Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to slow down, get dressed up (or stay cozy), and enjoy a little extra time with the people you love. Whether you want a romantic night out, a casual daytime date, or something sweet and low-key at home, the DMV is full of ways to celebrate. Below are our favorite Valentine’s Day ideas across Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland, including romantic restaurants, fun date ideas, and simple ways to make the day special.
1. Plan a Romantic Dinner Out
If you’re looking for a classic Valentine’s dinner, the DMV has no shortage of incredible restaurants with the perfect atmosphere. These spots are known for great service, memorable menus, and romantic vibes.
Romantic Restaurants in DC
- Le Diplomate (14th Street) – Classic French brasserie, always a favorite for date night=
- The Dabney (Shaw) – Elevated Mid-Atlantic cuisine with a warm, intimate setting
- Fiola (Penn Quarter) – A splurge-worthy Italian option perfect for a special occasion
- Rasika (Penn Quarter / West End) – Beautiful Indian dishes and an excellent celebratory feel
- The Inn at Little Washington (worth the drive!) – Iconic fine dining experience if you want to go all out
- Rose’s Luxury (Capitol Hill) – Creative and unforgettable tasting-style dining
- Iron Gate (Dupont Circle) – One of the most romantic patios in DC
- Bresca (14th Street) – Michelin-starred, cozy, and ideal for a special night
- St. Anselm (Union Market) – A polished, upbeat steakhouse date night
Romantic Restaurants in Northern Virginia
- The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm (Lovettsville) – Gorgeous views and an unforgettable tasting menu
- 2941 Restaurant (Falls Church) – Elegant and polished, great for a special night out
- Virtue Feed & Grain (Old Town Alexandria) – Cozy and romantic by the water
- Josephine (Old Town Alexandria) – French-inspired and charming, with a lovely vibe
- Ada’s on the River (Old Town Alexandria) – Waterfront dining with a lively, romantic atmosphere
- The Study at Morrison House (Old Town Alexandria) – Cozy, intimate, and perfect for cocktails and small plates
- Landini Brothers (Old Town Alexandria) – Classic Italian, candlelit, and timeless
- Mia’s Italian Kitchen (Old Town Alexandria) – Warm, fun, and always a solid date-night choice
Romantic Restaurants in Maryland
- Charleston (Baltimore) – A classic for an upscale, multi-course dining experience
- Monarque (Baltimore) – French-inspired and beautifully designed
- La Cuchara (Baltimore) – Spanish-style tapas and a very romantic vibe
- Tagliata (Baltimore) – A stylish Italian spot with great energy
- Petit Louis Bistro (Baltimore) – Romantic French bistro with classic charm
- The Prime Rib (Baltimore) – Old-school, elegant, and special
Pro Tip: Valentine’s Day weekend fills up quickly. Make reservations early, or book a Thursday or Sunday dinner for an easier (and often calmer) experience.
Looking for more top spots for food and drink in the DMV? Check out these posts next:
2. Try a Fun Valentine’s Day Date (Beyond Dinner)
If you want to do something memorable, here are a few ideas that feel special without requiring a full formal dinner plan.
Classic Valentine’s Experiences
- Couples spa day (or even just a massage + lunch combo)
- A tasting menu or chef’s counter experience
- Wine tasting in Virginia (perfect for a day trip)
- Cooking class or dessert-making class
- A concert or theater date at The Kennedy Center, The Anthem, or a local venue
Seasonal, Cozy Date Ideas
- Visit a museum in DC, then grab a late lunch or coffee nearby
- Walk along the Old Town Alexandria waterfront, then end with cocktails or dessert
- Hot chocolate + bookshop date (simple but surprisingly romantic)
3. Do a Valentine’s Day Sweet Treat Date
You don’t need a full dinner plan to make the day feel special. Sometimes dessert plus a cozy outing is the best date.
Dessert Spots We Love!
- Baked & Wired (Georgetown)
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams (multiple DMV locations)
- Dolcezza Gelato (DC + Arlington)
- Alexandria Cupcake (Old Town)
Pro Tip: If reservations are hard to get, do dessert and drinks instead. It feels festive without the stress.
4. Have a Cozy Valentine’s Night In
Staying home can be the best kind of Valentine’s Day, especially when you make it feel intentional. These are easy ideas that still feel special.
At-Home Valentine’s Day Ideas
- Cook a favorite meal together or order from a go-to restaurant
- Build a charcuterie board and wine night
- Movie night with a theme (rom-coms, old classics, or awards season picks)
- DIY dessert bar (cookies, chocolate-dipped strawberries, etc.)
- Write each other a simple note (short, genuine, and meaningful)
5. Decor and Hosting Ideas (If You’re Celebrating at Home)
If you’re hosting friends or keeping things simple at home, small touches go a long way.
Easy Valentine’s Decor
- Fresh flowers (even grocery store flowers look great in a vase)
- Candles and soft lighting
- A simple red, pink, or neutral tablescape
- A heart-shaped dessert or themed treat tray
Final Thought
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be elaborate to be meaningful. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner out, doing something fun during the day, or keeping it cozy at home, the best celebrations are the ones that feel true to you.
If you’d like help planning your perfect Valentine’s Day weekend (or scouting neighborhoods with the best date-night spots), our team is always happy to share recommendations.
Get in touch by filling out the form below or reaching out by phone or email.
Sue Goodhart | sue@thegoodhartgroup.com
Allison Goodhart DuShuttle | allison@thegoodhartgroup.com
Phone: 703-362-3221
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