Traveling is becoming an increasingly popular option during Valentine’s weekend. However, it can be tough to choose the best Valentine’s Day destination in the US, especially at the beginning of the year. That’s why we’ve devised the perfect solution for this day of love. Check out our list of the best Valentine's Day destinations in the US for you and your partner!
1. Charleston, South Carolina
No list of romantic destinations would be complete without Charleston, South Carolina. This riverside city is known for its well-preserved architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a romantic weekend in this city, surrounded by scenic water views and numerous art galleries.
How to get there
The quickest way to get to Charleston is by air. Travel to the Charleston International Airport (CHS), 12 miles from downtown. Alternatively, you can also drive there or take public transportation.
Where to stay
When it comes to accommodation in this city, Hotel Bennett is one of those rare gems. This luxury hotel presents 19th-century European decor in the heart of Charleston's historic district. Hotel Bennett is also close to popular attractions like Charleston City Market and The Battery. With a professional staff that's friendly and attentive, Hotel Bennett is a popular choice among travelers looking for a luxurious and romantic weekend getaway.
What to do
Since this city is filled with some of the country's richest history, be sure to check out some of the guided tours to hear stories from the past.
Touristic tours popular among visitors, in Charleston:
- The "Lost Stories of Black Charleston" tour
- "The Ghosts of Charleston" tour
- Charleston speed boat adventure tour
- Charleston's Historic City tour and Museum
city's famous art galleries
like the Mary Martin Fine Art Gallery and the Aiken-Rhett House.
2. Napa Valley, California
Another dreamy destination for couples is Napa Valley in California. Home to vast vineyards, this location gives you those private and peaceful moments together. This year, get your significant other the perfect Valentine's Day gift by taking them to Napa to enjoy the luxury the West Coast offers.
How to get there
The most common way to get to Napa Valley is via automobile. From San Francisco, head north on Highway 29 for about an hour to reach Napa. Alternatively, take the ferry from SF to Vallejo, then another bus to Napa. If you're out of state, you can fly into the San Francisco International (SFO) and continue your journey for roughly 60 more miles.
Where to stay
Want to escape to an intimate world with just the two of you? Stay at Andaz Napa, in the heart of the California Wine Country. This hotel brings you the cozy feeling of the quiet countryside while giving you the quality of a boutique establishment.
What to do
Come to Napa to get drunk in love (literally). Visit the region's many vineyards, and try its delicious, world-renowned wine. On top of that, go on a tour of the Muir Woods and enjoy intimate moments together in the middle of nature. If you're looking for a thrill, go hot-air ballooning, and enjoy the scenic view of the rolling hills below. Napa is also home to many deluxe experiences, such as luxury lodging and gourmet restaurants. Remember to get a taste of the lush life while you're there!
Best vineyards and wineries in Napa for a Valentines trip:
1. Domaine Carneros
The Vibe: Classic French Romance & Sparkling Wine If you want the quintessential romantic experience, this is it. Modeled after a French château, this estate specializes in sparkling wine (Champagne style), which is perfect for a Valentine's toast.
Why it's perfect for couples: The grand staircase and terrace offer sweeping views of the vines. It feels like you are in the French countryside.
Recommendation: Book a table on the terrace if the weather is nice, or in the salon. Order the "Sparkling Sampler" to share. They often offer caviar and cheese plates that pair perfectly with the bubbles.
2. Castello di Amorosa
The Vibe: Fairytale Medieval Castle This is an authentically built 13th-century style Tuscan castle. It is visually stunning and offers a very immersive "bodega" experience with its massive underground cellars, armory, and torture chamber (fun for a tour!).
Why it's perfect for couples: It is undeniably impressive and great for photos.
Recommendation: Book the "Diamond Estate Tour & Tasting." This is their most popular option and takes you deep into the underground cellars. For Valentine's, they often have chocolate pairings available to add on.
