Valentine’s day is one of the most celebrated days in the country. Honestly, if you are looking for ways to celebrate Valentine’s day in the USA, you will find that the internet is flooded with ideas. Some a little cliché, others romantic and some plain soppy.
The question however boils down to what do you want to do for Valentine’s day in the USA. As a traveler, my gut instinct has always been to travel. I mean we’ve done some crazy stuff. Think seeing the Aurora Borealis in Murmansk, Russia to diving in the Maldives!
We love offbeat ideas. Things that indulge the adventurous spirit in us and simultaneously quench our wanderlust. If this resonates with you and your partner, then this is the place to be. We’ve got in touch with fellow travel experts and locals to put together a rather cool list of the best spots to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
Don’t forget to let us know which are your favorite locations when it comes to spending Valentine’s day in the USA!
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Valentine’s Day In The USA: Table Of Contents
- Boulder, Colorado
- Boston, Massachusetts
- San Francisco, California
- Napa Valley, California
- Maui, Hawaii
- Sedona, Arizona
- Chicago, Illinois
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
1. Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is an awesome place to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Temperatures in Boulder, Colorado in February:
Low: -5°C / 23°F
High: 10°C/ 50°F
Getting There: Boulder is accessible by car and public transit from the Denver International Airport and the nearby city of Denver.
Where To Stay: Stay near Pearl Street in the center of Boulder for the best hotels and nightlife.
If you are looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day in the USA filled with hiking and exploring the great outdoors, consider spending a few days in Boulder, Colorado. Known for its eclectic and eccentric locals, great food, and stunning mountain views, Boulder is a wonderful place for a little romance.
While you’re in Boulder, plan to spend a day of your trip exploring the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, especially a snowy hike around Emerald Lake.
On Valentine’s Day, start with a simple breakfast and tasty coffee from Alpine Modern, a café that is locally popular with students, tech workers, and everyone in between. After you’ve fueled, go for a hike in the infamous Flatirons or, if you’re still adjusting to the altitude, simply stroll through Chautauqua, the park at the foot of the mountains.
For lunch, pick one of the popular modern restaurants in Boulder along Pearl Street and then spend a few hours exploring the open air mall.
Don’t skip Piece, Love and Chocolate at the west end of Pearl Street for local truffles and chocolate treats, including vegan and gluten free options. You’ll also want to stop at Liberty Puzzles, where you can find handmade wooden jigsaw puzzles. Consider picking out a puzzle to enjoy later with your date.
For a laid back atmosphere with great food, grab a burger at Mountain Sun, a local Boulder institution. There are plenty of romantic restaurants in Boulder, too, but the offerings change frequently so you’ll want to ask your hotel for a recommendation.
Don’t you think this is one of the best spots to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
By Amber from Amber Everywhere
Tours In Boulder, Colorado To Consider: There are loads of great tours from Boulder, Colorado. The Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver or Boulder is by far one of the favorites and comes highly reviewed! You can also explore Rocky Mountain National park by e-bike tours or a hiking adventure.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
Looking for an epic spot to spend Valentine’s day in the USA? Try Boston in Massachusetts.
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Temperatures in Boston, Massachusetts in February:
Low: -4°C / 24.8°F
High: 4°C/ 39.2°F
Getting There: Fly into Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Where To Stay: Battery Wharf Hotel in the North End for an ideal location on the waterfront and an on-site spa that’s perfect for couples
Boston is the perfect spot for Valentine’s Day in the USA for couples who love pretty cityscapes and cultural activities. From the theater to some of the country’s oldest buildings to quaint and cozy spaces, there are so many romantic things to do in Boston that couples will love.
If you’re both into history, walk part or all of the 2.5-mile-long Freedom Trail. While February in Boston is definitely the depths of winter, there are so many interesting places to stop into and warm up along the way.
Check out the spaces where colonial revolutionaries gathered and started the American Revolution, plus stop into some of the oldest bars in the country to warm up with a few drinks.
In the evening, take advantage of Boston’s world-class Theater District at the likes of the Wang Theater or the Emerson Colonial Theater. Both are beautiful buildings that set the stage for a special night out. Enjoy an off-Broadway production without the same Broadway ticket prices.
Looking for a romantic dinner location? Consider a delicious Italian restaurant in the lovely North End, like Euno or Neptune Oyster on Salem Street. Both are cozy spaces with great ambiance.
Just remember to bundle up for Boston’s winter temperatures and maximize the fabulous options for romantic indoor spaces across the city. You can see why it makes such a great destination for Valentine’s day in the USA.
By Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA
Tours in Boston, Massachusetts To Consider: Boston can be explored via the hop on and hop off buses which is great if you don’t have your own transport and so much easier on the legs! Take a tour of the historic Fenway park or walk the Boston freedom trail with a guide. If you are a foodie then do not miss the Boston walking and tasting tour.
3. San Francisco, California
Looking for one of the best cities to spend Valentine’s day in the USA? San Francisco hits all the right notes!
Location: San Francisco, California
Temperatures in San Francisco, California in February:
Low: 9°C / 48.2°F
High: 16°C/ 60.8°F
Getting There: The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 20 minutes south of the city center. You can also take the Oakland International Airport (OAK) which is about 30 minutes away.
Where To Stay: Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco is located on Nob Hill, an affluent area in the city. It’s a luxury hotel and the older Intercontinental hotel in the U.S. It’s also known for Top of the Mark, a bar on the top floor located at the highest point of Downtown San Francisco. Top of the Mark has the best views of the city!
With a juxtaposition of skyscrapers, European charm, and outdoorsy getaways, San Francisco is a one-of-a-kind destination for couples. No matter what interests you and your main squeeze are into, there is romance in the air for everyone!
No trip to San Francisco is complete without getting a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge. The best views are from Chrissy Field and Baker Beach. You can snuggle up with your love over a cup of coffee marveling at one of the most beautiful and iconic bridges in the world. If you have a car, you can drive over the bridge to get a view on the opposite side at Marin Headlands.
For those into shopping and bustling city life, Union Square is the place to go. There is no shortage of high-end stores to stroll by or dine in.
San Francisco is nicknamed “Paris of the Pacific”, so it’s no surprise that there are a chock full of French restaurants scattered across the city. Some highly-recommended restaurants include Chouquet’s, Cafe Bastille, and Bouche. If Italian cuisine is more your thing, head over to the North Beach neighborhood, aka “Little Italy”, for some of the best ristorantes and trattorias.
City life not your thing? The outdoors are around the corner! San Francisco boasts beautiful, steep hiking trails such as Land’s End and Lover’s Lane. Or head over to Marin County to explore Muir Woods, Point Reyes, and Mount Tamalpais.
Wandering the Bay Area’s nature spots provide an endorphin boost for couples along with fun memories! Trust me! It is one of the best ways to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
By Hannah from Hannah On Horizon
Tours In San Francisco, California To Consider: Getting around San Francisco can be tough. If you want to cover the most amount of ground then book one of the hop on and hop off bus tours. They are great and cover most locations in the city.
If you are in San Francisco then you should not miss the Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour. The Alcatraz cruise is a really interesting one to embark on and it leaves from San Francisco. You can also sneak a tour to Yosemite National park while you are in the area.
4. Napa Valley, California
Napa valley is such a romantic spot to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
Location: Napa Valley, California
Getting There: Napa Valley is located in northern California, about 50 miles northeast of San Francisco. The closest major airport is the San Francisco International Airport and is about an hour drive to Napa.
Where To Stay: For a truly relaxing and indulgent experience, stay at the northern end of Napa Valley at the Calistoga Spa and Hot Springs.
Guests can relax in one of the four geothermal hot spring mineral pools after a day of sight-seeing and wine tasting, as well as enjoy the full spa amenities such as massages, facials, and mud bath treatments.
Lush valleys lined with fields of grapes as far as the eye can see, juicy wines just waiting to be tasted, and Michelin-star culinary experiences are just some of the reasons why Napa Valley is the perfect backdrop for a Valentine’s Day getaway.
Driving past the miles of rolling vineyards almost feels like you are on a European vacation, without ever leaving the U.S. Being seated in between some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in northern California means that there is beauty and photo-worthy landscapes around every turn in the valley.
Napa Valley is known around the world for producing amazing wine, mostly due to the temperate weather year-round with nightly drops bringing misty and cool mornings.
In February the daily highs stay in the mid-60’s, which is perfect for taking meandering strolls through the perfectly aligned rows of vines that go on for miles. Plan a wine tasting or two to learn in-depth facts about each local vineyard and the care that is painstakingly put into producing that perfect glass of wine.
But Napa Valley is not only famous for its wine! Some of the best restaurants in California live here and proudly produce complete upscale dining experiences.
For that perfectly over-the-top Valentine’s Day dinner, be sure to book one of the five-star restaurants ahead of time and be prepared for an amazing meal. See why a trip to Napa Valley should be on your Valentine’s Day list!
