The List: Five Places To Stroll, Picnic With Your Sweetie

So guys, Valentine’s Day is approaching and you’re looking for something that will make it memorable for your sweetheart.

You don’t have much money (most likely because you bet on the Steelers in the Super Bowl), restaurants are booked and flower shops laugh at you when you try to order a dozen roses.

It’s time for Plan D.

Why not take your special someone for a special stroll and picnic? The weather is nice, and picnics are personalized. (Hint: Don’t bring bologna). True, it’s a little crisp outside, but hey, it least it shows you thought about something in the way of Cupid.

University Place Patch brings you this list of five free spots where you can impress that special someone with a romantic walk and picnic.

1. Soundview Trail, University Place

Why here: This provides a great view of Puget Sound, and the adjoining park areas (Central and North Meadows) provide a great spot to sit and eat. Bring a blanket, though, as there aren’t that many picnic tables.

2. Ruston Way, Tacoma

Why here: On a clear sunny day, this walk is one of the best in the Northwest. You get a nice view of Commencement Bay, and there are plenty of picnic tables that you can secure. Also, there are plenty of restaurants along the walk in which you and your sweetie can get a nice glass of wine.

3. Harborview walk, Gig Harbor

Why here: Although it can seem like a world away on the other side of the Narrows Bridge, the South Sound’s Sausalito can provide a great stroll. The community’s history as a maritime fishing village adds to the ambience and like Ruston, there are plenty of restaurants in which to stop for cocktails.

4. Point Defiance Park, Tacoma

Why here: This is another natural setting that offers lots of activities. Why not take a date at the nearby zoo? Nothing says, “I love you” like watching cute animals. (Cue the “awww.”) You could also walk along Owen Beach, and there are picnic tables there, although they might be taken.

5. Fort Steilacoom Park, Lakewood

Why here: While this might not offer the water views that the other spots might offer (that is, of course, unless you count the lake along the park’s trail as a water view) the historic venue offers a long walk with plenty of curves that allow you to sneak a smooch. There’s also plenty of open space to drop a blanket, sit down and have a nice picnic.