As Valentine\u2019s Day approaches, the stress of planning the perfect date looms. To add to this pressure, college students are often working with limited funds and unreliable transportation. While a fancy dinner might be out of the question, there are still plenty of romantic ways to spend the special day. For those looking to wow their sweetheart this Valentine\u2019s Day without breaking the bank, here are some local, affordable options.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Valentine\u2019s Night at Phipps\n<\/p>\n
Phipps Conservatory hosts a special Valentine\u2019s night<\/a>, with themed decorations and classical music to set the romantic mood. Gaze at the special floral exhibit, \u201cOrchid and Tropical Bonsai Show: Blooming with Love.\u201d If you are of legal drinking age, there will be a bar available as well. Plus, Phipps is offering a free rose for the first 300 people who attend.\u00a0<\/p>\n Coffee and Thrift\u00a0\n<\/p>\n Grab a warm drink from one of Oakland\u2019s coffee shops, such as Redhawk Coffee Roasters<\/a>, Shibam Coffee<\/a> or La Prima Espresso Company<\/a>. Head to Twisted Vintage<\/a> or What\u2019s Good?<\/a> to browse their selections of curated vintage clothes, shoes and jewelry. Take turns styling each other or try out a fun new look for yourself.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh\u00a0\n<\/p>\n Nothing beats a romantic stroll around a museum. The Carnegie Museums offer free admission for students, so this option is cost-effective. Enjoy a coffee from The Carnegie Cafe<\/a> or sit down for lunch before enjoying the museum\u2019s exhibits. Admission grants you access to both the Carnegie Museum of Art<\/a> and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n Row House Cinema\n<\/p>\n Though a short bus ride away, Lawrenceville\u2019s Row House Cinema<\/a> is worth the visit. Cuddle up with some popcorn and candy to watch the theatre\u2019s special \u201cCult-O-Rama: Heart Breakers.\u201d <\/a>The \u201cCult-O-Rama\u201d series showcases double features of cult classic films. This Valentine\u2019s Day double feature starts with \u201cMy Bloody Valentine,\u201d<\/a> and the second screening is kept a secret.\u00a0<\/p>\n Schenley Ice Rink\u2019s \u201cValentine\u2019s on Ice\u201d\n<\/p>\n Schenley Park\u2019s ice rink is a fun date night spot all winter long. Stop by on Valentine\u2019s Day for an especially entertaining time. The rink is hosting its 20th annual \u201cValentine\u2019s on Ice\u201d<\/a> \u2014 a special event to celebrate the holiday. Featuring caricatures, a selfie booth and raffle prizes from local businesses, the Schelney ice rink is a fun way to spend the day.\u00a0<\/p>\n Grab a sweet treat with your sweetie\n<\/p>\n Oakland is a great spot to snag a sweet treat. Take a friend or partner to pick up ice cream, crepes, hot cocoa or fondue at one of the many local dessert spots. Student favorites like Dave and Andy\u2019s<\/a>, Milkshake Factory<\/a> and Treats and Beans<\/a> are all terrific options. <\/p>\n