3. Pine Ridge Vineyards
The Vibe: Intimate Caves & 2025 Special Event Pine Ridge is famous for its extensive cave system, which offers a cool, intimate, and quiet atmosphere—perfect for "bodega" lovers.
Valentine's Special 2025: They are hosting a specific "Sweethearts Wine & Cheese Pairing" (scheduled for mid-February).
The Experience: You will likely be seated in their candlelit wine caves (Cabernet Caves), sipping their renowned Cabernet Sauvignon paired with artisan cheeses. It is one of the most atmospheric tastings in the valley.
4. Peju Winery
The Vibe: Iconic Architecture & Valentine's Brunch Peju is known for its beautiful sycamore-lined driveway and distinctive tower architecture. It is family-owned and has a warm, welcoming energy.
Valentine's Special 2025: Peju is hosting a "Share the Love Valentine's Brunch" on Sunday, February 16, 2025. If your trip extends through the weekend, this is a fantastic event featuring live music, a gourmet brunch menu, and their top-tier wines.
Alternative: If you visit on Friday/Saturday, their standard tasting in the tower or gardens is still lovely and very photogenic.
5. Schramsberg Vineyards
The Vibe: Historic Candlelit Caves If you want the ultimate "bodega" experience, Schramsberg is a must. They have some of the oldest and most extensive wine caves in Napa.
Why it's perfect for couples: Their tours are almost entirely underground in the caves. It is dark, cool, and smells of aging oak—very romantic and sensory. They are also a sparkling wine house (the wine served at White House state dinners).
Recommendation: The "Cave Tour and Tasting" is essential. You walk through the mossy, hand-dug tunnels stacked with millions of bottles. It is an unforgettable experience for two.
3. Key West, Florida
It's ok to be single on Valentine's Day. Enjoy some much-needed me-time, and (possibly) meet the love of your life in Key West, Florida, this Valentine's Day. Key West is most notable for its tropical climate, gorgeous sunsets, and relaxed atmosphere, this makes it a perfect sunny Valentine’s escape. It's also the perfect escape from the fast-paced world, perfect as a singles' Valentine's Day getaway.
How to get there
You can fly here via the Key West International Airport (EYW). However, we recommend driving there or taking public transport due to the beautiful scenery. During the road trip, you can treat yourself to crystal clear waters, lush vegetation, and tropical landscapes that you won't see anywhere else.
Where to stay
The Southernmost Beach Resort is a luxury hotel located in a prime location on the beach, with a stunning ocean view. This hotel has various features, including an on-site bar, a fitness center, and a spa. With The Southernmost Beach Resort, you'll stay close to the attractions and shopping areas, so there will never be a dull moment.
Tip: Florida is also home to some of the most exciting themed hotels in the US. If you're a couple of adventurers, you will want to take advantage of them!
What to do
Since Key West is an island, there are plenty of water sports to choose from. Push yourself to the limit by going on a parasailing ride or snorkeling. Or, take it easy and enjoy the golden sunset on a cruise. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to enjoy Key West to the fullest. And who knows, maybe the person you're looking for happens to be in Key West at the same time.
1. Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip
The Vibe: Remote Island Adventure & History This is widely considered the absolute "must-do" bucket list experience in the Florida Keys. Located 70 miles west of Key West, this park is 99% water and features the massive historic Fort Jefferson.
- The Experience: You can snorkel in crystal-clear shallow waters along the moat wall, tour the historic fort, and relax on pristine white sand beaches.
- How to get there:
- The Ferry (Yankee Freedom III): More affordable ($200+ pp), takes about 2.5 hours each way, includes breakfast and lunch.
- The Seaplane: Expensive ($400-$800+ pp) but incredibly romantic and saves time (40 min flight). The views of sharks and turtles from the air are unbeatable. Book this months in advance.
2. Sunset Sail on Schooner America 2.0
The Vibe: Elegant, Upscale & Romantic While there are many "booze cruise" party boats in Key West, the Schooner America 2.0 is the refined choice. It is a stunning replica of the 1851 America’s Cup winner.
