Are your ideas for Valentine’s Day starting to feel as stale as that heart-shaped box of chocolates collecting dust on the convenience store shelf? If you’re ready to try something new in Tampa Bay, then buckle up as we guide you through some of the most romantic places to dine and explore, and some new activities to try. (No… not THOSE types of activities. Let’s keep it clean here, people.)

Something Other Than Bern’s

If the Harry Waugh Dessert Room is the first place that pops to mind for Valentine’s Day, you may need a new game plan as it’s nearly impossible to snag a reservation around mid-February. If you’re craving that cozy, intimate feel in a dining experience consider giving a new spot a try.

Pia’s Trattoria, in the quaint beach town of Gulfport, describes itself as a “romantic, cozy Old Italian atmosphere” and we couldn’t agree more. Whether you’re seated indoors under the wood beam ceilings and soft chandelier lighting or on their outside patio surrounded with bougainvillea, the dining experience feels intimate and friendly. We recommend the bruschetta and mussels from their menu, but really it’s hard to go wrong with any of their offerings.

If overstuffed leather seating and industrial elements are more of your style, check out Urban Stillhouse located in St. Petersburg’s Warehouse Arts district. With 16,000 square feet of dining and a two-story stone fireplace at the center of it all, Urban Stillhouse is impressive even before you get to see their menu, which features everything from bison fillet with bourbon-shallot butter, to BBQ smoked duck, and a Wagyu ribeye with horseradish sauce. For bourbon-whiskey lovers, book an appointment for their Horse Soldier interactive tasting experience, which take place Thursday through Saturday at 2pm and 4pm. Urban Stillhouse is by reservation only and is not open Monday through Wednesday, so you’ll have to plan a pre-or post-Valentine’s Day visit there this year!

If you’re on the Tampa side of the Howard Frankland bridge, Ciro’s is your stop for cozy, intimate, historic, and fun. Named after an old Hollywood bar and located inside the Bayshore Royal Building, Ciro’s is set up like a speakeasy, complete with changing password each day. Their cocktails are their crown jewel, made by master mixologists that create some of the most interesting concoctions you’ll find in Tampa. For an extra romantic experience, book one of their private booths while you dine. Their Valentine’s Prix Fixe menu is available now here and is $110 per person plus tax and gratuity.

Space to Explore

Looking for an experience as part of your romantic day? This may be the perfect time to explore one of the many area museums that you’ve been meaning to visit (but have never set aside the time to do so). Some of our favorites for hand-in-hand strolling include the Museum of Fine Arts and Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center, both in St. Petersburg.

If you’re up for a road trip, we would highly recommend strolling the gardens of the Ringling Museum in Sarasota and taking a tour of the Ca’ d’Zan, the home of John and Mabel Ringling. Visit on Valentine’s Day for “Romance at the Ringling” where you can customize your own tour and enjoy a special menu at their Ringling Grillroom. Find more details on their events page and book your reservation in advance.

For those looking to connect with nature, take a trip to one of Tampa’s many parks and enjoy strolling along the boardwalk while observing the many creatures and plants that call Florida home. Two of our personal favorite spots are Brooker Creek Preserve in Tarpon Springs and Lettuce Lake Park near USF in Tampa. Both feature impressive Visitor’s Centers and long-stretches of well-maintained trails through the parks. 

Put a Bow on It

It can be hard to come up with an original gift, particularly just after rolling off the holiday season.  However, we believe that going local will produce something that is almost always appreciated. For chocolates, consider trying out one of Tampa’s newest establishments, Peterbrooke Chocolatier. Located downtown, Peterbrooke features a large selection of chocolate treats and other confections. The sports fan in your life will be sure to appreciate their chocolate football filled with chocolate covered popcorn, for the perfect salty-sweet surprise.

For an experience and a gift wrapped in one, book your appointment at Hyde Park’s The Candle Pour. Customize and create your own candle together from their collection of over 100 unique and premium fragrances. Then burn your creation later in the evening for a romantic ambiance at home. They only take 9 customers at a time for the 45-minute candle-creating experience, so reservations are strongly recommended.

Cotherman Distilling Company in Dunedin is a small spot that packs a big punch. While their tasting room is only open on Friday evenings, you can grab a few of their signature spirits and glasses and have your own at-home tasting. One of their most popular offerings is their 727 Vodka, a small batch “single malt” vodka, and their Half-Mine Gin. If you’re adventurous and like spice, give their Hello Pena pepper-flavored vodka a try in your next cocktail. It’s guaranteed to heat up your night in at least one way.

Anything But Valentine’s As Usual

We know we’ve got some out-of-the-chocolate-box thinkers here when it comes to creating a Valentine’s experience to remember. For those who love to test their gray matter, book your appointment for Escape Time Trap’s “Box of Chocolates” escape room in New Port Richey. With 141 five-star Google reviews, this escape room offers a fun and immersive Valentine’s themed room for January 26th through February 12th.  See why people are calling them “daringly different!”

If different is right up your alley, then get Tampa’s Party Picnic Company on your calendar now. Pick from a variety of themes and packages for the ultimate intimate picnic date. Packages can even include a photography session, charcuterie or dessert options, and champagne or wine. 

Home may be where the heart is, but a change of scenery can be just what your relationship needs. Book a reservation at St. Pete’s boutique Hollander Hotel to feel like you’re on vacation even if you’re not far from home. The Hollander is located near it all, making it an easy stroll to tons of great restaurants, museums, St Pete shuffleboard, and photo-worthy murals. 

A Valentine’s to Remember

Whether you’re in a new relationship or are counting the decades, we hope you’ve found at least one new thing to shake up your Valentine’s Day this year. Tampa Bay has so much to offer and we’re proud to serve as your guides to the newest and noteworthy places around the area. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current home or are brand-new to the Tampa Bay area, please reach out to us at Anthony@MyTampaAgent.com and let us know how our team can serve you for your real estate needs.