
If you can smell the scent of roses and chocolate in the air, it’s because Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. And, whether you love it or hate it, it’s time to embrace it and live life to the fullest. Celebrate this romantic day by spending it with your sweetheart, or enjoy a bit of platonic love with your best friend. From the fun to the romantic, but in no particular order, here are some awesome date ideas and things to do on Valentine’s Day in Melbourne.
1. Have the classic theme park experience at Luna Park
Create wonderful memories together on these classic carnival grounds. Head to Luna Park on Valentine’s Day from 6pm to 11pm, and go on as many rides as you can handle. Cosy up on the Ferris wheel, zoom on the Great Scenic Railway and go round and round on the carousel. Take plenty of photos, play a free carnival game and stay cool with heart-shaped ice cream. You’ll also receive some heart-shaped sunnies and a souvenir digital photo. This lovely evening at Luna Park costs $69.50 per person. Learn more here.
11. Watch Mamma Mia! in the park
Have a fun time with a free screening of Mamma Mia! at Riversdale Park in Camberwell. Sing along to your favourite ABBA hits and laugh your way through this popular romantic comedy. The Prosecco Van will be there with a range of beverages and snacks to purchase, and you’re welcome to bring along your own picnic too. This event will run from 7pm to 9:30pm on Valentine’s Day. See more here.
15. Go out for a romantic dinner
Melbourne is full of romantic places for you to eat on Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking for a place to take your date, see our recommendations here.
16. Feel the sparks at the Museum of Desire
Whether you’re travelling solo or with a partner, you’ll be sure to find something that will ignite your curiosity at the Museum of Desire. There’s over 20 sensory-rich experiences to look forward to. Get your tickets here.
17. Indulge in high tea by candlelight
Dzert in Sandringham will have a special Valentine’s High Tea by Candlelight for you to try. This evening indulgence will run from 6pm to 8pm, and you can go for their classic package for $79 per person, or upgrade to sparkling ($89) or bottomless ($119). Learn more here.
18. Go on a hot air balloon ride
Soar through the air and enjoy breath-taking views in a hot air balloon ride for two. Global Ballooning is doing special Valentine’s Day sale on their weekday flights in Melbourne and the Yarra Valley. Read more here.
19. Put your brains together and try out an escape room
Escape your day-to-day life and enter challenging and thought-provoking scenarios. Tackle the room with your partner, or go on a double date, and see how well you do in one of these escape rooms. Will teamwork and friendship be enough, or will you be lost forever (or at least, until the session ends)?
20. Indulge in a bit of high tea
For an elegant date on Valentine’s Day, graze on fluffy scones, finger sandwiches and sweet treats at one of the many high tea places around Melbourne. Pair it with tea or a bit of bubbly. You’ll find high tea at plenty of romantic places, from the CBD’s historic arcades to places further out like Werribee Mansion and the Dandenong Ranges.
21. Take a stroll through some tranquil parks and gardens
Hold hands, amble along the path, admire blooming flowers, gaze at towering trees, and find a quiet moment together at some of the wonderful parks and gardens around Melbourne.
22. Go for a walk along the beach
If plants aren’t your thing, how about the beach? It is summer after all, and there’s plenty of great beaches around Melbourne, and further out in Victoria.
23. Don’t forget about the flowers
Start your Valentine’s Day with a surprise bouquet from one of these lovely florists around Melbourne. Or, go out in search of flowers blooming in gardens around Melbourne.
25. Sweeten things up with an ice cream festival
Drive out to the chocolateries in the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Great Ocean Road for this tasty Ice Cream Festival. There are heaps of different flavours to try, as well as ice cream-inspired desserts and drinks. Who knows what interesting flavours you’ll try on Valentine’s Day? This festival is on from February 12 to 23. See more here.
26. Jump in the car, load up a playlist and just drive somewhere
Spend some nice quality time with your loved one in the car, and go on an adventure. Check out some amazing scenic drives around Victoria and enjoy some astounding natural scenery in national parks. Go chasing waterfalls and take a nice day trip somewhere. There’s plenty of charming towns to explore near Melbourne, and cool road trip pit stops to check out. Whisk yourself away on a romantic getaway, escape to a dreamy coastal town and more. Whatever you choose, you’ll have a grand time.