Valentine's Day in Chicago

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, you might be thinking, what can I do for my loved one that's really special this year? You've done it all, right? Candy, flowers, a lovey-dovey card that expressed your feelings from deep in your heart. Ok, so those gifts aren't really all that romantic or exciting, but there's still hope. Whether you're looking for a way to spice up the candy or a completely new idea that will have your love feeling extra frisky, consider the job done. Chicago is a lovely city to be romantic in. And the ideas are limitless. It's just a matter of creativity. Instead of making chocolates the whole gift, make it the first stop in an array of beautiful events that will follow. Head over to the Moonstruck Chocolate Co. (320 N. Michigan Ave; 312-696-1201) to meet the truffles. With names like Heavenly Pecan Clusters, Shooting Stars and Crescent Moons you're sure to find a sweet for your sweetheart. These beautiful chocolates are a masterpiece in the making as they mold them into unique art such as pyramids, cats, cinnamon rolls, ice cream cones and much more. The Melting Pot (609 N. Dearborn; 312-573-0011) offers up scrumptious chocolate fondue desserts. Get cozy with each other as you dip marshmallows, cheesecake, brownies and fruit into your choice of chocolate. Just to get your taste buds rolling, how about trying their Yin and Yang? It's half dark chocolate and half white chocolate swirled to perfection, giving you the perfect balance of taste. Yum. La Creperie (2845 N. Clark; 773-528-9050) has been in the city of Chicago since 1972 serving up delicious crepes. The restaurant is very cozy and the ambience is inviting. One of the favorite dessert crepes at this restaurant is Banana Sara; bananas in a brown sugar caramel sauce topped with rum & vanilla ice cream. They have all the traditional dessert ingredients like chocolate and strawberries. You can also create your own dessert crepe. And any crepe can be served a la mode.

Those Who Cook Together Stay Together

Cook up the perfect meal at The Wooden Spoon (5047 N. Clark; 773-293-3190). Try their special couples cooking class where you'll prepare the meal together and share the romantic meal afterwards. Talk about some real bonding time. On the menu is Clams Casino, Osso Bucco with Red Wine Cabbage and Oven-Roasted Root Vegetables and Mango Soufflé with Tropical Fruit Coulis. You'll score huge points for this one (hint, hint guys).

Wine Me, Dine Me

If you're really looking to impress, take that special person to The Signature Room (875 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-878-9596). Located on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building, you'll let them know that they are as special as their surroundings. Say “I love you” Italian style at Via Due Enoteca (1417 W. Fullerton Ave; 773-348-9463). Enjoy their fabulous wine bar and share some spaghetti and you'll both be screaming “Mama Mia.” Café Iberico (739 N. Lasalle Dr; 312-573-1510) will please your palate. Most of their dishes are small and meant to share. Feed your dearest dishes like Champinones A La Plancha; Grilled mushrooms with garlic and olive oil and Calamares A La Plancha; Grilled squid with olive oil, garlic and lemon juice and you'll be closer than ever.

Sky Write Your Love

The Schaumburg Airport, just a short drive from the city offers scenic tours of Chicago. This one will really surprise them. It's a little pricey ($262 per couple) but it will be worth every penny when you see the look on their face when they find out they will be taking a helicopter tour of Chicago. You'll see the Loop in a way you've never seen it before (905 W. Irving Park Rd, Schaumburg; 877-474-3127).

Ride Old Fashioned Style

Chicago is a beautiful city. What better way to see it than by taking a horse and carriage ride with your loved one. JC Cutter's (1-888-664-6014) offers 30 minute, 45 minute and one hour tours. Prices range from $40-$100. It doesn't matter how long you've been with your significant other; it'll be perfect as you stroll through the city in a classy carriage and visit the best highlights of downtown Chicago such as Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park and fabulous lakefront views. This could be a great way to propose and something you'll never forget.

Escape on a Tropical Getaway

Stop by the trendy Lincoln Park Massage Spa (630 W Webster; 773-296-6300) and have a sweet massage with your sweetie. Upon entering you'll be pampered with a warming herbal neck wrap, flavored tea of your choice and a warming towel to refresh your hands. You may not have the time to take a tropical vacation but you'll sure feel like your on one when you step into one of their themed rooms and feel like your laying on the beach in the Caribbean as you hear the tranquil sound of waves softly crashing. Choose from massages like Swedish, deep tissue, sports, Thai and hot stone therapy. You'll both be oohing and aahing after this splendid treat.

Call it a Night

Early to Bed (5232 N. Sheridan Rd; 773-271-1219) offers everything you can think of that will make you and your darling want to hit the hay as soon as possible. Here you will find great treasures that will make your evening extra special. From fun toys to sweet smelling massage oils, you'll be sure to score. As a bonus, this classy shop offers workshops on how-to be a better flirter and teaches couples tickling techniques.

Sparkle and Shimmer

Everyone knows that the ladies love jewelry. Francesca's (2012 N. Halsted Ave; 773- 244-4075) offers reasonably priced twinkling jewelry that's sure to please. Choose from cute earrings, bracelets and necklaces. They also have a great line of clothing and accessories to match. You can't go wrong with this perky boutique. Arts and Artisans (321 N. Michigan Ave; 312-855-9220) is an elegant shop to find the perfect gift for him or her. For her, you might choose their Belladonna perfume bottle adorned with brightly colored flowers. And for him you might consider their beautifully crafted jewelry chest made of natural woods. Or make it a gift you can share together and pick up some of their beautiful stemware. Macy's (111 N. State St; 312-781-5000) is a classic store with endless ideas. Whether it's jewelry, fragrance or candy you're looking for, you can definitely make this a one stop shop.

For the Thrill Seekers

Okay, so you want something a little more exciting? Something that will literally make your heart beat faster? Oldtown Fitplex (1235 N. LaSalle; 312-640-1235) will give you daredevils a boost of excitement. Try indoor rock climbing on any of their challenging routes. You and your loved one will take your relationship to new heights. Private lessons start at $35. Get a great work out at Fleetwood Skating Rink (7321 W. Archer Ave; 708-458-0300) as you and your skate date go back in time and roll around the rink to some groovy tunes and hip fluorescent lights.
Phone: 312-541-1951