Enchanting Orlando: 50 Valentine’s Day Ideas for Every Couple
You might be surprised to find out that Orlando is the heart of romance in the Sunshine State! If you are spending Valentine’s Day here, you can do more than just visit thrilling theme parks and famous attractions. Whether you’re swooning under the fireworks at a world-famous resort, enjoying a serene boat ride through lush landscapes, or indulging in a gourmet meal with a view of the city skyline, Orlando is the perfect backdrop for romance.
In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of activities that are sure to make your heart flutter. From enchanting evenings to adventurous outings, discover how to make this Valentine’s Day in Orlando an unforgettable celebration of love.
Valentine’s Day Events
To start this guide, here are some special events happening in Orlando that occur right around Valentine’s Day. February is a busy time in Central Florida, and you can find all sorts of things to do from an intimate concert under the stars to a sumptuous dinner cruise. Here are some of the most exciting events I have seen for Valentine’s Day 2024 in Orlando.
1. Candlelight Concert: Valentine’s Day Special at 1010 West
Imagine being surrounded by glowing candles while hearing a string quartet perform songs from your favorite movies in a historic airplane hangar. Though this magical experience may sound too good to be true, you can actually experience it with a Candlelight Concert! There are two shows available on Valentine’s Day at 1010 West for a romantic date night.
2. For the Love of Art at Orlando Museum of Art
Valentine’s Day does not have to wait until the 14th! You can start it on February 1st with the Orlando Museum of Art’s gallery tour. The theme is LOVE and you can learn about the Robert Indiana works throughout the museum and how they incorporate LOVE. Post-tour, you can create your own craft using the signature Indiana letter pattern.
3. Cult Classic Movie Night: Before Sunrise at the Enzian
Enjoy a romantic film on Valentine’s Day Eve at the charming Enzian Theater. This spot is sure to impress with indie movies and a full food and drink menu.
4. Run 4 Love 4-Mile in Winter Park
For those who would rather celebrate Valentine’s Day with an endorphin high, the Run 4 Love 4-Mile race continues for the 5th year in a row. Go for a run or stroll with your sole mate on the Saturday before Valentine’s Day at this event/
5. Truffles & Trifles Valentine’s Day Cooking Night
Foodie couples can enjoy a night in the kitchen cooking up an extravagant meal. Truffles and Trifles offers a Valentine’s Day course for couples on February 12th, where attendees learn how to make a fig puff pastry, grilled steak with a cream sauce, and a chocolate mousse trifle.
6. Will You Be My Valentine? Speed Dating
No Valentine? No problem! You can go to the Hall on The Yard for a speed dating and singles mixer on February 14th. This event is a great way to meet some people and maybe even The One.
7. Valentine’s Charcuterie Workshop at Bok Tower Gardens
If you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day during the weekend, consider taking the Valentine’s Charcuterie Workshop at Bok Tower Gardens. You will get to learn how to arrange a gorgeous, edible centerpiece and indulge in two different cheese tastings. Afterwards, you can your date can explore the botanical gardens together.
8. Backyard Open Mic at The Veranda
There’s nothing like sharing a good laugh together and an open mic can do just that. The Veranda Thorton Park is hosting an Open Mic on February 8th to start the week of Valentine’s Day on a hi-larious note.
9. Valentine’s Day Food Art Event
Like painting and food? Stroke of Art is hosting a create-your-own chocolate canvas this Valentine’s Day. You can paint with cocoa and decorate with strawberries and then devour your masterpiece.
10. Candle Pour at Kava Culture
For a crafty day of love, Kava Culture is hosting a candle pour. Here you can make your own candle and enjoy drinks, food, and romantic comedies while waiting for it to dry.
Outdoor Things to Do
With its year-round sunny skies and lush landscapes, Orlando is a playground for lovers seeking adventure and relaxation under the open sky. As someone who loves going on a nature date, I wanted to share the best outdoor activities that are sure to spark romance and excitement. This includes adventurous and relaxing nature-focused experiences.
11. Take a Garden Stroll
Explore the beautiful botanical gardens of Orlando, which provide a serene and picturesque setting for a romantic day. The following gardens are perfect for enjoying on Valentine’s Day:
- Leu Gardens: Fifty acres of southern-styled gardens including rose gardens and tropical rainforests.
- Bok Tower Gardens: A National Historic Landmark in Lake Wales, featuring a 205-foot tower with carillon bells, set in a beautiful 250-acre garden.
- Lake Nona Sculpture Garden: A free outdoor exhibit with everything from modern to ancient sculptures along a gorgeous winding path.
12. Pick Fresh Fruit
Orlando is surrounded by a variety of farms that offer pick-your-own strawberries this time of year. Southern Hill Farms is a favorite for picking something sweet with your sweetie.
13. Go for a Hike
Spending Valentine’s Day on a scenic hike can be a wonderfully intimate and peaceful way to connect with your loved one, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Orlando has a variety of options, including the ones below:
- Oakland Nature Preserve: A 128-acre preserve with a variety of short trails.
- Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve: A 3.6-mile walking trail around Lake Butler.
- Black Bear Wilderness Loop: An adventurous 7.1-mile loop in Sanford.
- Pine Island East Loop Trail: A 3.4-mile with river views.
14. Enjoy a Scenic Boat Tour
Relaxing with your loved one on a boat is so romantic and the vibe of Winter Park makes it even better. I recommend taking the afternoon boat tour here, where you can see the sights and learn about the history of the area.
15. See Some Manatees
If the weather is cool, Blue Spring State Park is a romantic place to visit. Here, you can see hundreds of manatees huddling together in this crystal-clear spring. Bring some hot cocoa and make it a fun morning manatee spotting.
16. Pedal Along Bike Trails
With over 40 miles of trails across Orlando, there are tons of opportunities to enjoy a Valentine’s Day bike ride. I love the Lake Underhill Path, but you can choose from a variety of trails here
17. Go Paddleboarding or Kayaking
Glide across the serene waters of Orlando this Valentine’s Day with a paddleboarding or kayaking adventure, offering a perfect blend of tranquility and bonding. Local state parks like Wekiwa Springs and DeLeon Springs have rentals, or you can embark on an urban adventure with Epic Paddle Adventures on Lake Ivanhoe.
18. Rent a Swan Boat
Did you know you can rent one of the swan boats at Lake Eola Park? Here you can paddle on the water and see the sights of the city. Afterward, I recommend having a picnic in the park or grabbing a bite from a local restaurant.
19. Plan a Picnic
Speaking of picnics, there are enough scenic areas that one can be an experience on its own! Find a nice park and pack your own, or hire the Orlando Picnic Popup to set up one for you.
20. Peruse a Farmer’s Market
For a relaxing weekend Valentine’s Day experience, visit one of the many Orlando Farmers Markets. On Saturdays, you can go to Winter Park or Winter Garden, and on Sundays, you can check out the markets at Lake Eola and Dr. Phillips.
Date Night Ideas
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the city buzzes with romantic energy, offering countless ways to celebrate your love. From the enchanting walks down the lantern-lit streets of Winter Park to thrilling shows at the world-famous venues, I’ve listed some of the most romantic, and unforgettable experiences for a night on the town.
21. Catch a Show at Dr. Phillips Performing Center
Catch a romantic show or concert at this state-of-the-art performing arts center. The Orlando Ballet will be presenting The Sleeping Beauty just in time for Valentine’s Day!
22. Go to a Basketball or Hockey Game
If you are into sports, Valentine’s Day is a great time to see a hockey or basketball game right in Orlando. The Orlando Magic will be playing at The Kia Center on February 13th and 14th and the Solar Bears have games there on February 12th and 15th.
23. Visit a Winery
Local wineries provide an idyllic setting for a romantic Valentine’s Day, offering serene vineyard landscapes, and intimate tasting experiences. Check out Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards, Quantum Leap Winery, and The Wine Room for a vino-filled date.
24. Plan a Brewery Crawl
There are so many amazing Orlando breweries, that I recommend beer lovers take a stroll and try a few. In Downtown Orlando, you can walk from Persimmon Hollow to Motorworks to Broken Strings and make a night out of it.
25. Play Some Golf at TopGolf
A fun way to spend Valentine’s Day for all is with a date at TopGolf. You do not need much golf experience to have fun here and can come for as short as long of a time as you want. I especially love getting a couple of drinks and appetizers while playing too!
26. Dance the Night Away
Visit a nightclub or dance hall for a lively evening out. Some Orlando favorites include Mango’s Tropical Café, Cowboys, and EVE Orlando. You can even enjoy Yacht Rock at the Abbey, the weekend before Valentine’s Day.
27. See a Concert
Whether you prefer the soothing rhythms of classical music, the soulful tunes of R&B, or the high-energy beats of pop, there’s a concert to match every couple’s taste in Orlando. Events going on around Valentine’s Day include a Willie Nelson concert, an Elton John Tribute Concert, and free live music at the House of Blues.
Indoor Things to Do
Though February tends to be a great month for weather in Orlando, there is always a chance of thunderstorms or extreme heat. If you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day inside to escape the elements, consider these indoor activities.
28. Peruse an Art Museum
Discover local art and culture by visiting galleries the galleries of Downtown Orlando. Options include the Orlando Museum of Art, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, and the Rollins Museum of Art.
29. Race Each Other at Andretti Indoor Karting
For an adrenaline-pumping Valentine’s Day date, visit Andretti for some go-kart races. It’s the world’s longest indoor course with elevation changes and banked turns.
30. Taste Your Way Through the Chocolate Museum
Indulge in a sweet experience with a tour of the local Chocolate Museum, complete with tastings.
31. Do a Craft Together
For a more hands-on art experience, a painting class is sure to be a romantic experience for couples. You can try painting a canvas at Painting With a Twist, pottery with Super Awesome Cool Pottery, or fluid painting with The Dirty Pour Project.
