Love Is in the Air
Instead of spending Valentine’s Day at home, why not venture out to uncover romantic destinations waiting to be explored across the country? Escaping with your significant other is even more special, and you don’t have to travel far, which is ideal during these times: Every state and Washington, D.C. offer charming places that are sure to impress.
**Alabama: Vulcan Park, Birmingham**
Located in Birmingham, Vulcan Park provides a fantastic bird’s-eye view of the city. The park is home to the impressive Vulcan statue, standing at 56 feet tall and recognized as the world’s largest cast iron statue. With peaceful picnic spots available, couples can even celebrate their love by tying the knot here.
**Alaska: Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau**
Mendenhall Glacier is easily accessible from Alaska’s capital, Juneau. While there are numerous trails to explore, the most romantic way to experience the glacier is by joining a tour company. If conditions permit, you might even have the chance to witness the mesmerizing blue ice caves of the glacier.
**Arizona: Yaki Point, Grand Canyon National Park**
With its breathtaking beauty, the Grand Canyon attracts many visitors, making it challenging to find a secluded spot to enjoy the view with your loved one. One lesser-known location worth visiting is Yaki Point, situated along the East Rim Drive. To admire the stunning buttes and mesas, visitors must park and embark on a short hike or catch a shuttle bus. The Grand Canyon is renowned for its exceptional hiking opportunities.
**Arkansas: Thorncrown Chapel, Eureka Springs**
Thorncrown Chapel boasts 425 windows and 6,000 square feet of glass, allowing the enchanting Ozark wilderness to steal the spotlight. Its striking design and soaring beams make it a popular choice for weddings while also welcoming visitors from March to December.
**California: Urban Light, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles**
Escape the city traffic on Wilshire Boulevard by taking an evening stroll through Urban Light, an installation at the entrance of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Comprising 202 vintage cast-iron street lamps, this free attraction, established in 2008, has become a beloved spot for couples seeking unique locations for engagement or wedding photos.
*Colorado: Red Rocks Amphitheater, Morrison**
Attending a concert is always a fantastic date idea, but doing so surrounded by stunning red rock formations at one of the nation’s most iconic music venues elevates the experience. Red Rocks Amphitheater, formed naturally, has hosted legendary acts like Sting, the Beatles, and U2 in a truly unique atmosphere. Prior to the show, you can explore the 738 scenic acres surrounding the amphitheater.
**Connecticut: Lover’s Leap State Park, New Milford**
Named Lover’s Leap, this park in Connecticut offers a romantic
Located in Wilmington, the Nemours Mansion was built by Alfred DuPont and features a French-style design that provides an elegant setting for a romantic afternoon. A highlight of the mansion is the “long walk” leading to a breathtaking reflecting pool with a 157-jet fountain surrounded by art nouveau sculptures. Visitors should not miss the Temple of Love, a timeless structure housing a statue of Diana the Huntress.
In Washington D.C., during the Cherry Blossom Season at Tidal Basin, love is in the air alongside the delightful fragrance of cherry blossoms. Taking a leisurely stroll along the Tidal Basin with a view of the Washington Monument is a romantic experience not to be missed. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, happening from March 20 to April 13 this year, offers additional opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the blossoms and explore romantic spots in the capital.
In St. Augustine, Florida, the oldest city in the nation, visitors can explore the historic district and seek out the renowned love trees—two trees entwined over time. Legend has it that couples who kiss beneath a love tree will stay inseparable. For a romantic getaway in Savannah, Georgia, Forsyth Park with its sprawling oaks and enchanting Spanish moss is a must-visit destination. The park’s iconic fountain, dating back to 1858, is a popular spot for photographs.
Makena Cove in Makena Beach State Park in Hawaii is a favorite spot for intimate sunset weddings. This “secret beach” offers lava rocks, white sand, and turquoise waters, providing a serene setting for romance. In Twin Falls, Idaho, Shoshone Falls offers a romantic view of a majestic waterfall, taller than Niagara Falls. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views from the Snake River Canyon Rim Trail or paddle in a kayak on the river below.
Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois, is an iconic destination perfect for a memorable date. With a variety of dining options, amusement rides, movies, live shows, and stunning views of the city skyline, Navy Pier provides a great atmosphere for a romantic outing. The West Baden Springs Hotel in Baden Springs, Indiana, boasts a magnificent domed atrium that illuminates with vibrant colors at night. Guests can indulge in Old World charm with afternoon tea, couples massages, or a leisurely carriage ride.
Lastly, in Winterset, Iowa, the Roseman Covered Bridge, featured in the film “The Bridges of Madison County,” exudes romantic allure. This picturesque bridge offers a charming setting for couples to enjoy a romantic escape.
