Looking for a uniquely romantic Valentine’s Day experience? Look no further than historic Williamsburg, Virginia, where colonial charm meets modern romance. From candlelit tavern dinners to outdoor adventures, this picturesque town offers countless ways to celebrate love this February.
Picture-Perfect Moments at LOVEworks
The slogan for Virginia is “Virginia Is for Lovers.” That slogan is further exemplified through more than 300 LOVEworks art installations throughout the state. Ten of these creative pieces of art are within 30 minutes of Williamsburg. Visit as many as you can in one day for a photo shoot at each:
- New Town: Located in Pecan Square Park, the installation is available day and night.
- Williamsburg Winery: Wine barrels and grape vines help create this LOVE.
- Quirks of Art: You can find this 8-foot-tall LOVE along the Virginia Capital Trail.
- Wagsters Magic Theater: This one is located inside the theater lobby so you may want to consider getting tickets to one of the magic shows on Valentine’s weekend.
- Waller Mill Park: Disc golf, a dog park, kayaking, fishing, and canoeing are all represented in this LOVE.
- Windchaser Meadery: Find the honey bee themed LOVE inside the meadery.
- Freedom Park: Explore the whimsy of James City County at this LOVE in a park.
- Dough Haus: Do you love coffee, donuts, and pizza? If so, you will adore this LOVE painting.
- Yorktown Waterfront: The York River serves as the backdrop to photos at this LOVE.
- Whitley’s Peanuts in Gloucester: Celebrate all things Gloucester County.
- Traveling via car to Williamsburg? See if there are more LOVEworks along your drive by using the handy map.
Elegant Dining Experiences
Colonial Williamsburg has many romantic dining establishments. These five restaurants are offering special Valentine’s Day menus. Reservations are highly recommended and will fill up quickly.
- The Rockefeller Room – The crown jewel of Valentine’s dining in Williamsburg, The Rockefeller Room at the Williamsburg Inn presents an intimate fine dining experience. This year’s Valentine’s menu features a prix-fixe tasting experience with optional wine pairings. The Rockefeller Room requests an evening elegant casual dress code.
- Christiana Campbell’s Tavern – Step back in time at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern, where candlelight flickers against colonial decor and servers in period attire present seafood specialties that would have delighted George Washington himself. Their Valentine’s Day service includes a special three-course prix-fixe menu alongside their regular dinner offerings.
- The Terrace and Goodwin Rooms – Looking for a relaxed yet refined atmosphere? The dress code at the Terrace and Goodwin Rooms is resort casual. The limited time menu has an optional wine pairing.
- Sweet Tea & Barley – This southern-inspired restaurant puts a modern twist on Valentine’s Day with their four-course prix-fixe menu. Note that this event is for adults ages 21 and over.
- Cochon on 2nd – For a more intimate setting, Cochon on 2nd presents a specially curated Valentine’s menu highlighting local ingredients. Their wine cellar provides perfect pairings for each course.
Other Culinary Delights
- Copper Fox Distillery – Candlelight and a violin serenade will transform the distillery into a Valentine’s Day dessert event. A reservation for two includes a whiskey flight for each person and a dessert flight to share. The event is being hosted on both February 14 and 15.
- Valentine Afternoon Tea at the Williamsburg Inn – The Williamsburg Inn’s legendary afternoon tea in the Goodwin Room takes on a romantic twist for Valentine’s Day. Expect heart-shaped pastries, chocolate-covered strawberries, and special blend teas served on fine china. The experience is available each afternoon on February 12, 13, and 14.
- Traditions in the Williamsburg Inn: Whiskey and Chocolate Experience – At Traditions in the Williamsburg Inn, couples can indulge in a guided tasting of premium whiskeys paired with artisanal chocolates. Live jazz music accompanies the event adding to the romantic atmosphere.
Festive Fun
- Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens – The Carnival Season technically begins on January 6 and the culminates with Mardi Gras on March 4. Busch Gardens celebrates Mardi Gras from January 24 through March 9. Since it coincides with Valentine’s season, this celebration offers a vibrant alternative to traditional romance. Couples can enjoy New Orleans-inspired cuisine, a captivating cirque show, special night rides on the park’s thrilling coasters, and lots of Big Easy energy. This year is extra special as it is the 50th year that Busch Gardens Williamsburg has celebrated Mardi Gras.
- Ice Skating at Colonial Williamsburg – Liberty Ice Pavilion in Colonial Williamsburg provides a romantic winter setting for couples. Evening sessions feature twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere for both skilled skaters and beginners. Romantic movies set in cold locations always seem to feature a couple skating hand in hand. Create your own movie moment in Williamsburg then warm up with some hot cider. The ice skating rink is open until February 28 so you can celebrate on Valentine’s Day or choose another day in February to make your own romance.
Local Flavor: Winter Williamsburg Farmers Market
On Saturday mornings, Merchants Square hosts the Williamsburg Farmer’s Market, where couples can browse local artisanal products, fresh flowers, and Valentine’s-themed treats. Local vendors often feature special holiday items like hand-dipped chocolates and heart-shaped breads. The winter market season runs January 18 through February 22.
Alternative Celebrations
- Anti-Valentine’s Day Party – For those seeking a different approach to February 14th, Revolution Golf and Grille hosts their annual Anti-Valentine’s Day Party. Rent a suite to play indoor virtual golf for a couple hours. Enjoy a dinner of typical grille-style food. Wings anyone? (The couple that get messy together, stays together.) Stay for the evening entertainment and dance as 80s cover band Barry Manilow’s Wardrobe plays all of your favorites.
- Death Trap at Williamsburg Players – For couples who prefer thrills to traditional romance, the Williamsburg Players present “Death Trap,” a cleverly crafted thriller-comedy perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their Valentine’s celebration. Valentine’s Day weekend is your last chance to catch this show at the community theater.
Romantic Accommodations
A Williamsburg White House has nine elegant rooms and suites for your Valentine’s Day getaway in Williamsburg. The inn is a short 4 block walk from Colonial Williamsburg and many shops and restaurants. Their Valentines Day is Everyday in Williamsburg package includes champagne and a small cheese board. The flute glasses are yours to keep as a memento of your trip.
Whether you prefer traditional romance or unique celebrations, Williamsburg offers something for every couple this Valentine’s Day. Remember to make reservations well in advance, as special Valentine’s events and dining experiences tend to fill quickly. Most venues also offer gift certificates, perfect for those looking to give the gift of a memorable experience to their special someone.