Josiah Kopp
Sometimes it’s time for a little trip to get away from it all and to keep the spark alive. Whether that is in your own backyard or across the world in a new country that offers romantic whistler horseback riding adventures or countryside walks, there is something for everyone. Exploring new places and trying new things creates memories that will be forever unique to your relationship. Also, taking a trip together allows couples to really get to know each other. True bonding can be experienced by spending every waking hour together and problem-solving tasks like navigating a new city or addressing travel woes (a flight was canceled, the car got a flat tire, you went to Canada and ran out of Canadian cash!)
If you have a spare long weekend or are ready to cash in some vacation hours, check out these nearby getaways that make for a perfect date weekend.
Likewise, if you are from somewhere near Illinois, you could check out some beautiful Midwest Camping grounds like Starved Rock, Woodford County, etc. You can find mesmerizing waterfalls, lakes, and forests, to enjoy with your partner. Just keep in mind that you’ll need certain supplies to support your camping getaway, so finding the best camping blanket, first aid kits, and other gear, should be on your list.
Detroit Lakes
Arguably the most notorious of the Lakes Country destinations, Detroit Lakes is a guaranteed great weekend getaway. Only about an hour away, there are numerous things to do, see and eat year-round. In the summer, water activities and lake-side dining abound. Such notable date night dinner spots include Spitfire Bar and Grill, The Fireside, Roasted Pub and Eatery and Hub 41…to name a few. In the winter, snow-filled activities are all around, including xc-skiing at the world-famous Maplelag Resort or the Polar Fest February 6-17. Polar Fest is a celebration of the season, including a Poles ‘N Holes Fishing Derby, Polar Fest Plunge and a 5K Freeze Your Buns Run. You can’t go wrong at DL! A few restaurants to explore:
Spitfire Bar & Grill: 1100 N Shore Drive
The Fireside: 1462 E Shore Drive
Roasted Pub and Eatery: 815 Washington Ave
Hub 41: 104 W Lake Drive
Winnipeg
Get outta the country! To Winnipeg, Manitoba, that is. Highlights of your Canadian adventure should include visiting The Forks, a riverside community hub with lots of shopping, dining and recreational activities; the Assiniboine Park Zoo, an incredible 80-acre zoo; and the Winnipeg Art Gallery. After visiting all you must-see spots in the city, spend a whole day treating yourself to Winnipeg’s Thermëa by Nordik Spa Nature, just minutes from downtown. Thermëa has a whole schedule especially for couples, including an Aufguss ritual, a duo massage and a four-course gourmet meal in bathrobes at the Rësto. A day at this spa is well worth the trip all the way up to Canada.
Shooting Star Casino
A little over an hour away in Mahnomen, Minn. is Shooting Star Casino, Hotel and Entertainment. Shooting Star brings Las Vegas-style gaming to the midwest, similar to casino games you can find online when you click here, along with big-name concerts, award-winning dining, soothing spa treatments, shopping and luxurious accommodations. Thanks to the hotel and numerous eating options on-site, you can check-in and not even have to leave the grounds all weekend! Upcoming concerts and shows to plan your trip around include The Romantics (Feb. 14), Joe Nichols (Feb. 28), FireHouse (Mar. 13) and Rodney Carrington (Mar. 27).
Fort Ransom State Park
Located in the Sheyenne River valley is the beautiful Fort Random State Park. From horseback riding to cross-country skiing to camping to bird watching, there are many activities to be done here. For a truly unique experience to share on your Instagram, book your stay in one of their Yurts or the Percheron Wagon (a covered wagon that has been turned into a comfy and cozy living space). Practice your teamwork and rent a canoe to paddle the waters on or rent cross-country skis to see the scenery via. No matter what adventurous activity you choose, it’ll be a great opportunity for you and your date to try some new things and breathe in some fresh air.
Coteau des Prairies Lodge
Nestled seemingly in the middle of nowhere is the Coteau des Prairies Lodge. Perched on one of the many rolling hills of Havana, ND, this lodge allows you and your loved one to have a quiet weekend full of one-on-one time. Take time to educate yourselves and enjoy a farm tour learning about the agriculture and farmers of the land you’re staying on. To breathe in the country freshness, take a hike among the native prairie grasses and wildflowers and embrace that you are in a “bird watchers paradise.” Far away from it all, this trip is a perfect place to reconnect with each other and have some “us” time.
