A Match Made in Greater Des Moines: Valentine's Date Ideas
Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift to show how much you care or want to find a new way to spend time together, Greater Des Moines (DSM) is where you’ll want to make plans for Valentine’s Day this year. Relax with a romantic dinner, shop for your partner and surprise them with a thoughtful gift from a local business or plan a fun night out for just the two of you. Connect in a new way in one of the region’s many communities and celebrate your valentine with the help of a DSM business.
Celebrate Dinner for Two
Romance is in the air at Oak Park in Des Moines where offerings from Executive Chef Ian Robertson, Executive Pastry Chef Jess Robertson and Certified Sommelier Carly Dascoli create an intimate atmosphere for a memorable holiday dining experience.
In Johnston, try out Trostel’s Greenbriar, a white-cloth restaurant serving up menu items like Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Baked Havarti Shrimp, Chicken Marsala and more.
In Altoona, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse offers diners traditional pastas, steaks, seafood and a dessert menu featuring sweet items like Roasted Banana Cheesecake and Limoncello Cake.
Finally, check out Aura Restaurant & Lounge in Clive for a locally owned fine dining restaurant. Try the Duck A L’Orange, Walleye Risotto or Tomahawk Pork Chop.
Give a Gift That Says I Love You
What’s a better way to say you care than some honey for your honey? Purchase locally from a homestead business in Indianola. Honey Hollow Apiary & Garden offers liquid, creamed, barrel aged honey and more!
Surprise with a gift that keeps on giving. The Monthly Bucket Subscription from Iowa Flower Farm in Maxwell ensures your significant other will receive an assorted bucket of fresh-picked flowers from June through September.
Looking for something special to serve your sweetie? Middlebrook Mercantile in Cumming has what you need, including Pammel Park Coffee Co. and Sunday Night sauces. These gifts from local businesses are sure to make their day a little sweeter, straight from the community.
At Christopher’s Fine Jewelry in West Des Moines, find statement watches, timeless diamonds and estate jewelry to gift this Valentine’s Day. Not only can you buy something new, but you can surprise your loved one with jewelry repair or cleaning, too.
Plan a DIY Date Night
Valentine’s and Galentine’s workshops are available around the region. Unwind with a date night that includes an Artfull couple’s pottery class. This Johnston DIY studio offers workshops and experiences like popup parties, an art bar and open studio sessions, too.
Get into crafting at AR Workshop in Ankeny. From candle pouring and embroidery to cookie decorating and hand lettering, there is a workshop for you. Make a chunky blanket to gift your loved one or create a wood sign with the help of workshop instructors.
Spend a few hours together creating something beautiful and don’t forget to register ahead of time! Board and Brush in Clive often holds events leading up to and on Valentine’s Day, celebrating couples and friendships, too!
Rose Farmstead in Norwalk offers farm events inspired by beautiful blooms, including a Valentine’s workshop to celebrate the season of love. Look for more opportunities to spend time with your partner throughout the year.
Find a New Experience
In Downtown Des Moines, a Valentine’s show at Noce promises romantic tunes, which is the perfect way to celebrate love if you ask us, especially if you’re a fan of jazz.
Jester Park Outdoor Recreation & Wellness Center in Granger hosts Archery Date Nights that include archery, axe throwing and bouldering, as well as other nature-related events in Polk County.
Another idea? Head to Flix Brewhouse in Des Moines for a dine-in movie experience for Valentine’s Day this year. (Don’t forget to check out the romantic Flix Pick during the holiday!)
The Scottish Rite Consistory hosts Candlelight Concerts in Downtown Des Moines. Cozy up for a beautiful night of music on Valentine’s Day, and many other dates throughout the year, to hear your favorite love songs under the candlelight.
Keep it Low-Key
Not one of those couples that need to hit the town to celebrate Valentine’s Day? How about a hibachi or sushi dinner delivered by Yamato Steakhouse of Japan in Pella? Or grab takeout from Flavory Bistro in Ankeny, a perfect option for vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free guests. Better yet: Cook up your own dinner together using curated spices from AllSpice Culinarium in Des Moines.
And you won’t want to leave the comfort of your living room this Valentine’s Day when you’ve got a game to win. From board games to card games, it’s easy to plan a fun night at home when you visit Quest Haven Books & Comics in Winterset.
For those set on staying in, you can also cozy up with a new addition to the family by visiting Animal Rescue League ahead of Feb. 14. Adopt from locations in Des Moines and West Des Moines. (The ARL also hosts Valentine’s photoshoots for you and your pet.)
Snuggle Up with Your Sweetheart in DSM
Thinking about making a life with your love in DSM? Request a free relocation guide to learn more about the region or reach out to a MVP with questions.