Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. Whether you are looking for a romantic date for your sweetheart or a fun day with your family, the February 14 can be a reason to do something out of the norm.

The South Sound is not lacking nice restaurants or places to see a movie – and those are certainly options for romantic nights out – but if you are looking to do something a little more unique, check out our ideas of ways to celebrate the day of love in the South Sound.

Point Defiance Zoo Valentine's Day
Love birds of all ages will adore the animals as they revel in their cuteness at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. Photo courtesy: Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium

Point Defiance Love at the Zoo

From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on February 10 and 11, guests of Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium can stroll through the park while taking in the cuteness of Love at the Zoo. Guests will see the animals snacking on Valentine’s Day treats and playing with Valentine’s themed toys.

Price: No additional charge beyond zoo admission. Find admission pricing here.

Valentine’s Day 5k Point Ruston

Run through Ruston Way with your beloved. Lace up your running shoes and head to Point Ruston at 8:00 a.m. on February 10 for the Valentine’s Day 5k. If you would rather make it a family affair, a one-mile kids dash will take place at the same time. Sign up early to save on the registration fee.

Price: 5k price: $30 day of the race, or $25 between February 6-8. Kids dash price: $20 day of the race, $15 between February 6-8

Winter Sip & Stroll Gig Harbor
The 3rd Annual Winter Sip & Stroll will feature local wineries, ciders and brews. Photo courtesy: Gig Harbor Downtown Waterfront Alliance

Gig Harbor Winter Sip and Stroll

This 21-plus event is meant to spark attendees to “love the wine you’re with,” with wine tasting and strolling through Gig Harbor’s downtown waterfront. More than a dozen wineries will be featured along with some small bites. Each guest will receive 15 sip tickets for tastings, an event map and a tasting glass to take home. Join in on the “stroll stops” from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on February 10. Reservations are recommended as a limited quantity of tickets are available.

Price: Early registration is available for $30 through February 3, $35 before February 9, or $40 the day of the event.

Valentine’s Day Chalk and Sip

From 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 3, treat yourself to an afternoon of chalk art and hand lettering. Dominique Davis, owner of Chalk Artistry & Design, will teach the basics of this artform and no experience is needed to attend. If creativity sparks your romance, then this is the perfect Valentine’s date spot for you. Wine and snacks will also be included. Registration is required.

Price: $45 for the event

Museum of Glass
Not sure where to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your sweetie? Scan SouthSoundTalk’s round-up of local Valentine’s Day events and start planning your love-filled itinerary.

Tacoma Glass Blowing Studio

For the real glassblowing experience, visit Tacoma Glass Blowing Studio to create unique glass art with your sweetheart. Experience doesn’t matter, as a teacher will assist you in producing a one-of-a-kind piece to take home. Sessions are held by appointment only on Saturdays and Sundays so contact the studio at 253-948-9699 to schedule your class.

Price: $75 plus tax

Art and Clay Studio

If you are looking for something to do with your kiddos, friends or that special someone, this vibrant paint-your-own-pottery studio is fun for everyone! They are open for painting Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Come on or around Valentine’s Day to celebrate in a creative way. All you have to do is pick your piece of pottery and get painting – it’s that simple. With no sitting fee, the price is dependent on the piece of pottery you chose. With so many options to choose from, each member of your party will be sure to enjoy their time here.

Price: Depends on pottery piece chosen. Ranges between $10 and $70 per item.