Find Your Dream Romantic Places in Virginia

Old Town Alexandria, Alexandria, VA

Old Town Alexandria is one of the most gorgeous historic districts in the state. On the edge of the Potomac River and minutes from Washington D.C., Old Town captures the charm and elegance of yesteryear. Walk on cobblestone streets and redbrick sidewalks to any number of events, parties, shopping, art shows, and attractions. For a perfect romantic date, take a walk down by the river before heading to the repurposed Torpedo Factory, now an art studio, and stop off at Bertucci’s for a wonderful Italian dinner.

Freemason Abbey, Norfolk, VA

For romance in Norfolk, one could do no better than the historic Freemason Abbey Restaurant. Originally built as a church in the 1800s, it is now a fully refurbished restaurant serving American food. Many of the original fixtures are exposed, creating a one-of-a-kind ambiance and dining experience. It is at once casual and warm while evoking a relaxing and exhilarating past. Enjoy fresh seafood as well as steaks and other American fare.

Salamander Resort & Spa, Middleburg, VA

The Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg is set on 340 acres in the Blue Ridge Mountains, right in the heart of wine country. The CEO describes Salamander as “opulent and homelike,” emphasizing opulent. Features include a full-service equestrian center, luxury spa, cooking studio, wine bar, billiards room, library, and zip line course. The spa includes 14 treatment rooms. Salamander aspires to fulfill your every need in one of the most beautiful locations in the Commonwealth.

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA

The Meadowlark Botanical Gardens are comprised of 95 acres of displays. Nestled in the Piedmont hills, attractions include the Korean Bell Garden and the restored 18th century log cabin. In addition to taking in the flora and fauna, visitors can hike or walk the trails.

Jefferson Vineyards, Charlottesville, VA

Visit Thomas Jefferson’s wine vineyards near his home at Monticello in Charlottesville for a historic getaway. Wine Spectator magazine has recognized the vineyards for “one of the region’s most consistent track records.” Not only is the wine delicious, which you can see for yourself at a tasting, but also the ambiance, with its rolling country hills, is perfect.

Glen Gordon Manor, Huntly, VA

For romance, look no further than Glen Gordon Manor in Huntly. Stay where the British royal family stays. The Manor is a rustic bed and breakfast with a newly renovated West Wing, spa, and restaurant. Walk into the fire-lit entrance hall and disappear into the romantic past for a weekend of southern hospitality.

Goodstone Inn and Restaurant, Middleburg, VA

The Goodstone Inn and Restaurant is a luxurious retreat for those in the market for an at-home feel but surrounded by the finer things in life. The Inn has six guesthouses, each with their own unique charm. The farm-to-table gourmet restaurant serves meals with ingredients from the farm on site, and the wine cellar offers wine from all over the world. The Inn has won innumerable awards, and would be included on anyone’s romantic shortlist.

Historic Grandin Village, Roanoke, VA

The historic Grandin Village recently made World Property Journal’s top 10 Valentine’s Day Getaways list, along with world-class cities Venice and Hong Kong. The core to Grandin Village is the historic Grandin Theatre, a restored 1930s marvel that serves “the best popcorn in Blue Ridge.” The culture and locally-owned shops and restaurants promise that there’s always something to do or see. If you can’t make it to Italy this holiday, Grandin Village has delights all its own.  

Harrisonburg, VA

Listed on The Municipal’s 2014 list of Top U.S. Towns for Romance, Harrisonburg is a beautiful town in the Shenandoah Valley. Gorgeous mountain views, private cottages, rolling farmland, and a bustling downtown make for an energetic, yet romantic retreat. Stop in at Clementine’s or The Artful Dodger for live music, walk around the romantic city hall, or go for a drive down Port Republic for a night well spent.

Terrapin Restaurant, Virginia Beach, VA

If you’re in search for the perfect dinner date location, Terrapin Restaurant, moments away from the Virginia Beach oceanfront, might be for you. The Terrapin has won the AAA Four Diamond Award every year since 2008, and has been included on many top restaurant lists from around the country. The menus are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, but you’re always in for a fine dining experience. Most ingredients are locally sourced, with a full list on the restaurant’s website. 

La Petite Auberge, Fredericksburg, VA

La Petite Auberge Restaurant and Lounge has been a Fredericksburg staple since 1981. The restaurant serves traditional French cuisine. The menus are composed daily. Take a walk down the historic downtown district of Fredericksburg before settling in for a true French dining experience.

Amber Lantern Restaurant, Chesapeake, VA

The Amber Lantern Restaurant is located at the Top Rack Marina. Enjoy the fine dining while watching boats go by on the Chesapeake Bay. Many diners come to the restaurant by boat, while others use helicopter to get a table. The food is upscale, so make sure you’re in the mood for fine dining. 

Key Insights at a Glance

• Old Town Alexandria: Stroll cobblestone streets by the Potomac River, enjoy art shows, and dine at Bertucci's after visiting the Torpedo Factory art studio.
• Freemason Abbey: Enjoy a meal in a historic church-turned-restaurant featuring fresh seafood and American cuisine in a cozy, nostalgic setting.Salamander Resort & Spa: A luxury resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains with an equestrian center, spa, and wine bar, offering a romantic getaway in wine country.
• Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: Explore 95 acres of gardens, including the Korean Bell Garden and 18th-century log cabin, perfect for a peaceful romantic stroll.
• Jefferson Vineyards: Visit Thomas Jefferson's historic vineyards with rolling hills and a relaxing wine-tasting experience.
• Glen Gordon Manor: A romantic bed and breakfast where the British royal family stays, offering a rustic atmosphere, spa, and restaurant.
• Goodstone Inn and Restaurant: A luxurious inn with six unique guesthouses, farm-to-table dining, and a world-class wine cellar.
• Historic Grandin Village: This romantic village features the charming Grandin Theatre from the 1930s, local shops, restaurants, and culture.
• Harrisonburg: A romantic town in Shenandoah Valley with private cottages, mountain views, and vibrant downtown dining and live music options.
• Terrapin Restaurant: A AAA Four Diamond Award restaurant offering fine dining near the oceanfront with locally sourced ingredients.
• La Petite Auberge: is a favorite in Fredericksburg, offering traditional French cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting in the historic district.Amber Lantern Restaurant: A fine dining experience at the Top Rack Marina overlooking the Chesapeake Bay, perfect for boat or helicopter arrivals.