With so many incredible restaurants in Philly, a nice dinner out is always a classic way to spend Valentine’s Day. But if you want to get a little more creative this year, here are a few ideas. We’ve also included some tips of where to go, featuring our 2018 Happening List finalists and winners. And remember, if you’d like to vote for your favorite spots in Philadelphia for the 2019 Happening List, click here.
Museum
Museums are great places for a date! The lighting is often dim, there are plenty of things to look at and spark conversation, and learning something new is always fun.
Tip: The Franklin Institute was the 2018 Happening List Winner for Best Museum. While there are always new things to discover throughout the museum, there are also several special events during the month of February such as “Night Skies in the Joel N. Bloom Observatory” on February 12, “Laugh it Up Philly” on February 15 and 16 and “Science After Hours: Love & Lust” on February 26.
Are you and your date more interested in art? The Barnes Foundation was voted Best Art Gallery in the 2018 Happening List. During the month of February, there is a spotlight tour featuring Henry Matisse, his relationship with Dr. Barnes, and why he is considered one of the cornerstones of modernist art.
Painting Party
Just about everyone has attended a canvas or wood painting party these days for a “Girls Night,” but what about for a date? Getting creative together is fun way to unwind while you show your artistic side. This is also great if you’re looking for something to do with a group.
Tip: Painting with a Twist (South Philly) was the 2018 Happening List Winner for Group Outing and Finalist for Date Night. Several classes offered during the week of Valentine’s Day are themed especially for couples.
Bed & Breakfast
For many people, the only time you spend a night away from home is when you’re traveling or going to an event like a wedding. But there’s really something special about getting away from the daily routines of home life, even if you’re staying somewhere nearby. Treat yourself and your loved one to a night at a local bed and breakfast so you can really relax and enjoy each other’s company.
Tip: Morris House Hotel is a 2018 Happening List Winner for Bed & Breakfast and Finalist for Romantic Escape. The boutique hotel’s restaurant, M Restaurant, is offering a $75 four-course prix fixe menu for the holiday.
Get Pampered
In a world where almost everyone is busy, busy, busy, taking time to relax and pamper yourselves can be a wonderful way to spend a day with your special someone. You’ll feel refreshed, more attractive and more confident. And who doesn’t want to feel like that on Valentine’s Day?!
Tip: Rescue Spa was the 2018 Happening List Winner for Day Spa, and it’s one of the very few places in the area that carries the skincare line with a cult-like following – Biologique Recherche.
Comedy Show
Love to laugh? Take your date to one of Philly’s comedy shows.
Tip: The N Crowd was the 2018 Happening List Winner for Amusement. The improv group performs every Friday night at 7 p.m., so you can keep the V-Day celebrating all weekend by attending the February 15 show.
