This content was originally published in February 2020 and has been edited with updated information.
Some sort of decadent dish will indubitably be a part of the Valentine’s Day itinerary, but there are plenty more hours in the day to try one of these date ideas for a memory-making way to celebrate your sweetheart.
1. Climbing
North Summit Climbing Gym
481 Bushkill Plaza Ln., Wind Gap | 610.863.4444 | northsummitclimbing.com
The endorphins of action are a great thing to share with a date. Get moving at a climbing gym and be like two love monkeys scaling the wall of your destiny. Whether you’re showing off or goofing around, a climbing date lets you support and encourage each other in a new experience, and share in the satisfaction of reaching the top.
2. Axe Throwing
Skeggy’s Axe House
42 Centre Sq., Easton | 484.544.3003 | skeggys.com
One can imagine that our ancestors spent inclement winters drinking and throwing axes, and that friendly axe-throwing rivalries sparked romance in their smoky mead halls. Or you could look at it as darts on steroids. Either way, a couple of axe-throwing venues in the Valley provide you and your Valentine a place to practice this primal skill.
3. Laughing
ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks
101 Founders Way, Bethlehem | 610.332.3378 | steelstacks.org
Few things feel better than laughter, so go generate some dopamine together at a comedy show. After rolling in the aisles, walk warm and happy back out into the winter air wiping tears of mirth from your eyes. Bethlehem’s ArtsQuest Center has you covered with a full bar in the lobby and a variety of shows to check out.
4. Sipping
Gallows Hill Spirits Co.
2200 S. 12th St., Allentown | 610.628.9445 | gallowshillspirits.com
The family history of Gallows Hill Spirits’ founder includes victims of the Salem witch hunts, so the distillery pays homage with arcane art and a tour detailing both ancestral antics and present-day liquor-making techniques. Steep yourself in spooky history and a few creative craft drinks for a memorable date that’s sure to delight.
5. Cheering
Lehigh Valley Phantoms
701 Hamilton St., Allentown | 610.224.4625 | phantomshockey.com
The Valley’s local hockey team doesn’t take Valentine’s Day off. They’re valiantly playing the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins on Saturday and the Hershey Bears on Sunday so you can take your date to a rousing game. Cheer on the team and splurge on concessions, or save your appetite for one of the great restaurant options surrounding the PPL Center in the heart of Allentown.