By Erin from Super Simple Salty Life
Tours In Napa Valley California You should Consider:
Small group wine tasting tours through Napa Valley are definitely the way to go! You can however splurge and do something ultra romantic like head out on a hot air balloon! If heights aren’t your thing then think about renting a limousine which will take you on a tour to the top wineries!
5. Maui, Hawaii
Maui is one of the best spots to spend Valentine’s day in the USA, especially if you love the beach.
Location: Maui, Hawaii. Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Kapalua provide the best options for staying on the west side of Maui.
Temperatures in Maui, Hawaii in February:
Low: 13°C /55°F
High: 21°C/ 70°F
Getting There: From the west coast of the mainland United States, it takes almost six hours to fly to Maui’s Kahului Airport.
Where To Stay: Most travelers stay on the west side between Lahaina and Kapalua. The Royal Lahaina Resort provides luxury on the beach but is expensive.
Maui is undeniably a romantic island and a high contender for honeymoons. A valentine’s trip provides an ideal way to rekindle your love.
During the day, its dreamy beaches, snorkeling, and sunset boat excursions allow you to relax and vacation Aloha style. You can enjoy iconic road trips to see the Iao Needle or take the world-famous Road to Hana with a rental car.
Maui’s west side has endless options of patio restaurants, many with ocean views. Remember to leave room for some shave ice or yummy Dole Whip.
Reserve at least one evening to attend a Hawaiian luau. Through Polynesian song and dance, you’ll learn about the culture and the islands which make up Hawaii. It’s a romantic evening to enjoy fire dancing under the stars.
A trip to Maui isn’t complete without watching the fantastic sunrise at Haleakala National Park. The switchback drive travels through several climatic zones until you reach the summit at over 10,000 feet. Be warned; you’ll need to wake at 2:30 am to make the drive.
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater might be more relaxing if getting up early isn’t your thing. Located off the coast of Maui, Molokini Crater is a bird sanctuary created by a sunken volcanic cone. The waters around it teem with tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles. Around Valentine’s Day, you could also be treated to humpback whale sightings.
It is one of those epic things that makes Hawaii one of the best locations to spend Valentine’s day in the USA. Oh and if you are headed this way, make sure that you pack all the essentials you need for a trip to Hawaii!
By Karen from Forever Karen
Tours In Maui That You Should Consider: Maui is paradise and there are loads of tours that help you enjoy it. Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa is one of the top experiences on the island. If you love watersports then head out on a snorkeling adventure to Molokini. You could even head out on a submarine tour! I mean that’s really really cool if you ask me.
6. Sedona, Arizona
If you love national parks then you will find that Sedona is one of the best spots to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
Location: Sedona, Arizona is located in the North central part of Arizona and is 30 miles away from Flagstaff, Arizona, just under an hour’s drive.
Temperatures in Sedona, Arizona in February:
Low: 2°C / 35.6°F
High: 18°C/ 64.4°F
Getting There: Sedona, Arizona has a small airport close to town, but it is not the most common airport to fly into because it is a small but highly scenic airport. It is more common to fly into the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and drive to Sedona.
The drive from Phoenix, Arizona is just under 2 hours and 120 miles from the Sky Harbor Airport. You will take the I-17 North for 104 miles until you arrive at the AZ-179, which will take you into Sedona.
Another possible airport is the Tucson International Airport in Tucson, Arizona. The airport is almost the exact same distance and driving time from the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.
Where To Stay: For a private and beautiful stay, the Enchantment Resort is a place you should for sure take a look at. The views, pools, and rooms are great for those who want to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Another great place to stay that is a little more economical, but still a great place is the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock.
Sedona, Arizona is one of the most beautiful and serene desert locations you will find in the South Western United States. The city is very classy and full of great places to eat, stay and explore. It would be difficult to find a more romantic and enjoyable area than Sedona.
While visiting the area, there are some must-see hikes in Sedona with amazing sunsets and bridges to explore. The Cathedral Rock hike is a fun-filled hike that provides one of the best sunset views in the area, surrounded by the beautiful Arizona red rocks.
The Devil’s Bridge is a famous hike with stunning views of all of Sedona. This hike is perfect for couples wanting to explore together and take in all of the breathtaking views. These gorgeous views make it one of the best places to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
Other great activities include visiting one of the many wineries in the area and taking a jeep tour to explore some beautiful off-road locations.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or just a fun place to explore, Sedona is the perfect destination. Visiting with your significant other or friends and family, there is something for everyone in this beautiful South Western city.
