Valentine’s Day is almost here, and lovebirds in St. Clair County, Michigan, are looking for creative ways to make the day special. Forget the overdone dinner reservations—this year, spice things up with some DIY date night ideas that are fun, romantic, and uniquely local. Plus, don’t forget to check out our Valentine’s Day Guide 2025 for even more inspiration!
1. Take a Romantic Stroll Along the Blue Water River Walk
Nothing says romance quite like a scenic walk by the water. The Blue Water River Walk in Port Huron offers stunning views of the St. Clair River and is perfect for couples who want to enjoy some fresh air and quiet time together. Bring a thermos of hot cocoa or coffee to keep warm as you walk hand-in-hand along the path. For extra charm, pack a blanket and set up a cozy spot to enjoy the view.
Location: Blue Water River Walk, Port Huron, MI
Hours: Open 24/7
Pro Tip: Stop by one of the local bakeries beforehand to grab some sweet treats for your stroll!
2. Movie Night at Sperry’s Moviehouse
Turn movie night into an unforgettable experience at Sperry’s Moviehouse in Port Huron. This isn’t your average theater—Sperry’s offers luxurious seating and a full-service menu so you can dine while enjoying your favorite film. Choose a romantic movie or something lighthearted to keep the mood fun.
Location: 301 Huron Ave, Port Huron, MI 48060
Hours: Monday–Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Menu Highlights: Burgers, flatbreads, and decadent desserts
Pro Tip: Reserve seats in advance for their cozy balcony theaters!
3. Explore Local Shops Together
Shopping might not sound romantic at first, but hear us out: St. Clair County is home to charming local shops that make browsing an adventure. Head to downtown Port Huron or St. Clair and explore stores filled with handmade goods, unique gifts, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Turn it into a game by setting a budget and challenging each other to find the quirkiest or most meaningful gift.
Location Ideas:
- Raven Café Gift Shop (Port Huron): Perfect for book lovers and coffee enthusiasts.
- The Sweet Tooth (St. Clair): A candy shop that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Hours: Vary by store; most open between 10 AM – 6 PM.
4. Cook Together: Steak With Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce
Skip the crowded restaurants and cook up something special at home! This Valentine’s Day, try making Steak with Bourbon Garlic Cream Sauce—a dish that’s as indulgent as it sounds. Cooking together can be a bonding experience filled with laughter (and maybe a little flour on your nose). Pair it with your favorite wine or craft beer from a local brewery. Get the recipe here!
Ingredients Needed:
- Steaks (your choice of cut)
- Heavy cream
- Bourbon
- Garlic cloves
Pro Tip: Visit local markets like Neiman’s Family Market in St. Clair to grab fresh ingredients.
5. DIY Valentine’s Crafts at St. Clair County Library
For couples who love getting creative, head over to one of the Valentine’s-themed crafting events hosted by the St. Clair County Library System! From pop-up Valentine’s cards to origami hearts, these events are a fun way to express your love through handmade creations.
Locations & Events:
- Marine City Library: Valentine’s Craft Night (Origami) on February 12th at 6 PM
- Capac Library: Valentine’s Day Tea & Card-Making on February 13th at 2 PM
Pro Tip: No crafting skills? No problem! The staff is there to guide you step-by-step.
6. Sweet Treats and DIY Dessert Kits
Why buy dessert when you can make it together? Local bakeries like Roe’s Sweets in St. Clair Shores offer Valentine’s-themed dessert kits that include everything you need to create chocolate-covered strawberries or custom cookies at home.
Where to Buy: Check out Roe’s Sweets or other nearby bakeries for DIY kits!
Pro Tip: Add some flair by decorating your desserts with personalized messages or fun designs.
7. Plan a Candlelit Picnic Indoors
Michigan winters can be chilly, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a picnic! Transform your living room into a cozy picnic spot with soft blankets, fairy lights, and candles for ambiance. Order takeout from a local favorite like The Voyageur in St. Clair, or create your own charcuterie board with goodies from Neiman’s Family Market.
Takeout Recommendation:
- The Voyageur (St. Clair): Known for its delicious seafood and steaks
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday: 4 PM – 9 PM
8. Attend Valentine’s Day Events at St. Clair Inn
For those who want to mix DIY fun with planned activities, check out events at the St. Clair Inn this Valentine’s Day weekend! From wine tastings to live music nights, there’s something for everyone looking to celebrate love in style.
Location: 500 N Riverside Ave, St Clair, MI 48079
Events Include: Valentine’s Day Escape packages with dining options
Pro Tip: Book early—spots fill up fast! Whether you’re strolling along the river or whipping up gourmet dishes at home, these ideas will make Valentine’s Day memorable for couples in St. Clair County.
Don’t forget—our Valentine’s Day Guide 2025 has even more tips and events waiting for you!
Sources: delish.com, michigan.org
Header Image Source: Luiz Paulo R Santos on Unsplash