HOUSTON, TX – So, it’s Valentine’s Day, and you forgot to make a reservation. Maybe you thought your partner wasn’t that into the holiday, or maybe you just lost track of time (we get it, January lasted forever, but February is on fast-forward).
Either way, you’re in a crunch. Whether you’re planning a last-minute romantic night out or looking for a fun way to celebrate solo, we’ve got you covered.
KPRC 2 has your back with some last-minute date ideas that will still make you look like a hopeless romantic (instead of just hopeless).
To help you out, we searched high and Lo (literally!) and teamed up with Lauren Washington—aka @searchinghighwithlo on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. With over 100k followers and 1.4 million likes on TikTok, she’s a fantastic resource!
As a Houston-based lifestyle and travel blogger, Lauren always knows where to eat, drink, and celebrate love in H-Town. If it’s romantic, delicious, and worth the hype, she’s already been there, snapped a pic, and given it her stamp of approval!
Romantic restaurants in Houston
Here’s what @searchinghighwithlo recommends:
- Annabelle Brasserie – Parisian vibes without the passport.
- Lombardi Cucina Italiana – Pasta so good, you’ll be saying “ti amo.”
- Zanti Cucina Italiana - Date night, but make it ultra-chic.
- Rosie Cannonball – Cozy, charming, and full of wine (the essentials).
- Dante Vini e Cucina Italiana – A seafood lover’s dream with major romance points.
- La Griglia – Italian food + live piano = instant romance.
- Fielding’s River Oaks – Ambiance is amazing.
- 13 Celsius – Feels like your in a little country town in Europe.
The vibes of these restaurants? @searchinghighwithlo wants you to “think candlelit tables, dreamy ambiance, and food so good it might just make you fall in love all over again!”
Fun & unique date ideas in Houston (on a budget)
After talking to @searchinghighwithlo, KPRC 2’s content gatherer Zorrie Jones found some fun activities that don’t involve fighting for the last table at a fancy restaurant. Whether you’re the spontaneous type or just really good at procrastinating, these ideas will still make your date feel special.
- Skyline Views at Z on 23 – The rooftop bar at Le Méridien Houston has some of the best views of downtown, and nothing says romance like sipping cocktails 23 floors up.
- Meow Wolf – Break away from the usual and discover love’s surprising vibe this Valentine’s Day! Celebrate at Radio Tave with unique experiences and bundles that spark joy.
- Houston Toy Museum – Calling all big kids at heart! This 18+ event is your chance to unleash your inner child. Enjoy a night of fun, brick building, and Valentine’s Day shenanigans!
- Puttery – Get ready to play love games on Cupid’s Course! Enjoy a flirty game of putt-putt while soaking in live music, sipping craft cocktails, and eating delicious food.
- Discovery Green – Enjoy a free screening of Casablanca for a romantic evening under the stars! Love is in the air starting at 5 p.m., with the movie at 7 p.m.
@searchinghighwithlo also recommends Smashed Clay Co. " It’s BYOB (Bring your own bottle) and it’s super fun. You can create something special with people that you really care about.” she shared.
Last-minute gift ideas that won’t feel last-minute
If you still need a gift, don’t worry! Houston has plenty of thoughtful, local options that will make it seem like you planned ahead without breaking the bank.
- A Houston Texans, Astros, or Rockets Jersey – Customize it with their name or your anniversary date for an extra special touch!
- A Buc-ee’s Snack Basket – Put together a mix of Beaver Nuggets, jerky, and cinnamon-glazed pecans for a Texas-sized snack attack.
- A “H-Town Love” Music Playlist – Make a personalized playlist featuring Houston artists across different genres.
- Tickets to a Houston Rodeo Concert – Surprise them with a night at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. It’s not just the rodeo—it’s an experience.
- DIY Date Night Coupon Book – Get creative and make a booklet of IOUs for things like “One Taco Date at El Tiempo.” or “A Lazy Sunday at Hermann Park.”
- Custom Dessert Box – Pick up a mix of locally made sweets from Tiny’s Milk & Cookies, El Bolillo Bakery, or Crumbville, TX for a thoughtful (and delicious) gift.
“Flora Culture is doing a pop-up show [on Valentine’s Day]... where you can get your flower bouquets” @searchinghighwithlo added.
Single on Valentine’s Day? KPRC 2 got you!
If you’re not coupled up this Valentine’s Day, don’t worry! Grab your best friends and make it a Galentine’s (or Palentine’s) celebration! Or just looking to have a good time alone, Houston has plenty of ways to enjoy February 14th.
- Woodlands Axe – Nothing like chucking an axe to release any built-up “why am I still single?” energy. Let off some steam, and leave the drama behind!
- Karaoke at Glitter Karaoke – Cry it out with “Drivers License”, belt out “When I Was Your Man”, or go full-on Sasha Fierce Beyoncé with “Single Ladies”. This is a safe place – no judgment, just great vibes!
- 13th Floor Haunted House – Love can bite... and sometimes it ghosts you. Skip the boring night at home and dive into thrills, chills, and a lover’s twist. Face your fears this Valentine’s Day in the most unexpected way!
- Comedy Show at The Secret Group – Because laughter is the best Valentine.
- Home Run Dugout – Prepare to show off your moves at Nocha Latina! Enjoy FREE salsa lessons from 7-8 p.m., followed by a live band from 8 p.m. to midnight. It’s the perfect chance to meet new people and dance the night away!
- Houston SPCA – Who needs a date when you can have a pet that thinks you’re perfect? This month, the SPCA is spreading the love with special adoption promotions to help adorable pets find their perfect match.
Other solo date ideas @searchinghighwithlo recommends:
- Betelgeuse Betelgeuse – A neighborhood bar with great drinks and delicious food. (Hint: Order their pizza)
- Wine Library – Where exotic wines meet charcuterie and a good book. It’s your sanctuary for calm and collected evenings.
- Pur Noire Urban Wineries – Experience the only winery in Houston.
No matter your relationship status, Houston has plenty of ways to make Valentine’s Day special. So get your crew, make those plans, and act like you’ve had it all figured out from day one! Embrace the love, the laughter, and the freedom to celebrate however you want.
Happy Valentine’s Day, y’all! Feel the Love in the Air!
Did we miss something? Share your own last-minute Valentine’s Day plans or experiences in the comments below and let the KPRC family in on your creative ideas!
