What to Do this Valentine’s Day in Grand Rapids

Downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan

Are you feeling stuck on how to spend Valentine’s Day in Grand Rapids this year? I've got you covered with some great GR date ideas. From budget-friendly to creative and romantic, Grand Rapids has plenty to offer for couples celebrating Valentine's Day in 2025. Most of these date spots can work for newer couples and long-term pairs, so pick what sounds most appealing to you and your significant other. Keep reading to find your perfect Grand Rapids Valentine’s Day date ideas.

Top 5 Valentine's Day Date Ideas in Grand Rapids, MI

1. Staycation at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel - Best Luxury Date 
2. Ice Skating at Rosa Parks Circle - Best Budget-Friendly Date 
3. Grand Rapids Art Museum - Best Creative Date 
4. World of Winter Festival - Best Date for New Couples 
5. GR Noir Wine & Jazz - Best Date for Long-Term Couples

1. Staycation at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
A downtown staycation is a great way to celebrate your love for each other and the city of Grand Rapids. Be a tourist for a day by booking a hotel in downtown GR, and if you're looking for luxury, I recommend the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel specifically. This date idea is especially great for those who rarely spend time downtown and want to get reacquainted with all the new restaurants, bars, and activities happening here.

For those who are keen on staying inside the hotel, the Amway has some luxurious amenities as well. Book a couples massage at the hotel’s spa. Get dinner at MDRD, a newer Spanish-inspired restaurant with incredible views. Or grab drinks at the chic Lumbar Baron Bar. 

2. Ice Skating at Rosa Parks Circle
Ice skating on Valentine’s Day is both cute and romantic. Not everyone has the budget for a lavish Valentine's Day night, but ice skating in the heart of the city is actually a sweet way to celebrate that won't cost you a fortune. Ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle is scheduled to remain open through February 22. According to the city's website, tickets for adults 18 and older are $6 or $3 for anyone 17 and under. A pair of ice skates is included with your admission. 

3. Grand Rapids Art Museum
The Grand Rapids Art Museum is perfect for those who have a more creative side and want to do something other than a traditional dinner-and-drinks date. Plus, the museum is in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, so you have your pick of restaurants and bars if you want to continue the date afterward. Just be sure to check the museum's hours before planning your date! 

4. World of Winter Festival
Another great art-inspired date idea is the World of Winter Festival in Grand Rapids, which is happening now through March 2. It's full of art installations that are fantastic for sparking conversation, making it a great choice for couples who are newly dating. Make a list of the outdoor art installations you want to see or pick one of the special festival events to partake in. Once you’re done catching your favorite art pieces, head indoors to warm up with some hot cocoa.

5. GR Noir Wine & Jazz 
If you're in a long-term relationship, you're past the stage of getting to know each other and can just move into enjoying each other's company without always having to do a lot talking. This means that date ideas where you can watch something together, such as a live performance, can be a lovely way to spend a romantic evening together. On the same note, couples who've been together a while may need to find ways to mix up their date nights. GR Noir Wine & Jazz is an excellent way to have a unique date night where the two of you can get dressed up and have a fun night out enjoying some great live jazz music. I would recommend making reservations on GR Noir's website ahead of time just in case.

Transparency Disclosure — The opinions on this website are independent and based on my own personal experiences. I may receive a referral fee for stays booked through the links on this site.