So you waited until the last minute to plan a Valentine's Day date, or maybe you haven't been dating that long and don't want to overkill the date and want to keep it simple.  Either way there are plenty of last minute dates to have in Austin that are great even on a budget. 

1. Mount Bonnell - Probably the most romantic spot in Austin, a short hike up some stairs will lead you atop Mount Bonnell.  Once there you have views of the hill country, the city skyline, and Lady Bird Lake.  It's completely free, I would recommend making it uber romantic and packing a picnic filled with snacks, wine, and, of course, chocolate covered strawberries.  Mount Bonnell is located at 3800 Mount Bonnell Road, just west of the city.

2. Zilker Botanical Gardens - Take a romantic stroll with your sweetie through 30 acres of land featuring rose, herb, and Japanese gardens with waterfalls, streams and ponds all running through them.  They are located at 2220 Barton Springs Road right by Zilker Park and are open 7am to 5:30 pm so this would be a great pre-date spot and admission is only $2 for adults.

3.  Peter Pan Mini Golf - This has been an Austin staple since 1946 and is fun no matter what age you are.  You will definitely impress your Valentine with a non-traditional date like mini golf.  Peter Pan has two 18 hole courses all with different themes and lots of big statues you putt around (including Peter Pan himself).  You can play one course for $6 or both for $9.  Alcohol is allowed, but no glass so class it up with some boxed wine and plastic cups.  Peter Pan is located at 1207 Barton Springs Road and open until 10 pm.

Girls are always appreciative of anything with thought behind it so even if you decide to make dinner at home just remember it's the thought that counts.  And next year remember to plan ahead of time and make your reservations at least a month in advance to avoid having to plan a last minute date again.