Looking for something out of the ordinary to do with your sweetie (or even while flying solo) this Valentine’s month? Worcester has become a true cultural center for those of you who would like to see or learn something new, and there are plenty of romantic options. From art and architecture to music and culinary masterpieces, the city has really got you covered.

Why not create a scavenger hunt at the Worcester Art Museum, which houses beautiful works of art from around the world from every era? Can you find the sculpture of a fertility goddess or the Indian ruler Shiva with his consort Parvati? How about a piece of art where a couple of gods are seeing who can outdrink each other or a couple having it out in a hair-pulling argument? Perhaps you can find a cross-dressing dancer or view the shining armor of a knight long gone.

If you prefer more contemporary pieces, check out the Davis Art Gallery on Portland Street. Beautiful abstracts, photography, digital art and more from new and veteran artists await your appreciation. Worcester Windows is a community gallery program that also features the art of up-and-coming artists. The Krikorian Gallery at Worcester Center for Crafts on Sagamore Road features beautiful handmade sculpture, pottery and more. Check out ArtsWorcester for more information on exhibits in the area, including the organization’s 12th annual College Show, which opens Feb. 5.

If you are interested in architectural marvels, head over to Elm Park and get someone to take a picture of you smooching on the Iron Bridge, which is one of the most photographed spots in Central Massachusetts. Since there will be no flowers at Elm Park this time of year, follow it up with a trip to the Tower Hill Botanic Garden. Another great stop is the Salisbury Mansion, an original 18th-century home built in 1772, which offers tours. Also, check out the Bancroft Tower in Salisbury Park, built in 1900, which is another great photo opportunity.

Why not surprise your significant other with a date where you create a beautiful piece of artwork together? New Street Glass Studio offers glass-blowing classes, and Paint Nite Worcester will show you how to make a wall-worthy masterpiece of your very own.

For music and performance art, the possibilities are truly endless in this cultural hub. To truly appreciate amazing architecture and a show, look no further than Worcester’s historic Mechanic’s Hall. The building is stunning, built in 1857, and has acoustics comparable to Symphony Hall. See the Polish Baltic Philharmonic Orchestra or take part in The Merry Ploughboys Irish Pub Night this month. The Hanover Theatre is also offering some great shows this month, including Jim Brickman on Feb. 11 and Broadway musical 42nd Street. If you are less into classical music and more into the energy of metal and rock, the Worcester Palladium is offering several options, including I See Stars and Born of Osiris. If country is more your thing, Garth Brooks and his songbird of a wife, Trisha Yearwood, are gracing the DCU Center with their presence in late February.

After a long walk around the city checking out these sites, a stop at Mocine Salon is just the thing. An hour-long deep tissue couple’s massage is $150 in a private suite and will take all the weekday work stress away.

For a dinner date, I recommend Bocado wholeheartedly. One of my personal favorites, Bocado has a dimly lit and Spanish vibe and offers dinners for two. The paella is amazing, and the tapas-style dinner is perfect for sharing. If you have visions of the Lady & The Tramp spaghetti scene and want to go the Italian route, Nuovo is a fantastic choice. With authentic Italian cuisine, reasonable pricing and service that goes above and beyond, this little gem is at the top of the list. If you and your date are into sushi and Asian food, Baba Sushi is wonderful. The ginger chicken entrée is delicious, and the Godzilla roll is unlike anything you have ever tried before. And really, sushi is an art all in itself, so admire its craftsmanship before you chow down.

And what is a romantic date without an amazing treat for your sweet tooth? Sweet on Shrewsbury Street has cupcakes and other confections that will redefine dessert. Homemade S’mores, fluffernutter donuts and every kind of cupcake imaginable are just waiting to be devoured.

Whatever your idea of romance may be, you really don’t need to travel very far. There are plenty of places that will bring the dating game to a whole new level, and you may learn something new in the process.

By Jennifer Russo