blog
Valentine’s Day is a perfect time to explore all that Center City has to offer. A world-class dining scene, arts & culture, the oldest diamond district in the country… what’s not to love? Check out our top picks for a date night done right for couples, friends and families!
Image courtesy of the Fashion District
Market East’s multi-level shopping center is so much more than just shopping. On the top floor, a massive AMC DINE-IN™ theater offers a full bar, snacks and comfy reclining seats. Snuggle up with some popcorn and enjoy a big screen blockbuster before heading over to Round1 Bowling & Amusement, a bowling alley and arcade.
Perfect for: Couples, Friends, Families
📍 1001 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
🔗 Website
Make magic this Valentine’s Day with your besties at The Cauldron Philly, a wizard-themed bar in Midtown Village. On February 12, participate in Singles Bingo hosted by local Drag Queen Brittany Lynn. Win prizes and enjoy delicious cocktails!
Perfect for: Couples, Friends
📍 1305 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
🔗 Website
Image courtesy of the Cauldron Philly
Acro& is an innovative fitness program blending elements of yoga, gymnastics and weightlifting that typically requires the help of a partner. On February 15, from 5-6:30, a special class will be hosted for lovers. In addition to the fitness class, expect a complimentary glass of bubbly and a relaxing partner massage.
Perfect for: Couples, Friends
📍 Concierge Ballroom, 30 S. 7th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
🔗 Website
In the heart of the city of Philadelphia, Dilworth Park is a great spot to enjoy Valentine’s Day. Stop by to enjoy a night of ice skating at the Rothman Orthopaedics Rink, followed by a trip over to the cabin for a variety of bites and beverages!
Perfect for: Couples
📍 1 S. 15th Street, (west side of City Hall), Philadelphia, PA 19102
🔗 Website
Center City is the epicenter of Philadelphia’s arts & culture scene, including the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, the historic Walnut Street Theatre and many more venues located along the Avenue of the Arts. Upcoming productions in time for Valentine’s Day include Come from Away at the Academy of Music, The Best of Hadyn by the Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia at the Perelman Theater, and Hay Fever at the Walnut Street Theatre. Before or after the show, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Center City’s best restaurants.
Perfect for: Couples, Friends, Families
📍 Various
Diamond engagement rings, solid gold necklaces, watches, gemstones and pearls — luxury pieces are a stone’s throw away in the country’s oldest diamond district: Jewelers’ Row. Take a stroll along its cobblestone streets to find the perfect gift for your special Valentine. While you’re in the neighborhood, treat yourself to something sweet at Lore’s Chocolates!
Perfect for: Couples
📍 Walnut to Market streets and 7th to 9th streets, Philadelphia, PA 19106
🔗 Website
Image of the Kimpton Hotel Palomar, courtesy of J. Fusco/Visit Philadelphia
Enjoy a night of romance and relaxation at one of Philadelphia’s most luxurious hotels. Order room service, grab a drink at the lobby bar or take a dip in an indoor heated pool; with Visit Philly’s Overnight Package, you’ll find the best deal and added perks for you and your partner.
Perfect for: Couples
📍 Various
Spend Galentine’s Day with your closest friends by being pampered with facials and pedicures at the newly reopened Rescue Spa in Rittenhouse Square. This flagship location spans 9,700 square feet, which includes 15 treatment rooms, a nail lounge, hair salon, brow room and a makeup boutique.
Perfect for: Friends
📍 1811 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
🔗 Website
Image courtesy of Rescue Spa
Image courtesy of City Winery Philadelphia
Philly’s favorite trombonist, Jess Bradshaw, returns to City Winery on February 14. During this show, enjoy the smooth jazz while sipping on a glass of your favorite wine.
Perfect for: Couples
📍 990 Filbert Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
🔗 Website
Take your loved ones and your taste buds on a flavorful adventure at The Elephant this February 14. Sip on some of the unique martini, cocktail, and mocktail recipes The Elephant has crafted, along with their plethora of neat eats to enhance your Valentine’s Day experience.
Perfect for: Couples, Friends
📍 1500 Locust Street
🔗 Instagram
Enjoy a nostalgic date night at Center City’s newest bar-meets-arcade! Get your game on this Valentine’s Day with over 70 vintage games, a full food menu, and plenty of craft beer options.
Perfect for: Couples, Friends
📍 1326 Chestnut Street
🔗 Website
Celebrate with your special someone by grabbing a bottle of wine and creating a custom candle featuring a selection of 70+ clean-burning fragrances. The space will be decorated for Valentine’s Day so be sure to snap a few photos in this cozy space!
Perfect for: Couples, Friends
📍 1315 Walnut Street
🔗 Website
Image courtesy of Cellar Dog
Show some love to Center City retailers while getting sweets for your sweetheart! Midtown Village’s Kilwins has fresh, chocolate-covered strawberries and Verde features prosecco truffles and raspberry dark chocolates with Philly-themed designs. Near Jewelers’ Row, family-owned chocolatier Lore’s Chocolates have a “Heartbreaker” hollow chocolate heart that you break open to get the raspberry and caramel truffles inside!
Perfect for: Couples, Friends
📍 Various
Settle in to an engaging evening of music, games, and great company with friends or partners at Cellar Dog. Starting at 6pm, the bar offers live jazz performances, and games such as billiards, ping pong, shuffleboard and more are available all night!
Perfect for: Couples, Friends
📍258 South 15th Street
🔗Website
Image courtesy of Lore's Chocolates
Image courtesy of Bank & Bourbon
Located inside the Loews Philadelphia Hotel, stop by Bank & Bourbon for a meal from their curated menu, featuring selections like a local cheese board, branzino and a full lineup of decadent desserts with wine pairings.
Perfect for: Couples
📍 1200 Market Street
🔗 Website
So many fun ways to spend a day in the city, so little time! See other ways you can explore our city here, and tag us at @centercitydistrict on Instagram to share how you spent your day in Center City!