5 Lovely Dog-Friendly Excursions For Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is a time to show your adoration and appreciation for your loved ones, so why wouldn't you include your fur-baby in the festivities? After all, no one can love us or make us laugh quite like our pets. Bringing your pet along for your Valentine's Day excursion will make your pup feel special and give you the opportunity to make memories you'll treasure forever.

If you need ideas for celebrating Valentine's Day with your dog, you're in the right place. We've compiled a list of 5 lovely dog-friendly excursions that are sure to please your two- and four-legged companions.

If you enjoy a glass of pinot from time to time, consider looking into dog-friendly winery tours in your area. Enjoy a romantic stroll through the vineyard to see the dormant vines where grapes will bud in the spring. Your pup will love the chance to sniff out the new surroundings while you enjoy some quality time with your loves.

After exploring, find a seat and order some vino. (And don't forget to bring some dog wine for your canine compadre!) Many wineries have tables set up outside where visitors can enjoy a picnic and table service. Most wineries also have tasting experiences that allow patrons to try a variety of local wines. Sip, chat, and enjoy time with your favorites — and don't forget to pick up a bottle to enjoy later in the night!

Want a dog-friendly Valentine's date idea that doesn't require you to stray too far from home? Try playing tourist in your own city! Book a pet-friendly room at a swanky hotel, eat at an upscale dog-friendly restaurant, or try a cuisine you've never had. If you want to keep things low budget, visit some natural attractions or state parks in your area and pack a picnic to enjoy while you're there. 

Bring your camera along to photograph parts of the city that you've never taken time to explore before. If you really want to get creative, bring a letter board or other props and do an impromptu photoshoot with your loves!   

Related: 7 Pet Photography Essentials for Beginners

Put a fun spin on the classic dinner and a movie date with a visit to your local drive-in. Most drive-ins welcome well-behaved (and quiet) puppers, so feel free to bring the whole pack as long as they aren't "talkative". Admission to drive-ins is typically cheaper than regular cinemas. Plus most of them have double feature films included in the ticket price.

Drive-in theaters are notorious for having great food — and not that prepackaged stuff you get at regular movie theaters, either! We're talking burgers, fresh fries, and appetizers (of course, most still serve popcorn and candy too). So bring a blanket, grab some grub from the concessions stand, and snuggle up with your loves for a cinematic blast from the past.

Paint-and-pour classes are all the rage right now. You paint alongside an instructor to create a one-of-a-kind piece, all while sipping wine — what's not to love? But did you know some paint-and-pour studios even allow dogs? Yes! Call around to paint-and-pour studios in your area to see if they have dog-friendly nights or sessions so your fur-baby can feel included for your Valentine's adventures.

If you can't find a Fido-friendly paint class in your city, try making your own setup at home. All you'll need is a couple of canvases, a few value brushes, and some pet-safe tempera paint. If you really want to impress, buy a few different wines and make a cheese board to munch on. Don't forget a bottle of vino for Fido too!

What's more romantic than a sunset boat ride with your loves? If you live near the ocean or another large body of water, check to see if there are cruise companies that offer boating excursions for pet parents.

BringFido is an excellent resource for finding dog-friendly boat tours in your area. Call ahead to double-check what days and times dogs are allowed. Don't forget your doggy life jacket, either!