I'm always ready to dress up and go out for a special occasion, what girl isn't? Although I love receiving gifts and flowers, I'm finding the gift of experiencing things ( like concerts, activities, places, ect. ) with the people I love are more special to me. Instead of planning the typical one night dinner this Valentines Day, why not take a walk on the wild side with these fun ideas:

A Day at the Museum : Whether its the museum of art, science, or local history - you will find a variety of ways to spend your day learning, interacting, and enjoying being with your loved ones with a handful of options that everyone will enjoy. My favorites include the Aquarium and Museum of Science and Industry. Find out what museums are near you with museum link.

An Activity Together : Chocolates and sweet treats are great, but with the holidays over and the New Years resolutions holding on by a thread, why not get out and do an activity together? For those in the warmer states - rent bikes, go hiking, or go to the batting cages. For those states that are still covered in the snow ( like mine ) enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor activities like skiing, ice skating, indoor go-karting, play indoor bocci, or find an indoor swimming pool.

The Conservatory or Gardens : Fresh cut flowers are great! I will always be the first to buy flowers, but with your flowers give the promise of spending the day at the conservatory or local gardens. Getting out of the house and walking around in the beautifully kept gardens will be a cherished memory long after those flowers fade.

Are gardens not your thing? Try finding a local forest preserve and go hiking for the afternoon. Whatever you do, just go soak in the fresh air and rays of sunshine!

A Party With All Your Friends : Why not celebrate everyone you love in your life? Throw a fun themed party - like 80's prom or murder mystery - and celebrate with fun themed treats. You could go big by creating your own decorations, have a card making station, and even set up a cool photo booth backdrop for your friends to remember the night by! Check out some creative and easy backdrops here, here, or here!

Send A Piece of Your City : Not everyone in your life lives close.Tell them you are thinking about them by sending them a care packaged of your home city or the city where you met filled with city themed items! Among my favorite goodies from Chicago would include a tasty pizza from Giordanos! For Valentines week, they are sending their famous deep-dish pizzas in a shape of a heart!

A Weekend Away : Whether it's a weekend getaway to your favorite spot, local downtown hotel, or a staycation watching movies - taking time together is important. Find new places for you and your love by exploring the local shops and restaurants. You will be surprised what you find together! If you could getaway where would you go?