- Why it's recommended: It is quieter and more intimate than the large catamarans. The crew serves champagne, wine, and high-quality hors d'oeuvres while you watch the famous Key West sunset from the water.
- Tip: Look for the "Champagne Sunset Sail." It is significantly more romantic than the "commotion on the ocean" style party boats.
3. The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
The Vibe: Literary History & Six-Toed Cats You cannot visit Key West without seeing where "Papa" lived and wrote for ten years. It is a beautiful Spanish Colonial property with lush tropical gardens.
- The Experience: Take the guided tour (included with admission) to hear fascinating stories about Hemingway's life, his wives, and his eccentricities.
- The Cats: The property is home to 40-50 polydactyl (six-toed) cats, all descendants of Hemingway’s original cat, Snow White. They are friendly and roam freely everywhere, including on the furniture.
4. Southernmost Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour
The Vibe: Culinary Exploration "Off the Beaten Path" Key West has a unique cuisine blending Caribbean, Cuban, and seafood influences. A food tour is the best way to skip the tourist traps and eat where the locals eat.
- What you eat: You will typically sample fresh conch fritters, authentic Cuban sandwiches, locally caught fish tacos, and (of course) award-winning Key Lime Pie.
- Why it's good: It doubles as a city tour. As you walk between restaurants, the guide explains the architecture and history of the "Conch Republic."
5. Guided Mangrove Kayak Eco-Tour
The Vibe: Quiet Nature & Wildlife Key West isn't just about Duval Street; the backcountry mangroves are peaceful and teeming with life.
- The Experience: You paddle through narrow mangrove tunnels that boats cannot reach. It is very calm and beginner-friendly (the water is flat).
- Wildlife: It is common to see nurse sharks, stingrays, jellyfish, and various birds right next to your kayak in the shallow water.
- Operator: Lazy Dog Adventures is frequently rated as one of the best for this specific type of tour.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, Louisiana, is one of the best places to travel for Valentine's Day. Located in the southeastern part of the United States, this city is the convergent place of French, Spanish, African and American cultures. New Orleans is the perfect romantic getaway with many historic sites and mouth-watering cuisine.
How to get there
New Orleans is accessible in many ways. You can fly into the city via the Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY). You can also use public transportation, such as the bus and the train. And, of course, you can drive there from neighboring states using GPS.
Where to stay
One of the top accommodations in New Orleans and Louisiana is the Westin Canal Place. This 4-star hotel has various amenities, such as an on-site restaurant and a fitness center. It's also ideally located close to attractions such as the famous French Quarter and Bourbon Street. The Westin is the perfect choice for the ideal Valentine's Day weekend this year if you want a pleasant and relaxing time with your significant other.
What to do
People often visit New Orleans for its cultural diversity, seen through the richness of the local cuisine. When in town, take advantage of the food tour of the French Quarter, which includes a mix of Creole and Cajun cuisine. While at it, check out the Lafayette cemetery tour to learn more about the swampy conditions in which these resting places were built. Speaking of the other world, check out the New Orleans ghost adventure tour for spine-chilling stories about the city.
For a couple’s trip to New Orleans, you want a mix of high-energy culture and intimate, romantic "hidden gems." Here are five hotspots that blend the city’s historic soul with current 2025 favorites.
1. Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits
The Vibe: NOLA’s Ultimate Backyard Party Located in the "Bywater" neighborhood (a short Uber from the French Quarter), this is a local favorite that feels like a secret garden. You enter through a wine shop, pick out a bottle and some gourmet cheeses, and then head out to a massive, fairy-light-strung courtyard.
- Why it's perfect for couples: It is arguably the most romantic casual spot in the city. You sit under the trees, sip wine, and listen to live jazz bands that play daily. It feels miles away from the chaos of Bourbon Street.
- Recommendation: Go around sunset. It is walk-in only (no reservations), so getting there a bit early ensures you get a good table near the band.