In 1883, the bridge still stands in its original location in Winterset, spanning the Middle River and open only to foot traffic, making it a perfect spot for a romantic moment. In Kansas, you can experience a taste of retro romance at the Boulevard Drive-In Theatre in Kansas City. Transport yourself back to the 1950s from April to September with a drive-in movie experience. The Boulevard Drive-In boasts original features like the marquee, box office, and snack bar, and is the world’s first 4K high-definition drive-in. In Kentucky, visit Natural Bridge State Park in Slade for breathtaking vistas and the opportunity to cross the sandstone Natural Bridge or enjoy views from Lookout Point or Lover’s Leap. Take a Sky Lift to overlooks from April to October if hiking isn’t your thing. In Louisiana, head to Café Amelie in New Orleans for a quiet and romantic meal in a beautiful courtyard setting in the French Quarter. Enjoy the ambiance of the fountain, flowers, rustic carriage-house interiors, and brick buildings. For a romantic experience in Maine, visit Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park from October to March to witness the sunrise, making you among the first in America to see the sun. Accessible via paved roads from Bar Harbor, the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard offers equally stunning sunsets. City Dock in Annapolis, Maryland, is the heart of the charming city, offering picturesque views of Annapolis Harbor filled with sailboats. Take a break here after exploring Main Street and dine at a waterfront restaurant or take a tour of the Chesapeake Bay. In Massachusetts, the Boston Public Garden is America’s first public botanical garden, located near Boston Common. Enjoy a summertime stroll among statues and sculptures, and don’t miss a ride on the iconic swan boats across the park’s lagoon. Experience a leisurely pace on Mackinac Island, Michigan, where cars are not allowed. Explore the island’s shops, restaurants, and famous fudge on foot, bike, or horse. Relax in one of the rocking chairs on the Grand Hotel’s porch, or indulge in a romantic dinner in the hotel’s main dining room. In Minneapolis, Minnesota, the Stone Arch Bridge offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and skyline. Made of granite and limestone, this former railroad bridge is now a popular spot for proposals in the Twin Cities.
Natchez: Monmouth Estate
This historic mansion and its meticulously maintained gardens spanning 26 acres offer a glimpse into the past, acknowledging its complex history intertwined with enslaved individuals. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, Monmouth was constructed in 1818 and serves as a popular venue for couples tying the knot. Situated just minutes away from the charming downtown area of Natchez, visitors can enjoy carriage tours, galleries, antique shops, restaurants, and historic homes nearby.
Missouri: Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins
Explore the enchanting ruins of Ha Ha Tonka, reminiscent of a European castle, perched atop a bluff overlooking a secluded section of the Lake of the Ozarks. Originally envisioned by a wealthy entrepreneur, the mansion was completed posthumously in 1920 and later ravaged by fire in 1942.
Montana: Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park
Take in the breathtaking views of Lake McDonald within Glacier National Park, offering a picturesque setting for a romantic moment with your loved one. During the warmer seasons, visitors can embark on a short hike or enjoy a leisurely cruise or paddle boat ride. In the evening, the rustic charm of the Swiss chalet-style Lake McDonald Lodge adds a touch of romance to the experience.
Nebraska: Sunken Gardens, Lincoln
The Sunken Gardens in Lincoln may be small in size but pack a punch with their ever-changing themes, such as “Purple Reign” and “Sun Salutations.” A lovely pavilion provides a serene setting for introspection or a romantic garden wedding, surrounded by features like a waterfall, lily ponds, a Healing Garden filled with white blooms, and ample lawn space perfect for a picnic.
Nevada: Bellagio Hotel, Las Vegas
Escape the neon lights of Las Vegas and find a moment of luxury at the Bellagio. Witness the mesmerizing fountain show choreographed to music every 15 to 30 minutes, offering a dazzling backdrop for a proposal. Inside, the hotel’s conservatory and botanical garden provide a tranquil respite amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
New Hampshire: Ice Castle, Lincoln
Experience the magic of a winter stroll through the Ice Castle in Lincoln, comprised of walls of ice up to 10 feet thick. Illuminated by colorful LED lights, the castle transforms into a fairy-tale-like spectacle at night, best enjoyed during the coldest winter days when the attraction is at its most enchanting.
New Jersey: Duke Farms, Hillsborough Township
Covering over 2,000 acres with nine man-made lakes, Duke Farms offers ample space for couples seeking quiet moments together. The Orchid Range, a glass conservatory showcasing a diverse array of tropical and subtropical orchid species, is a must-see attraction within the expansive estate.
