Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and if you’re like most men you’re currently thinking, “What am I going to do this year?”

While the normal ideas — eat at the same restaurant where you had your first date/proposed/etc., cook her a special meal at home, rose petals on the bed — are always a good way to go, it says a lot when you go out of your way to impress your Valentine.

Whether you’re going somewhere neither of you have ever been before or doing an activity neither of you have ever done before, that extra effort oftentimes means the world. For those who are still at a loss, here are some ideas for Valentine’s Day:

STAYCATION

With Valentine’s Day falling on a Tuesday this year, it’s a bit hard to get time off work and head out of town; so in this case, a staycation is your best bet. Whether it’s Harrah’s Ak-Chin or one of the many other resorts throughout the Valley, there are plenty of options and packages that resorts are offering, specifically for Valentine’s Day.

For guests who are romantic at heart, Harrah’s Ak-Chin will be offering a Valentine’s Day package, including a guest’s choice of room accommodations and breakfast in bed for two ($50 in-room service food/beverage credit) per stay — with package rates starting at $129 per night and available with the offer code PLOVE.

In addition to packages such as this, many times guests can go the extra mile by asking for champagne and strawberries to be sent up to the room, have rose petals on the bed upon arrival, or any other surprises you have up your sleeve for that special someone.

WINE & DINE

When you’re eating in every night, there’s no better time than Valentine’s Day for a romantic dinner for two. Restaurants Valley-wide are offering special prix fixe menus for the evening, in addition to a set menu of dinner for two, such as the menu available at Harrah’s Range Steakhouse. The restaurant’s Surf & Turf for Two is $100 per couple and includes the following:

Course One:
Potato Encrusted Kumamoto Oysters and Classic Mignonette
Course Two:
Baby Roasted Beet and Field Green Salad with Horseradish Citrus Vinaigrette
Course Three:
Grilled Frenched Bone-in Rib eye with Garlic Butter Sautéed Shrimp
Course Four:
Raspberry Mousse

Two things to remember: 1) Dinner always goes better with drinks (be it your favorite wine or popping some bubbly in celebration of the occasion), and 2) always make a reservation, as this is one of the busiest nights of the year. To make a reservation at Harrah’s Range Steakhouse call (480) 802-5000.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY

When all else fails, head to the dance floor. While many men may see this as a last resort, your Valentine would be extremely impressed when asked to have the next dance. Maybe a lesson or two would be in order beforehand, but well worth it when it becomes the highlight of your Valentine’s night.

Be it jazz trio, a pianist or the Righteous Brothers’ Bill Medley who will be holding a free performance at Harrah’s at 8 p.m., these smooth sounds will ultimately lead to even smoother night out.

For more information on Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino Resort call (480) 802-5000 or visit harrahsakchin.com.