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16 Romantic Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day in Phoenix
- Things to Do for Valentine’s Day in Phoenix
- Go on a romantic dinner date.
- Different Pointe of View
- Durant’s
- Christopher’s
- Elements
- Quiessence
- Make the trip and enjoy a scenic drive.
- Dobbins Lookout
- Red Rock Scenic Byway
- Apache Trail
- Take a sunset hike to the Hole in the Rock.
- Where do you park for Hole in Rock Phoenix?
- Enjoy a lovely picnic at Papago Park.
- Is there a fee for Papago Park?
- Go on a romantic stroll at Desert Botanical Garden.
- How much are Desert Botanical Garden tickets?
- Get cozy under the stars at the Dorrance Planetarium.
- How long are planetarium shows at Arizona Science Center?
- Immerse yourselves in the Van Gogh Exhibit.
- How long does it take to go through the Van Gogh exhibit in Phoenix?
- Go on a museum date at the Phoenix Art Museum.
- Is Phoenix Art Museum free?
- Learn to paint pottery together.
- Do you need reservations for As You Wish?
- Find zen at the luxurious Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden.
- What forms of payment are accepted at Tierra Luna Spa?
- Rent a boat and enjoy a relaxing cruise at Tempe Town Lake.
- Can you swim in Tempe Town Lake?
- Go on a thrilling skydiving adventure.
- How much does it cost to skydive in Phoenix?
- Experience glamping at Clear Sky Resorts.
- Is parking available at Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon Unique Sky Domes?
- Go on a romantic sunset hot air balloon ride.
- How much does a hot air balloon ride cost in Phoenix?
- Enjoy a drive-in movie together.
- How much is it to get into Glendale Drive-In?
- Ride into the sunset…literally, on a horse.
Phoenix doesn’t have much of a reputation when it comes to romantic activities, but we’re here to tell you that you shouldn’t sleep on this city for Valentine’s Day.
Apart from the many activities one can do here, there are also several scenic spots to hang out at. Really, you don’t need to spend much to have a nice, romantic date here.
Another upside is the range of date ideas you can do. Whether you’re into indoor or outdoor adventure, the valley doesn’t disappoint.
Keep reading as we give you some evergreen tips for Valentine’s Day! You may want to take notes.
Things to Do for Valentine’s Day in Phoenix
The city of Phoenix has no shortage of romantic things to do with your partner – from sunset hikes to romantic picnics, up to thrilling hot air balloon rides. Below are 16 date ideas that are especially nice to do on Valentine’s Day.
- Go on a romantic dinner date.
- Make the trip and enjoy a scenic drive.
- Take a sunset hike to the Hole in the Rock.
- Enjoy a lovely picnic at Papago Park.
- Go on a romantic stroll at Desert Botanical Garden.
- Get cozy under the stars at the Dorrance Planetarium.
- Immerse yourselves in the Van Gogh Exhibit.
- Go on a museum date at the Phoenix Art Museum.
- Learn to paint pottery together.
- Find zen at the luxurious Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden.
- Rent a boat and enjoy a relaxing cruise at Tempe Town Lake.
- Go on a thrilling skydiving adventure.
- Experience glamping at Clear Sky Resorts.
- Go on a romantic sunset hot air balloon ride.
- Enjoy a drive-in movie together.
- Ride into the sunset…literally, on a horse.
Now let’s go through each item on this list.
1. Go on a romantic dinner date.
Of course, a romantic dinner date is a classic Valentine’s Day idea. Thankfully, there are several beautiful and intimate restaurants that you can go to across the valley.
Not sure where to start? Below are our five picks of the best romantic restaurants in Phoenix.
1. Different Pointe of View

Website: https://tapatiocliffshilton.com/dining/different-pointe-of-view/
Address: 11111 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Contact Number: (602) 866-6350
Operational Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9AM–5PM; Monday, CLOSED
Arguably one of the city’s most scenic restaurants, Different Pointe of a View always comes to the locals’ top of mind when looking for a romantic dinner.
To start with, it’s the longest consecutively awarded AAA four-diamond restaurant in the valley. This means that service, food, ambience, and the overall experience has been deemed top notch in the dining industry.
And as you enjoy the gastronomic feast laid before you, you get stunning panoramic views of the desert below. We suggest booking a table on their terrace right around sunset – the experience is romantic, breathtaking, and absolutely surreal.
2. Durant’s