New Mexico: Sandia Peak Tramway, Albuquerque
Embark on a breathtaking 15-minute tram ride spanning 2.7 miles through desert canyons and mountains
Manhattan: Overlooking the Hudson River, this park offers stunning views and vibrant flowers year-round. It is home to the Met Cloisters, showcasing the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s medieval collection with elegant stone arches and a leafy courtyard.
North Carolina: Biltmore Estate Gardens in Asheville boasts opulent and well-maintained gardens at the nation’s largest privately owned residence. Visitors can enjoy romantic walks, proposals, or dreamy weddings amidst highlights like the azalea garden, classical Italian garden, walled garden, conservatory, and a rose garden with over 250 bloom varieties.
North Dakota: In Medora, the Maah Daah Hey Trail stretches 144 miles, offering couples a chance to immerse themselves in North Dakota’s wind-swept beauty. The trail accommodates biking, hiking, horseback riding, and other non-motorized activities, connecting Theodore Roosevelt National Park areas with camping options along the way.
Ohio: Schiller Park in Columbus is the heart of the historic German Village neighborhood, featuring gas lamps, charming shops, and brick sidewalks for a nostalgic feel. The park’s lush gardens, sculptures, and a serene pond create the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll after dining at one of the neighborhood’s cozy eateries.
Oklahoma: Natural Falls State Park in Colcord showcases a 77-foot waterfall near the Arkansas border, evoking a fairytale ambiance as it cascades into a secluded pool. The park, which served as a filming location for parts of “Where the Red Fern Grows,” offers observation platforms and hiking trails for couples seeking a woodland adventure.
Oregon: Portland Japanese Garden is a top botanical garden known for its traditional Japanese design in lush Portland. Visitors can enjoy a romantic and reflective walk amidst features like the Moon Bridge, Heavenly Falls, a tea house, and views of Mount Hood on clear days.
Pennsylvania: Smith Memorial Arch in Philadelphia’s expansive Fairmount Park consists of two elegant arches with a unique feature. The stone seats at the base of each arch, known as “whispering benches,” allow sweet nothings to be whispered into one bench and heard from the other despite the distance.
Rhode Island: Cliff Walk in Newport, a National Recreation Trail, offers a 3.5-mile scenic route with sweeping sea views and glimpses of opulent Gilded Age mansions. Notable stops include The Breakers, Cornelius Vanderbilt’s summer residence, and Rosecliff Mansion, a filming location for “The Great Gatsby.”
South Carolina: The Angel Oak Tree on Johns Island, estimated to be 400 to 500 years old, features massive, twisted branches that create a mystical atmosphere. Visitors can marvel at this ancient tree’s beauty and history in a serene setting.
Discover romantic spots across the United States to explore with your loved one. A picturesque live oak near Charleston, South Dakota’s Falls Park with its stunning falls, Tennessee’s Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains, and Texas’s Marriage Island in San Antonio are just a few examples. Utah’s La Caille restaurant in Sandy and Vermont’s Hildene Estate in Manchester offer beautiful settings for a romantic evening. Virginia’s Lovework sculpture in Cape Charles, Washington’s Kerry Park in Seattle, and West Virginia’s The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs are also perfect for a romantic getaway.
Are you planning to tie the knot soon? If so, look no further than the breathtaking 500-seat chapel nestled in Wisconsin, known as Boynton Chapel in Baileys Harbor. This charming wooden chapel is designed in the style of a 12th-century Stavkirke, resembling a Norwegian stave church, making it a picturesque setting for romantic couples and curious tourists alike. Inside, you’ll find 41 exquisite hand-painted frescoes, adding to the chapel’s allure. Surrounding the chapel, a vast expanse of woods sprawls across 425 acres towards the stunning Lake Michigan. The Baileys Harbor chapel is a popular venue for intimate weddings and offers guided tours twice a week during the summer season.
For a truly rejuvenating experience, head to Granite Hot Springs in Jackson, Wyoming, hidden amidst the serene Bridger-Teton National Forest. This natural thermal pool provides the perfect setting for a relaxing soak regardless of the season. Couples looking to unwind can earn their relaxation time by engaging in various outdoor activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, or even exhilarating whitewater rafting in the nearby area. To enjoy a more private experience, winter is recommended, as the road leading to the springs can only be accessed via snowmobile, dogsled, ski, or fat-tire bikes.
For more travel guides and vacation tips, make sure to subscribe to our free newsletters. Discover budget-friendly attractions and accommodations for your next adventure. This article was first featured on Cheapism and is filled with valuable insights for travelers seeking memorable and affordable experiences. Whether you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, exploring American tourist traps, or discovering the best of California on a budget, Cheapism has got you covered. Additionally, find out about exclusive travel benefits for veterans and service members, and explore unique Airbnb and Vrbo rentals that double as perfect wedding venues. Start planning your dream getaway today!
