Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to plan an unforgettable date night—or even a dreamy weekend getaway—with your special someone. Whether it's surprising them with a spa day before a romantic dinner or taking a peaceful stroll through a park, there are plenty of options around The Bend. To make it easier, we’ve curated some unique ideas to spark your inspiration. 

Pick Up South Bend Chocolate

Can you even do Valentine’s Day without chocolates? South Bend Chocolate Co. rolls out several products just for the holiday: Cupid Crunch, Valentine Pretzels, Hugs Pretzels, 4-Piece Turtle Valentines, 4-piece Cherry Blossoms, 5-piece Valentine and more. Of course, the classic heart-shaped box of chocolates is available too.

Don't Forget the Flowers!

Stop by Country Florist or Wygant Floral to pick up the perfect bouqet for your date. Visit Country Florist's Valentine's Day Pop-up for a sweet combo of flowers and treats.

Fine Dining in The Bend 

Many area restaurants offer special menus just for the holiday. We put together a list of 10 ideas for Valentine's Day dinner spots to get your planning started.

Drink Local 

Craft beer enthusiasts, wine lovers and whiskey aficionados can all find great options for a night out (or in). You can sip around in person or support breweries, wineries and distilleries by grabbing a bottle or growler for home. 

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Dance the Night Away

Take your partner for a night of gliding around the dance floor at these special events.

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Date Night on Ice

Looking for something more active to do on Valentine’s Day? Book some time at Howard Park in South Bend to skate along its ice trail or Ironworks Ice Rink in Mishawaka. A word to the wise: It's best to make reservations in advance.

Take a Walk Around Notre Dame

Few places in The Bend offer a more tranquil setting for a post-Valentine’s Day dinner walk. All the beautiful Notre Dame landmarks are worth your time. But if you can only choose one, we’d recommend a visit to the Grotto. Its candles always radiate peace, perhaps more so after snowfall during winter.

There are also opportunities to catch some Irish hoops! The Notre Dame Men's basketball team hosts Louisville Feb. 16 at 8 p.m. Check here for more Hoops and Hockey action.

RELATED CONTENT: 5 Places for a Winter Walk 

Get Your Game On 

The Bend's biggest entertainment destination, Four Winds Casino South Bend, offers an all-encompassing experience. Dine at one of its five restaurants — Copper Rock Steakhouse offers fine dining and Kankakee Grille features rustic cuisine — then head to the gaming floor or poker room for a night of thrills.

 

Couples' Spa Day

What better way is there to fully relax on your romantic weekend than treating each other to a spa day? Lucky for you, we have a whole list. Prepare to unwind.

 

PRO TIP: Create the ultimate weekend getaway with a weekend stay at Four Winds Casino Hotel South Bend. Stay in state-of-the-art accomodations, enjoy brunch at Edgewater Cafe, relax with a massage or water experience at Cedar Spa, try your luck in the casino, dine at Copper Rock Steakhouse and Kankakee Grille and enjoy live music at each bar and restaurant. Your one-stop getaway is all set. 

Head Outside for a Winter Hike

Outdoor enthusiasts might be looking for a reason to head outside for a serene winter hike. Head to St. Patrick's County Park or Potato Creek State Park for miles of trails and scenery. Depending on the weather, you might be able to cross country ski or snowshoe too.

RELATED CONTENT: 6 Places for a Winter Hike

No Valentine? No problem!

For those who would much rather celebrate Valentine's Day with friends, or Galentine's Day is much more your style, there are still plenty of ways to spend the weekend. Try your hand at axe throwing or painting at Axes and Ohs Valentine's Day Experience at Generations AdventurePlex, or find a fun place to brunch of go wine tasting on our list of 10 Ways to Celebrate Galentine's Day.

 

Valentine's Date Ideas

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