Website: http://durantsaz.com/
Address: 2611 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact Number: (602) 264-5967
Operational Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 4PM–8:30PM; Monday to Tuesday, CLOSED
Steaks are always a nice, romantic dinner idea; even more so when it’s from Durant’s. This 70-year old establishment has seen many wedding receptions, proposals, and intimate celebrations.
Here, you enter through their famous kitchen backdoor and will be led to their iconic vintage, red velvet seats. Think classic 1950s, but much more elegant and upscale.
Even though they’re best known for their steaks, you must always try their seafood selections, particularly the oysters. They’re exceptional and truly made fresh on the daily.
3. Christopher’s

Website: https://wrigleymansion.com/christophers/
Address: 2501 E Telawa Trail, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Contact Number: (602) 522-2344
Operational Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 5PM–10PM; Sunday to Monday, CLOSED
Chef Christopher has one mission – to bring you the best gastronomic experience. And it’s apparent in his eponymous restaurant, Christopher’s.
Elevated fine dining is how we like to describe this place. You may either go for their classic menu, or a sumptuous 8-course menu with optional wine pairings.
Apart from the culinary experience, the view from their place is also unmatched. It would even be a good place to pop the question, if you know what we mean.
4. Elements

Website: https://www.gurneysresorts.com/scottsdale/dining/elements
Address: 5700 E McDonald Dr, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Contact Number: (855)-245-2051
Operational Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 7AM–9PM; Friday to Saturday, 7AM–9:30PM
For fresh, farm-to-table culinary delights, Elements at Sanctuary would be a great choice. Their menu is seasonal but is always organic, savory, diverse, and pleasantly surprising.
We highly-recommend booking a reservation for an hour before sunset for that glorious, sweeping view of Camelback Mountain as you dine. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer an unobstructed view of sundown and adds to the already romantic setting.
If you’re vegetarian or on a gluten-free diet, you’ll be happy to know that they have a wide range of dishes for you. Expect to shell out quite a hefty amount, but hey, you and your partner deserve a delicious treat every now and then.
5. Quiessence

Website: https://www.qatthefarm.com/
Address: 6106 S 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Contact Number: (602) 276-0601
Operational Hours: Tuesday and Thursday to Saturday, 5PM–8PM; Sunday to Monday and Wednesday, CLOSED
For an authentic farm-to-table but romantic experience, look no further than Quiessence at the Farm at South Mountain.
Renowned chef Dustin Christofolo is at the helm of this rustic restaurant. He serves up an invigorating tasting menu with freshly-harvested vegetables, edible flowers, eggs, and herbs gathered within their own garden.
They also have an impressive selection of craft cocktails that go perfectly well with their dishes. At night, just gaze up and enjoy dining under millions of twinkling stars.
2. Make the trip and enjoy a scenic drive.
Something as simple as a scenic drive can really melt your troubles away and could even be a romantic date idea. Blast some music, bring your favorite snacks, and bring all that you need for a fun road trip.
And if you’re pressed for ideas, below are a few of our suggestions.
1. Dobbins Lookout

Getting There: Drive along Central Avenue and head towards Summit Road. Make your way to the entrance to South Mountain Park and follow the sign leading to Dobbins Lookout.
Average Drive Time: 15 minutes
A short but sweet ride that’ll give you unparalleled views of the valley is the road heading to Dobbins Lookout. It starts from the base of South Mountain Park and continues to a winding, uphill road with lots of blind curves and hidden bends.
Do be on the lookout for bikers and hikers! We also suggest timing your drive right around sunset when the world seems golden and solemn – it’s a view that you’ll probably end up coming back to.
2. Red Rock Scenic Byway

