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The Best Last-Minute Chicago Date Ideas

Posted on February 14, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Sidney Madden

Sidney Madden

A photo of the Chicago skyline with pink sky

The Chicago skyline 😍 (Pixabay / Stockvault)

Fellow procrastinators, did you drop the ball on Valentine’s Day plans? Never fear, the Hey Chicago Last-Minute Date Guide is here! Whether you’re single or with your forever person, we have ideas for everyone.

Best dinners
: Cafe Bionda in South Loop or Truth Be Told in Woodlawn Getting a dinner reservation on Valentine’s Day is no easy feat … especially the day of. Hey Chicago found a couple spots though!

Best fam fun
: Dance & crafts in North Park, Irving Park, and Garfield Park Take the kids to dance together and make art.

Best activities
: Art yoga in West Town or stepping in North Lawndale

Tired of eating out and want to do something different? Take your date to do yoga and meditate at an immersive exhibit or learn to step.

Best singles event
: Hot Potato Hearts citywide

The potato–themed group has speed dating, live dating shows, and book clubs year-round.

Best Galentine’s/Palentine’s
: Bon Vivant Cakes in Albany Park
Bring friends to cookie- and cake-decorating workshops as well as themed happy hours. (Catch a Mariah vs. Ariana happy hour Thursday!)

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