1. Maymont Park
Journey to Maymont Park and be swept back to the romantic era of the 19th century. Elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen tell the love story of Queen Victoria and her prince charming and will take you on a tour through the exquisite mansion. End the trip with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the 100-acre country estate. Maymont is the perfect destination for an inexpensive experience, at only $6 per person.
Credit: Aaron Watson Photography
2. Belle Isle
If you’re looking for a day spent in nature with your loved one, look no further than Belle Isle. Spend the day strolling through the trails, picnicking on the rocks or just taking in the beauty of the James River. Best of all, it’s free!
3. City Hall Observation Deck
For another free Valentines Day date idea, visit the observation deck at City Hall. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll find a remarkable view of the whole city that you wont be able to get anywhere else.
4. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts
If you want to stay on campus this Valentine’s Day but still be entertained, check out “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” at the Singleton Center for the Performing Arts. Admission is only $10 for VCU students and $15 for students with a valid I.D. from another college. It’s cheaper than Broadway, but just as fun!
5. Byrd Theater
Be transported through time at the Byrd Theater in Carytown. The theater is a National Historic Landmark, built in 1928, and is just as beautiful and elegant as it was back then. At only $1.99 a movie, the Byrd is definitely a cheap, but memorable way to spend your Valentine’s Day.
6. John Marshall Hotel
A more expensive option for those looking to splurge is the Valentine’s Day Sweethearts Ball held at the John Marshall Hotel. The John Marshall is one of the most famous hotels in the nation, once stayed at by celebrities like Elvis Presley and Elizabeth Taylor, as well as Presidents Nixon, Ford and Carter. For $58 a person, you can enjoy music by The Royal Virginians, enjoy a three-course meal and dance the night away.
www.thejohnmarshallballrooms.com
7. Strange Matter
If you’re going to be flying solo this Valentine’s Day, Strange Matter is the perfect place to be! The venue is hosting a single’s night full of dancing and fun. It’s only $5 if you’re single, and $12 for couples.
8. Virginia Museum of the Fine Arts
If you haven’t been to the VMFA’s Hollywood Costume exhibit, now is your last chance! The exhibit features the unforgettable costumes worn by characters in The Wizard of Oz, Titanic, Harry Potter, The Dark Knight Rises and others. Valentine’s Day weekend is the last time you’ll be able to see the exhibit and it’s free! Get your daily dose of culture with your loved one and perhaps end the day with fine dining at Amuse Restaurant located inside the museum.
9. Carytown Cupcakes
Cupcakes are a tasty treat any day of the year, especially at Carytown Cupcakes! However, this Valentine’s Day you can get a half-dozen box of cupcake roses for $17, as well as a variety of limited time cupcake flavors. In addition to that, Carytown Cupcakes is hosting a free Valentine’s Day photobooth, fully equipped with hats, masks and other props to take silly and sweet pictures with a loved one or friends. Satisfy your sweet tooth and capture the moment!
10. Shafer
If you are running low on cash but still want to enjoy a special meal with your beau, consider Shafer for Valentines Day Fine Dining. For 7 blocks, you get an appetizer, entrée and dessert of your choice. If you don’t want to stay at Shafer to enjoy your meal, take it to go for 5 blocks. Maybe even refer to #2, and make a picnic out of it at Belle Isle!