2. Jewel of the South
The Vibe: Award-Winning Creole Cottage Cocktails This spot has recently been ranked as one of the best bars in North America. Housed in a renovated 1830s Creole cottage, it offers an atmosphere of old-world elegance with exposed brick and lush greenery.
- Why it's perfect for couples: It is sophisticated, intimate, and deeply historic without being "stuffy." The cocktails are world-class culinary experiences.
- Recommendation: Reserve a table in the courtyard. Order the "Brandy Crusta"—it’s a historic New Orleans cocktail that they are famous for perfecting.
3. Frenchmen Street (Marigny District)
The Vibe: Authentic Jazz & Nightlife While tourists go to Bourbon Street, locals and music lovers go to Frenchmen Street. It is a dense two-block stretch packed with live music venues that are far more authentic and soulful.
- Why it's perfect for couples: You can hop from club to club listening to incredible brass bands and jazz without the aggressive "party" crowds.
- Recommendation: Visit The Spotted Cat Music Club for a gritty, authentic jazz vibe (standing room, cash only usually). If you want to sit and eat while listening, try The Maison or Snug Harbor.
4. Preservation Hall
The Vibe: Sacred Jazz History This is not a bar; it is a historic music venue dedicated to preserving traditional New Orleans Jazz. There is no air conditioning (usually), no drinks served inside, and you sit on wooden benches or stand.
- Why it's perfect for couples: It is an incredibly intimate, acoustic experience that touches the soul. The musicians are often legends. It’s a memory you will keep forever.
- Recommendation: Book "Big Shot" seated tickets in advance. The line for general admission can be very long, and having a guaranteed seat in the front row is worth every penny for the intimacy of the performance.
5. City Park & The Sculpture Garden
The Vibe: Southern Gothic Romance This massive park is home to the world’s largest collection of mature live oak trees, some nearly 800 years old, draped in Spanish moss.
- Why it's perfect for couples: It is visually stunning and quiet.
- Recommendation: Stroll through the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden (free admission and very artistic). Afterward, share a cafe au lait and beignets at the Cafe Du Monde located inside the park (it is much less crowded and more peaceful than the one in the French Quarter). You can also rent a swan boat or a Venetian gondola for a ride on the bayou.
5. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is a city located in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. This place is famous for its Victorian architecture, as well as the picturesque scenery and variety of outdoor activities. Eureka Springs is also bustling with arts and culture. Every year, they host the Eureka Springs Blues Weekend with the hottest stars of the Deep South.
As a destination, Eureka Springs is perfect for couples seeking to spice up their love life in the middle of the magnificent Ozark mountains. Eureka Springs also makes the perfect Valentine's day gift for the avid traveler. Spend a day fishing, hiking, or rock climbing; it's all possible in this charming little city.
How to get there
To get to Eureka Springs, you can fly into Branson Airport (BKG), the closest one to the city. You can also land in Fayetteville, Northwest Arkansas (XNA), and then drive another hour.
Where to stay
Eureka Springs is famous for its Victorian-style hotels, such as the Palace Bath House and the Crescent Hotel. While these places are often on the pricier side of things, they're sure to wow you with their charming early 20th-century glamor.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, then the Rodeway Inn Berryville, a cozy guesthouse, is the perfect option for you.
What to do
Due to the region's beautiful nature, there are many outdoor activities to do while you're in town. You can spend the day hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. You can also go zip-lining, paddle boarding, and fishing. These are great activities to grow the bond with your partner.
There are other significant monuments and places to visit in Eureka Springs. For example, come to the Christ of the Ozarks statue, and watch a sunrise together. Better yet, visit the Thorncrown Chapel, an impressive establishment with windows galore in the middle of the woods.
For a couple’s trip to Eureka Springs, Arkansas, the vibe shifts to "Victorian Romance in the Ozarks." This town is famous for its winding streets, historic architecture, and hidden underground spots.
