This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday, making it the perfect opportunity to plan a weekend getaway. We’ve rounded up five romantic destinations for you to explore, all within driving distance of the DMV.
The Bellevue
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
First opened in 1904, Philadelphia’s historic Bellevue Hotel has undergone a top to bottom transformation that both maintains its century-old appeal and ushers it firmly into the modern era. And the hotel’s location in Philadelphia’s Center City is an ideal jumping off base for museum hopping or window shopping. Bellevue’s Valentine’s Day Grand Romance package includes discounted rooms, complimentary valet parking, a credit to the hotel’s restaurant. And most importantly, there will be a bottle of bubbly in your room upon arrival.
Visitation Hotel
Frederick, Maryland
Frederick, Maryland, is a destination town offering antique shopping and several restaurants. Until recently, it was lacking in accommodations. That is, until the Visitation Hotel opened its doors. The first hotel to open in Frederick in a whopping 50 years, the Visitation occupies space that was originally a Catholic school and convent. Today, the 1840s-era building has 65 sophisticated guest rooms and a travel worthy new restaurant, Wye Oak Tavern, by Top Chef contestants and Frederick locals, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio. A Valentine’s Day stay will make you one of the first guests at a property that is sure to add new energy to the already buzzy town.
Nemacolin
Farmington, Pennsylvania
Nemacolin, the sprawling, luxe resort in western Pennsylvania feels like a treat any time of the year. But Valentine’s Day weekend guests will have the opportunity for something extra special: a special Marie Antoinette-style high tea. Arrive ready to have your cake and eat it to.! Tea goers will be treated to a multi-course affair of savory and sweet bites paired with teas, cocktails, and champagne. After tea, indulge at Nemacolin’s Woodlands Spa, which is offering special Valentine’s Day treatments like the Cupid’s Glow Facial, complete with a chocolate exfoliation. Finish the weekend with a carriage ride around the property.
Salamander Resort
Middleburg, Virginia
Loudon County’s favorite retreat is going all out for Valentine’s Day — and Galentine’s Day! If you’re traveling with a friend, book a treatment at the award-winning spa, and your friend will receive a 25 percent discount for their own service. On Valentine’s Day itself, book a table for the prix fixe four-course meal at the restaurant, Harrimans. Or better yet, stay for the whole weekend. The hotel’s Season of Romance Package includes a two-night stay, a welcome bottle of sparkling wine, a couple’s massage, and a horseback ride around the property. The resort is also hosting a family-friendly Valentine’s Day card making station set up from February 1 through 14, and a Family Sweetheart Dance on February 8, complete with a DJ, photo station, crafts, and activities.
Primland
Meadows of Dan, Virginia
There are few things more romantic than cozying up under the stars. And at Primland, you have wide-open access to the winter night sky. The resort boats an impressive 12,000 acres, much of which is protected wilderness, so light pollution is practically nonexistent. Take advantage of the natural darkness and head to the resort’s own observatory, where a professional astronomer guides guests through winter constellations, planet, and star sightings, both with the naked eye and through their powerful telescopes. For Valentine’s Day, couples will be treated to glasses of champagne while being guided though constellation love stories. Up the romance on your stay and book one of the property’s recently unveiled treehouse cabins.
Feature image courtesy The Salamander Resort
