The Ultimate Valentine’s Date Ideas in Charlottesville, Virginia
Virginia is for lovers! Even in the winter months, Virginia Wine Country is still one of my favorite places to be. Red wines sound more appealing, fireplaces are lit, and the mountains covered in snow are breathtaking! It’s also February, the perfect excuse to snuggle up and experience some fun Valentine’s Date Ideas. Over the years, my fiance and I have done stay-cations and dining experiences in Charlottesville and wine country. Keep reading to see my favorite spots and experiences to check out this winter season with your loved one.
Where to Stay
The Farmhouse at Veritas
This cute bed and breakfast right in the heart of Virginia wine country is on the top of my list for places to stay. The Farmhouse at Veritas is located on the same property as Veritas Winery surrounded by vines and mountains. Each room in the bed and breakfast is different, but all of them are quaint, comfy, and include the same perks. You’re greeted with a bottle of wine in your room, the common areas have complimentary cookies, coffee, and soft drinks, and don’t miss the happy hour at 5 pm! Grab a spot by the fire and enjoy an amuse-bouche plate with the wine of your choice.
Be sure to reserve a spot at their Prix fix dinner. They switch up the menu every weekend! Gaby, the inn manager, even texted me a picture of the menu for the night so we knew what to expect. You’ll find local Virginia cuisine with delicious Virginia wine pairings to match. And don’t worry you won’t go hungry because breakfast is included too. Pastries, a hot meal, and all four necessary brunch drinks – Champagne, Orange Juice, Coffee, Water.
During your stay, you can visit Veritas Winery, or other wineries in the area (there are a ton of them – you can check out my blog post on Wineries Near Charlottesville here).
Valentine’s Date Ideas
Educational Wine Tasting Experience
The Estate Tour & Tasting at Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyards is not only a perfect date idea but also incredible if you are looking to learn more about Virginia wine. Start off with a brief tour of the vineyards to learn about the viticulture story, followed by a tasting of library wines with food pairing bites. Following the tasting, you will get a glass of your favorite wine and be seated at a table featuring two Pippin Hill signature dishes. If you’re interested in this experience you can call or email to book – mention my name and I could be your wine guide!
Winter Wine Picnic
If you aren’t interested in dining out, plan a picnic! Even in the colder months, a picnic or cozy night in can be the perfect valentine’s date idea. Bring lots of blankets and a portable fire pit – or just picnic in front of the fireplace! In Charlottesville, there are so many cute markets and wine shops that will have everything you need to create an adorable picnic set up – wine, charcuterie, artisan cheese, and local goodies. Here are a few of my favorites:
If you need some inspiration for your menu, check out these Aphrodisiac Food & Wine Pairings that are perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Fancy French Date Night at Fleurie
If you’re looking for the ultimate valentine’s dinner date, Fleurie on the downtown mall in Charlottesville will be sure to warm your hearts and bellies! The exquisite French food and extensive wine list make for a fancy and filling romantic dinner.
Prix Fixe Menu with Wine Pairings at Broadcloth
One of the newer restaurants in town, Broadcloth, is known for its Prix fix food and wine pairing events. Although the reservations are limited and currently only on Friday and Saturday nights, the local cuisine and tasting menu to match is divine.
Guests may select from the following dinner service options:
- 4 Course | $60 per person
- 6 Course | $90 per person
- Chef’s Tasting Menu (8-10 courses; chef-selected) | $135 Beverage pairing available
Couples Massage at Halo Salt Spa
What’s more romantic than a spa day with a couples massage?! If you’re near downtown Charlottesville, Halo Salt Spa is a great spot to book a massage with your loved one. Choose from one of their affordable but quality massage options, or sit in their salt room or infrared sauna.
Afternoon Wine at Tilman’s
Once you’ve finished up your couples massage, head over to Tilman’s for happy hour. Most weekdays 3-6 enjoy one of their happy hour specials for food and wine. Pro tip: if you’re in the mood for a whole bottle, grab one from the shelf and just pay for the corkage fee. It usually ends up being cheaper than their bottle options from the menu!
Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard
A vineyard is always at the top of my list, on a regular day and especially for a Valentine’s Date idea. Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard has become such a fun and popular place to hang out for great food and wine! Check out their special Valentine’s Day menu.
Public Fish & Oyster Happy Hour
This is one of my favorite restaurants in Charlottesville. My favorite part is the happy hour where you can get discounted oysters! Be sure to pair them with a fantastic wine. 😉
Experiences and NightLife for Valentine’s Date Ideas
Body & Soul Valentine’s Party
If you’re in the mood for the ultimate party and club vibe, check out this Body & Soul Valentine’s Party put on by FunCville. The ticket includes access to the beautiful venue, DJ all night, and a cash bar. Saturday February 12th at 8:00pm – 2:00pm. Purchase tickets here!
Late Night Speakeasy Drinks
In addition to the fun daytime breweries and wineries, Charlottesville has some pretty cool spots to check out for late-night vibes. You can’t go wrong with exploring the Downtown Mall and popping into the many different bars and restaurants. But a local’s secret: check out The Alley Light and Lost Saint speakeasy bars. These cozy spots have an intimate atmosphere with incredible drinks. Try the dealer’s choice at Alley Light if you want a surprise craft cocktail.