Here are five "must-visit" hotspots for Valentine's Day 2025, ranging from a wine cave dinner to a haunted hotel adventure.
1. Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave
The Vibe: Intimate "Bodega" Dining Since you liked the idea of a "bodega" in Napa, this is the Eureka Springs equivalent. The restaurant is built into the solid rock of a hillside, creating a cave-like atmosphere with a continuously running spring inside the dining room.
Why it's perfect for couples: It is dark, moody, and smells incredible (thanks to the wood-fired grill). It feels like a secret hideaway.
Menu Highlight: They are famous for their Wood-Fired Steaks and Smoked Duck. For a romantic shareable starter, order the "Bone Marrow" or the "Grilled Bread with Compound Butter."
Note: This is arguably the hardest reservation to get in town for Valentine's Day. Book now.
2. The 1886 Crescent Hotel (Valentine’s Dinner & Ghost Tour)
The Vibe: Spooky High-End Romance Known as "America's Most Haunted Hotel," this Victorian hilltop castle offers a unique mix of luxury and chills.
Valentine's Special 2025: They are hosting a confirmed Valentine’s Day Dinner on Friday, Feb 14, 2025, in the Crystal Dining Room ($75 per person). The menu features Beef Tournedos and Seared Cod.
The Activity: After dinner, book the "Ghost Tour." It might sound anti-romantic, but holding hands while exploring the creepy morgue and dark hallways is a classic Eureka Springs couple’s bonding experience.
3. Keels Creek Winery
The Vibe: Boutique Vineyard & Art Gallery Located just outside the historic district, this winery uses locally grown Arkansas grapes (which have a unique, earthy flavor profile compared to California wines).
Why it's perfect for couples: It shares space with an art gallery, so you can sip wine while browsing local art. It feels cultured and quiet.
Recommendation: Try their Vignoles (a white wine that grows well in the Ozarks) or their Port-style wines, which are excellent for sipping slowly in winter weather.
4. Intrigue Theater
The Vibe: Victorian Illusion & Magic This isn't a cheesy magic show; it is a highly rated illusionist performance designed to feel like it’s taking place in the late 1800s. The venue is an old church, adding to the atmosphere.
Why it's perfect for couples: The "Illusionist & The Ghost Talker" show is mysterious and interactive. It fits the town’s "magic/spiritual" energy perfectly without being too intense.
Tip: It’s a seated show, making it a great "after-dinner" activity if you want to be entertained without having to walk around in the cold.
5. Spa 1905 (at the Basin Park Hotel)
The Vibe: Mineral Bath Relaxation Eureka Springs was founded as a spa town because of its healing waters. Spa 1905 is located in the historic Basin Park Hotel downtown.
The Experience: Book the "Duet Mineral Bath." You and your partner soak in a private tub filled with mineral-rich water, often infused with essential oils or CBD salts.
Why it's a hotspot: It is right in the center of town. After your soak, you are steps away from the best bars and balconies overlooking Spring Street.
6. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is one of the oldest cities in the US. Founded in 1733, Savannah has a rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage. It's also a popular destination for couples due to its scenic waterfront, thanks to the Savannah River.
The city is home to 22 historic squares, public spaces surrounded by buildings and oak-lined streets. Take a walk along these squares, and take in the stories of people who've laid the founding stones of Georgia and the United States.
Check out how to have the best weekend in Georgia.
How to get there
If you’re traveling from out of state, you can fly into Savannah through the Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). You can also drive there quickly from Charleston, South Carolina, or Jacksonville, Florida. If you're a fan of sea travel, you can take a cruise ship and stop at Savannah, as this city is a popular destination for several major cruise lines.
Where to stay
The Perry Lane, a romantic boutique hotel, is the ultimate travel gift this Valentine's for them. This chic hotel contains many sleek and modern rooms and an intimate rooftop bar. The Perry Lane sits in a central location, close to the city's top attractions. Travel to Savannah this Valentine's Day, and spend an intimate evening at one of the most romantic hotels in Georgia.
