Listen up, lovebirds! Valentine’s Day is almost here. Do you have a special place to take that even more special someone? If you’re scratching your head wondering just what to do on February 14th–we’ve got you covered.
The Greater Merrimack Valley is filled with incredible places to visit for a romantic evening out on the town–or if you’re celebrating with your closest besties. Either way, there’s plenty to do!
Catch a Flick
Let’s start off with a date night classic: dinner and a movie! There are a bunch of great movie theaters throughout the Merrimack Valley–like Showcase Cinemas de Lux in Lowell, MA. And some fantastic films to see as well. Here are just a few to get you started:
Titanic 25-Year Anniversary: Relive the epic romance in this re-release of the James Cameron classic film, Titanic. And best of all, the re-release features a remastered version of the film in stunning 4K (and 3D where available). *SPOILERS* They could have both fit on that door, right?
Magic Mike’s Last Dance: Channing Tatum is back as Magic Mike in Magic Mike’s Last Dance releasing just in time for Valentine’s Day this year. Need we say more?
80 for Brady: A stellar cast, road trip hijinks, and Tom Brady?! What more could you ask for? 80 for Brady stars Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field as best friends who travel to Super Bowl LI to see the GOAT himself.
Knock at the Cabin: Maybe you prefer a little more adrenaline in your Valentine’s Day movie outing. If so, catch Knock at the Cabin from M. Night Shyamalan. This thriller is sure to have enough crazy twists to keep you at the edge of your seat (and clutching the hand of your date).
And as an added bonus: Showcase Cinemas offers all your favorite concessions and even a lobby bar for some classic and movie-themed cocktails. What’s not to love?
Have a Romantic Dinner
You can’t do dinner and a movie without the well. . .dinner. Luckily, there are so many (like, so many) amazing restaurants to visit in the Merrimack Valley. The only problem you’re going to have is picking one. So if you’re planning on dinner and a flick or you just want to sit across from your partner and make googly eyes all night, here are a few places to check out:
Cobblestones Restaurant
Address: 91 Dutton Street, Lowell, MA
Cobblestones is regionally known for their hand-cut steaks, burgers, local seafood and oysters. You’ll also find all your favorite cocktails and dozens of locally crafted beers. Cobblestones is also located within one of Lowell’s historic buildings, making it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. And the restaurant is within walking distance of many of Lowell’s popular attractions, so it’s easy to plan your entire date night.
Fuse Bistro
Address: 61 Market Street, Lowell, MA
Located in the heart of downtown Lowell, inside an old firehouse (okay, that’s pretty cool), you’ll find Fuse Bistro. The restaurant features an always-changing seasonal menu that uses locally sourced ingredients. And you’ll get to pick from their impressively curated beer, wine, and cocktail menu. Oh, and they offer a great on-the-go service if you want to have a relaxing night in on Valentine’s Day.
Espresso Pizza of Lowell
Address: 220 Central Street, Lowell, MA
But, for real though, what’s more romantic than a special pizza night? Espresso Pizza has been around since 1962 and serves up all your favorite pizza shop favorites. So go pick up a delicious pie to share with your special someone. Extra cheese for me, please!
Angelina’s Italian Restaurant
Address: 1866 Main Street, Tewksbury, MA
For romantic Italian dining, be sure to check out Angelina’s Italian Restaurant in Tewksbury. The menu features all your Italian favorites, like chicken parmigiana, homemade ravioli, and even hand-tossed pizza. Deliziosa!
Brew’d Awakening Coffeehaus
Address: 61 Market Street, Lowell, MA
What better way to start (or end) your Valentine’s Day evening than with a delicious cup of something hot to warm the belly? This popular cozy cafe has everything a coffee-lover could want. And they even serve specialty coffee house cocktails, like irish coffee and the Salty Barista (yum!). The shop also offers pressed sandwiches and salads if you’d like a bite. And (as if that wasn’t enough) Brew’d Awakening often hosts live music and local art exhibits.
