Affection for the one you love shouldn’t be limited to a single day of the year, but that’s not to say the week of February 14th isn’t a good time to renew your devotion. Our lovely suggestions for celebrating this Valentine’s Day include tokens of affection, date night worthy restaurants and unforgettable experiences for two, all of which are valid motifs 365 days a year (subject to hours of operation). Click the link to learn more about each local business and experience and then get out in Tacoma and show the love.
Photos courtesy of our friends on Instagram.
To give
You’ll feel romance blossom with help from Browns Flowers on South Tacoma Way or Grassi’s on Center Street. Leave with a traditional dozen or mix and match to your sweetheart’s style.
Satori on Pacific Avenue sells trendy clothing and accessories in addition to DIY succulent arrangements in charming pots. Green Thumb in South Tacoma offers a variety of rooted arrangements to symbolize love that lasts (be sure to ask about their fairy gardens and workshops).
Satisfy his/her sweet tooth with an assorted gift box from Johnson Candy Company or a heavenly Hello Cupcake (Feb. 10 – 13, vanilla strawberry cupcake proceeds will benefit Mended Little Hearts of Puget Sound). Corina bakery also offers baked goodness that can cater to dietary restrictions and allergies.
If your soul mate is a true northwest lover, consider something hot and steamy from Metronome coffee where live music is played on the weekends and seasonal homemade recipes match the occasion.
Browse locally themed gifts available at the Pacific Northwest Shop in Proctor or sample the selection at Old Town Oil and Vinegar to satisfy a special someone with gourmet taste. Make it a cozy night in or host a homemade dinner party.
For unique Valentine cards, visit Paper Luxe Studio or Stocklist Goods.
Don’t miss the line-up of pop-up shops and makers markets the weekend leading up to the big day. Just check our events calendar for dates, times and locations. You’re sure to find the perfect one-of-a-kind gift from jewelry to artwork to natural love potions.
(For him) Spoil your Casanova at Broken Spoke with an old-fashioned barber cut and a cold one during this masculine spa day of sorts.
To eat
Pacific Avenue downtown seems to offer the crème de le crème of fine dining experiences in Tacoma. Sit around the pond or fireside with Thai fusion dishes big enough to share at Indochine. Enjoy the romantic lighting and award-winning northwest flavors of Pacific Grill, an interactive dining experience at the Melting Pot, or the dimly lit luxury and live piano entertainment within El Guacho.
1022 South J, although closed Monday and Tuesday, is a hidden gem in hilltop with a handful of sought-after tables serving hand-crafted specialty cocktails and a satisfying seasonal menu.
Sel offers a divine brunch experience overlooking the water, while Anthony’s in Point Defiance is just a door away from a beachside stroll where a humpback whale was spotted just last week.
Pomodoro Italian is stocked with internationally inspired eats and fine wines just around the corner from the historic Blue Mouse Theatre or family-friendly bowling alley.
Viva takes a spin toward vegan, gluten and dairy free dishes with a special “aphrodisiac menu” this holiday.
To do
Make your own valentines with the recycled collection at Tinkertopia or with the extensive inventory of artistic ingredients at Artist & Craftsman Supply.
Venture out after dark and make memories to music. Try G Donnalson’s in Proctor for blues and jazz, Keys on Main downtown for catchy piano numbers or the Stonegate in South Tacoma for rock and roll hits to dance the night away.
The Tacoma Comedy Club is sure to surge the endorphins with a heavy dose of laughter and a full bar.
Exercise your creativity with pottery painting at Throwing Mud or paint canvases side by side at Art House Café during the Pouring Picasso events listed on their website. (Art House Café is also featuring a special dinner menu with live music the evening of February 14).
Step outside of the box and dabble in a new skill together with a cooking class (3rd Saturday of each month) at Europa Bistro or a session at Tacoma Glass Blowing Studio.
Share a spa day at Serenity or Northwest Float.
Grand Cinema gives you all the feelers with inspiring independent films on the big screen.
For a live theatre show, try the Tacoma Musical Playhouse on 6th Avenue, with current performances honoring Rosa Parks and Buddy Holly. This location is just a walk away from soaring Narrow’s Bridge views where you can steal a kiss over the Puget Sound.
Seymour Conservatory is a magical experience at little cost. Walk hand in hand through a wonderland of exotic plant life in this cozy, warm greenhouse setting. Be sure to check out their February 10th Wine and Chocolate event or catch the Second Sunday Music Series.
Whatever you’re love story, you’ll find the perfect way to celebrate in Tacoma. Happy Valentine’s Day.