Ways to Say "I Love You" – Your Guide to Valentine's Day

Downtown Voices

Show your partner, family, or friends “I love you” by celebrating Valentine’s Day the Downtown Raleigh way. Use our guide to find unique date ideas, locally-made sweets, romantic gifts, events, and more.

If your business is offering Valentine’s Day events, specials, or products please contact communications@downtownraleigh.org to be included in this guide.

* Accepts the Downtown Raleigh Gift Card

Gifts

Bricks & Minifigs*

LEGO Flower Bouquets and Botanicals

Bright Side Books & Wine: The Prologue Pop-Up

Romance novels and romantasy-themed gifts

Curate*

Hand-drawn cards

DECO Raleigh*

Fragrant candles

Ealdwine

Artisan leather wallets and belts

Kenda Kist Jewelry*

Hand-crafted, personalized plate necklace

Littlest Shoppe

Cozy home decor

Quercus Studio

Handmade fine jewelry

Raleigh Denim Workshop

Men's apparel

The Raleigh Wine Shop

Specialty wines and cheeses

Rebus Works*

Local art

The Self Care Marketplace*

Fragrant lotions and body oils

TG Floristry

Custom floral arrangements

Find more Downtown Raleigh retailers here

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Sweet Treats for Your Sweetie

Captain Cookie and the Milkman *

The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery

lucettegrace

Paul & Jack

Sugar Euphoria

Videri Chocolate Factory *

Yellow Dog Bread Company

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Date Ideas

Start a new hobby together! Have you tried crocheting? Parcero Studio* is your one-stop shop in Downtown Raleigh for crochet supplies and yarn.

Go on an atmospheric walk through the art studios & galleries at Artspace.

Try something new at one of Joy Worthy Co's many Valentines-themed events or workshops.

A movie date is a classic choice, so get your tickets for two at Marbles IMAX Theater*.

Take a romantic Sip N’ Stroll walk around the city with your favorite drinks. Pop into participating retailers like NASHONA*, House of Rebellion*, or Copperline Plant Co*. to get some shopping done at the same time!

Let all your stress melt away at Adara Spa* during the "Just for Lovers" couple’s massage.

The Carolina Ballet and NC Symphony will sweep you off your feet with show-stopping performances at downtown's historical Performing Arts Center.

If you’re a competitive couple, see who can get the highest score playing games at Super Rad Retro Lounge, Boxcar Bar and Arcade or Side Quest Game Lounge and Bar.

Escape your normal routine and have a sweetheart staycation at the Heights House or Longleaf Hotel.

Take a private or group paint-and-sip class with your loved ones at U.B. Paint'N & Sip'N.

If your furry friend is your one true love, head to Hause of Dogs to pick up canine-friendly sweets and West Street Dog after for a cocktail while they play.

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Wine & Dine

Sparks will fly over drinks at Wonderland's* or Killjoy's Valentines-themed pop-ups.

Roast marshmallows over an open fire on Botanical Lounge's patio for the ultimate s'mores date.

Indulge in some freshly-baked desserts and craft cocktails at Bittersweet and Sugar House.

Award-winning restaurants like Vidrio and Death & Taxes offer chef-driven, high-end, and swoon-worthy dining experiences.

If you're vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to try something fresh, Downtown Raleigh is home to plant-based restaurant Element Gastropub.

Find skyline views from the rooftops at High Rail and Urban Oak or head underground for an intimate dive-bar experience at FOUNDATION or Neptunes Parlour.

Split a bottle of champagne and cozy up on the couch at Vino Wine Bar.

Soak in the charming, romantic vibes of historical City Market with fresh eats at City Market Sushi or authentic pasta dishes at Vic's Italian Cafe & Pizzeria.

Make date night a date day and grab brunch at The Flavor Hills* or Heirloom.

Try something different together and grab dinner at one of these new Downtown Raleigh restaurants: La Cucina Italiana, Saigon Kitchen Viet Eatery, and K38 Baja Grill.