By Will Cooley
Valentine’s Day is coming up fast. If you still don’t have a date idea for you and your partner, we’ve got you covered. We’ve come up with a list of our favorite spots and date ideas so you and your partner can have a romantic, fun-filled day. We have something for every couple, whether you want something fancy, a nice nature scene or something a little different from your average date.
If you’re looking for a date on the fancier side, we’ve got your back.
Bottega
Bottega is a classic upscale restaurant in Highland Park. This Italian restaurant is gorgeous and serves food that is to die for. You can sit in the cafe or dining room, but make note the dining room takes reservations. They even have a special menu for Valentine’s Day!
Samford Orchestra
Not everyone (especially us college students) can afford a fancy dinner, but this free option is still upscale. The Samford Orchestra is performing in the Brock Recital Hall on Valentine’s Day, starting at 7:30. If your partner has a taste for beautiful music, then this is the spot to be.
Galley & Garden
Though this is one of our most expensive options, it’s totally worth it. The food at Galley & Garden is exquisite and their award-winning wine is nothing to bat an eye at. They’re taking reservations and have a Valentine’s Day menu with something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a romantic hike or stroll, or maybe the perfect picnic spot, the following spots are for you.
Vulcan Park & Museum
Vulcan Park is a true classic of the Birmingham area. If you’re looking for a place to have a stroll with a beautiful view of Birmingham, this one’s for you. They also have a picnic area, if that’s your ideal date. Whichever option you choose, the surrounding nature is gorgeous this time of year.
High Point Overlook
If you weren’t aware of this beautiful overlook, you’re really missing out. It’s a gorgeous place to watch the sunset and see the city light up. You can have a picnic here or just enjoy the view.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens is another Birmingham classic that never gets old. With everything always growing and changing, you never know what you’ll find. Our favorite is the Japanese garden with beautiful supporting architecture and cute little fish. Whether you plan to wander around or stop for a bite to eat, this is the perfect place for anyone that loves nature.
If you’re looking for something different, this is the list for you!
Waffle House
No, really. If you’re willing to take a 30-minute drive to Springville and make a reservation, Waffle House is a fun little date. They are doing a Valentine’s Day special where waiters dress up and set up romantic tables. It’s still classic Waffle House food but a little fancier for the holiday.
Bookstore Date
There’s so much you can do in a bookstore, whether you buy a puzzle or game to complete at home or grab books that remind you of the other person. A great bookstore to check out in the Birmingham area would be Thank You Books, a cozy woman-owned bookstore. If you’re a nerd, this one’s for you.
Mural Hunting
Birmingham is filled to the brim with murals, so take your partner and go find your favorites! A quick Google search will bring up lists and maps to find the murals, but some of our personal favorites are between 4th Avenue North and 1st Avenue North.
Hopefully, you’ve got some date ideas from this list or it’s sparked your imagination. Make sure to grab a rose for your date from Student Media in the North Plaza from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Valentine’s Day!