What to do
Check out the Historic District in Savannah, which holds a collection of well-preserved 19th-century homes and buildings. If you're a big fan of the supernatural world, indulge yourself with a ghost-walking tour, where you will learn more about the mysterious apparitions that still haunt the city.
As mentioned, take a stroll through the historic squares of Savannah to enjoy the city's beauty. Visit Chippewa Square, made famous by the movie Forrest Gump, and also for the statue of James Oglethorpe, the founder of Georgia.
Valentine's Day is the time to celebrate love in all shapes and sizes. This year, make it extra memorable by giving a travel gift, and remember to take this guide with you! Happy traveling!
For a couple's trip to Savannah, Georgia, the atmosphere is "Southern Gothic Romance"—think Spanish moss, cobblestones, and sipping cocktails while walking down the street (which is legal here!).
Here are five hotspots and must-visits for Valentine's Day 2025.
1. The Olde Pink House
The Vibe: The Quintessential Savannah Dinner This is the most famous restaurant in the city for a reason. Housed in a 1771 mansion (yes, it is actually pink), it offers multiple dining vibes: the elegant ballroom upstairs or the moody, candlelit "Planters Tavern" in the cellar.
Why it's perfect for couples: It is hauntingly beautiful. The cellar tavern, with its massive fireplaces and dark wood, feels incredibly intimate—perfect for a romantic "bodega" feel.
Recommendation: Order the "Crispy Scored Flounder" (their signature dish). Important: Reservations open months in advance and will sell out for Valentine's Day. If you can't get a table, try walking into the tavern bar downstairs right when they open.
2. Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Garden
The Vibe: Botanical Romance & River Views Located in the Plant Riverside District, this is currently the most romantic rooftop in Savannah. It is inspired by the flowers used in crowns for muses in classical mythology.
Why it's a hotspot: It isn't a rowdy bar; it's a garden in the sky. You get incredible views of the Savannah River and the massive cargo ships passing by, but the setting is lush, green, and full of flowers.
Recommendation: Go for a pre-dinner sunset cocktail. Try the "Botanist" gin cocktail and share a plate of their rabbit terrine or oysters.
3. Candlelight Concert: Valentine’s Day Special
The Vibe: Multi-sensory Musical Intimacy For Valentine's Day 2025, the "Candlelight" concert series is hosting a specific event: "Timeless Love Songs from Classic Films."
The Experience: These concerts are held in historic venues (often the DeSoto Savannah or a historic church) illuminated by thousands of flameless candles. A string quartet plays romantic scores (like Titanic, Casablanca, etc.).
Why it's perfect for couples: It is quiet, visually magical, and very emotional. It’s a sophisticated alternative to a loud bar.
Booking: Tickets for the February 14, 2025 show are already on sale and usually sell out by January.
4. Savannah Riverboat Cruise (Valentine’s Dinner)
The Vibe: Old School Southern Charm If you want the classic "movie moment," book the Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise on the Georgia Queen or Savannah River Queen.
The Experience: These are massive, red-paddle-wheeled steamboats. The Valentine’s package typically includes a 4-course dinner, a bottle of house wine or champagne, and live entertainment for dancing.
Why it's good: It takes the pressure off planning. You get dinner, drinks, entertainment, and sightseeing all in one two-hour block while floating down the river.
5. Ghost City Tours: "Love Gone Wrong"
The Vibe: Dark Humor & Spooky History Savannah is America's most haunted city. For February, this tour company often runs a special "Love Gone Wrong" tour (or you can take their standard "Dead of Night" tour).
Why it's perfect for couples: Instead of generic ghost stories, this focuses on tragic romances, crimes of passion, and scandalous affairs in Savannah's history. It’s a fun, slightly edgy way to hold hands and walk through the misty squares at night.
Tip: Savannah allows "to-go" cups. You can grab a drink from a bar and bring it with you on the walking tour.