People have commemorated love on Saint Valentine’s Day since the fourteenth century (so take it up with Geoffrey Chaucer, V-Day haters). The middle schoolers among us may resort to stuffed bears and conversation hearts, but adult celebrations demand grown-up gifts and room service. Try these lovey-dovey destinations.
For Classic Couples
Woodinville’s Willows Lodge sits among a ton of wineries, many of which have tasting room specials for the holiday. Plus, everyone knows that booze makes the heart grow fonder. Make a beeline for the hotel’s excellent spa, where a couples package is comfortingly advertised for a pair of friends or lovers.
For Alternative Lovers
Thornewood Castle in Lakewood is billed as “The House That Love Built,” but it was actually constructed by Native American workmen, some of whom left good-luck totems in the rafters. Since Stephen King’s Rose Red was filmed at the bed and breakfast, a visit can mean embracing the bloody side of Valentine’s Day.
For History Buffs
Port Townsend has loads of Victorian fanciness that feels romantic (never mind that Victorian times were all about being buttoned up). Manresa Castle offers a turret or two, but anyone who remembers the 1980s can appreciate the act of recreating An Officer and a Gentleman at Fort Worden Historical State Park.
For Homebodies
An in-town staycation delivers the most romantic part of a vacation (someone else making the bed) without the worst (gas station bathrooms). Our local slate of hotels provide an ample variety of classics, but newcomer Lotte Hotel makes a bid for stay-here swagger with a rich four-course meal at Charlotte Restaurant and Lounge and $50 off any 50-minute-plus service at the spa.
For Physical Couples
Palm readings not quite erotic enough? W Seattle hotel is bringing a “lipsologist” named Deni Luna to the hotel on February 10 for complimentary lip readings, using your actual mouthes to explain what kind of relationship you have. An overnight package includes an intimacy kit full of toys (hello, fuzzy handcuffs) and in-room dining to keep the whole escapade private.
For Wild Duos
Riding a boat in the middle of February is either a relationship killer or, for the right couple, a bonding experience. Sea lion and whale watch tours leave from San Juan Island on weekends with San Juan Island Outfitters, the guides well-trained in spotting dynamic wildlife even when the signature orcas aren’t around. As a warm-up, try a fireplace-adjacent table at Duck Soup restaurant north of Friday Harbor.
