Ditch the dinner reservations and movie tickets! Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or treating your honey to a “just because” adventure, these unique activities are sure to impress your sweetheart.

Stop to smell the roses in Atlanta, Georgia

The Atlanta Botanical Garden spans an incredible 30 acres and will wow any date. Take a leisurely stroll through the rose garden, experience the beauty of a tropical rainforest, and view the U.S.’ largest display of orchids. Take pleasure in the company of your date as you walk the day away, then swing by Cocktails in the Garden, an ongoing summer event including local DJs, cooking demonstrations and cultural performances in the most beautiful spot in Atlanta.

Visit their website to find visitor information, event schedules, and see what’s blooming!

Take an oceanside hike in Carmel, California

Pack a picnic and prepare to be awed by the natural beauty of the Point Lobos State Reserve. From breathtaking emerald waters in secluded coves to the spectacular experience of watching crashing waves on the rocky shoreline, this park is sure to give you some quality one-on-one time. Bring your binoculars and hike through nature trails to access vantage points of the surrounding ocean and see California wildlife, including otters, seals, sea lions, and whales.

Learn about the park, what to bring, and how to plan your trip at the Point Lobos Foundation website.

Rock the boat in Weekhawken, NJ

If you’re looking for a perfect date with beautiful city lights, a lovely dinner, and dancing to live music all in one place, then set sail on one of the Spirit Cruise ships. Departing out of New York or New Jersey, you can experience the Manhattan skyline like you’ve never seen it before. Enjoy the evening at your own pace on ships with self-serve buffets, bars, dance floors, and rooftop lounges. Spirit also offers dinner cruises in Baltimore, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Norfolk, Chicago, and Boston.

Enjoy a dinner, cocktail or late-night cruise for an adults-only evening. Get more info at Spirit Cruises.

Enjoy a Superior weekend in Ahmeek, Michigan

B&Bs are always a favorite choice for romantic weekends away, and the Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn is a favorite especially among honeymooners and anniversary couples. Rise early to catch the sunrise on a private balcony or sleep in and enjoy the late breakfast at 9:30. If you stay in the winter you may even catch the Northern Lights over Lake Superior. There are many attractions in the area, including magnificent waterfalls just 4 miles away or nearby ski slopes in the winter.

See pictures, read about the inn, and make reservations at the Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn website. For a longer getaway, consider this Lake Michigan road trip.
This photo of Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn is courtesy of TripAdvisor.

Ride to lunch in Asheville, North Carolina

Biltmore Estate is a favorite for those who love history, architecture, art, and nature. You could spend days exploring the grounds, staying at the Inn, and enjoying the winery, but one dream-come-true date offered here is the private lunch trail ride. Enjoy a 3-hour horseback ride, complete with picnic lunch. Come early to stop at the conservatory first, then spend the afternoon exploring the marvelous 250-room Biltmore House and finish your day walking through the charming estate shops.

Find out more about the Biltmore House and Gardens.