Top 12 Valentine's Day Getaways in the US

Looking for a romantic Valentine’s Day destinations to surprise your significant other? What would be more romantic than stargazing from a hot tub in the desert? Or what about spending the day nestled in a cozy cabin by the fire?

We’ve come up with a list of our Top Valentine’s Day destinations getaways, to help you on your quest.

New York, NY

No list of a Valentine’s Day destinations would be complete without New York. If you’re looking for a fantastic Valentine’s getaway in the United States, there’s no better place than New York City. Even though the city is chilly in February, there are some fantastic NYC winter date ideas to warm you both right up.

Head to the top of the Empire State Building, which had a starring role in classic romantic movies like Sleepless in Seattle and An Affair To Remember, to see the view of New York City from above. Then, spend your evening on a romantic boat cruise on the Hudson River, where you’ll get to beautiful views of the city twinkling at night.

And although most of the holiday markets have closed by the 14th, the Winter Village in Bryant Park is open until March. Wander through the shopping stalls before making your way to the ice skating rink, another iconic romantic activity in the City That Never Sleeps.

Napa Valley, California

If you’re looking for a unique and romantic Valentine’s Day destination, don’t overlook the scenic Napa Valley, one of the best US vacation spots (even in the dead of winter).

Napa Valley is known for its endless vineyards and peaceful countryside scenery. Going there for a Valentine’s getaway means enjoying exquisite wine without the pesky crowds of the high season.

There are countless wine tours you can take in Napa Valley, but the most unmissable one is at the Castello di Amorosa, where you get a romantic view of an ancient Italian castle while sipping delicious local wine.

To make things even more romantic, take a hot air balloon ride for a dreamy bird’s-eye view of the scenic rolling hills and elegant estates of the region. There are also plenty of helicopter rides in Napa Valley for the more adventurous souls!

Looking for a romantic date night? Head to some of the many acclaimed restaurants of the region, such as Morimoto and The French Laundry.

Charleston, SC

Known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and small-town vibes, Charleston, South Carolina is the perfect place for a Valentine’s Day Getaway. Voted the “Most Romantic City in America” by Travel and Leisure, a weekend in Charleston for Valentine’s Day will leave you enchanted.

One of the most romantic things to do in Charleston is to sail off into the sunset. Hop aboard a sailboat cruise before sunset and enjoy some champagne while looking for dolphins. The Battery is one of Charleston’s most popular sights. It’s a seawall promenade with views of Fort Sumter and the Sullivan Island Lighthouse, which makes it the perfect spot for a picnic.

Afterward, head over to Rainbow Row and wander around this row of colorful houses. Other romantic things to do in Charleston include watching a show at the Dock Street Theatre, seeing the Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park, enjoying a drink at a rooftop bar, and indulging in a romantic dinner for two.

Sedona, Arizona

If you’re looking for a perfect romantic getaway, look no further than Sedona. It’s such a picturesque place with striking red rock buttes everywhere you turn. And in February, you might get lucky and get a light snow which provides a perfect contrast against the red rock.

Sedona is filled with lots of small shops and galleries begging to be explored. The area is also prime for hiking, and there are many trails around town with gorgeous views. Or, walk along the soothing Oak Creek to get away from crowds and a step further into nature. 

It’s such a romantic area, with lots of great small restaurants and cute boutique hotels. Sedona makes for an amazing day trip or weekend getaway from Phoenix as it’s only a couple of hours away.

Lake Tahoe, California / Nevada

Easily reached from San Francisco, California, Lake Tahoe is the prime destination for the ultimate winter experience. Picture frosty treetops, a deep blue lake, white summits lightened up by the sun. All while nestled in a cozy wooden house, warming up by the fire.

Go ice skating or on a horse sleigh ride in South Lake Tahoe, board a gondola in Heavenly for sweeping views of the snow-covered Sierra Nevada mountains. Enjoy a spa treatment or massage. Savor a gourmet meal in one of the top restaurants around Incline Village or Truckee on the North Shore. Lake Tahoe in winter is a fairy-tale come true, with picturesque landscape, charming small villages, and luxury resorts. Downhill skiing and snowboarding or dog mushing will make for a memorable visit for more adventurous spirits looking to spice up their stay.

Leavenworth, WA

The little Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth Washington is nestled among the volcanic Cascade Mountain range. It boasts a magical downtown area with themed architecture, unique shops, amazing restaurants, bars, tasting rooms, and breweries. Folks from all over love strolling through the village. It is like being dropped into a German town in the alps.

