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5 Valentine’s date ideas that are better than a dinner and a movie in Chattanooga

Staff Photo by Robin Rudd / A couple walks toward North Chattanooga on the Walnut Street Bridge at sunrise on Sept. 7, 2022. Staff Photo by Robin Rudd / A couple walks toward North Chattanooga on the Walnut Street Bridge at sunrise on Sept. 7, 2022.

By Ebony Williams / The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (TNS) February 10, 2023 3 min read

When it comes to planning the perfect Valentine’s Day, why not do something out of the ordinary?

While there’s nothing wrong with the classic dinner and a movie, there are other options that leave room for conversation and a great experience. Here are five fun and out-of-the-box ideas that are perfect for Valentine’s Day.

TIKTOK’S ‘PICK DATE’ TREND

While TikTok trends usually come with a disclaimer, this trend is not only cute but creative and fun too. The “pick date” trend is simple: You just write down two date-night options, then have your partner pick one at random and you’ve got your plans for the night.

RELATIONSHIP BUCKET LIST

Bucket lists are a great way to get to know your partner more. With this option, you can ask deeper questions and learn about your partner’s wants in the relationship. This is also a great icebreaker when it comes to asking the bigger questions about your relationship.

DANCE CLASS

Dance classes are not only intimate, but extremely fun. Whether you have two left feet or hips like Shakira, dance classes can be done in person or online.

Among the offerings for couples are Dance Tonight Chattanooga, Dance Lessons by Lenny and G2G Salsa.

Ballroom dancing / KRT/File/Lee Hulteng illustration

SUNRISE HIKE

The temperature may still be a little chilly, but there’s nothing more romantic than watching the sun rise (or set) over a beautiful natural backdrop. The tri-state area has plenty of hidden gems and amazing sites to see.

Chattanooga Tourism Co. touts the Walnut Street Bridge, Stringer’s Ridge and Snoopers Rock among the city’s best sunrise location. For sunsets, consider the Raccoon Mountain Reservoir, the Lookout Mountain Flight Park and — no-brainer — Sunset Rock on Lookout Mountain.

COOKING CLASS

There are plenty of places to help find cooking classes. Cozymeal, which has an Atlanta location, offers various cuisine options from around the world. The best part is that they also offer in-person options in case you prefer a comfy night at home.

Closer to home, Chattanooga’s Sweet & Savory Classroom specializes in hands-on cooking instruction for adults, children, date nights and team building. Several classes have been recorded for viewing anytime.

The Chattery regularly includes cooking and canning classes in its array of offerings. A current series is creating treats from “The Great British Baking Show.”

Crabtree Farms and Hamilton County Extension also offer cooking and canning classes. The Creative Arts Guild in Dalton, Georgia, has a monthly culinary arts class that explores different cuisines and techniques.

Staff writer Lisa Denton contributed to this story.