Love Is in the Parks

Romance is in the air, and the trees, and the trails, and pretty much everywhere in your local park. Looking to make this year’s Valentine’s Day special? Wanting to show someone how much you really love them, even if it’s just your doggo or your very best friend? (V-Day is for platonic love too, you know.) A park in PA can be an ideal spot. From relaxing and romantic activities to adrenaline-and-heart-pumping fun, nature isn’t short of ways to spend the most sentimental day of the year! 

Pop a Picnic Squat

Picnics are certainly not underrated — and rightfully so. They give couples and friends a chance to both spend time together, people watch, snack, and enjoy the beauty of nature. All you need is a blanket, a few treats, and maybe some to-go activities, and you’re all set! (Picnic basket not mandatory, but a very sweet addition, nonetheless.) 

Some of the best ways to spend a picnic? That all depends on you and your loved ones interests. Perhaps you can grab a pair of binoculars and start your birdwatching hobby. Or maybe a friendly (only a little competitive) game of chess. A roll-out chess board is the perfect option for bringing on the go. And then of course, there’s just enjoying one another’s company. Headphone splitting can be essential for this. Need something to listen to? We’ve got you covered. 

And whether or not you head to your local park or take a longer journey to a new park for your perfect spot, take our advice, and you’ll have a picnic that even Yogi Bear couldn’t resist. 

Take a Love-ly Walk

You don’t have to sit still to enjoy a romantic day in the park. There are plenty of trails, paths, and more to explore that will fill your heart with both awe and tenderness. 

Near the Poconos? There are a variety of trails deemed “romantic” nearby. Or hit up Harrisburg for a lakefront park that’s just ideal for handholding. Or even join a professional naturalist on a guided Valentine’s hike. 

But be sure to practice trail safety on your sweet excursion. Have water and snacks at the ready, choose the right trail for your skillset, and stay by each other’s sides, not just to hold hands, but to ensure neither of you get lost or fall. You don’t want to miss those V-Day dinner reservations because of a hiking injury!

Join the Other Love Birds

Maybe you’re a couple that likes to be surrounded by others on that special day. Or perhaps you’re a Pennsylvanian in search of love. Our parks have love-themed events all over, from markets to festivals and celebrations to even … speed dating?

LOVE Park in Philadelphia (very aptly named, we must say) is hosting a “Make Love Market” on V-Day, a few wedding ceremonies, and, best of all, speed dating. 

Are you and your partner good on the ice? Shenley Park is hosting a “Valentine’s on Ice” ice skating night in the park. This can be a fun, unique alternative to the usual fancy dinners. Just don’t forget your gloves! You can even try out snowshoeing in the Lehigh Valley with your sweetheart. When you decide to spend Valentine’s Day a bit differently than the traditional way, with help from PA parks, you open yourself up to some adventurous, wonderful days spent with someone you love.

Feel the Flower Power

Ah, a bouquet of flowers. The classic gift on Valentine’s Day to show someone how much you care about them. But be careful how you go about it. There’s no denying that wildflower bouquets and bushels made by your own hands are the most romantic — but disturbing many native plants and flowers within parks is against the law. Don’t fret. There’s alternatives that are just as sweet!

Flower markets pop up all around Pennsylvania parks. They can be a fun way to spend time with your loved one and buy them a unique flowery gift. It’s the best of both worlds. 

The Rittenhouse Farmer’s Market has multiple flower/plant vendors on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Similarly, the Clark Park Farmer’s Market has gorgeous floral offerings every Saturday. 
So why not bring nature into the mix this year? Feel the grass, fresh air, and all the outdoor love. And who knows? Maybe a Pennsylvania park could also be the perfect spot to pop that very special question. No pressure.