Valentine’s Day falls at the perfect time every year. By the time we reach Feb. 14, the joy of Christmas is long behind us, and the magic and sparkle of winter have long since lost their appeal. We’ve entered the part of the season where we’ve all begun to look forward to spring, but know it’s still a long way off. Valentine’s Day represents a break from this season of cold and gray by injecting a little fun and excitement into our day. So why not celebrate in style and treat that special someone in your life to a night you’ll both remember?
However, deciding what to do for Valentine’s Day can be tricky. You don’t want to be cliché, but you don’t want to suggest anything too over the top. Wouldn’t it be great if someone could just put together a list of all the best things to do on this special holiday?
- Get pampered at Air Blow Dry Bar
- Get relaxed as Massage Envy
- Catch a show at Manship Theater
- Dinner? A movie? Why not both? At The Movie Tavern’s
- Valentine’s Swing event at L’Auberge Casino
- I Heart My Zoo Day at the Baton Rouge Zoo
- Watch the stars at The Louisiana Art & Science Center
- Enjoy a romantic getaway at WATERMARK Baton Rouge
- Head over to Paint Night at Quarters – Endless Entertainment
- Spend the night in
- Head into downtown Baton Rouge
- Have fun at Skate Galaxy
- Finish The Valentine’s Day Run
- Shop ’til you drop at Baton Rouge’s Mall of Louisiana
- Have a sweet tooth? Venture to Brew Ha Ha Coffee Shop
- Treat yourself to a romantic dinner at The Gregory
Today, that’s precisely what we want to do. If you’re in Louisiana’s capital city this season, we’ve got the ultimate list of Valentine’s events near you. From places to eat, sights to see and things to do, we’ve rounded them all up for you. So pick a few off this list, grab your partner — or that certain someone you’ve been trying to work up the courage to ask out — and let’s plan a romantic date like never before.
1. Get Pampered
Who said the date couldn’t start until dinnertime? Why not make the entire day an event? If you’re picking someone up for a night out later in the day, help make their daytime special as well by treating them to a little pampering at Air Blow Dry Bar. Not only is this a fun treat they might never get for themselves, but it also pulls double duty by helping them look their best for your special night together.
Make this a gift that’s just for your loved one, or join in the fun and get yourself treated to a little extra styling for this occasion, too.
2. Get Relaxed
This one might not be the best choice for a first date, but for established couples, there’s nothing both you and your partner will appreciate more than a good massage. And while the massages you give each other are fantastic, nothing quite compares to the experience a professional massage therapist can provide. Treat the two of you to a couple’s massage at Massage Envy this Valentine’s Day, so you’ll both be relaxed, rejuvenated and ready for the biggest date night of the year.
3. Catch a Show
Got a taste for the performing arts and love the classiness of going out for dinner and a show on Valentine’s Day? Head out to Baton Rouge’s premier nonprofit performing arts center — Manship Theatre, located in the Shaw Center for the Arts on Lafayette Street. This performing arts center hosts a fun, interactive experience that lets you good-naturedly poke fun at some of your favorite films. Check out their events lineup and purchase tickets for a show that interests you and your Valentine.
If you’re staying at the Watermark hotel, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a performing arts center only 0.4 miles away. The Raising Cane’s River Center hosts popular events throughout the year, so be sure to check their upcoming events for the perfect Valentine’s Day show.
4. Dinner? A Movie? Why Not Both?
How many great first dates have combined the winning magic of a delicious dinner followed by a trip to the movie theater? We think this is an excellent idea, but there’s still room for improvement. Specifically, why not roll those two elements into one experience?
At The Movie Tavern’s Baton Rouge location, that’s precisely what you’ll get. Here, you can relax in a classic theater to watch a movie of your choice while also enjoying a full meal and beverages. You don’t even have to worry about missing your movie while getting your dinner — servers will bring your meal right to you in the theater, so you never miss a minute of the excitement.
5. Enjoy a Valentine’s Day Concert
For a classic date night out, it’s hard to think of a more timeless tradition than attending a live show together. Few things capture the essence of romance like orchestral music does. That’s why the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra is one of the best ways to spend Valentine’s Day. View their events schedule and purchase tickets for you and your special someone.
If classical music is not your preferred choice, opt for another live musical concert. Baton Rouge is filled with musical talent, so keep an eye out for upcoming shows in February.
6. Visit the Zoo
It’s easy to think of the zoo as a traditionally family-centered trip, but it doesn’t have to be. It can also be a fun and romantic way to spend the day with your date as you explore the different habitats and animals and enjoy one another’s company.
If you enjoy camping, you and your Valentine will love the Baton Rouge Zoo Safari Night. This evening includes various fun activities, such as crafting, feeding animals and educational tours of the zoo. The Safari Night package also includes a complimentary dinner and breakfast.
7. Watch the Stars
Stargazing is a time-honored and romantic tradition, and it’s not hard to see why. There’s something powerful about staring up into the vastness of the nighttime sky with the feeling of a loved one by your side. And while you can undoubtedly stargaze in February if that’s your style, it’s also going to be a bit on the chilly side. Stay a little warmer this Valentine’s Day by heading to the planetarium instead.
