Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s the first time this holiday has occurred since we first went into quarantine nearly a year ago. As wonderful as a 300th Netflix and dinner date night sounds, Birmingham has much more to offer our lovebirds than that -- even in a pandemic! With many beautiful outdoor views and dozens of tasty restaurants to support -- this Valentine’s Day presents an opportunity to get more creative than ever.
Look over the City with Vulcan
Birmingham’s beloved Vulcan has looked over the city from his perch atop Red Mountain since 1936, and the god of fire and forge is always willing to share his view with adventurous couples. Informational signs about the city and the opportunity to travel to the top of the statue for spectacular view make for a great time already, but there is also a wooded trail to explore if you want to spend more time outdoors. Books, Beans, and Candles is a short walk away for some coffee, and nearby 5 Points South offers a wide variety of food like McFly’s, Makarios, Jim ‘N Nick’s, and more. If you’re thinking about going on Valentine’s Day, the museum is offering couple’s packages with wine, cheese, and more!
Mural Scavenger Hunt
Birmingham is full of incredible murals - so many, in fact, you could make a full day out of spotting and taking pictures of them all! Avondale, Woodlawn, Ensley, 5 Points South, and Downtown Birmingham all feature local masterpieces that make our city even more unique and beautiful.
The Color Project Ensley has partnered with local muralists to install multiple large paintings that can all be spotted from one downtown block. The Woodlawn hot air balloon mural, located across from REV Birmingham’s SocialVenture building, is junst one of the many local favorites we highly recommend!
Wings and (Airplane) Wings
There’s nothing more romantic than a sunset -- unless you add watching planes take off while munching on shrimp and wings to the experience. The Wings-R-King right off I-59's Tallapoosa exit is the perfect place to pick up food before continuing the drive down East Lake Boulevard. You'll find spots on the right along the road, where you can park and take in the sights! You can even bring a blanket and sit on the hill across the road for an even more romantic viewing experience.
Picnic in a Park
If ever there was a time for a picnic, it's during this pandemic. Birmingham's many cute downtown parks provide excellent locations for your alfresco meal. The Highlands neighborhood in particular has a few great locations that are within walking distance from each other -- and Rojo and O’Henry’s Coffee are nearby for extra deliciousness! Rhodes Park is a particular favorite to explore this writer due to its uniquely charming layout, which includes a mysterious miniature door.
Botanical Gardens
While it may not be the greenest time of the year, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens still provides optimal location for a leisurely stroll to take in nature’s beauty. Plenty of tables mean you can bring a meal to sit and enjoy along with the sights, including impressive statues and inspiring architecture in addition to the many plants. The nearby Grand Bohemian Hotel and surrounding restaurants are ready to keep the good times going once you leave the park as well!
Support Local From Home!
Yes, we know staying in is getting awfully boring -- but you lovebirds have made it this far and there are still thousands of shows to watch, albums to stream, books to read and board games to play! Birmingham also boasts an endless list of local restaurants ready to cook up a fabulous meal that can be delivered straight to your door. No matter how you decide to celebrate Valentine's Day in this crazy time -- stay safe, stay local, and stay in love!
