Best Things to Do for Valentine’s Day in Grand Rapids

If you’re wondering how to spend Valentine’s Day in Grand Rapids for 2022, I’ll share some unique date ideas. From budget-friendly to creative to romantic, Grand Rapids has plenty to offer.  Most of these date spots can work for newer couples and long-term relationships, so pick what sounds most appealing to you and your significant other. It’s no secret that Michigan is cold this time of year, but that also doesn’t mean Grand Rapids date ideas for winter have to be boring. Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday this year, so you can choose to celebrate the weekend before or on the day itself depending on your schedule. Keep reading to find your perfect Valentine’s Day ideas.

What is there to do on Valentine’s Day in Grand Rapids, MI?
The best things to do on Valentine's Day in Grand Rapids, MI are listed below.

1. Downtown Staycation
2. Ice Skating 
3. Grand Rapids Art Museum
4. World of Winter Festival
5. Dressed Up Dinner & Drinks

1. Downtown Staycation
A downtown staycation is a great way to celebrate your love for each other and GR. Be a tourist for a day by booking a hotel in downtown Grand Rapids. This one is especially great for those who rarely spend time downtown and want to get reacquainted with all the new things happening around town. Who says you have to hop on a plane or take a road trip to feel like a traveler? New hotels have popped up downtown in recent years so you have more choices to pick from. Gone are the days of the Amway being the only option. The key is to make the most of your time. Booking a couples massage at the hotel’s spa. Get drinks at the hotel bar or a local one nearby the hotel. Grab dinner at a downtown restaurant you’ve always wanted to try. The sky’s the limit!

2. Ice Skating 
Ice skating on Valentine’s Day is both cute and romantic. It’s also a good icebreaker (pun intended) for those who are newly dating. Walker Ice and Fitness will host a public skate during the afternoon on the weekend before Valentine’s Day and the day itself, making this a great daytime date idea. After ice skating, head to a local cafe to warm up with some hot chocolate. Ice skating is also a cheap date spot, so if your budget is tight, you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank with this one.

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 the dinner-and-drinks date. Going to a museum is a great way to spark conversation, especially if your newly dating. Plus, the museum is in the heart of downtown GR, 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
The World of Winter Festival in Grand Rapids is happening now through March 6, making it a great date choice. 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. Dressed Up Dinner & Drinks
Of course, the dinner and drinks date is a classic for good reason. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative and make it extra special. Tell your date that you want both of you to dress up. I mean, considering the past two years, any excuse to dress up for a night on the town sound fun right? Now, that doesn’t mean you have to go to the most expensive and romantic Grand Rapids restaurant - thought that’s certainly your choice too. Rather, it’s about the spirit of dressing up and having a fun night out. Pick a type of food you guys haven’t tried before or a great new local spot.