With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, many of you are probably scrambling for some last-minute date ideas. With most restaurants and hotels booked, I have found a few alternative plans that are worth a try. Not only are these Valentine’s Day activities awesome but I can guarantee you that you will have a memorable Valentine’s Day if you choose to do any of these activities. Without further ado, here are my top picks for a memorable Valentine’s Day in Chicago

Staycation with Bangtel

If you judge Bangtel by its name alone, then you know that it’s anything but conventional. Sure you could just book your stay at a hotel, but once you browse around many of the luxurious artfully designed spaces, you’ll reconsider booking your stay at your run of the mill hotel. Each property features cheeky works of art and beautiful one of a kind fixtures that is sure to entice your inner interior designer. Whether you choose to stay in Wicker Park, The Gold Coast or Wrigleyville each Bangtel property features tons of amenities making it the greatest home away from home. For Valentine’s Day in Chicago, Lincoln Park’s Mr. Clark’s Gallery is perfect for the art lovers who daydream of having a museum shut down just for them. And for those who want to live in the  lap of luxury, the elegant West Town property is sure to impress. While the luxurious spaces are impressive enough, Bangtel wants to make the Holiday extra memorable by gifting lovers with some sexy goodies from gBoutique, chocolate covered strawberries and champagne. So for those of you who want a romantic staycation, look no further than Bangtel.

A Night at the Grand Budapest

For those of you who are over the traditional date of dinner and a movie then look no further than Super Awesome Night’s latest production A Night at the Grand Budapest. This pre Valentine’s Day activity makes for the perfect warmup for your weekend festivities. Fans of the Wes Anderson film can enjoy the colorful production while embarking on an evening of culinary delight. As the film moves along, guests will enjoy a 5-course meal by Chef David Ochs with entrées corresponding with each scene. Movie lovers can fall in love with the movie all over again, this time by treating their taste buds to delectable bites. A Night at the Grand Budapest brings a whole new meaning to dinner and a movie.   Guests will also get tickets to Dose Market’s Love Dose where they can shop for even more gifts and experiences for their Valentine. Tickets are available for purchase at superawesomenight.com

A Romantic Chicago Helicopter Experience

It doesn’t get more romantic than a private helicopter ride over the impressive skyline of Chicago. With Chicago Helicopter Experience, lovers can view Chicago with a whole new perspective making it an unforgettable Valentine’s Day.  Pop a bottle of champagne if you really want to class it up. Plus, I’m sure it’ll ease the tensions of being thousands of feet in the air. Even if you don’t go on Valentine’s Day, a helicopter ride is a must for every Chicagoans bucket list. Currently, Groupon even has a few deals on the experience so make the most of it!

A Fondue Dinner at Gejas Cafe

For the traditional Valentine’s Day fans, one could always enjoy a romantic evening at Lincoln Park’s Gejas Cafe. The restaurant was recently voted among the most romantic restaurants in the country and due to the cozy atmosphere, it’s not hard to see why. Guests can sip on the finest wine from the restaurants expansive wine collection and enjoy the most delicious fondue offerings in the incredibly romantic spot. The space features a permanent tint of red making it an intriguing dining destination in Chicago. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the fondue is incredibly delicious. As you dip your way throughout your entire meal you’ll have to make sure to stick around for dessert.

Sweet Confections at Penthouse Sweets

I’m sure we all don’t mind receiving a box of chocolates, but for this Valentine’s Day, consider getting your loved ones something a bit more personal. Penthouse Sweets serves as the première destination for custom confections which is why a box of customized treats is sure to please. At their Alsip store, guests can take home many of the delicious bites including their famous gourmet cupcakes. If you get pretty much anything from Penthouse Sweets, it’ll look like you really outdid yourself.