valentine’s weekend getaways
Shenandoah National Park
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Valentine’s looks a lot different over here post-kids, and we celebrate that! We loved that our valentine evenings have changed and evolved since having our 3 kiddos. This year, with Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday, there are plenty more opportunities for evening activities or weekend getaways! If you have President’s Day (Feb 16th) off work or school, that can extend Valentine’s Day into a long weekend.
In honor of me and my husband’s 15th wedding anniversary, let’s look at all the best getaways for couples and families! Here’s our top picks from the DC area (our home base). We recommend booking on: Expedia, Booking.com, or VRBO.
For couples
New York City ~3-3.5 hr by train
NYC makes an easy, high-impact couples getaway from DC—no flights, no stress, just a few hours and you’re in the middle of everything. It’s perfect for pairs who love great food, long walks, and staying up a little too late. Spend the day wandering museums or neighborhoods hand-in-hand, linger over cocktails at a cozy wine bar, catch a Broadway show, and end the night with skyline views from a rooftop.
Tours, Activities and more at Get Your Guide.
Charlottesville & Albemarle County, VA ~2 hr
Enjoy Virginia wine country, cozy B&Bs, and elegant estates like Keswick Hall. Explore vineyards by day and enjoy candlelit dinners by night.
St. Michaels, MD (Eastern Shore) ~1.5 hr
A charming waterfront town on the Chesapeake Bay with boutique hotels (e.g., Wildset Hotel), cozy fire pits, seaside walks, and boutique shops. This is a picture-perfect destination for a romantic stroll.
Great Falls Park / C&O Canal Area (short drive)
If you’d rather stay close but want fresh air and a memorable experience, this scenic park offers dramatic views and hikes—great for a day portion of a Valentine’s trip
Middleburg & Wine Country, VA ~1 hr
We recommend the Salamander Resort & Spa for a luxurious, equestrian-charm retreat with spa services, carriage rides, private tastings, and fine dining. This is ideal for couples who want relaxation with a romantic countryside vibe.
Leesburg, VA ~45 min
One of our favorite nearby small towns. Perfect for a shorter drive, the Lansdowne Resort & Spa often features Valentine’s packages (champagne, chocolates, special dinners) plus spa options and scenic grounds.
Hawley, PA ~4 hr (worth the extra drive)
We recommend the Lodge at Woodloch, an adults-only spa escape with plush robes, couples’ treatments, and peaceful woodland surroundings, great for serious chill-and-connect time.
For families
Harpers Ferry, WV ~1.5 hrs
A charming historic town where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet. Families can explore history, stroll downtown, and hike some easy trails.
Frederick County & Cunningham Falls State Park, MD ~1 hr
This area of Maryland offers hiking, boating, waterfalls, historic steam railroad rides, wildlife preserves, and family-friendly outdoor fun. For our family, this is the perfect destination for a fun-filled weekend trip. Look out for our guide to Frederick coming soon!
Luray Caverns, VA ~1 hr
This is an awe-inspiring underground cave system that your kids will love exploring. Notable formations include stalactites/stalagmites and the musical stalacpipe organ.
Massanutten Resort, VA ~1 hr
This resort is known as one of Virginia’s premier destinations! During the winter season, there are outdoor activities like tubing & ice skating. It also has plenty of indoor activities for kids of all ages—from escape rooms to an indoor waterpark.
Great Wolf Lodge ~1.5 hrs
The new location in Perryville, MD is more convenient than ever! This is the perfect weekend destination for your little ones to burn off all that extra energy. I don’t know about your family, but we’ve been cooped up at our house due to the cold weather, and I know my kids would love a trip to an indoor waterpark.