Forget the flowers and chocolates this Valentine’s Day! Or better yet, get the flowers and chocolates, and then add to the romance with a romantic getaway.
Valentine’s ideas for romantic getaways should be as fresh as the Valentine’s flowers that you so lovingly gift. Do you need inspiration for this year’s romantic getaway? We’ve got you covered! Keep reading for our top fresh romantic getaway ideas.
Fairbanks, Alaska
If a fabulous Fairbanks February getaway isn’t on your to do list, it should be. February is a magical and romantic time to visit Fairbanks. Below are some incredible ways to spend some time with your loved one in Fairbanks.
Chase the Northern Lights
February is peak Northern Lights season which means that you and your loved one will have the best opportunity for viewing the stunning light display. February in Fairbanks is dark and cold, perfect for snuggling under a blanket with someone special and soaking up the magic of the vibrant aurora borealis. Peak aurora viewing tends to be in the late hours of the evening. If you want to make your getaway even more romantic, stay somewhere with views of the aurora or book a guided tour. Both options are good ways to maximize comfort and viewing opportunities.
Experience Ice Art
During February and March, Fairbanks celebrates ice art. During this time, Fairbanks hosts both the World Ice Art Championships and the International Ice Art Classic. During this time, over 100 ice artists from across the globe compete in the championships.
The celebration of ice is a magical experience. The impressive ice sculptures are crafted from local ice, exhibiting a glacial blue tint. There are also interactive sculptures for the young (and young at heart). This includes slides, rides, mazes, and life-sized animal sculptures.
Soak in the Hot Springs
The best way to warm up when visiting Fairbanks is with a soak in Chena Hot Springs. Chena Hot Springs is Alaska’s only year-round 100+ year old natural hot springs resort. The 105 degree outdoor hot springs are the perfect spot to soak and enjoy the beauty of the northern lights. The resort offers a number of other activities that are ideal for couples including relaxing massages and scenic tours. Now is the time to book your fabulous Fairbanks getaway! Request your free print and downloadable Fairbanks Official Visitors Guide today!
Chicago Southland, Illinois
Is your loved one a foodie? Is their passion for you only rivaled by their passion for food? Are they always seeking new culinary experiences? If they are, then this Valentine’s Day you should give them what their heart (and stomach ) craves—a romantic foodie getaway to Chicago Southland.
Located just 30 minutes beyond Chicago, Chicago Southland is brimming with tasty alternatives to traditional Valentine’s Day fare. From culinary classics to custom candies, there is so much to sample in Chicago Southland. We recommend curating your romantic weekend around your love’s foodie interests. Below are some fun and romantic dining ideas.
Raise Your Glass
If your loved one would rather drink than eat, raise a glass at one of Southland’s many beer and wine spots. If you want to make a weekend of it, you could sip your way through the following:
- Blue Island Beer Company
- Evil Horse Alehouse & Spirits
- Flossmoor Station Restaurant & Brewery
- Homewood Brewing Co.
- Rock Bottom Brewery
- Vintrendi Wine Company
- Labas Seafood, Steak & Wine Bar
- Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
Pass the Pizza
Chicago is known for many things, including its incredible (and unique) pizza offerings. Chicago Southland has so many pizza offerings it is possible to eat pizza every day and never run out of new and exciting pizza orders. Whether you like your pizza deep-dish, stuffed, thin-crust, or even calzone, Chicago Southland has a pizza for you! Some of the top pizza places to check out with your partner during your romantic pizza getaway include the following:
- Aurelio’s
- Beggars
- Giordano’s
- Lou Malnati’s
Get Fancy
If you want to level up your foodie game this Valentine’s Day, then book a reservation at one of Chicago Southland’s many upscale restaurants. Some of the area’s top restaurants are:
- Alto Steakhouse
- Balagio Ristorante
- Bonefish Grill
- Fogo de Chão
- Fogon Contemporanean Kitchen
- Francesca’s Restaurant
- Ivory Noodle Bar
- Jack Gibbons Gardens
- 69 Prime
- Mama Luigi’s
- The Princess Cafe
- Shuck It
- Spotlight Lounge & Restaurant
Is your mouth watering? Now is the time to book your romantic foodie getaway to Chicago Southland! Request your free print and downloadable Chicago Southland Visitors Guide.
