, Not a Heart
If you're on the hunt for live entertainment, take your Romeo or Juliet to the Pantagleize Theatre on Henderson for A Chekhov Valentine. This lovely evening includes three one-act comedies by Anton Chekhov. These one-acts include The Marriage Proposal, The Wedding Reception and The Brute. Attend the performance on Valentine’s Day to enjoy several romantic additions, including a special chocolate dessert during intermission.
Wind back time, because Valentine's Day falls on #throwbackthursday this year. The Brazos Drive-In Theatre in Granbury has been around for decades and is the perfect venue for a vintage-style night out. Your date and wallet will thank you.
Love is in the Air
Want to sweep your date of their feet? Why not in a hot air balloon or helicopter ride? Rohr Balloons and Epic Helicopters are offering adventurous, yet romantic, alternatives for a special Valentine’s date. As others are enjoying their dinners below, you will be enjoying a view of the city from above. Your sweetie is sure to be wowed by this unconventional way of spending Valentine’s Day. Just make sure your date isn’t afraid of heights.
Wine and Dine
If you want an early Valentine's treat, start your week with a glass of bubbly at Grace. Every Monday, from 4–6 p.m., sparkling wines by the glass, half bottle or full bottle are half-price.
At Central Market, the cooking school staff is offering many lessons and demos to serve a romantic Valentine’s dinner. You could take a Wine Workshop to learn about some of the most sought after wines that would pair perfectly with your Valentine’s Dinner. Stop in on February 13 to learn how to create decadent chocolate desserts for your upcoming Valentine’s dinner. Items on the menu include Dark Chocolate Mousse with Salted Caramelized Brioche and Dark Chocolate Molten Cake.
Many restaurants around town are offering snazzy prix fixe Valentine's specials. Bounce on over Magnolia Avenue where several restaurants are offering more formal menus for this special day. One of these restaurants is The Flying Carpet Cafe, a Turkish-inspired coffeehouse. With a delicious menu set up and live entertainment to boot, you will definitely want to make reservations. Other restaurants offering festive menus include Magnolia Cheese Co., Cat City Grill and Brewed.
The Bastion, a restaurant that takes up nearly a city block on Hemphill, will be hosting their Chef’s Tasting Menu Series: The Valentine’s Dinner. Chef Chandra Riccetti is a graduate of the original Le Cordon Bleu in France, and was a chef in various Parisian restaurants for several years.
If you're looking to impress the chocoholic in your life, you have to check out the new location of Dude, Sweet Chocolate on Crockett Street. Every chocolate dream you’ve ever had can be found at this locally owned shop. Everything from Chocolate Almond “Salami” to a bourbon chocolate sauce, they have it all. Just a fair warning, with names like “Crack in a Box,” you will definitely be going back for more.
For those of you who prefer cowboy boots to heels, Billy Bob's is holding a special Valentine's dinner featuring singer/songwriter Sonny Burgess. A special menu will be available from Executive Chef Mark Hitri. Two step over to the recently opened 81 Club, which is adjacent to Billy Bob’s Texas.
For the Not-So-Faint-of-Heart
Not interested in the gushy Valentine's Day traditions? Look no further than Bedford, where the Moxley Manor Haunted House will be open for their special Valentine’s Day Massacre event! While this certainly isn’t for everyone, if you would prefer adrenaline and fake blood to a box of chocolates, this just might be your ideal date location.
Horsing Around
No matter where you plan on going, what better way to get from point A to point B than a horse-drawn carriage? This romantic gesture has stood the test of time. Classic Carriages has been in the business for more than 20 years , which transitioned to new management three years ago, provides transportation to several popular restaurants and venues throughout downtown.
Time to Relax
If you and your special someone need some time to relax, the Perfect Touch Spa can be your Valentine’s haven. If you choose the Sweet Romance Spa Package, you will receive the VIP treatment. This package starts off with a glass of champagne, followed by a couple’s massage and a chocolate cake scrub.
Heart to Art
Have a recent urge to express your creative genius? Bring your date and a bottle of wine to A Piece of Work, where they provide the supplies necessary to create your next masterpiece. Never picked up a paintbrush in your life? Have no fear! An instructor will lead you through all the steps you need to enjoy this artsy and funky Valentine’s date.
Whatever your personal taste may be, Fort Worth offers a multitude of exciting alternatives to a traditional date night. For a list of wallet-friendly restaurants, check out blogger Christy Smith's recommendations here.
How will you be spending Valentine's Day? Let us know in the comments section.
Reporting by Trilby Argubright, editorial intern
