7 Valentine’s Day Dates in 7 Days Across Chicagoland
Valentine’s Day can conjure tired images of a dinner and movie, or an overpriced prix-fixe menu at a restaurant you weren’t thrilled about visiting in the first place. In the true spirit of celebrating love, create your own Valentine’s week instead of dealing with the pressure of creating one perfect day. This year, skip the standard routine and spend the week getting out of your comfort zone, with the one you love most.
Day 1: Become besotted with the theatre
(Monday, February 11)
The start of Valentine’s Day week is also conveniently the start of Chicago Theatre Week. Returning for its 7th year, this special week provides theatre aficionados the opportunity to choose from more than 100 productions across different Chicago theatres at discounted prices. Take in a performance and discover (or re-discover) your love for the theatre.
Day 2: Experience love in the air
(Tuesday, February 12)
If rooftop views just aren’t high enough, The Chicago Helicopter Experience Valentine’s Day packages are a memorable way to enjoy a champagne toast with your loved one. Take in the city from an impressive, once-in-a-lifetime view from above, while commemorating the experience with a keepsake photo.
Day 3: Become enamoured with the tropics
(Wednesday, February 13)
If you were considering a February tropical getaway, look no further than the Chicago Botanic Garden. Play hookie for the day and spend it at the annual Orchid Show exhibit. Transport yourselves to the tropics by enjoying the essence of the South Pacific islands, beaches and rainforests. The exhibit features more than 10,000 orchids in bloom, “under sunlit palm trees and in forest canopies teeming with color and life — lush, vibrant, intoxicating.” Conclude your visit with a bite to eat at the Garden View Cafe. The exhibit runs from February 9 – March 24, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Day 4: Toast to love in the city
(Thursday, February 14)
The big day calls for a big celebration. Visit the Chicago Champagne Fest at the I|O Godfrey Hotel to enjoy an evening of champagne tastings, passed hors d’oeuvres and a sweet table. Sip some bubbles while taking in the city’s impressive skyline views. Thanks to the River North hotel’s stunning fire and water elements, you’ll feel like you’re in an oasis in the middle of the city.
Day 5: Cruise down the river of love
(Friday, February 15)
Kick of the weekend with an Odyssey Riverfront Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise. Board the boat and situate yourselves at a private table to take in views of Chicago’s riverfront architecture, enjoy a three-course dinner and music courtesy of the DJ onboard.
Day 6: Share your love of the dance floor
(Saturday, February 16)
After a week of indulgence, get moving on at the Old Town School of Folk Music during its Dance Basics for Couples, a two-hour workshop that covers the basics of the dance floor. Join your partner on the dance floor and get moving to the blues, rockabilly and big band hits. By the end of the class, you and your date will be old pros at the one-step, fox-trot and the six-count swing.
Day 7: Devote yourself (for the day) to your devoted’s hobbies
(Sunday, February 17)
If your special someone loves cars (almost) as much as you, conclude the week of love with a visit to the legendary Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place. As the nation’s largest car show, the annual event showcases the latest automotive designs and technologies. The event runs between February 9-18, 2019.