32. Go for a Spa Day
Relax and unwind with a couple’s massage at one of Orlando’s luxurious spas, including Blue Harmony Spa or the Relâche Spa.
Theme Park Experiences
Whether you are a local or visiting, there is no denying that theme parks are a unique place to celebrate Valentine’s Day. From the fairy-tale fantasies of Walt Disney World to the cinematic adventures of Universal Studios, Orlando’s theme parks are a place to create memories that will last a lifetime with your special someone. Here are some romantic ways to enjoy each one.
33. Magic Kingdom
Enjoy classic Disney rides and a fireworks show in front of Cinderella’s Castle. For a romantic meal, make a reservation at Be Our Guest Restaurant.
34. Epcot
Stroll through the World Showcase, tasting international cuisine and watching live performers. Finish the evening with a view of the fireworks and dessert in a mini version of Paris.
35. Animal Kingdom
Take a serene walk through the Maharajah Jungle Trek or Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Dine at Tiffins for an upscale experience with exotic dishes.
36. Hollywood Studios
Thrill seekers can spend the day on rollercoasters and dark rides here. Make sure to immerse yourself in Star Wars land and maybe even build lightsabers together.
37. Disney Springs
Day or night, Disney Springs offers all sorts of free entertainment for couples. Have a meal at one of the many themed restaurants and enjoy live performances, window shopping, and a boat ride.
38. Islands of Adventure
Explore the mythical lands and share an adventure on rides like the Jurassic Park River Adventure or The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man.
39. Universal Studios
Take a romantic walk down the recreated streets of New York and San Francisco, enjoy a Butterbeer in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or catch a live show together.
40. CityWalk Orlando
Enjoy an evening of dinner, drinks, and live entertainment without a park ticket at CityWalk. Consider visiting the Hard Rock Cafe or the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen for a sweet treat.
41. SeaWorld
Spend Valentine’s Day seeing marine life, from dolphins to orcas. Consider booking a special behind-the-scenes tour or dining experience to make the day extra special.
42. Icon Park
Experience the city from new heights on The Wheel at ICON Park, especially beautiful at night.
43. Discovery Cove
If you want to splurge, head to Discovery Cove for the day and enjoy the all-inclusive water park. Entry includes swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with fish and rays, relaxing on the lazy river, and unlimited food and drinks.
44. Water Parks
There are four water parks in Orlando (Volcano Bay, Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, and Aquatica) and all of them are so much fun for a date! Couples can go on tube slides together, wade in the lazy river, and soak up the sun together at a water park.
Galentine’s Day Ideas
I would be remiss to not mention Galentine’s Day, a day dedicated to cherishing and celebrating the bond of friendship. Orlando offers a plethora of ways to honor this new tradition and spend time with your pals. Gather your squad and check out the special events going on to celebrate February 13th.
45. Galentine’s Day Comedy Show
For a laugh with your girlfriends, there is a comedy show at Will’s Pub on February 13th. You can see both improv and stand-up that night for an amusing experience.
46. Galentine’s Wine Glass Painting
If you and your girlies love a glass of wine, you can paint your own stem or stemless glass at the House on Lane on February 2nd. They will help you with the painting and provide a relaxing atmosphere.
47. Milk Market Lazy Lovers Festival
This next event isn’t Galentine’s Day specific- it’s for anyone who loves love! The Milk Market will have a small festival with vendors, artists, and shops on February 18th.
48. The String Queens Show at Dr. Phillips
Another fun way to spend Galentine’s is to see a live concert with your girls! The String Queens are performing at Dr. Phillips that night and it is sure to be a riveting performance.
49. Galentine’s Day Party at Twisted Moon Boutique
Gift yourself a little shopping spree with a party at Twisted Moon Boutique. This locally owned shop will have special deals, drinks, and bites.
50. Love Your Library Gala
If you want to get dressed up for a night on the town, the Winter Park Library is hosting a Gala to support local libraries. You can enjoy a bubbly bar, a feast, and a live band while supporting a local institution.
Know Before You Go
From the thrill of adventure in the bustling city to the tranquility of a sunset wine tasting, there truly is something for every couple looking to celebrate their love this Valentine’s Day. I hope this guide has helped plan your most unforgettable one yet. Before you go, here are some tips to keep in mind for Valentine’s Day in Orlando.
- Keep an eye on the weather since Florida weather can change quickly, especially in the summer with storms popping up. It also is much hotter here than on the coast, so do not plan to be outside all day in the summer.
- Valentine’s Day week can be crowded in Orlando, so be sure to buy tickets in advance or make reservations early if possible.
- You will have to pay for parking in the city and near tourist locations. Most places in Downtown Orlando and on I-Drive have a small parking cost. If you are concerned, look it up ahead of time or take an Uber.
- Avoid I-4 during rush hour as much as possible. This is where there is the worst traffic! Traffic in the city is bad all around between 4 PM to 7 PM most days though.
- If you are looking for a place to grab a meal after experiencing one of these attractions, check out my complete Orlando restaurant guide.
Looking to take a romantic getaway this Valentine’s Day? Check out my guide for Florida destinations for couples.