How to Spend Valentine’s Day in Athens

By Abby Del Bene

With Valentine’s Day just days away, couples are feeling the pressure to plan the perfect date for their special evening. Whether you’re looking to spend this day in a quiet café downtown, in a romantic low-lit restaurant or on a long walk through the gardens, Athens, Georgia, is the place to celebrate this romantic holiday! Here’s a list of the best places in town, no matter your budget, to help narrow down your search:

Georgia Theatre

For music lovers out there, spend this special evening dancing the night away at the Georgia Theatre. Located in the center of Athens’ historic downtown, the Georgia Theatre will be hosting Colony House, an American indie rock band, at 9 p.m. Before the show, take your loved one and enjoy a romantic dining experience at one of the many restaurants downtown Athens has to offer. For more information, visit https://www.georgiatheatre.com

The National

Known for its Mediterranean style comfort food, The National is the perfect place to get a taste of the European lifestyle without leaving the comfort of your own town. On Friday, Feb. 14, The National will be serving a three-course meal for $50 per person, each course including a variety of options. Ideal for everyone’s cravings! For more information, visit http://www.thenationalrestaurant.com

The Expat

If you’re looking to venture out and try a different style of food in a romantic and intimate setting, head over to The Expat. This restaurant offers a variety of European dishes from Duck Breast to Lapin au Vin. Call in advance and reserve a table at this french-inspired bistro to get a taste of European culture. For more information, visit http://theexpatathens.com/menus/?id=2

State Botanical Garden of Georgia

If you are someone that does not want to blow all of your savings account on a dinner, but still wants to show someone you care, nothing says intimate like a romantic walk in the park. Pack a picnic and spend the day in the famous State Botanical Garden of Georgia and have a relaxing Valentine’s Day with the one you love. For more information, visit https://botgarden.uga.edu

Graduate Athens

Book a room and have yourself a staycation in one of the most popular hotels in Athens. Located just minutes from downtown Athens and the University of Georgia  campus, Graduate Athens is offering a special package when you book your stay for Valentine’s Day weekend. Treat yourself and your significant other to a bottle of champagne, Condor chocolate and – everyone’s favorite – a late checkout. For more information, visit https://www.graduatehotels.com/athens/

No matter how you and your other half plan to spend this romantic evening, Athens has numerous options for a romantic Valentine’s Day that will make it a memorable holiday!