Valentine’s Day 2014 is just around the corner, so it seems appropriate that Travel + Leisure magazine just declared Bend one of America’s most romantic towns.
I coulda told you that!
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Friday this year, it’s the perfect time to plan a romantic weekend getaway for you and your sweetie. Here’s how to make that happen!
Book yourself some swanky digs
First things first—you’ve gotta have a place to sleep. Or not sleep, depending on how romantic this vacation will be.
Now’s a great time to check out the amazing new rooms at Wall Street Suites!
The Riverhouse offers several romance packages, including the Rendevous for Two. It features one night of lodging, complimentary welcome beverage, chilled champagne and chocolates in your room, an elegant dinner for two at their on-site restaurant, a $100 spa voucher for Anjou Spa, and a complementary full, hot breakfast. Rates this time of year start at $324, though you can upgrade to a room with a spa or fireplace for a bit more.
If the scene in Downtown Bend is more your style, now’s a great time to check out the newly-rennovated Wall Street Suites just across from PioneerPark. I use the term “renovated” loosely, as this is a complete rebirth for a property that’s gone from “meh” to a gorgeous, luxurious, hip space with a great location. They’ve got a great romance package that includes fresh flowers, handmade chocolates, and a split bottle of champagne upon your arrival. Add it to your regular room rate for just $50 extra!
For a complete rundown of Bend resorts, boutique hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, Bend vacation homes, condos, and more, check out our Bend lodging page on our website.
Have a romantic dinner for two
Now that you’ve got a place to stay, it’s time to make plans for your romantic meal. Check out our Bend dining page and peruse for everything from seafood restaurants to Mexican eateries to restaurants featuring new American & continental cuisine. Many places will book up early during Valentine’s weekend, so make sure you call for reservations.
The special Valentine’s menu at Pronghorn Resort includes a plethora of deliciousness!
Some Bend restaurants are doing special dinner packages just for the occasion. One of my favorite spots for super-fresh, locally-sourced gourmet meals is Bend’s Chow restaurant, but they’re typically only open for breakfast and lunch. As a special treat for Valentine’s Day, they’re offering a specialty dinner menu by reservation only. Call 541-728-0256 to book your spot.
If you’re willing to journey just a little northeast of town, consider booking your romantic meal out at Pronghorn Resort, where you’ll enjoy killer views and an awesome Prix Fix meal. Their special Valentine’s dinner is available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for $65 a person. The menu includes scrumptious offerings like a first course choice between seared sea scallops, handmade duck confit agnolotti, or Chioggia beet salad; a second course of lobster, lamb, or elk, and your choice among two drool-worthy desserts. Add a flight of bubbly paired with each course for $30.
If you’re opting for the privacy of a romantic Bend vacation home with a kitchen, venture forth to Newport Avenue Market where you’ll find all the fixins’ for a romantic dinner you can make for yourself. Bon appétit!
Now get out there and do something lovey!
There’s no shortage of romantic ways to spend your weekend in Bend!
The Bonfire on the Snow outing with Wanderlust Tours is a great opportunity to pop the question.
If you and your sweetie have the urge to melt a little snow, head out on a cross country ski outing to Virginia Meissner. The trails are well-groomed, and you’ll find cozy warming huts where you can cuddle and enjoy a romantic winter picnic. Craving a nighttime snow adventure? During Valentine’s weekend, Wanderlust Tours is taking their Bonfire on the Snow Snowshoe Tour and turning it into something extra romantic. For just $85, get all the equipment, transportation, and insights from a professional naturalist guide, plus fresh desserts from Sparrow Bakery, hot cocoa with Bendistillery Hazelnut Espresso Vodka, and a champagne toast. This is an adults-only tour, and makes an awesome way to propose if that’s on your agenda this Valentine’s season.
The saltwater soaking pool at McMenamins Old St. Francis is a romantic spot any time of year!
If you’d prefer to stick closer to town, the soaking pool at McMenamins Old St. Francis School is a gorgeous, semi-enclosed saltwater pool crafted in shimmering turquoise tile work. Check out the stars through the open ceiling as you bob in the warm, non-chlorinated water and play footsie with your loved one.
Need to grab a last-minute Valentine’s gift? You’ll find tons of great treasures in local jewelry shops in Downtown Bend, ranging from gorgeous sunstone pieces at Douglas Fine Jewelry Design to creative creations from Karen Bandy Design Jeweler and John Paul Designs. In the Old Mill District, visit Saxons Fine Jewelers to scope out their gorgeous selection (insider tip: try your luck winning a Valentine’s gift from Saxons by entering their Facebook contest for a stunning heart pendant).
Of course, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a romantic Bend outing without spending a dime. Check out our hiking page to plan a special adventure with your honey, or consult our previous post on great places to kiss in Bend for ideas on staging the perfect romantic lip-lock.
Whatever you do, you’re sure to have a fabulous Valentine’s weekend in Bend!