Dinner and a movie are great, but it’s time to up your dating game. Save this list of date ideas around Polk County for your next anniversary, birthday, or “just because” moment.
🖼 For the artistic
Painting with a Twist, 3670 Harden Blvd. | Maybe painting a canvas together will become a brush with love.
Polk Museum of Art, 800 E. Palmetto St. | Browse the museum’s exhibits hand-in-hand and find a souvenir in The Shop to mark the occasion.
🌳 For nature lovers
Bonnet Springs Park, 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd. | Pack a picnic and enjoy the natural beauty of this park — just imagine a romantic stroll on the Crenshaw Canopy Walk.
SPCA Florida, 5850 Brannen Rd. S. | Meet adoptable pets or take a pup along with you on a doggie date.
Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales | Tour a 1930s Mediterranean-style mansion among the acres of this historic landscape garden.
💭 For smarty-pants
Keep the mystery alive by escaping a breakout room at Escapology (210 E. Pine St.) or Lakeland Escape Room (308 E. Pine St.).
Trivia buffs? Plan a date at a local trivia night — what’s better than working together to win prizes? Add to your knowledge base by taking a local tour to learn something new.
Take your love of food and drink outdoors with a lakeside picnic.
Photo by @scoutandtag
🍽 For foodies
Publix Aprons Cooking School, 4730 S. Florida Ave. | Hone your cooking skills and create a meal together. Pro tip: Cook it at home for your next date.
Taste the same drink at local coffee shops and compare notes. We’ve also got you covered with restaurants open late if hunger hits after hours.
💍 For couples ready to tie the knot
Make this dating thing permanent. Be one of 30 couples to get married on Valentine’s Day at the Polk County History Center. Space is limited — reserve your spot by calling 863-534-4516.
