Valentine’s Date Night Ideas in Chattanooga

Valentine’s Day is upon us, and with it comes expectations of planning a date night. Whether you or your significant other are in charge of it, Valentine’s Day dates aren’t always easy to plan. Children need babysitters and reservations fill up quickly. Whether you celebrate the day of or later in the week, here’s a quick guide to help you out!

Here’s to making your Valentine’s Day celebrations as easy as possible!

Drinks:

• STIR: If you like local, artsy, hip and many options, this is a great place to begin your evening. Stir is located on the side of the Chattanooga Choo-Choo, and boasts unique drinks, bar-tending mastery and — who knew it was a thing? — artisanal ice. Don’t be afraid if you are novice to all of it; the staff will love to teach you what they know. And bonus: happy hour is M-F 4-6:30pm, with appetizers included.

• The Flying Squirrel: It’s rustic, it’s local, it’s warm and friendly. Local beer on tap and constantly rotating cocktails to keep you trying new concepts, The Flying Squirrel wants you to socialize and enjoy the evening. Located in the Southside, it is close to many fine dining establishments but you may end up staying for the locally sourced, Southern goodness that makes its way out of the kitchen.

• Wine Down Bar: Located in the up and coming Cambridge Square district of Ooltewah, Wine Down Bar is a locally owned and operated wine bar and restaurant. With a tasting room (reservations please) and the owner and manager Marcus on site to consult, its high end spirits, wines and hand crafted cocktails make it a lovely place to celebrate any occasion.
• Whiskey Thief: Located in the Edwin Hotel beside the Walnut Street Bridge, Whiskey Thief offers the highest quality cocktails, libations, and bites. The menu will change seasonally so we can ensure the freshest ingredients.
  

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Steakhouses & Eats:

• 1885 Grill: Located in St. Elmo, right before the trek up Lookout, 1885 is a Southern seafood and steakhouse restaurant. Reasonably priced entrees, vegetarian options, and as another contributor has stated, “the best cheesecake ever.” On a good night, enjoy the patio seating, or if you are foodie, try the back dining room with a view into the kitchen.
• St. John’s: St. John’s Restaurant is located in the former St. John’s Hotel building. In addition to St. John’s Restaurant and St. John’s Meeting Place, the building also houses various businesses and luxury apartments on the floors above. 
• The Meeting Place: Enjoy the same quality, attention to detail and hospitality as
  St. John’s in a more casual atmosphere. An evolving variety of small plates and entrees encourage conversations and stimulate the senses. An open kitchen and red glow create a warm and energetic ambiance.

• Alleia: Somehow this restaurant fuses authentic Italian with the South. Valet parking, candles, and chandeliers make it a perfect evening for two.
• Number 10 Steakhouse: Located in the Southside, this steak restaurant is in an old factory, giving it a cool and cozy industrial vibe.
• Top of the Rock: The combination of chef-inspired food, expertly made craft beer, and spectacular views makes Top of The Rock a place like no other. 
  

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Dessert:

• Rembrandts: If you haven’t been to Rembrandts in the Bluff View Art District, you probably haven’t been in Chattanooga very long. On-site baked good and artisanal chocolate, coffee roasted steps away from the shop, and a courtyard with twinkle lights and a bubbling fountain. A perfect ending to a night’s stroll downtown.

• The Hot Chocolatier: Located across from the Chattanooga Choo-Choo downtown or in historic St. Elmo, it’s a wonderful little local shop that has creative desserts and drinks. Everything is chocolate, therefore everything is good. On a fair night, the courtyard is quaint and private.

• City Cafe Diner (East Brainerd location as downtown location is under construction): The atmosphere may more akin to an after-prom joint, but you can pick your sugar from the case at the front of the store and bring it home to avoid the bad carpet and disco lighting.
  

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Stay:

• The Read House: Historic Chattanooga at its finest and an all-in-one stop if you don’t like navigating the downtown scene. With Porter’s Steakhouse on the bottom floor and a full service Starbucks in house as well, you can enjoy a night away without fussing over multiple locations. Stay luxuriously in spacious rooms with views of Chattanooga and old-fashioned quality service.
• The Westin: Located in the West Village in the heart of downtown, this hotel boasts some of the most breathtaking views of our beautiful city. There are several top notch restaurants within walking distance.

• The Chattanoogan: This modern hotel is fully equipped for a luxurious stay. The full service Spa is a welcome addition to a night away, and many restaurants and bars are a close walk down the street. Located close to the Southside area, with close shopping and eats at Warehouse Row. (It was recently all renovated!)

• Bluff View Inn: Just around the corner from Rembrandts and behind the Hunter Art Museum, the Maclellan House (one of the three inns) is located on the precipice of the bluff, overlooking iconic Chattanooga sites without all the noise. It is a personal favorite setting from my college days, with memories of playing bocce ball on the court looking down on the river and then later saying “Yes!” under the twinkle lights and wisteria.
  

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Adventure & Activities:

• The Sweet and Savory Classroom, Valentine’s Dinner: Want to cook dinner for your Valentine but thinking “where do I even start?” Book a Valentine’s dinner class and enjoy the process together! Chef Jeff will teach you all you need to know about creating a delicious four-course meal, providing all necessary ingredients and kitchen supplies. With only four nights to engage in a one of a kind culinary experience, reservations will be filled quickly. February 10th-14th.

• Hike to Sunset Rock: Since we are living in one of the best outdoor cities in America, we have to include an adventurous date idea! Sunset Rock is located on the west side of Lookout Mountain, overlooking Lookout Valley. There are multiple ways to get to Sunset Rock: 1) Hike from Point Park, enabling you to also enjoy the 180 degree view of Chattanooga as well. Hike down the very steep metal stairs and turn left at the bottom; 2) Park at Craven’s House and follow the signs around the mountain. Less steep climbs than Point Park and free parking; and 3) Park at the small parking lot on West Brow road and go down the steep 0.1 mile to the rock. On a clear day, the views of the city are spectacular.

• Dance Tonight Chattanooga: Always wanted to learn how to dance? Need a Valentine Date idea that will surprise and delight? Look no further than Dance Tonight Chattanooga! The studio offers private lessons, as well as the much less intimidating group lessons. 

• Ignis Glass Studio: Located in the heart of downtown Chattanooga, Ignis Glass Studio offers a one of a kind experience to make memories together. Master craftsmen include you in their art-making process of forming and blowing glass ornaments that will be cherished along with the experience. Walk-ins are welcome, but to be assured of an appointment, make a reservation!
• Mountain Escape Spa Couple’s Massage: The week before and the week of Valentine’s day the spa offering you the experience of a 60 Minute Couple’s Massage and an Aromatherapy Steam Shower accompanied with some champagne and chocolate covered strawberries!

Know of a great place or activity that didn’t make my list? Post it below!