The time has come, yet again, for Americans (both queer and non-queer alike) to consume copious amounts of chocolate and candy hearts as we each anxiously await the delivery of a four-foot tall Vermont Teddy Bear this Valentine’s Day. Y’all, please tell me you’ve seen the commercials on MSNBC. If not, get thee behind me Satan—you clearly don’t want to be loved or feel the warm embrace of a fuzzy wuzzy toy.
Now while the snuggle struggle is still real for most of our single LGBT brothers and sisters (believe me, I was there for three years up until recently, and the empty wine bottles the next day aren’t cute), couples should really take full advantage of this designated love holiday. And even though Cupid’s arrow landed on Tuesday this year, there are still a lot of opportunities for said couples to take a quick break from the craziness of life to head out to one of these five romantic getaways.
Charleston, South Carolina
Both Thrillist and Travel + Leisure have named ‘The Holy City’ one of our nation’s most beautiful. There are historic mansions; cobblestone streets; horse-drawn carriages; incredible architecture; and remarkable cuisine. The Charleston Harbor, which feeds into the Atlantic Ocean, is a stone’s throw away, and the music scene is apparently unrivaled. As a Southern boy, it all sounds perfect to me!
Stowe, Vermont
Because my Texas behind is already mad at the idea that I now have to endure East Coast winters, I’m not quite sure if I’d ever CHOOSE to be surrounded by snow if there was a toastier alternative. That being said, just Google Image Stowe, Vermont, and try not to fall in love. The resort town is not too far from Burlington, and it’s situated at the base of Mount Mansfield. And what’s more romantic than the idea of sitting inside your cabin in front of a burning fireplace with your boo?
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
You had me at ‘Chocolate Lovers Festival,’ Eureka Springs. The 13th annual event takes place this coming weekend and will feature a Willy Wonka-themed room chockful of candies, cookies, and more goodies. If that’s not enough to convince you, just look at how green it is (which makes sense, since it’s located within the Ozark Mountains) and simply marvel at its authentic Victorian feel. The city, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, doesn’t even have street lights! Oh, and you’ve GOT to make a pit-stop at the Thorncrown Chapel—talk about breathtaking.
Tucson, Arizona
Should you and your partner want to do something COMPLETELY out of left-field for Valentine’s, consider a horseback ride or even a hike at Saguaro National Park. Or better yet, why not have a nice picnic at Sabino Canyon? Or take in a show at one of Tucson’s performing arts venues? And if you can’t afford a rock to give your honey, just take them to the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase, which typically runs until the end of the month.
Miami, Florida
Come on, you KNOW I had to include it. Not only does Miami SCREAM sex appeal, but it has some of the most vibrant nightclubs, restaurants, and bars anywhere in the U.S. After enjoying a good meal and cocktail, what better way to shower your partner with love and affection than to bathe in the city’s coastal waters? And honestly, this city is tailor-made for single folk, too. So I’d highly recommend emptying your Netflix queue and choosing to live a little in Little Havana, especially if you want a sexy Latin lover. Bye, Ben and Jerry, and hello Julio and Esteban.