10 Fun & unusual date ideas near Tampa that are perfect for Valentine's Day

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Love is in the air as the most romantic day of the year approaches. If you're looking for things to do around Tampa for Valentine's Day, well, you're in luck. Whether it's your first V-day with your partner or you're a several-year-veteran, we have a few ideas in mind that for romantic dates that you haven't already thought of.

No matter what your budget may be, there is something on this list for any couple to enjoy --foodies, adventurers, penny-pinchers, minimalists and all.

And the best part is, you can take all the credit for coming up with the date idea --we won't be mad. 

​Check out our pick of 10 things to do below. 

*Availability for Valentine's Day may be limited, be sure to check each company's individual sites before planning your big day! 

1. Ride into the sunset on horseback 

What's more romantic than riding into the sunset with your better half on horseback? We can't think of anything either --and it's not far from Tampa! While it might be one of the pricier date nights, it's worth it for the experience.

Read my review about why I thought it was worth the price tag and where you can book your experience at here. 

2. Book a unique glamping trip

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Get away from the hustle and bustle of your modern-day life by booking a stay at Westgate River Ranch Resort. They offer an array of unique glamping experiences including tee-pees, tents, and my personal favorite --covered wagons. You and bae will feel like you've traveled back in time staying at a place like this. Yeehaw!

Check out more information about this resort here. 

3. Grab brunch at this picture-perfect cafe

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Dinner is totally overrated (and expensive!) Treat bae to a brunch that they won't soon forget, featuring glitter lattes and colorful goodies from Chocolate Pi in Tampa, for a fraction of the price of a fancy dinner.

You can see more photos and read all about this hidden gem here. 

4. Swim with manatees

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I know what you're probably thinking --it's a little bit too cold to swim right now-- but actually it's the perfect time to share the water with 'tees. Crystal River is one of the few places where you can swim near manatees --and there's a current deal running on tickets.

More information about swimming with these gentle giants and where to get a deal on tickets here. 

5. Picnic at the St. Pete Pier

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Going to the pier is totally free, so bring a blanket and a picnic basket for a date by the water without a hefty price tag attached. The sunset views from the pier are absolutely stunning and offer you the perfect backdrop for some amazing couple photos --just don't forget your tripod and timer! 

​Check out more information about the pier here.  

6. Late-night date-night stargazing at the beach

Most beach areas in Florida close after sundown, making it hard to go for late-night walks on the beach. Thankfully, Clearwater Beach is an exception to this rule, making it the perfect spot to collect some shells under the starlight. 

Clearwater Beach rules are here. 

7. Take a cheap cruise to a local island

Maybe you don't have the time or money to spend on a several day cruise to the Bahamas, but that doesn't mean you can't travel to some local islands for a super affordable price! There are several charters that depart from Tarpon Springs to the small island of Anclote Key, where you can find an uncrowded-shoreline full of beautiful shells and Florida wildlife. 

Click here to learn more and book your cruise.

8. Get pizza... sushi pizza

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Settling for a lazy date night in, Netflix 'n chillin' style? Cool! But don't order just any old pizza --try something new and exciting like the sushi pizza at Pokeburri. Their Asian-fusion menu features a ton of sushi spin-offs that will surely impress any fish lover.

​Check out more of their offerings and delivery options here. 

9. Rent a retro VW van and go exploring

Not too many people know this but you can literally rent a decked-out VW from a company in St. Pete. Appropriately named Florida Oldscool Campers, this groovy little car rental place has everything you need to travel in retro style. 

You can book an appointment and learn more on their website here. 

10. Book an entire AMC movie theater 

So you probably already thought about going to a drive-in, and they are super romantic when the weather is right. But when it's not --or if you just want to plan far in advance, you can book a private showing at a participating AMC. Costs start at only $99+ tax. 

​You can learn more about theatre rentals here. 

Tell me below what your V-day plans are!