Lowkey Valentine's Day Date Ideas For Introverts

Does the idea of the typical Valentine’s Day date — dinner in a loud, busy restaurant and over-the-top, public declarations of your love — make you squirm?

If so, you might be an introvert.

Introverts are low-key in a lot of ways, from their penchant for observation and quiet to their desire to stay out of the spotlight. For many introverts, Valentine’s Day is no different. We just don’t need all the hoopla.

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This isn’t to say that introverts don’t want to feel loved and appreciated by their significant other. We just have a different style when it comes to giving and receiving affection. That’s part of what it means to be an introvert. Here are 11 low key Valentine's Day Date ideas :

1. Cook a special dinner together at home. Home is where the introvert’s heart is. Skip the crowded restaurant — which may be overstimulating for an introvert — and spark a more private romance in the comfort of your own kitchen. Plus, you’ll save money, considering how most restaurants mark-up their meals on this special day. Here are some romantic dinner recipes you could cook at home.

2. Write a love letter to each other. Introverts may struggle with saying what’s on their mind — and in their heart — but feel more comfortable expressing themselves in writing. Go old school, get out a pen and paper, and write your introvert a love letter — and invite him or her to do the same. You’ll likely see a side of your introvert that you’ve never seen before.

3. Get takeout and binge-watch a great series.

This is the quintessential introvert date. So easy, so chill. Some of my recent Netflix favorites are Black Mirror, The End of the F***ing World, and BoJack Horseman. Or, since it’s Valentine’s Day, try some of these romantic movies (check that they’re available on your streaming service!).

4. Peruse a local bookstore.

Rows and rows of inspiration, knowledge, and imagination? Perfect for the intellectual introvert. Get lost among the shelves of a cute, independent bookstore. Bonus: Each of you picks out a book that you think the other would enjoy. Or, try one of these bookstore scavenger hunts. Finish up your date with a glass of wine.

5. Give each other a massage. In the comfort of your own home, of course. Brush up your massage skills here.

6. Get brunch together. Brunch is more low-key than dinner. If your schedule allows, go in the morning, when the restaurant isn’t crowded. If you have to work, consider going out for a special brunch the weekend before or after Valentine’s Day.

7. Throw a game night at home. Break out your favorite two-player game and add pizza and drinks of your choice. Bonus points for trying a sexy date night game like these. Or host a low-key board game night at home with a few other couples. (Here are some ideas on how to do that.) Hosting an event can be less draining for introverts than attending one, because they have more control — they pick the guests, the schedule, and the activities.

8. Go to an art, science, or history museum. Feed an introvert’s intellectual side, and their heart will follow. Check local museums for any special exhibits before you go.

9. Take a class together. Many introverts love learning and adding to their vast stores of specialty knowledge. Take a cooking, painting, mixology, or dance class together.

10. Get away for just one night. Stay in a fancy historic hotel or a secluded cabin. You won’t break your budget if it’s just one night. If you order room service to your hotel room, you won’t even have to venture out.

11. Serve your introvert breakfast in bed. Nothing says chill and cozy like breakfast in bed. Here are some recipes to try.