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Saint Paul is a city to explore. If you and your partner love to get out and about, then Saint Paul is the city for you! This Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to plan a romantic weekend getaway to the Capital City. Some of our top suggestions of where to go and what to do are included below.
Historic Accommodations
One of the best parts of a romantic getaway is choosing where to stay. Saint Paul is home to countless downtown hotels, offering historic charm and top-notch amenities.
For a unique experience check out the Covington Inn Bed & Breakfast. The Covington Inn is one of America’s few floating bed and breakfasts. Each stateroom has a private bath, deck access, and a working fireplace. Its soothing river ambiance is enhanced with the reflection of St. Paul’s skyline.
The historic Saint Paul Hotel is over 100 years old and a notable Saint Paul landmark. This timeless treasure offers comfort, style, and modern amenities in a timeless setting. Since it was first built it has attracted guests of all types.
Fun Activities
If you and your loved one are looking for something fun to do then Saint Paul is the place for you! During February there are countless activities for couples to experience, including those discussed below.
Cozy up for a fun Valentine’s Day musical at Art House North. This is the 14th year that the Bucket Brigade will present ’Til Death: A Marriage Musical. This fun Valentine’s Day tradition features lovable couples guaranteed to make you laugh.
Life and love tend to happen in the kitchen. If you want to stir up some romance, take a Valentine’s Day cooking class. Cooks of Crocus Hill has a number of options including the following:
- Couples Therapy: Hash it Out
- A French Kiss & Bourguignon Bliss
- Couples Therapy: Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
- Valentine’s Mediterranean Escape
- Romantic Veggie Rendezvous
- Nordic Ware V-Day Brunch
- Cake Decorating
- Couples Therapy: Better Together
Take your love underground with a historic tour of the Wabasha Street Caves. The tour starts with the history of the silica mine and takes visitors through the time when it was developed as a hotspot during the prohibition era. On Swing Dance Night couples can experience the nightclub vibes!
Haunted Saint Paul
Saint Paul was founded in 1841. Since that time the city has famously picked up a few paranormal friends. If you and your partner love historic sites and spooky tales, then both of you will love exploring Saint Paul and its haunted history. A number of companies offer specialized tours. Some of the top haunted sites in Saint Paul include the following:
- Forepaugh’s Restaurant
- Griggs Mansion
- Hamline University
- Landmark Center
- Mounds Theatre
- Wabasha Street Caves
Plan Your Romantic Getaway Today!
This Valentine’s Day, keep the romance alive with fresh Valentine’s ideas. By choosing the unexpected, you’ll create meaningful moments and lasting memories. From the magic of the northern lights to the culinary creativity of cooking classes, there is something for everyone.
Some other Valentine’s Day getaway ideas to get you started:
Logan & Cache Valley, Utah – Snow-covered mountains, cozy lodges, and quiet winter scenery create an intimate, unplugged escape. Couples can enjoy scenic drives, snowshoeing, or warming up by a fire after a day outdoors. The peaceful pace and star-filled skies make it ideal for reconnecting without distractions. Get your free guide to Logan & Cache Valley, Utah here.
Carbon County, Wyoming – Wide-open landscapes and dramatic winter vistas offer a secluded, old-West romance. Hot springs, historic towns, and crackling fireplaces add warmth to cold-weather adventure. It’s perfect for couples who want privacy, simplicity, and nature as their backdrop. Here’s your free guide to Carbon County, Wyoming.
New Jersey – From charming coastal towns to countryside inns, New Jersey offers diverse romantic settings in one compact destination. Couples can enjoy ocean views, acclaimed dining, spa retreats, or quaint Main Street strolls. The state’s blend of sophistication and comfort makes planning a great trip effortless. Get your free guide to the State of New Jersey here.
Tri-Cities, Washington – Rolling vineyards and river views set a relaxed, romantic tone for wine-loving couples. Tasting rooms, cozy boutique hotels, and scenic sunset walks create an intimate atmosphere without crowds. The mild winter climate allows for outdoor romance even in February! Get your Tri-Cities Washington Guide today.
Looking for even more romantic rendezvous recommendations? Check out all of our free print and downloadable travel guides.