Romantic dates in San Francisco always seem to have one thing in common: they're expensive. With Valentine's day right around the corner, how can you make the day special without paying an arm and a leg? Here are some ideas to keep your wallet and heart happy.
Belt Out a Song
Just started dating or not really into the mushy stuff? On February 14th, SF Indie Fest is hosting an Anti-Valentine's Day Power Ballad Sing A Long. Feel free to sing, hold lighters in the air and sway, and let your hair down as you belt out hits from Journey, Guns 'n Roses, Bon Jovi, Warrant, and more. '80s outfits not required, but we're highly recommending them. Tickets are $15. // Tuesday, Feb. 14th, Roxie Theatre (Mission), Get tickets here.
Hit the Ice
If you want to get cute and cuddly on V-Day, ice skating is a no-brainer. The Yerba Buena Skate and Bowl Center is open every day of the year and only costs $10 per person to hit the ice (plus another $4 for skate rental). The rink will be open for free skate from noon to 4pm on February 14th and 7:30-11pm the Saturday before. Hold hands and skate the day away. // 750 Folsom St (SoMa), skatebowl.com
Join the Fight
If cutesy isn't your thing, maybe you need to participate in a massive pillow fight. The annual flash-mob Valentines Day Pillow Fight starts at dusk (around 6pm) at Justin Herman Plaza next door to the Ferry Building. Can you think of a better way to bond with your other half than hitting strangers with pillows? I think not. Note:
- Bring a mask or bandanna to cover your mouth – it's easy to choke on flying feathers.
- Bring a synthetic pillow (not one with feathers). Trust us.. it's much more enjoyable this way.
// February 14, 6pm, Justin Herman Plaza (Embarcadero), sf.funcheap.com/pillow-fight-san-francisco
Take an Instagram-Worthy Hike
Dating can be expensive, but you know what isn't? Hiking. Lands End Trail is famous for its accessibility and stunning views. Take the trail from The Cliff House down to the beautiful Sutro Baths, then follow the route around the bend for truly iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The hike is around two miles long, but it will make for an Instagram-worthy “Happy Valentines Day" photos. Tip: Bring a picnic to make the hike extra romantic. // 7x7.com/the-ultimate-urban-hike-ocean-b...
No Shirt, No Pants? No Problem!
Cupid's Undie Run is a mile-ish, body-positive, charitable, fun 5K. Benefiting the Children's Tumor Foundation (CTF), your $25 racing registration goes toward important neurofibromatosis research. Bring out your bedroom best for the sake of science and philanthropy! // February 18, Starting Point: Pedro's Cantina, 128 King St. (China Basin), cupidsundierun.org
