Unexpected venues for V-Day fun

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Animal lovers can have a romantic Valentine’s dinner at Brookfield Zoo, (8400 31st St., Brookfield, at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 11). The evening starts with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the Seven Seas underwater viewing gallery. Next is a five-course meal in Bocaditos restaurant, with a menu featuring sweet corn chowder followed by a Greek-style salad with a vinaigrette dressing. An intermezzo of lemon sorbet precedes the main course of petit filet mignon with wild mushroom ragout and port demi glaze paired with lobster tail. Sides include garlic mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables, with dessert being a red velvet heart-shaped cake for two. In addition to open bar service, premium wine and champagne will be served during dinner. The evening continues with dancing until midnight. The cost for the Valentine’s dinner is $225 per couple. For reservations or more information, call (708) 688-8355; csz.org.

Shedd Aquarium, (1200 S. Lake Shore, 312- 939-2438). Do Valentine’s on the cheap: take advantage of one of the Shedd’s Community Discount Days on Feb. 14, where general admission is free. It includes the Waters of the World, Amazon Rising and the Caribbean Reef. Packages including Wild Reef, Polar Play Zone and Oceanarium are available at a discounted rate. Visit sheddaquarium.org.

Morton Arboretum, (4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, 630-968-0074. Mortonarb.org). Learn about the growing, harvesting and production process of chocolate and its relationship to trees through exhibits, expos and workshops. Chocolate-themed gifts and sweets are available for purchase at the Arboretum store. Call (630) 968-0074; mortonarb.org.

Annie Alleman