CLEVELAND — Unique date ideas are always helpful to have on hand, and that’s especially true with Valentine’s Day right around the corner.
Keep things fresh over the new couple of weekends by trying out something new with your beau, whether that’s a couples massage workshop, a lovers-inspired stroll through the Cleveland Museum of Art or reconnecting while you unplug and take advantage of the beautiful backdrops right in our own backyards.
While some of these ideas have no expiration date, keep in mind a couple of the events listed require reservations and one takes place the weekend before Valentine’s Day, so if you see something that tickles your fancy make sure you doublecheck your calendar and sign up in advance.
Straight to the Heart Couples Massage Workshop
What: Learn how to reconnect with your partner as you learn basic massage techniques together to enhance your relationship through the power of touch in this alternative date night experience, in an intimate, small group setting. Wear comfy clothes and bring your favorite pillow for an evening of learning together and fun, guided by Cara Perez, LMT, MFR of Jade Massotherapy. The session costs $65 per couple, and beverages and sweets will be available for purchase. Spaces are limited, so email Cara at jademassotherapy@gmail.com to register and hold your spot as soon as possible. If you can't make it to this one, check out future events here.
Where: Wine Down & Sweets Cafe in Strongsville
When: Saturday, Feb. 8 from 6:30-8:30pm
Be a part of Cleveland Museum of Art's CMA Love Story
What: The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) will host a day of programs celebrating love in all its forms on Valentine’s Day. Stroll through the galleries with your loved one and see the free special exhibition PROOF: Photography in the Era of the Contact Sheet. Enjoy the glow of 20 illuminated stained glass lamps and other Art Nouveau creations on view in Tiffany in Bloom: Stained Glass Lamps of Louis Comfort Tiffany. You and your sweetheart can take one of CMA’s love-inspired guided tours, or enjoy self-guided tours via the ArtLens App, featured artwork on the ArtLens Wall and the Reveal and Zoom Wall in ARTLENS Gallery. Provenance will also offer a specialty cocktail and a prix fixe menu inspired by Tiffany in Bloom. Guests are encouraged to share their CMA Valentine’s Day experience using #CMALoveStory.
Where: 11150 East Boulevard in Cleveland
When: Friday, February 14. The Cleveland Museum of Art is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-5pm, and Wednesdays and Fridays, 10am-9pm. The museum is closed Mondays.
Watch the sunset at Rocky River Beach
What: Everyone knows about Edgewater Park, but Rocky River Park is a hidden gem just down the road with plenty of spots to sit, talk and enjoy each other’s company during golden hour, that magical time of day just before sunset (and just after sunrise) when the lighting is just a bit softer and redder, making it the perfect time to snap a photo together. You can enjoy the sunset from the short down below, or sit of one of the many benches overlooking the beach area from up above.
Where: Off Parkside Drive and Beach Cliff Boulevard in Rocky River
When: Any day you can make it to the park by sunset
Take a day trip to Geneva-on-the-Lake
What: When you think of Geneva-on-the-Lake, you probably think of Ohio’s first summertime resort. But don’t be fooled, because this charming waterfront has lots to offer even when it’s cold outside. Enjoy wineries, restaurants and shopping without any of the usual crowds that come along with hotter temperatures. If you make a night of it, you can stay at the Lodge at Geneva where they even have cozy fireplaces in some of the rooms. Check out scheduled events throughout the off-season here.
Where: Point your GPS To 5540 Lake Road East in Geneva-on-the-Lake, just about one hour East of Downtown Cleveland
When: Any time! The beaches are great in warm weather and the area has a whole different kind of charm when it’s cold outside.
Sign up for a couples cooking class at Sur La Table in Crocker Park
What: Put your own spin on dinner and drinks by learning to cook something new together at Sur La Table in Crocker Park. Bond over creating a meal including Moroccan fare, sushi classes, French and Indian cuisine, and more. The best part? You can bring your own drinks to sip on as you enjoy a stress-free dinner. Classes range from $70 per person on week nights, and $80 per person on weekends. Sign up in advance online at surlatable.com.
Where: Sur La Table at 218 Main Street in Westlake (There’s also a location in Eton Place in Woodmere)
When: Check online for options and availability
