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Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Romance, Adventure, and Unforgettable Moments in Alachua County – Whether you’re planning a dreamy escape, a cozy dinner, or a day filled with outdoor adventures, Alachua County offers endless ways to celebrate love. Stroll through lush gardens, paddle scenic waterways, chase breathtaking sunsets, and discover hidden gems in charming small towns. Make this Valentine’s Day one to remember with these inspired ideas.
Be sure to scroll down and browse the area’s local Valentine’s Day events, dining specials, and more!
Pack a basket with your favorite treats and head to Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, where 24 garden collections—including Florida’s largest public bamboo display and the Southeast’s largest herb garden—set the scene for a romantic afternoon.
For adventurous couples, nothing beats a canoe or kayak trip down the Santa Fe River or across Lake Santa Fe. Rent your watercraft from Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures or DJ’s Kayak Rentals and glide through scenic waters as the sun paints the sky.
As the sun dips below Lake Alice, watch as thousands of bats take flight from the world’s largest occupied bat houses—a truly mesmerizing sight for nature lovers.
Wander through historic streets, browse antique shops, and soak in the small-town charm of Micanopy, High Springs, Alachua, and Newberry—each offering a unique setting for a romantic day trip.
Stop by the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Visitor Center, where a back-porch rocking chair invites you to relax and take in the sweeping prairie views. Climb the 50-foot observation tower, sway on the porch swing, and keep an eye out for wild horses and bison roaming the vast landscape.
Lace up your hiking boots or hop on a bike and explore over 100 miles of trails at local parks. Discover the 120-foot sinkhole at Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park, go birding at Sweetwater Wetlands Park, marvel at Florida’s largest live oak at Cellon Oak Park, or ride through the wooded pathways of San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park.
Add to a memorable night out by pairing a delicious meal with a dynamic theatre experience. Start with dinner at a local restaurant, then take your seat for a live show. Downtown Gainesville features walkable dining options near the Hippodrome Theatre, or plan for a meal near local theatres in Alachua County including Gainesville Community Playhouse, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, Star Center Theatre, High Springs Playhouse and touring Broadway productions at the UF Phillips Center.
Escape to a charming bed and breakfast, where history, hospitality, and homemade breakfasts create an unforgettable retreat. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weekend escape, explore Alachua County’s welcoming inns, boutique lodgings, and a variety of other unique stays. Find the perfect accommodations for your getaway at VisitGainesville.com/Stay.
Indulge in a romantic meal at one of Gainesville and Alachua County’s top restaurants, offering everything from elegant fine dining to cozy hidden gems. Make your reservation early for an evening of delicious flavors and intimate ambiance.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, Alachua County offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and romance to make this Valentine’s Day truly special.
Enter your Valentine’s themed event or promotion at www.visitgainesville.com/events for your listing to be considered for this page. All events are subject to publishing guidelines
Past Events:
(Sold Out) 3rd Annual Valentine’s Daddy Daughter Dance at Embassy Event Hall
Friday, February 7, 7 p.m.
Valentine’s Art and Antiques Market at Artisans’ Guild Gallery
Saturday, February 8, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Valentine Market at The AUK Market
Saturday, February 8, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Blooms and Brews Floral Arrangement at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company
Saturday, February 8, 2 p.m.
Valentine’s Market at 4th Ave Food Park
Sunday, February 9, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Drag Brunch at MidiCi The Neapolitan Pizza Company
Sunday, February 9, 1:30 p.m.
Karaoke Kick-off to Valentine’s Weekend at Blackadder Brewing Company
Friday, February 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Valentine’s Day Beer and Charcuterie Pairing at Swamp Head Brewery
Friday, February 14, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Date Night Belgian Quadruple Vintage Tasting at Blackadder Brewing Company
Friday, February 14, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Valentine’s Day at Covey Kitchen and Cocktails
Friday, February 14, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Photo Courtesy Hotel ELEO
UF Carillon Studio Valentine’s Day Concert at Century Tower
Friday, February 14, 6:15 p.m.
Valentine’s Day Laughing Hearts Soirée at Sweetwater Branch Inn
Friday, February 14, 7 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Old Wave 80s Prom at The Wooly
Friday, February 14, 8 p.m.
Galentine’s at Butler Town Center
Saturday, February 15, 11 a.m.
Pop-up Picnic at Frog Song Organics
Saturday, February 15, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Smooch a Pooch at Blackadder Brewing Company
Saturday, February 15, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Treat Interactive Market for All at Serpentine Plants and Provisions
Saturday, February 15, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Champagne and Strawberries Tours at Carson Springs Wildlife
Saturday, February 15, 1:30 p.m.
Date Night: Couples Yoga at Karuna Cottage Gainesville
Saturday, February 15, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Be My Valentine Cake Decorating Party at Clark Plantation
Sunday, February 16, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