View Local Art
Want to share a special moment with someone you care about. Why not visit some of the great art galleries in the Merrimack Valley? Art always makes for good chit-chat and is an excellent way to get to know your partner a little better this Valentine’s Day. Plus, you can show off how cultured you are. It’s a win-win!
Western Avenue | Studios & Lofts
Address: 122 & 160 Western Avenue, Lowell, MA
You want art? We got art! Western Avenue is the largest artist community in the United States. That’s right, the entire country! Over 350 artists of all types and mediums hone their craft within the walls of Western Avenue. Visitors are welcome to come explore, take art classes, and even take home a piece of art themselves.
The Brush Art Gallery and Studios
Address: 256 Market Street, Lowell, MA
If you want a true art museum experience featuring the works of talented local artists, The Brush Art Gallery & Studios should be on your must-visit list. The art gallery dedicates itself to keeping the visual arts alive and healthy in Lowell. Right now, you can visit the gallery’s Flora and Fauna exhibition–interpretations of flora and fauna from local artists using wax, pigments, and other media.
deCordova Sculpture Park
Address: 51 Sandy Pond Road, Lincoln, MA
If you’re willing to bundle up and venture out into the cold, you’re sure to find some incredible works of art at the deCordova Sculpture Park. The park offers 30 acres to explore along Flint’s Pond. Along the way, you’ll see around 60 sculptures on display. What could be better than an artistic winter stroll with someone you care about (perhaps with a big cup of hot chocolate?)? But remember, the museum will not be open on Valentine’s Day (unless otherwise noted)–only the sculpture park and the deCordova shop.
Go Play
Looking for something a little more energetic this Valentine’s Day? There are some great spots to let loose and have fun all throughout the Merrimack Valley. Whether you want to knock down a few pins, play some sweet arcade games, or hit the slopes–there’s something here for you!
Wamesit Lanes Family Entertainment Center
Address: 434 Main Street, Tewksbury, MA
There’s always something exciting happening at Wamesit Lanes Family Entertainment Center. Hold on, let me take a deep breath. . .inhales–there’s ten pin and candlepin bowling, indoor golf simulators, a state of the art arcade with over 60 new and classic games, shuffleboard, bocce courts, and all your pub favorites at the Firewater Tavern. Phew! And that’s not even all of it. The entertainment center is also hosting a special 3-course dinner and comedy show on Valentine’s Day. Visit the Wamesit Lanes website to get your tickets.
Dave and Buster’s
Address: 271 Mishawum Road, Woburn, MA
Dave and Buster’s is known all across the country and for a good reason. Here, you’ll find the latest and greatest arcade games to challenge your Valentine’s Day companion. Who knows, collect those tickets and maybe you’ll redeem a very special prize for your special someone. The arcade also features a vast food and drink selection and a sports bar with huge HDTVs if there’s a game to catch.
Nashoba Valley Ski Area
Address: 79 Powers Road, Westford, MA
Want a unique, adrenaline-fueled date night? Hit the slopes with your special someone at the Nashoba Valley Ski Area. Race each other to the bottom or enjoy a slow, picturesque ride down the slope. Best of all, the ski area is open until 9pm, so you can get some nighttime skiing in before enjoying a hot meal at the Outlook Restaurant.
Altitude Trampoline Park
Address: 700 Boston Road, Billerica, MA
Feeling especially active? Altitude Trampoline Park is an excellent place to let loose with your Valentine’s Day companion. Here, you’ll find over 15,000 square feet of wall-to-wall trampolines. Pretty sweet, right? You can even challenge your date to a game of dodgeball or a basketball dunk contest. There’s also rock climbing walls, foam pits, and battle beams. So get your jump on with that special someone and have a blast!
Create Your Own Romantic Adventure
With so many exciting things to do and sights to see throughout the Merrimack Valley, you’re sure to find something special to share with your Valentine’s Day partner. But remember, these are just a few of the many restaurants, shops, galleries, arcades, and more that you can visit. So be sure to keep exploring!
Who knows what romantic (or playful) adventures await you and your partner around every corner? Whether it’s on Valentine’s Day–or any other special date night–the Merrimack Valley has you covered.