Getting There: Take the AZ 179 exit and head north for about two-tenths of a mile. You’ll know you’re near when you pass by Mile Marker 310.
Average Drive Time: 30 minutes
The Red Rock Scenic Byway is often referred to as a “museum without walls” because it offers glorious views of the red rock formations on either side of the road.
It’s the lovely entryway if you’re headed to Sedona and you’ll often encounter tourists parked on the highway taking photos. There’s also usually some moderate traffic due to this, but you practically won’t mind.
Also, if you time your drive right, you might catch the sun dipping behind the rocks and seemingly making them glow. To this day, the road is celebrated as a national “destination unto itself”.
3. Apache Trail

Getting There: Drive east from Downtown Phoenix for about 50 minutes to Apache Junction. Make your way towards the end of the Apache Trail, then east to AZ 188.
Average Drive Time: 3-4 hours
The Apache Trail or officially known as Arizona State Route 88 is one of the most famous scenic roads near Phoenix. It’s a 40-mile stretch of thick mountains, glittering lakes, and desert views.
It’s not an entirely smooth ride as you’ll have to go through some switchbacks and sharp turns, but the views make it well worth the challenge. It’s generally not recommended for new drivers, so just take caution and be responsible.
If you want to stop and take some pics, feel free to do so! There are a lot of viewing points throughout the road for this exact reason.
3. Take a sunset hike to the Hole in the Rock.

If Papago Park is best known for anything, it would be the relatively easy hike to the Hole in the Rock. It only takes an average of less than 10 minutes to complete, and the summit gives you sweeping views of the park’s entirety.
It’s an especially fun trail for beginners or those who just want a quick and easy climb. You’ll be hiking among beautiful red rocks and desert views, and it’s truly quite breathtaking.
Once you get to the top, you can sit and just take in the stunning view. Honestly, romance and scenic views just go so well together.
Where do you park for Hole in Rock Phoenix?
The trailhead is at 625 N. Galvin Parkway. This entrance leads directly to the parking lot.
4. Enjoy a lovely picnic at Papago Park.

While we’re in the area, make your way down and enjoy a nice picnic at Papago Park. There are several ramadas available on a first-come, first-served basis, so pack a basket filled with your favorite food.
Side note: Beers or liquor of any kind require a special permit.
Is there a fee for Papago Park?
Entrance to the park and use of some of its ramadas are completely free.
5. Go on a romantic stroll at Desert Botanical Garden.

Website: https://dbg.org/
Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Contact Number: (480) 941-1225
Operational Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9AM–5PM
The Desert Botanical Garden has several garden trails and galleries that you can come visit. But the most romantic one (at least, in our book) is the Desert Discovery Loop Trail.
If you thought massive displays of cacti aren’t romantic, think again. On this loop, they managed to create an intimate yet fascinating trail that leads into the vibrant and beautiful desert.
How much are Desert Botanical Garden tickets?
Admission to the garden starts at $25 per adult.
6. Get cozy under the stars at the Dorrance Planetarium.

Website: https://www.azscience.org/
Address: Arizona Science Center, 600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact Number: (602) 716-2000
Operational Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30AM–4PM
The Dorrance Planetarium located inside the Arizona Science Center is one of the largest planetariums in the country. It’s also a trailblazer in its field, having been the first of its kind to feature a NanoSeam design.
Apart from being just an exhibit, it’s also an immersive experience. Sometimes, they showcase artistic images and riveting sounds that make it seem as though art has come alive.
How long are planetarium shows at Arizona Science Center?
Planetarium shows typically last an average of 45 minutes.
7. Immerse yourselves in the Van Gogh Exhibit.

