28 underrated date ideas to try in San Antonio

By San Antonio Current Staff

If your usual date-night plans feel as tired as the phrase "Netflix and chill," don't worry, we've got your back. Ahead of Valentine's Day, these 28 fresh ideas put a new spin on romance — from fun, free and easy activities to fancier plans that are worth the splurge.

Whether you're trying to brainstorm a way to impress your crush or spice things up in a long-term relationship, any could help you bond with your boo.

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Unleash your inner child playing pinball at What's Brewing
138 West Rhapsody, (210) 308-8882, sacoffeeroasters.com
You can get caffeinated and let your inner kid out at What's Brewing's Roastery and Cafe, which has a rotating selection of pinball machines for you and your date to practice your wizardry.
Photo via Instagram / whatsbrewingsa

Explore a nearby small town
Going on cute dates around San Antonio is all well and good, don’t get us wrong, but sometimes you just need to get away and experience something new. No matter what your inspiration may be, taking a daytrip outside 1604 will do you and your boo some good. Head up to Fredericksburg to go on a winery tour, or maybe head south to Medina County for some of their market days on the weekend. Think of it as a couples’ retreat without breaking the bank.
Photo via Instagram / fredericksburgtexas

Hit up a festival or two (or however many you want) Local and regional festivals are serving a wide variety of interests this year round. From all sorts of food festivals — includint the Current's United We Brunch — to cultural events like Fiesta, there’s plenty for you and your love to do. And don’t worry, there’s a good mixture of free or cheap events as well as pricey happenings to splurge on. Photo via Instagram / sacurrent

Kayak the San Antonio River
Looking for some water-centric entertainment? Mission Kayak (mat-tx.com) provides guided and unguided kayak rentals, and now you can paddle down scenic stretches of the river downtown — both through the River Walk and the King William District.
Photo via Instagram / missionadventuretours

Catch a live show at Paper Tiger
2410 N St Mary's St, (210) 841-3771, papertigersatx.com
With shows every weekend, you’ve got every opportunity to catch live music with your valentine. Science confirms that music is an aphrodisiac, just sayin’.
Photo by Jaime Monzon

Catch a free movie screening courtesy of Slab Cinema
Multiple locations, slabcinema.com
While you can catch a free movie from various venues and organizations, the traveling outdoor screen from Slab Cinema is definitely the most reliable, often and super fun at that. Slab Cinema's various offerings around town cover everything form recent blockbusters to arthouse classics, so no matter your tastes you’re bound to have a blast. Don’t forget the blankets or lawn chairs for ultimate comfort.
Photo via Instagram / slabcinema

Explore some new local restaurants
Tired of always going to the same neighborhood hole in the wall for date night? Expand your culinary horizons, and prepare to be eating good and drinking just as well. Find inspiration here.
Photo via Instagram / s.a.foodie

Taste the new flavors at a local brewery
Treat yourself — and bae — to a few date nights exploring what’s new on tap at breweries around town. Whether new brews or new (to you) drinking spots, this is a solid way to spend quality time with your date without it getting too expensive. Plus, it’s super fun!
Photo via Instagram / alamobeerco

Cheer on the Spurs at a home game
1 AT&T Center Parkway, (210) 444-5000, attcenter.com
What better way to bond with your boo than over San Antonio's most beloved sports team? Show your loyalty to the Silver & Black and cheer on the team during home games at the AT&T Center.
Photo via Instagram / spurs

Unwind at a local park
SA has plenty of hidden gems, like Denman Estate Park's traditional South Korean pavilion. Jog in Hardberger Park, make a picnic at the Botanical Garden, take a stroll around Brackenridge Park or do some yoga at O. P. Schnabel Park. All great dates that will have you feeling one with nature.
Photo via Instagram / rebekahsantoyo