The next time you need an idea for a new place to go on a date, try one of these outdoor activities. Or string a few together into an entire weekend of fun and togetherness. If there’s no one worthy to date right now, gather some girl friends or make it a solo expedition.

Snow Day: Bundle up, grab a snow shovel and your sweetheart, and dig out your friends and neighbors! A little civic-minded recreation never hurt, especially in the current record-breaking season for snow.

Sports: If you’re the athletic type, take your date skiing or snowboarding in this winter. In the spring try golf or tennis. Play on the same team against another couple, or have a cutthroat competition, loser takes care of dinner.

Picnic: Make some sandwiches, grab a bottle of wine, and head for a picturesque hillside. If you can’t get out of the city, scout out a well-maintained park, or even the rooftop of your apartment building. Dining alfresco adds an element of adventure, whether you’re in the back yard or up in the mountains.

Beach: Try a trip to the beach this winter. Before it’s filled with suntan oil and scantily clad spring-breakers, wrap up and visit just to enjoy the beauty of the mighty ocean and pristine beach. You might not fancy a dip, but you’ll still get the benefit of an exhilarating view. Collect the shells, not the jellyfish.

River: If you’re near a river, see what activities are readily available. Try canoeing in the cooler months, tubing if you want something relaxing, kayaking if you like something more active, or whitewater rafting if you’re looking for excitement.

Bike ride: Go on a short scenic ride through the park, explore mountain biking trails in your area, or cruise along the boardwalk of your town. You’ll work up an appetite for lunch and have plenty to talk about when you get there. Have a destination or path in mind before you start out—even if your plan changes, you’ll have something to fall back on if you run out of spontaneous inspiration.

Explore: a neighborhood in your city or a town you’ve never been to. Spend the day finding cafés and shops, people watching, and absorbing some local color. Do a little research first so you don’t end up somewhere you feel uncomfortable.

Bonfire: If you live in a part of the country where you don’t need burn permits, or if you do and they are easily obtainable, find or prepare a fire pit for a night of idle romance and contemplation. In a properly controlled setting (check out rules and tips here), fires provide a sexy backdrop for s’mores, music, and red wine. Bonus: try to find a location where stargazing is also possible.

Stargazing: Maybe you haven’t done it since you were a kid, or perhaps you own your own telescope. Consult a calendar or the Meteor Showers blog, drive out beyond the reach of city lights, and watch the next meteor shower. Be sure to bring something waterproof to lie down on, a thermos of something warm, and a date whom you trust not to get creepy.

Farmers/Flea Market: Spend the morning searching for treasure in a local farmers or flea market. Discover each other’s skills at haggling or a shared interest in antique bedsteads. Shop together for the makings of a sumptuous feast for two or a dinner party you’re throwing as a couple. Or shop for a vintage hat, a tablecloth, a baguette, and make it a picnic…