Museums are often publicized as a great place to bring your family. But a museum is a great place for couples too. It’s a cheap – or even FREE – date for Valentine’s Day or anytime!

What could be more romantic than strolling through a beautiful art gallery, a well-appointed Victorian house, or a fascinating historical exhibit? Every community has at least one museum. And since people seem to ignore what’s in their own backyards, it’s possible you haven’t been to your local museum in awhile. Or you could plan a day trip or overnight mini-vacation centered around a museum you’ve always wanted to see. To make your day extra special, keep your museum visit a surprise!

If you’re staying in town, you can still plan a whole day around your visit. Call ahead to find out about admission charges, hours, and what exhibits will be on view during your visit. Some museums – particularly art museums or historic houses – offer guided tours at specified times. Others encourage visitors to tour alone. If you want docent to show you around, be sure to arrive in time for your tour. Sometimes you have to make reservations ahead of time, especially for a popular exhibition.

If the museum has a restaurant or café on site, ask about making reservations. Don’t be shy about asking the staff for restaurant suggestions nearby. Visitors often ask museums to recommend a good place to get a bite to eat. Take your valentine to lunch beforehand or to dinner afterwards to round out your day.

Your local museum might even have special Valentine's Day programs or events coming up. Check the museum's website or call to find out what's going on. There might be a concert, gallery tour, poetry reading, workshop, art class, lecture or demonstration you can attend.

If visiting a museum “isn’t your thing,” stop into a museum shoppe for unique gift ideas for your valentine. You’ll find an array of interesting ideas for that special someone, including jewelry, note cards, art books, and more.