Six ways to spend Valentine's Day alone

Netflix and chill, but for real

How to spend Valentine's Day alone (Stock)

Whether you think it’s the most romantic day of the year or simply a commercial waste of money, there’s no escaping Valentine’s Day.

Stores cover themselves in decorative red hearts and seem to sell nothing but giant teddy bears and oversized chocolate boxes, while restaurants offer overpriced love-themed menus in the hopes of luring you in.

If you’re with someone this Valentine’s Day, perhaps you’re looking forward to a little bit of romance, but for those who are single it may feel like a day to dread.

Fortunately, just because you don’t have a Valentine, or would simply prefer to spend time with yourself, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the day alone - as there are plenty of options for those who have self-love in mind this year.

With the average person spending $196 on their significant other for Valentine’s Day, spending it alone means you can either save that money - or spend it on yourself enjoying any of these activities.

Have a spa day

Pamper yourself with a spa day on Valentine's Day (Stock)

This Valentine’s Day may be best spent focusing on self-care as well as self-love, which means a spa treatment, or four, could be the most enjoyable use of your time.

Whether you decide to book a massage or facial at a high-end spa, or simply treat yourself to a hydrating face mask and a bath at home, spending the day of love pampering the most important person in your life - yourself - is a great option.

See a movie

Movies provide the perfect option for a solo date (Stock)

Going to the movies is understandably one of the best outings for singletons, as the dark atmosphere, ban on talking, and plethora of snack choices, means you won’t feel uncomfortable sitting alone in absolute silence - as that’s exactly what you’re supposed to do.

While we don’t necessarily suggest seeing a rom-com, going to see a new thriller or horror movie are perfect options for keeping yourself entertained this Valentine’s Day.

Go to the zoo

You can name a cockroach after your ex this Valentine's Day at some zoos (Stock)

If you’re worried about feeling lonely on Valentine’s Day and don’t have a furry friend of your own to cuddle, a trip to the zoo may be the next best option.

You can't actually pet the animals, but it’s hard not to feel happy when watching penguins splash around.

Those who are broken-hearted may also seek help from certain zoos in helping get over exes - by naming cockroaches after them.

This year, the San Antonio Zoo announced it would be the latest zoo to take part in the event, which lets people name a cockroach or rat after an ex-lover and feed it to an animal.

“You will be able to name a cockroach after your ex, and we will serve it up as a snack to one of our animals for only $5,” the zoo said in their event announcement. “If your ex was a snake, you can even name a rat after them, and we will feed it to a reptile for $25.”

Visit a museum or gallery

Museums are perfect for going alone (Stock)

There's nothing quite like getting swept up by a fascinating museum, or losing yourself in an art gallery. If you're nervous about going out alone on Valentine's Day this could be the perfect option for you, as it's not unusual to walk around a museum or gallery solo, so you don't have to worry about standing out.

If that weren’t reason enough, numerous studies say that viewing art can ease anxiety and depression, and participating in culture in this manner can actively make you happier. Plus there are plenty of free options out there, so a trip to either doesn’t have to break the bank.

Dine in a restaurant with communal tables or at the bar

Bringing a book means you don't have to feel awkward eating alone (Stock)

A lot of people find eating alone awkward, but the experience can be substantially less uncomfortable if you opt for a restaurant with communal tables.

However, if the thought of sitting at a table of strangers just doesn’t seem that appealing, you can always choose to sit at the bar, where you can enjoy your meal while facing forward - or while reading a book.

Netflix and chill - literally

Netflix can be a Valentine's Day replacement (Stock)

For many people in relationships, there is a certain worry that your significant other will judge you as you turn on the same comfort-viewing TV show or movie you’ve already seen for the millionth time.

Being alone means you never have to worry about that - nor the possibility of someone talking over your favourite scene.

If you are looking for a relaxing way to pass Valentine’s Day, spending the day at home watching TV is the perfect way to do it.

This option is made even more appealing thanks to the existence of food delivery apps.

While restaurants haven’t gotten around to offering Valentine’s Day delivery discounts to singletons yet, we imagine it will only be a matter of time.