If you’re looking for Valentine’s Day ideas in Alexandria or Northern Virginia, consider this your local cheat sheet. Whether you’re planning a classic date night, a daytime stroll, or a full weekend away, there are so many ways to make Valentine’s Day feel special—without leaving the DMV.
From candlelit dinners in Old Town to scenic waterfront walks, creative experiences, and wine-country getaways, here’s my ultimate guide to celebrating Valentine’s Day in Alexandria and around the DMV.
Romantic Date-Night Restaurants
Old Town Alexandria
There’s a reason Old Town is such a popular spot for date night—it’s charming, walkable, and packed with incredible restaurants that feel perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Oak Steakhouse
A polished, modern steakhouse with moody lighting, plush seating, and a menu built for special occasions. This is a great choice if you’re going for a classic, elevated Valentine’s dinner with excellent cocktails and prime cuts.
Landini Brothers
An Old Town institution and one of the most timelessly romantic spots in the neighborhood. White tablecloths, candlelight, traditional Italian dishes, and that old-school charm that never goes out of style.
Vermilion
A longtime favorite for anniversaries and celebrations. The dining room feels intimate and refined, and the seasonal American menu is always thoughtful. Perfect if you want something elegant but still relaxed.
Le Refuge
One of the coziest, most romantic restaurants in the entire area. This tiny French bistro feels like a step back in time, with rich comfort dishes, low lighting, and an incredibly intimate atmosphere.
Ada’s on the River
If you want a wow-factor Valentine’s dinner, this is it. Waterfront views, dramatic interiors, and a menu focused on wood-fired steaks and seafood make this spot feel lively, stylish, and celebratory.
Josephine
A charming, French-inspired restaurant tucked on a quieter Old Town street. It feels like a little Parisian escape—warm lighting, great wine, and a menu made for lingering over dinner.
The Majestic
Bright, art-deco inspired, and always buzzing. This is a great option if you want something festive and fun while still feeling like a special night out.
BARCA Pier & Wine Bar
Right on the water with fire pits, wine, and small plates, BARCA has a relaxed, European feel that’s especially romantic at sunset. Perfect for a slightly more casual but still memorable date.
Vola’s Dockside Grill
A lively waterfront favorite with great seafood and river views. Ideal if you want a Valentine’s dinner that feels fun, easy, and quintessentially Old Town.
Arlington
Upscale, date-night-worthy restaurants across a range of styles—from classic French to modern steakhouse and refined international cuisine.
Cafe Colline
An intimate French bistro with elegant interiors, refined classics, and a beautifully curated wine list. Quiet, romantic, and ideal for a more sophisticated Valentine’s evening.
SER
A warm, Spanish restaurant known for paella, tapas, and a cozy atmosphere. Great for couples who want something a little more vibrant and shareable.
Sfoglina
Modern Italian with handmade pastas and a sleek, romantic interior. Perfect for a refined but approachable Valentine’s dinner.
Carlyle
An elegant neighborhood restaurant with classic American cuisine and a polished, intimate feel.
Le Côte D’Or Cafe
A longtime favorite for classic French cuisine in a quiet, romantic setting.
Ambar
A modern Balkan restaurant with a small-plates experience that keeps dinner interactive and fun.
Guerra Steakhouse
A classic steakhouse experience with rich interiors, prime cuts, and an upscale, celebratory feel.
The Salt Line
A stylish seafood spot with a lively but polished atmosphere—great for a slightly more energetic date night.
Yume Sushi
A sleek, modern sushi restaurant with beautifully plated dishes and a calm, intimate setting.
Beyond the Beltway
Refined dining with a more neighborhood feel.
L’Auberge Chez François (Great Falls)
A legendary French country inn tucked into the woods. Prix-fixe menus, fireplaces, and old-world charm make this one of the most romantic dining experiences in Northern Virginia.
Washington, DC
For a classic, high-end Valentine’s night out.
Olio e Più
I actually went here the other night for a friend’s birthday dinner, and it was fabulous—great food, great energy, and perfect for a celebratory Valentine’s night out.
Fiola
Michelin-recognized Italian dining with impeccable service and luxurious dishes—perfect for an elegant, special-occasion dinner.
The Dabney
A Michelin-starred favorite centered around a wood-burning hearth, offering warm, intimate dining and Mid-Atlantic flavors.
Rose’s Luxury
Creative, celebratory, and intimate, with a menu designed for sharing and lingering.
Le Diplomate
A Parisian-style brasserie that feels romantic no matter the occasion—tile floors, warm lighting, and a bustling but charming atmosphere.
Scenic Walks & Outdoor Date Ideas
With the snow hopefully melting and the warmer weather starting to show up, getting outside and enjoying some fresh air might be a nice change of scenery this Valentine’s Day.
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Old Town Waterfront
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Jones Point Park
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Mount Vernon Trail
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Great Falls Park
Fun Valentine’s Activities (Beyond Dinner)
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Wine tastings at local wine bars and wineries
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DIY workshops or art classes
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Live music at The Birchmere
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A show at Signature Theatre
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Dessert-only date night
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Coffee crawl through Old Town (See my blog post here on my favorite coffee spots in Alexandria)
A Cozy Valentine’s Night at Home
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Cook a favorite meal together
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Order takeout and set a candlelit table
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Build a charcuterie board and open a special bottle of wine
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Watch a favorite movie with dessert
Romantic Weekend Getaways from Alexandria
Middleburg & Loudoun Wine Country
Where to Stay
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Salamander Resort & Spa
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Goodstone Inn & Restaurant
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The Red Fox Inn & Tavern
Wineries to Visit
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Greenhill Vineyards
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Boxwood Estate Winery
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Cana Vineyards
Charlottesville Wine Country
Where to Stay
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Keswick Hall
Wineries to Explore
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King Family Vineyards
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Barboursville Vineyards
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Early Mountain Vineyards
My Final Thoughts
Valentine’s Day around Alexandria and Northern Virginia doesn’t have to be complicated. Some of the best dates are the simplest ones—great food, a pretty walk, and time together in places you already love.
Whether you’re planning a big night out, a cozy evening in, or a weekend away, there’s no shortage of ways to make Valentine’s Day feel special right here at home.
And if you end up trying any of these spots, I’d love to hear where you went. 💕