By Candice from CS Ginger
Tours In Sedona, Arizona To Consider: Sedona has half day tours which cover most of the highlights. The Small-Group Grand Canyon Complete Tour from Sedona however is a better one if you have time on your hands. It allows you spend time in the area and take in the sights without time being a factor.
The trail can also be done via a jeep tour. This tour takes you off the beaten track and is rather fun. If you don’t run out of time, think about one of the star gazing tours. They are a pretty cool experience.
7. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is one of the best cities to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Temperatures in Chicago, Illinois in February:
Low: -4°C / 24.8°F
High: 2°C/ 35.6°F
Getting There: The quickest and easiest way to get to Chicago is to fly into Chicago O’Hare International Airport or Midway International Airport. Alternatively you can drive to Chicago or get a cheap Greyhound bus from many American cities.
Where To Stay: Definitely stay downtown close to Michigan Avenue ‘The Magnificent Mile’ where all the action is. There’s an incredible buzz around here. The Gwen is a particularly nice hotel in a very convenient location.
If you’re looking for the perfect balance of fun and romance, Chicago is the perfect place to spend Valentine’s Day in the USA.
Start your day together on the Chicago Riverwalk – one of the most beautiful places in Chicago! Follow the river and then head to Michigan Avenue where you can enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day brunch together. Then for some excitement, take a boat ride out to Lake Michigan and enjoy fabulous views of the skyline – it truly looks stunning!
Be sure you and your loved one also go to see the incredible stainless steel sculpture known affectionately as The Bean! A visit to Chicago is incomplete without getting a photo here, so make sure to get an obligatory picture with your significant other!
For some Valentine’s fun for the thrill-seekers, head up to The Sky Deck to see Chicago from the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower! This is the highest observation deck in the USA!
There are glass paneled boxes here that protrude out from the building: if you’re both feeling brave, stand in one of these ledges and look down 410 meters at the city below!
And for the ultimate brownie points in romantic things to do in Chicago for Valentine’s Day – head to AIRE’s Ancient Baths. The Greek/Roman/Ottoman inspired baths have a couple experiences and massages on offer, as well as baths of varying temperatures so you’ll leave feeling totally refreshed and ready for your evening!
By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover
Tours in Chicago, Illinois To Consider: If you are interested in architecture then the Chicago river cruise is a must try! It is a unique way to see the city and offers a different perspective. Another great vantage point to take in the sights is the 360 Chicago Observation deck.
If you really want to do something with a difference, then take a helicopter tour of the city. Trust me! The city from a birds eye view is like nothing you have seen. Definitely a romantic thing to do if you are spending Valentine’s day in the USA.
For the foodies, there is the famous food and walking tour that you should not miss!
8. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is another great location to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Temperatures in Santa Fe, New Mexico in February:
Low: -6°C / 21.2°F
High: 8°C/ 46.4°F
Getting There: Fly into Santa Fe Regional Airport, or Albuquerque International Airport about 1 hour 15 minutes drive away
Where To Stay: La Fonda on the Plaza
Looking for a romantic place to spend Valentine’s day in the USA? Head to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Santa Fe has its own unique personality that makes you feel like you’re in another country. With old-world charm, delicious restaurants, and lots to do, it’s the perfect place for a Valentine’s getaway.
Start with a visit to the Santa Fe plaza which was founded in 1609. This National Historic Landmark is the heart of the city. On the periphery, you’ll find boutiques, art galleries, and some of the best restaurants in Santa Fe. At the plaza’s center is a grassy area with paths where you may see musicians playing, couples strolling, and families picnicking.
Adjacent to the plaza is another landmark, the Palace of the Govenors. It’s the oldest building in the US that’s been in continuous use. Santa Fe is loaded with historic buildings like the oldest church in America, San Miguel Chapel, and the De Vargas Street House, the oldest house in New Mexico.
Art lovers will enjoy the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, and walking through the Canyon Road area where local artists display their works in galleries and studios. For chocolate lovers there’s a chocolate trail with every kind of chocolate including drinkable hot chocolate.
For those who prefer something stronger, try the margarita trail. Definitely one of the best things to do if you are spending Valentine’s day in the USA.
Best of all, the weather is mild compared to much of the US. Although the temperatures get to be in the 20s at nighttime, the days hover in the mid to high 40s and rain and snow are rare. Definitely one of the best spots to spend Valentine’s day in the USA.
By Denise from Chef Denise
Tours In Santa Fe To Consider: The architectural walking tour is a great way to explore the city. Try the taste of Santa Fe tour which includes both wine and lunch!
