Whether you’re celebrating with a long-time loved one, a group of friends, or enjoying some quality “me” time, here are nine new ideas for a fun and memorable Midwest Valentine’s Day!

1. Explore the Winter Woods

A winter hike through a serene forest can not only be romantic and relationship-building but it’s also an ideal way to step away from the “real” world and connect with the natural world. What snowy, frozen wonders you might come upon!

Photo by Gary Barton

2. Watch for Shooting Stars

Enjoy the beautiful Midwest night sky away from the city. Reach for a shooting star or see how many constellations you can identify.

Photo by Steve Serniak

3. Relish a Romantic Meal

A time-honored Valentine’s Day tradition is, of course, going out for a romantic meal. No one has to cook or clean dishes and you treat yourself to a nice evening and quiet meal with that special someone. This year, Innsbrook’s rustic lakeside lodge – the Aspen Center – is also offering a Valentine’s Day breakfast buffet.

4. Get Cozy on a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

5. Go Ice Skating

A fun and challenging (for some!) winter past time. Pay a visit to Innsbrook’s skating pond near the stables and see how long you and your loved one can stay on your feet.

6. Start a (Friendly) Snowball Fight or Build a Snowman

Get your blood flowing and stay warm in the chill with a friendly snowball fight or make like a Disney movie and build two his-and-hers snowmen and snowwomen. Your significant other or friend will surely get a kick out of your take on a snow version of themselves!

7. Gather Round the Fireplace

After a round of any outdoor activity, there is no better feeling than letting the cold slip away as you warm yourself by a crackling fire.

8. Pop the Question

Is there a more romantic day to propose marriage to your sweetheart? Recent surveys estimate that as many as six million couples become engaged on Valentine’s Day. At this point if you plan to propose, it’s likely you’ve already planned out how you’re going to do it. But if you’re still scrambling for the perfect way to pop the question, check out this list of unique ideas!

Then get to planning your dream wedding.

9. Plan a Getaway

For some, the anticipation of nearing a planned trip or hunting for the ideal getaway online can be almost as exciting as going on the trip itself! If you and your significant other can’t get away this Valentine’s weekend, do the next best thing and share in the excitement and anticipation of selecting a relaxing and romantic summer vacation to renew your love.

Of course many couples, friends and families have their own traditions when it comes to celebrating this much-anticipated holiday. What are your plans?

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Cure your cabin fever with next week’s blog post, where we’ll highlight some of the distinctive properties currently listed at Innsbrook.