Valentine's day date ideas in Tampa Bay Beacon rooftop bar

12 Valentine’s Dates to Match Any Vibe

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In partnership with tampabaydatenightguide.com

Though we love our kids, sometimes it’s nice (and important) to have some one-on-one time with your significant other. We know it may not always be so easy to up and leave the house for a date night or day, so making plans can be a big deal. We’ve rounded up some ideas to match any vibe—whether you’re into dressing up and hitting the town or going on a ziplining adventure.

Patel Conservatory dancers perform as baby mice in Next Generation Ballet's production of Nutcracker.

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Valentine’s Day Date Ideas – For The Foodie:

Tampa is home to some of the best restaurants in the country. We love Michelin Star-rated Rocca for their ever-changing menu that includes fresh, handmade pasta, hand-pulled tableside mozzarella and dry-aged meats.

Ro Hyde Park, a modern Asian and sushi concept, is the newest restaurant in Hyde Park where you can enjoy unique, immersive tableside presentations. You and your date can grill your own Wagyu steaks, splurge on caviar service or indulge in their signature sushi dishes.

Though they don’t serve up a full menu, Beacon (our featured image) is a new hot spot that’s not to be missed. This rooftop lounge sits atop the JW Marriott Water Street and offers breathtaking views of Tampa skyline (it is the city’s highest rooftop bar, after all). Their menu boasts small plates, charcuterie boards and desserts.

Tampa Bay Date Night Ideas – For The Outdoorsy Couple:

Swimming with the manatees is a must-try experience. Crystal River and Homosassa are the only areas in North America where you can legally swim with and passively observe manatees in their natural habitat. While you can do this year-round, the cooler winter months are the best time to go as this aligns with peak manatee season.

Tampa also has some fantastic U-pick farms around the area where you can pick seasonal items like strawberries, blueberries, citrus, flowers and more. Bonus – check out Keel Farms in Plant City to enjoy a fresh fruited wine or cider after picking strawberries.

The 38-mile Pinellas Trail is a former railway that was repurposed as a multi-use trail. Hit the trail on two wheels, making pit stops to check out the Tarpon Springs sponge docks, park for a refreshing brew or stroll through hip downtown Dunedin.

Tampa Bay Valentine’s Ideas – For The Arts Lover:

Tampa has an amazing arts scene. We love the funky and unique vibe of Fairgrounds St. Pete. This immersive art installation features Florida-inspired works by over 70 different artists.

The Dali Museum is also a must-visit spot. At this waterfront museum, you can view many of Dali’s original works, check out limited edition exhibits and visit the Dali Dome for the awe-inspiring Dali 360 Experience.

If you want something a little different, take a self-guided tour of the Downtown Tampa Murals. There are 56 murals from the Heights area into downtown. You can also stop by some of Tampa’s best food and drink spots along the way.

Valentine’s Day Date Ideas – For The Thrill-Seeker:

There are plenty of fun ways to get a good adrenaline rush. Empower Adventures offers several ziplining adventures, including a sunset zipline.

Kayaking offers a unique way to get on the water and spend quality time together. At places like Urban Kai, you can rent kayaks, starboard starships and stand-up paddles and enjoy a scenic ride down the Tampa Riverfront.

Of course, what’s a better way to get your adrenaline on than to soar through the air on one of the best roller coasters in the country? Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is one of our favorite date spots. Ride record-breaking coasters like Iron Gwazi, swing through the air on the Serengeti Flyer and then unwind with a fresh brew from Springs Taproom. Even better—go during one of their seasonal events like Mardi Gras (through March 3) or Food & Wine Festival (March 9-May 19) for some added fun.

Looking for more unique date night ideas? Check out our full list of 100 Date Night Ideas in Tampa Bay.

Originally published in February 2024 of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.