Website: https://www.vangoghphx.com/
Address: 4301 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Contact Number: (844) 307-4644
Operational Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10AM–7PM
The Van Gogh Exhibit took the world by storm and is one of the best-selling art shows of all time. It finally made its way to the valley, and we think immersing yourselves in the live show would be a great way to spend Valentine’s Day.
Vincent’s oeuvre in Scottsdale spans over 500,000 cubic feet and features full monumental projections of his famed art. You get to witness his brushstrokes and see the vibrance details in the colors he used.
It’s truly an illuminating experience that’s astonishing and inspiring at the same time.
How long does it take to go through the Van Gogh exhibit in Phoenix?
It takes an average of 30 minutes to walk through the entire Van Gogh Exhibit show in Phoenix.
8. Go on a museum date at the Phoenix Art Museum.

Website: https://phxart.org/
Address: 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Contact Number: (602) 257-1880
Operational Hours: Wednesday, 10AM–9PM; Thursday to Sunday, 10AM–5PM; Monday to Tuesday, CLOSED
Not into the whole immersive art experience? Then a classic museum date at the Phoenix Art Museum might just be for you.
Here, you can spend a full day exploring all nine collecting areas and seeing over 20,000 art pieces and artifacts. From American and Western art, to European, up to contemporary and fashion design – this place has it all!
Art truly conveys so many emotions and meanings. It’s a great way to bond and get to know your partner even more.
Is Phoenix Art Museum free?
General admission to the museum is free, but there are some special exhibits and installations that require ticket purchase.
9. Learn to paint pottery together.

Website: https://www.asyouwishpottery.com/
Address: 21001 N Tatum Blvd Ste 48-1530, Phoenix, AZ 85050
Contact Number: (480) 585-0041
Operational Hours: Monday to Thursday, 10AM–9PM; Friday, 10AM–10PM; Saturday, 10AM–6PM; Sunday, 11AM–6PM
Now this is an unconventional but fun one. Take your partner and learn how to paint pottery together at As You Wish Pottery Painting.
It’s the first-ever paint-your-own pottery studio in the country. They often hold classes for pottery painting, but they also offer day passes just for you to try them out.
How it works is that you choose any pottery from their shelves, design and paint it, then they will glaze and fire it in the kiln. It normally takes about 3 days for pickup to be available, but they also offer express same-day pickups.
We’ve heard of some people coming here and painting plates, cups, or mugs that they keep and eventually end up bringing to their first home together as a couple. Now isn’t that just a cute idea?
Do you need reservations for As You Wish?
As You Wish accepts walk-ins, but the studio strongly recommends making a reservation to ensure your slot for the day.
10. Find zen at the luxurious Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden.

Website: https://www.arizonabiltmore.com/wellness/tierra-luna-spa
Address: 2400 E Missouri Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Contact Number: (602) 381-7656
Operational Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9AM–7PM
Pamper yourselves at the Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden located inside the Arizona Biltmore. It’s one of the valley’s most luxurious spas with indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a bar oasis, a hot tub, and a cold plunge pool.
For couples, they recommend booking the Desert Rose treatment. It already includes a 50-minute couples massage, an aroma-infused steam shower, rose quartz soaking ritual, and a well bar offering.
Bask in the tranquility of the space and leave feeling completely refreshed. The ambience is so peaceful that it’s hard not to find complete zen.
What forms of payment are accepted at Tierra Luna Spa?
Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden accepts all credit cards and cash payments.
11. Rent a boat and enjoy a relaxing cruise at Tempe Town Lake.

Website: https://boats4rent.com/tempe-az/tempe-town/
Address: 72 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281
Contact Number: (855) 690-0794
Operational Hours: Monday to Thursday, 10AM–7PM; Friday, 10AM–8PM; Saturday, 10AM–4PM; Sunday, 12PM–8PM
Tempe Town Lake is a popular hangout spot for most locals. Here, you can go biking, jogging, and there are a ton of water activities available.
Why not rent out a pedal boat and enjoy lazing around the lake? You control the speed and you can sunbathe or simply sightsee while on the water.
It’s quiet, relatively affordable, and you don’t need to go that far. If all you want is a simple activity, we recommend checking out the boat rentals on Tempe Town Lake.
Can you swim in Tempe Town Lake?
Swimming is strictly prohibited in Tempe Town Lake, but water activities such as boating and kayaking are allowed.
12. Go on a thrilling skydiving adventure.

