Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. Candy and flowers are the go-to last-minute gift for most, but if you really want to impress your sweetheart (or other loved one if your life), why not give the gift of time? A night out with that special someone can create lasting memories, whose value long outlasts the Valentine’s season. For residents of The Isle apartments, there are ample opportunities for a night out on the town—from fine-dining restaurants to museums to concerts.

Those who want to really treat their special someone this holiday are in luck, as a community center featuring engaging, exciting (and maybe even educational!) arts opportunities is just minutes away from your The Isle apartments. Allens Lane Arts Center has been a local mainstay since 1953, offering countless opportunities for those interested in the arts to explore their passions and potential. The center features art exhibits, classes and workshops, plays and much more—all designed to get locals actively involved in the area’s arts community.

If your special someone has an interest in the arts, a trip to Allens Lane Arts Center may make the perfect (and thoughtful!) Valentine’s Day gift. The organization features a full roster of dance, theater and art classes, with no experience necessary to participate. From tap to ballet and from waltz to swing, locals can brush up on their moves at classes that are offered both as one-time events and multiday series (you can even try your feet at some off-the-beaten path dance forms like Appalachian clogging!). Learn how to create your own pottery in a Raku workshop or treat your special someone to the weekly Friday Date Night clay-making class. Theater lovers should consider “26 Pebbles,” a Philadelphia premiere running March 1-17 at the center that is a poignant and moving look at love and loss. Art enthusiasts will be fascinated by the Carolyn and Howard Alber Gallery, featuring permanent and rotating exhibits.

This year, treat your Valentine to an experience he or she will love at Allens Lane Art Center.

Allens Lane Arts Center

601 W. Allens Lane

Philadelphia, PA

215-248-0546