Leavenworth village makes for a great romantic getaway for couples, whether choosing a downtown location overlooking the square or renting a Washington cabin with alpine views. Make sure to stop off at München Haus for a sausage and beer and Gustav’s restaurant offers an amazing Reuben sandwich. Whistlepunk Icecream Co is a perfect choice for dessert after dinner. For Late night drinks and music, your best bet would be the Loft Bar and Grill, Ducks and Drakes, or the Post Office Saloon.

Maui, Hawaii

A perfect blend of blissful relaxation and soft adventure can be found in Maui. The island’s romantic decor of golden beaches, turquoise waters and lush rainforest will take you to cloud nine in no time. Watch the sunrise from the summit of the Haleakala volcano, chase waterfalls, explore the mystical mountains by horseback, embark on a tropical road trip, watch breaching humpback whales, indulge in an oceanfront couples massage, sip cocktails on the beach at sunset and enjoy a delightful dinner under the stars.

You’ll find a variety of romantic places to stay on Maui, from gorgeous resorts in Wailea and Kapalua to secluded cottages in the Kula mountains and dreamy rainforest retreats along the Hana highway.

Cape May, NJ

The historic seaside town of Cape May New Jersey may just be the perfect destination for a Valentine’s Day destinations getaway for you and your sweetheart.

Start your couples retreat with a bit of pampering at the Cape May Day Spa. Try their side-by-side couples massage or one of their packages. Their spa treatments are pure aah! Bundle up and stroll hand in hand through the pedestrian mall in the center of town. Following your walk, warm up with a cocktail beside the fireplace at the Brown Room inside the historic Congress Hall.

But one of the most romantic ways to experience the beautiful Victorian architecture of this town is by sharing a carriage ride. Snuggle together as horse hooves clip-clop along the gaslit side streets of this National Historic Landmark.

For an intimate stay that includes dining at the award-winning Ebbitt Room, consider the 24-room Virginia Hotel, located on historic Jackson Street.

Joshua Tree National Park

Located in California’s high desert, Joshua Tree is an ideal location for a Valentine’s Day getaway. The National Park’s distinctive landscape filled with spiny trees and piles of boulders is fun to explore as a couple. Nights are particularly lovely in the desert, especially when viewed from a hot tub with your significant other by your side.

Joshua Tree features miles of hiking trails that criss-cross the park for all skill levels. If you’re looking for one of the best hikes in Joshua tree, start with Barker Dam Nature Trail. This easy loop leads to a hidden oasis and showcases some incredible scenery. For more of a challenge, try the Panorama Loop or Fortynine Palms Oasis Trails.

Helen, Georgia

The Alpine town of Helen is one of the most romantic destinations in Georgia. Its breathtaking beauty is inclusive of the rolling Appalachian mountains, sprawling vineyards, gushing waterfalls and Bavarian architectures. Book a rental cabin at Black Forest B&B to spend your days exploring the charming town and your nights snuggled by a cosy fireplace.

Go tubing over the Chattahoochee river to soak in the beauty of the tranquil riverside. Make your way to the Unicoi state park or hike up the half mile trail to the twin waterfalls at Anna Ruby Falls. For a romantic meal with your special someone, make a reservation at the Sky Bar in Valhalla Resort. This patio style bar is a great place for seeing the sunset over the Blue Ridge mountains. Whether you are looking for a relaxing time or an outdoorsy trip with your spouse, Helen is sure to sweeten up your love life.

Temecula, CA

Located just an hour from San Diego, Temecula, California, is the perfect romantic spot for your Valentine’s Day getaway this year.

With over 45 wineries and vineyards spanning 33,000 miles, Temecula is a great place for a relaxing weekend of wine tasting at the best wineries in Temecula—including Wilson Creek Winery, Cougar Winery and Vineyard, and Robert Renzoni Vineyards.

When you’re not wine tasting, Old Town Temecula has plenty to offer, from fabulous restaurants, like Public House, to line dancing at Temecula Stampede. On Saturday, you can also peruse the local fruits, flowers, and other goods at the Old Town Temecula Farmer’s Market if you’re in town.

If you’re looking for an incredibly romantic experience, consider booking a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the wine country or a romantic horseback ride through the vineyards.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg is a picturesque town tucked away in Texas Hill Country. It’s known for wineries, German heritage and beautiful scenery. The town is easily reachable from San Antonio or Austin and is the perfect spot to have a relaxing weekend stay in a bed and breakfast or go glamping in the countryside near town.
Some of the best things to do in Fredericksburg include touring a winery, picking a boutique at Wildseed Farms, antique shopping on Main Street and hiking at nearby Enchanted Rock State Park. Whether you are interested in Texas wineries with countryside views or are searching for a charming small town to explore, Fredericksburg is the perfect destination for a romantic trip.