We might be biased, but it’s tough to think of anything more romantic than a snow date on Valentine’s Day, or any winter day for that matter. Quality time together in the snow can be an especially romantic time provided you go prepared. It’s a good idea to tell your loved one to dress warmly, as you don’t want to have your evening spoiled by failing to prepare them for the night ahead. We’ve compiled a list of suggestions for you to get the most out of your Valentine’s Day.

Keep Them Guessing

There is one sure way to please your date and prepare them in advance as well. Leave them a note that only your loved one will understand. Use an inside joke, a quote from a movie you both love or something your date often says that you love. Help them plan for the snowy evening by placing a new set of gloves, a scarf and a jacket by the door. Tell your date to bring these along and bundle up!

Once you pick up your date, don’t reveal the final destination. Keep them guessing, and plan to make a stop at a local clothing store in case your date didn’t take the hint about bundling up. While there, you can make it more fun by suggesting that you each sneak something into the basket while the other person isn’t looking. You may see the gifts at checkout, but this is still a fun way and makes you look prepared.

Finally, take your date for a walk in a park or take a stroll through the city and enjoy the crisp night air.

If your date is the outdoorsy type, take them for an evening hike to gaze at the stars. If snow or ice is on the ground, bring snowshoes or traction aids too!

If your date is more info the city scene, find an area with boutique shops, and plan a nice dinner outside with hot drinks you prepared in your thermos. Alternatively, you can pick up some food from a nearby restaurant and enjoy it in the park where you’re sure to find the solitude you need.

Make it a Night of Skiing or Sledding

This one may require some serious advanced planning. Find your nearest ski lodge, and plan a night out skiing. Rent a cabin for when you’re ready to warm up, and enjoy the night in with a nice, home-cooked meal. Enjoy the time together playing games or turn up the heat a little by making it an adult-themed game.

If you don’t like skiing, try sledding out. It doesn’t require much skill, and there are a wide variety of sleds that you can enjoy, based on comfort level.

If you don’t want to spend the night, then arrange dinner at a local restaurant or make reservations at the ski lodge for dinner. This will help you get to know each other better, and you can relax and enjoy each other’s company without the stresses of life getting in the way. Make it a point to turn off your cell phones, and spend the night completely focused on each other.

Enjoy a Carriage Ride

There are few things as romantic as a carriage ride. You’ll probably have to book this in advance, but grab some warm drinks and take your sweetheart on a carriage ride around town. Many areas even have historical neighborhoods that will give you a chance to transport the two of you back in time. Check around, even if you live in a small town, there may be a company in your area that offers carriage rides. One good place to check is any local stables or lodges. Even if they don’t offer rides, they may be able to point you in the direction of someone who does.

To make the cost a little more affordable, consider splitting the fare with a friend who has a date. This can be a great way to build friendships and have a romantic evening together. You can always part ways at the end of the night and enjoy some alone time with your date once the carriage ride is over. You get bonus points if the carriage ride ends with you enjoying a night of ice skating. Don’t worry if you’ve never been, there is no time like Valentine’s Day to endear yourself by acting like a fool.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

Valentine’s Day requires some preparation. Make sure you can take your loved one on an enjoyable night out by making the necessary reservations in advance. With a little planning, this night can be one to remember forever. Oh, and don’t forget the flowers and chocolate.