Don’t settle for the same humdrum this Valentine’s Day.

By Ashima Sethi

It’s February, and Bangkok officially has more romance in the air than PM 2.5 particles (and no, I will not disclose which one disgusts me more). But if you’re unlike me and you’re a sucker for love, planning for a special date night, or really keen on surprising your loved one this Valentine’s Day, here’s a special curation of fun, outdoor date ideas you can enjoy in the City of Angels!

Go-Karting

If you’ve got the need for speed or a competitive streak then opt for an afternoon of go-karting (pictured above). In central Bangkok, EasyKart in RCA Plaza has one of the largest tracks in Southeast Asia. Up north, IMPACT Speed Park is set on sprawling grounds and offers a fleet of electric karts. Finally, Monowheel’s E-GoKart track is lit up with neon lights and provides an easy-to-drive experience for all.

Rock Climbing

Bangkok is home to a plethora of climbing gyms ranging from traditional rock climbing with ropes and harnesses to bouldering, which involves climbing short and tricky routes with no equipment, over safety mats. These gyms also have climbing routes suited for all skill levels, so you don’t have to worry if it’s your first go. A few examples include Urban Playground Climbing, Stonegoat Climbing, and F5 Climbing Center.

Archery

The city offers two private archery ranges if you’re eager to channel your inner Katniss Everdeen, Archery Thai Range and Rama 2 Archery. Keep in mind there are different variations of bows to try encompassing the recurve bow, compound bow, and traditional bow, which you can enquire about when at your chosen range. Both locations offer day rentals as well as ‘newbie’ packages.

Watch Sports

If you want an adrenaline-inducing activity that doesn’t involve being in the Bangkok sun, pick a sport to watch live together. Whether it’s a local football or basketball game or even Muay Thai match, up the stakes by putting bets on separate teams and coming up with a prize for the winner.

Water Sports

Several venues around Bangkok offer water sports like sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding such as Nong Bon, a lake near Rama IX Park; Ong Ang Canal in Chinatown; and Sup Station Thailand located near Pathum Thani where you can even paddle board with your pooches! Beyond these, the city is home to several wake parks if you want to try wakeboarding or kneeboarding. If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can also hop on a couple of jet skis and ride down the Chao Phraya River checking out the sites!

Tour Bangkok’s Street Art

If you’re into art, why not dedicate a day to checking out some of the city’s coolest graffiti? Some places to add to the list include Chalermla Park (Graffiti Park) near Ratchathewi Station, which has installations on rotation including work by Alex Face; Charoen Krung 32 alley, which is framed with work by tonnes of Thai and international street artists; 28 Captain Bush Lane that has murals by Saddo and Daehyun Kim among others; and Pathumwan Sky Walk near the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre (BACC).

Cycling

Visit the Happy & Healthy Bike Lane at Suvarnabhumi Airport for a nice day of cycling. Voted one of the region’s best bike tracks, it offers a two-lane, one-way asphalt track that is 23.5km in length. Other options for leisure cycling around the city include Bang Krachao, Koh Kret, and The Ancient City, a museum park located in Samut Prakan.

Mini Golf

A less intense activity as some of the others on the list, mini golf can be a great way to spend time with your significant other. In Phra Khanong, The Turn has an 18-hole course with several crazy holes to enjoy. The Shot Bangkok recently closed down but announced they will be opening a 1,000sqm super venue this year where you’ll be able to drink and play golf at the same time.

Bike and Boat Tours

Several companies do city tours where you can gain access to the inaccessible behind-the-scenes Bangkok lifestyle. One example is Co van Kessel Bangkok tours where you can discover the city’s hidden gems via boat, bicycle, tuk tuk, and more, perfect for photo enthusiasts or those just curious about what the city has to offer! Also a solid choice is Hidden Bangkok, where you can rent a private boat to navigate the city’s network of canals all while eating, drinking, and listening to your own music.

Gun Range

For anyone who wants to channel their inner Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), head to one of the city’s gun ranges for an afternoon of stress release. Options include the Bang Bua Thong Shooting Range in Nonthaburi, where you can choose a gun of choice ranging from pistols to assault rifles and more. Another choice is the Bangkok Shooting Range, which also boasts a range of different gun types. Both locations have instructors and strict safety protocols in place.