The Louisiana Art & Science Center is home to Baton Rouge’s very own planetarium, as well as an assortment of other permanent and temporary exhibits. Browse exhibits on the galaxy, planets, ancient Egypt and more as you and your sweetheart spend the day together.
8. Take a Trip
Downtown Baton Rouge is going to be buzzing for Valentine’s Day. Sometimes, the most romantic gift you can give your partner is the gift of a little spontaneity and fun on what would be a regular night. Why not take advantage of our exclusive Romance Package at the Watermark hotel, the most iconic hotel in town?
This hotel embraces the spirit of Valentine’s Day and Baton Rouge with romantic brunches, decadent dinners and carefully curated wines. Sweep your Valentine off their feet with chocolate-coated strawberries and champagne — a timeless romantic combination. Book your romantic getaway before Valentine’s Day approaches.
9. Do a Little Painting
If you’re looking for fun things to do on Valentine’s Day, why not embrace your creative side with a painting night at Painting With A Twist? This paint studio lets you socialize, paint and sip on wine as you and your partner get creative with a fun-filled painting date night.
10. Spend the Night In
You both work hard all week. From meetings and projects to hectic commutes and overtime, sometimes the thing you find yourself most looking forward to isn’t the next big event — it’s a quiet night in. If you and your loved one are feeling stressed and burned out, maybe the most romantic gesture you could offer is the promise of a quiet night in together.
Cook each other a nice dinner, turn on the TV or grab a copy of your favorite movie and snuggle up together under the covers as you both relax and enjoy the simple joy of each other’s company.
11. Head Downtown
For some people, a night out means knowing exactly where you’ll be going ahead of time. We get that, and if that’s your style, there are plenty of options out there to help you plan your evening. But sometimes, half the romance and fun comes from allowing yourself to get swept up in the moment and not having any plans, but instead letting yourself choose whatever strikes you at the moment.
If you’re looking for a night of surprises and fun, why not head to the downtown area and see what catches you and your date’s eyes? Pop into different bars or restaurants, check out where that music is coming from and find magically lit parks to stroll through together. There’s no end to what Valentine’s Day ideas in Baton Rouge you might discover if you set your mind to wandering.
12. Get Some Exercise
For some couples, romance means dressing up and hitting the town while looking your best. Everyone’s got their thing, and if this is yours, we think that’s excellent. But for some couples, sharing their passion for the outdoors and physical activity is what brought them together in the first place. In cases like these, what could be more special than a date sharing another activity like this?
At Skate Galaxy, you don’t just have to decide on one fun thing to do. This complex offers a roller-skating rink, a rock climbing wall and a fantastic laser tag setup. With so much to see and do, you and your special someone can easily spend hours here and never even realize it.
13. Go for a Run
Are you and your partner outdoor enthusiasts who can’t resist a good run? You can both participate in the BE MINE Valentine’s Day run. There are several different distances ranging from 1 mile to a full marathon, giving you the option to run or walk. You can make this event more private by joining virtually and participating at a time that suits you and your partner best.
14. Hit the Mall
A nice dinner is always a winner. A trip to the theater is highly romantic. But sometimes, there’s nothing quite like an all-expenses-paid shopping spree. If your partner loves the mall and is always window shopping, consider treating them to a day at the mall together, while you take care of the bill. Include a nice lunch, brunch or dinner in the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for the perfect Valentine’s Day.
Baton Rouge’s Mall of Louisiana is the perfect spot for such a shopping extravaganza. As the largest mall in the state, it has no shortage of major name-brand stores and small pop-ups and lesser-known shops to investigate. Give a gift like this, and it’s sure to be a day you won’t soon forget.
15. Enjoy a Baton Rouge Classic
Does your Valentine have a sweet tooth? Are they always craving something chocolate and yummy? Spoil them this Valentine’s Day by gifting them a box of the trademark Cake Balls, straight from Baton Rouge’s own Brew Ha Ha Coffee Shop. These come in an incredible range of flavors and designs, making it possible to customize your order so it’s just right for the recipient. Trust us — this one’s going to earn you some major points.
16. Treat Yourselves to a Dinner Out
For some of us, eating out may be a weekly occurrence. For others, it may be a rare occasion, a treat we don’t often give ourselves. All too often, however, these experiences of eating out consist of visiting our favorite local fast food joint or zipping through a drive-thru. How often do we treat ourselves to an elegant sit-down dinner at a high-quality restaurant?
While fast food might be a solution for times when work runs late and you want to grab something quick on the way home, Valentine’s Day is a special occasion. To truly express how you feel about another person, nothing but the very best will do.
That’s where The Gregory comes in. For the best Valentine’s Day dinner in Baton Rouge, look no further. The Gregory is in the historic Watermark hotel in downtown Baton Rouge and is proud to serve delicious Southern cuisine for brunch, lunch and dinner. Their ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, ensuring you truly enjoy the authentic flavors of the Deep South without any compromise.
Reserve Your Valentine’s Day Table at The Gregory
Tables at The Gregory fill up fast. To make sure you and your special Valentine get your table for two this February, be sure to make preparations ahead of time and reserve your table. Leave the rest to us. We’ll help ensure you have that perfect romantic evening you’ve been picturing. All you have to do is show up.