Website: https://www.skydivephoenix.com/
Address: Municipal Airport, 3225 N Lear Ave, Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Contact Number: (520) 840-9095
Operational Hours: Monday to Sunday, 6AM–6PM
Whoever said that experience makes the best gifts knows what they’re talking about. How about giving your partner an adrenaline rush by trying out skydiving for Valentine’s Day?
At Skydive Phoenix, you get a beginner-friendly dropzone that affords you a gorgeous view of the city skyline. They have licensed and experienced instructors, too, so there’s no need to worry!
If you’re up for it, tick this off your bucket lists together and create a core memory you won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
How much does it cost to skydive in Phoenix?
Skydiving in Phoenix costs anywhere from $200 to $250. This typically excludes the photo and video fees, which will set you back an additional $80 to $150.
13. Experience glamping at Clear Sky Resorts.

Website: https://grandcanyon.clearskyresorts.com/
Address: 629 High Grv Rd, Williams, AZ 86046
Contact Number: (888) 704-4445
Operational Hours: Open 24/7
Instead of a luxury staycation, why not try out glamping instead? At Clear Sky Resorts, they give justice to their namesake by giving guests unparalleled views of the night sky.
You’ll need to take a 3-4 hour drive to the Grand Canyon, but once you see the place, you’ll know why a lot of people come here. The themed domes are fascinating, comfortable, and quiet – the perfect place to spend some alone time with your partner.
Part of the experience are onsite breakfast and dinner at their food trucks, nightly s’mores at the firepit, a lit frisbee golf course, yard games, and more. We suggest staying for more than just overnight to get the full outdoor experience.
Is parking available at Clear Sky Resorts Grand Canyon Unique Sky Domes?
Free parking is available at the designated area of the resort.
14. Go on a romantic sunset hot air balloon ride.

Website: https://www.rainbowryders.com/
Address: 715 E Covey Ln #100, Phoenix, AZ 85024
Contact Number: (480) 299-0154
Operational Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7AM–7PM; Sunday, 7AM–4PM
At least one of your Valentine’s Day dates should be spent on a romantic hot air balloon ride. Just imagine riding into the sunset with splendid views of the Sonoron desert beneath you – it’s absolutely lovely!
Rainbow Ryders is one of the most recommended hot air balloon operators in the city. They’ve won several awards regarding safety, and all their pilots are FAA-certified with a minimum of 500 flight hours.
The ride usually lasts up to an hour, but you’ll have memories that’ll last you for much, much longer!
How much does a hot air balloon ride cost in Phoenix?
Hot air balloon rides in Phoenix range from $130 to $170 per person.
15. Enjoy a drive-in movie together.

Website: https://www.westwinddi.com/
Address: 5650 N 55th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Contact Number: (623) 939-9715
Operational Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 7PM–12AM; Friday to Saturday, 6:15PM–12AM
Naturally, we can’t make a list of Valentine’s Day ideas and a movie of some sort isn’t involved. We love going to the movies, and even more so to drive-in movies!
West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In is one of the largest drive-in theaters in the country. They have 9 big screens and are open every day of the year!
They usually have updated movie selections, so don’t worry about just seeing old films. And, they have an awesome sound system that won’t crackle and distract you halfway through.
How much is it to get into Glendale Drive-In?
General admission costs $8.50 per adult and $2 per kid aged 5-11 years old.
16. Ride into the sunset…literally, on a horse.

Website: https://www.cavecreektrailrides.com/
Address: 37019 N 32nd St, Cave Creek, AZ 85331
Contact Number: (623) 742-6700
Operational Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8AM–6PM
Yes, sunset horseback riding is a thing! And Cave Creek Trail Rides has been offering this romantic service for a couple of years now.
From what we’ve heard, this ride is a tranquil one perfect for those in search of an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It also gives guests a nice view of the desert alongside all its flora and fauna.
You can either take the 1-hour ride or the 1.5-hours ride, but we suggest the latter to make the most out of the experience.
Already planning the date in your head? Let us know what you came up with in the comment section below!