The go-to Valentine’s date is typically taking your sweetie out to a nice dinner, but 2024 is the year to shake things up. Whether you're keeping it casual, ballin 'on a budget, or your idea of fun isn’t a 3 course meal- these date ideas are sure to keep the romance alive in a more low-key way. 

Have a Picnic:

Can you think of anything more romantic than taking a long walk on the beach in the park? Grab some to-go food or cook at home and head to one of our beautiful local spots. Cuddle in a hammock in Wildwood Park or lay out by the Tar River on the Greenway. As an activity, find some conversation starters and get to know your person a little deeper in this intimate setting.

People Walking Dogs Along TrailPhoto Courtesy of Aaron Hines | City of Greenville, NC

Explore the Dickinson Avenue Arts District:

If you haven't explored the Dickinson Avenue Arts District yet, you’re missing out. This district is filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and activities for all! Explore the Dickinson Avenue Farmers and Makers Market and try some unique chocolates from Jenni’s Ugly Chocolates. Share a flight at Pitt Street Brewing Company while playing community board games. Shop for antique gifts at Dickinson Avenue Antique Market. Try a variety of 52 self-pour taps at MPourium. Head to Aji for a glass of wine and shop for international snacks and goodies. For something more active, make a reservation at Anger Management Rage Room or Stumpy’s Hatchet House! The possibilities are endless, yet all conveniently located within walking distance from one another.

Try a New Lunch Spot:

We get it, nighttime doesn’t always work. Have a night shift, can’t find a babysitter, or you are planning a whole day and need a place to start? Try a local lunch spot for something quick, or just sit and enjoy the company. Check out the newly opened Cornflower Bakehouse for a wide variety of diet-inclusive baked goods and meals, while sipping on a themed beverage from Backstage Coffee. If the weather is nice, check out Kings Deli and enjoy your meal on the back patio!

Kings Deli Patio

Test Who’s Smarter at Trivia:

Greenville is a trivia town, with a different location hosting every week night. This is a great idea for a group date, or simply just some quality time. Share some appetizers and test your knowledge this year. February 14th falls on a Wednesday night in 2024, and AJ McMurphy’s and 5th Street Hardware will be hosting their trivia at regular hours on the holiday. 5th Street Hardware will be hosting their trivia at 7pm, and AJ McMurphy’s will be hosting theirs at 8pm.

The Classic Museum Date:

There are multiple fascinating museums and exhibits to check out in Greenville and Pitt County. The Greenville Museum of Art is a great place to start, and it is one of the last chances to check out the Marauders exhibit, exploring themes of history, memory, ancestry, and futurism. If you want to step back in time, the Eastern Carolina Village and Farm Museum focuses on Eastern NC history and culture from 1840-1940. Outside town, check out the May Museum in Farmville (by appointment only), and spend the afternoon exploring this cute town.

Greenville Museum of Art