Valentine’s Day Romance without the Expense

For many couples, Valentine’s Day is the same old routine each year.

For many couples, Valentine’s Day is the same old routine each year: dinner at a nice (and crowded) restaurant followed by a movie. Boring! Factor in flowers, candy and a card, and this run-of-the-mill day of romance can really get expensive. With the state of the economy, who can afford to spend so much – especially on such an unoriginal date? Lovebirds, take a look at this list of ideas that can help you have a special, memorable time together with only a few bucks – or none at all!

Tour the Town
Cost: A Tank of Gas
Even if you’ve both lived in the Tulsa area for years, chances are there are some wonderful spots around town you and your honey have yet to see. Tulsa is filled with historic sites and amazing Art Deco architecture. Visit  www.tulsapreservationcommission.org for an extensive list of significant local neighborhoods and buildings, and get background info on each location. Your planned route can include the majestic Parriott House, Westhope, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the stunning Boston Avenue Methodist Church. Visiting places you’ve never been is invigorating and will make you feel like you’re exploring a new city with your special someone – and nothing is more romantic than adventure!

Classic Romantic Movie Marathon
Cost: Less Than $10
Rather than doling out $10 each for movie tickets at the theater, why not spend a few dollars at the video store, rent some classic romances, and cuddle up with your significant other on the couch? Old movies have a way of warming the heart and transporting you to an age where love seemed sweeter and more passionate. Check out “Gone with the Wind,” “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” “Roman Holiday” or “Casablanca.” For more ideas, go online to www.imdb.com and search keyword “romance.” 

Afternoon Zoo Trip
Cost: Less Than $10
The Tulsa Zoo is featuring half-price admission every weekend in February, so that means you and your Valentine can get in for about $8 total. Walk around holding hands as you admire the wildlife and feel that animal magnetism for each other. Call the zoo at (918) 669-6600 or go to  www.tulsazoo.org for more information.

Marvel at the Sights of Philbrook
Cost: Free on Valentine’s Day
Philbrook Museum offers art lovers free admission the second Saturday of every month, and that happens to fall on Valentine’s Day in February. Take in the aesthetic sights of art from around the world, as well the aesthetic sight of your date! Philbrook’s current exhibition is “Dancing Across the Page,” Native American works that explore ceremonies and social activities in which dance plays an important role. Beautiful gardens are an especially romantic spot at this lovely museum. To learn more, go to  www.philbrook.org or call (918) 749-7941.

Take a Nature Walk or Hike
Cost: Free
Walking and hiking is great exercise and a fun, cost-free way to spend time together. For maps, photos and other useful info on the numerous trails in the area, visit www.incog.org/Transportation/trailguide.htm. Or stop by Oxley Nature Center, where you can enjoy bird and butterfly watching, several hiking and walking trails, and beautiful wildflowers. They can be found on the web at  www.oxleynaturecenter.org.   

Play Together
Cost: Free
Competition can be a thrilling component of a romantic relationship, so why not challenge each other to a game or sport? Shoot some hoops, hit a few tennis balls or toss a Frisbee around. Card games are always entertaining, or face off in a video or arcade game. Checkers, chess, backgammon, Scrabble and Pente are also perfect for two-player matches.