Top Valentine’s Day Destinations in Chicago

A stroll through Grant Park is a romantic way to start or end a date in Chicago – but not when the temperature dips below freezing as it often does in winter. Locals and visitors looking for Valentine’s Day romance in Chicago might do better to stay indoors because, let’s face it, love isn’t really going to keep you warm. But a martini at an upscale bar just might.

See a show

The Harris Theater is offering two romantic ways to get a little culture this Valentine’s Day. The Hamburg Ballet performs on Feb. 12 and 13, 2013. The performance, “Nijinsky” is based on the life of the famous Russian dancer and choreographer Vaslav Nijinsky. If ballet isn’t really your thing, check out the lunchtime performance of “Eat to the Beat: DanceWorks Chicago” on Feb.14. “Eat to the Beat” includes romantic duets, lively dance and a bountiful lunch.

Sip a martini

One of the best things to do in Chicago is enjoy a cocktail at a swanky bar. Many of the best places to go are tucked away inside some of the city’s classic hotels, like the Coq d’Or, in the Drake Hotel. Or check out the Pops for Champagne, on State Street.

See the stars

It may be too frosty for outdoor stargazing, but at the Adler Planetarium, you can snuggle close and watch a show in one of the planetarium’s three full-size theaters. Admission to the Adler Planetarium is budget friendly – under $30 per adult. While you’re there you can check out the center’s many exhibitions and points of interest.

Museum hop

There are a variety of museums to explore in Chicago; if history and art is what makes your lover’s heart race there’s no better way to spend Valentine’s Day than visiting one of the city’s cultural centers. Art enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to the Art Institute of Chicago. There you can feast your eyes on ancient and modern masterpieces and everything in between. History buffs will enjoy the Chicago History Museum, the Addams Hull House or the Clarke House Museum.

Have a laugh

You know the city that gave birth to The Second City comedy juggernaut is going to be filled with laugh factories. In fact, the Laugh Factory is also in Chicago. The Windy City is sometimes called “Stand-up Heaven,” because of the sheer number of comedy clubs to enjoy. Take your date for a night of laughs at Wisecrackers, the UP Comedy Club, Comedy Sportz or the original Zanies. If your date loves improv, make a reservation at iO; it’s considered by many to be the best improv club in the city or anywhere else.

For those who are sturdy enough to brave the elements, a trip around the Millennium Park ice rink or a ride in a horse-drawn carriage certainly have their romantic appeal. You can always warm up afterward at one of Chicago’s many award-winning restaurants or hot night clubs. Simply seeing the sites of this magnificent city from your hotel room is a romantic adventure all on its own. But if you do get the urge to leave your room on Valentine’s Day, rest assured there are plenty of things to do with your beloved that won’t require either of you to don your thermal underwear.