Valentine's Day is right around the corner. If you haven't already made plans, it's time to get moving — especially with the competing NBA All-Star Game crowd in Houston.
Here are 10 things to do in and out of town this February 14th — plus an unconventional bonus option:
In town
For a romantic outdoor experience this Valentine's Day, Hermann Park is hosting a three-course picnic meal and 30-minute pedal boat ride around McGovern Lake. Keep the romance going even after you leave Hermann Park . . . at $40 per couple, you'll also get chocolates and a flower to take home.
Guests are invited to BYOB, but no glass, please. Dinner seatings are at 5, 6 and 7 p.m.
Day trip
If you’re looking for a little adventure this February 14, take a day trip to Santa Fe, Texas and visit Haak’s Vineyard and Winery. Once there, take in the picturesque scenery, cozy up in your own private dining area and enjoy a four-course meal plus wine pairings selected by the experts at Haak's.
The fare includes items like panko crusted mini crab cakes, brie champagne soup, lamb chops with mustard-herb crust and for dessert, Tiramisu Mini Heart Cake. The cost is $175 per person.
Calling all singles
Not to be left out on this traditionally couples holiday, singles can head out to The Houston Texans Grille. The Grille has teamed up with Neumate.com, an online dating site, for a "Stoptlight" party.
If you’re single and looking to meet other singles, you’ll wear green glow light necklace. If you're single, but cautionary . . . maybe not quite so ready to mingle, you'll wear yellow. And if you're in a relationship, but looking to have fun or attending with friends, you'll wear a red necklace.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door. This price includes a complimentary cocktail and passed appetizers.
Dining deals
For a dining deal, Straits at City Center is offering a three-course menu for $72 per couple. Start off with an appetizer like the charred ahi & sweet shrimp skewers. For the main course, it's a braised beef short rib & lobster yi mein. For dessert? Hazelnut Chocolate Fondue with pound cake and strawberries.
You may be more familiar with wine and cheese pairings, but beer and cheese can be just as complementary.
And if you can't be with your Valentine this Valentine's Day, not to worry. This deal is available from Feb. 14 through Feb. 17.
The Original Ninfa's on Navigation is celebrating with a three-course menu that features items like a field greens salad with pink peppercorn vinaigrette, surf and turf with filet mignon and jumbo shrimp, and dark chocolate mousse. The cost for this delish bargain is $65 per couple. This dining special runs Feb. 14 through Feb. 16.
Splurge on fine dining
Impress your date and splurge at Damian’s Cucina Italiana in Midtown. Damian's is offering a special Valentine’s Day three-course menu for $59.95 per person. This charming-yet-elegant restaurant, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, is the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner with your Valentine. Begin your meal with an antipasti like the sweet potato ravioli stuffed with mashed sweet potato in a sage butter sauce.
For dinner, choose from items like the Linguini alla Gamberoni. Save room for dessert as there are several options, including the Italian Cream Cake or cannoli.
Get cozy with your date on Valentine’s Day with L’Olivier Restaurant’s plats pour deux menu (plates designed for two). Share dishes like the whole roasted chicken for $36 and the whole rack of lamb for $48. Entrees come with two sides, which include risotto, saffron, potato, bacon and leek tart, haricot verts and frites.
Shareable sushi
RA Sushi will be offering Valentine’s Day specials available from Feb. 14 to 17. The $10 "For the Love of Lobster" dish features heart-shaped sushi rolled in pink soy paper and filled with crab mix, cucumber and fresh strawberries. It's surrounded by a creamy lobster salad and fresh avocado.
Casual but fun
For a more laid back holiday, Saint Arnold brewery and the Houston Dairymaids have put together an event centered around beer and cheese pairings. You may be more familiar with wine and cheese pairings, but beer and cheese can be just as complementary. Experts from both the brewery and Dairymaids will be on-hand discussing the menu and answering questions.
This event is at 6 p.m. at the brewery and is $25 per person.
Curbside Cupcakes
Crave Cupcakes has definite “curb” appeal this Valentine's Day. From 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Feb. 14, both Crave locations will be offering boxes of four cupcakes plus a card for $20, available only via curbside pickup. Simply stop by the Express Tents set up in front of each Crave location and pick up your box.
These sweet treats come in dark chocolate, vanilla, red velvet and strawberry on chocolate.
For a romantic outdoor experience this Valentine's Day, Hermann Park is hosting a three-course picnic meal and 30-minute pedal boat ride around McGovern Lake.
Winnie's po'boy. 