Top Spots for a Romantic Valentine's Day in Pittsburgh

Photo Courtesy of Flickr/seyed mostafa zamani

Romance is alive and well this Valentine's Day I'm happy to announce! Mr. Locke and I love celebrating the holiday together and adore the love-filled day just as much when The Kid is involved. There are occasions, however,  when the two of us celebrate together or The Kid spends the night at a family member's house leaving us to our romantic revelry. Yes, I used the word revelry. Don't judge. So, if you're anywhere in the Pittsburgh area and are looking for a romantic spot on Valentine's Day, here are my recommendations for spots that are guaranteed to bring out the love.

Valentine's Day Dining in Pittsburgh

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From romantic castle settings to gorgeous views of the city high atop a mountain, Pittsburgh has dining options for every style and budget.

Hyeholde Restaurant

Photo Courtesy of Hyeholde

Named one of 21 legendary Restaurants in the United States by gourmet Magazine in 2008, Hyeholde is the pinnacle restaurant for couples that want romance melded with a fairy tale feel. From the gorgeous exterior to the six- course fixed-priced menus, the restaurant uses local farms' produce for the basis of its American-based dining options. Four acres of pristine gardens and winding paths provide for a perfect pre-dinner walk through the grounds and cozy fireplaces are lit to arm you up afterwards. 

Melting Pot

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If you've ever visited Station Square, you've undoubtedly passed by The Melting Pot and asked yourself why you haven't visited before. The restaurant with a fondue theme, The Melting Pot has individual fondue options as well as multi-course fixed priced meals. My favorite is their dessert option- chocolate fondue! The toughest decision? Figuring out which type of chocolate to choose! The Melting Pot is offering a Valentine's Day Weekend Event including specially-priced menu options. Reservations are required, so head to the website for more information.

Isabela on Grandview

Photo Courtesy of Isabela on Grandview

Looking for a gorgeous view of the city while enjoying a top-notch meal? Isabela on Grandview is the spot! High atop Mount Washington, Isabela serves the best steaks, seafood, and even offers a Chef's Tasting Menu Monday-Saturday. The best way to visit? Take the Duquesne Incline from its lower parking lot and enjoy the scenery. 

Gateway Clipper Fleet

Photo Courtesy of flickr/Michael Righi

How about a Valentine's Day dinner while cruising along the three rivers that Pittsburgh is so famous for? Gateway Clipper Fleet is offering a Valentine's Day Dinner and Cruise complete with a full buffet dinner and live entertainment. There will also be a chance to win jewelry from L.S. Jewelers!

Pizza Italia

Photo Courtesy of Pizza Italia

Who says you can't buy love in a yummy, tasty pizza box? Probably no one to be honest, but it definitely sounds cute! Pizza Italia gets in on the Valentine's Day festivities with heart-shaped pizzas. The restaurant has been a Pittsburgh-native favorite since 1980 when owner Dominic Ricci opened its doors and fans have been flocking ever since. Can't make it for V-Day? No worries. Pizza Italia is happy to make you one year round. Prices start at $8.50! 

Meat & Potatoes

Photo Courtesy of Meat & Potatoes

In the heart of Pittsburgh's theater district sits Meat & Potatoes- a hip restaurant that loves serving comfort food as well as classier dishes like paté and duck dishes. This self-proclaimed "gastropub" is always filled with happy diners and for Valentine's Day is offering a special of Steak & Lobster Dinner for Two for $100. Sounds deliciously decadent to me.

Valentine's Day Accommodations

Omni William Penn Hotel

Classic beauty with stunning architecture is the norm for Omni William Penn Hotel. This year, the hotel is offering Sweetheart Valentine's Packages that includes sparkling wine, complimentary room upgrades, a breakfast buffet in The Terrace Room, and a complimentary welcome amenity. This offer is for the nights of February 13 & 14, 2015.

Marriott Pittsburgh City Center

Marriott Pittsburgh City Center is directly across the street from Consol Energy Center, and it's pretty color palette and affordable weekend rates can't be beat. Steelhead Brasserie and Wine Bar is the in-house restaurant serving an American fusion-style menu. Last minute weekend specials start at $199.00 per night. 

Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown

If you're the kind of couple that loves to take leisurely walks through Point State Park, a stay at Wyndham Grand Pittsburgh Downtown will be right up your alley. Directly across the street from the famous park, the hotel is withing walking distance to Pittsburgh's Cultural District and Market Square or jump in a cab or on the subway and head to Station Square and beyond. Bed & Breakfast packages are available and discounts are commonly offered.

Weekend Getaways

Omni Bedford Springs

What was once the spot to visit for its healing properties is now a gorgeous  resort with modern amenities and top-notch dining. Omni Bedford Springs Resort is offering Valentine's Day packages including dinner making the hour drive out of the city so worth it. If you're the outdoorsy type, a hike through the woods on one of several paths will lead you to the on-property springs, or you can stay inside and take a dip in the salt water pool.

Tara- A Country Inn

Photo Courtesy of Tara- A Country Inn

Tara was inspired by Gone With the Wind, its Old Southern look and feel will bring out the romance in even the cynics. Each of Tara's 27 guest rooms and suites have luxury linens, guest robes, and are individually decorated with its own theme. Two-night discounts are available most nights and on-site dining allows you to dress up and enjoy a romantic meal.

Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa

Photo Courtesy of Buhl Mansion

Listed as one of America's Top 10 Romantic Inns, Buhl Mansion is an ideal spot for a romantic getaway. Just over an hour away from Pittsburgh in Sharon, PA, the picturesque property offers an onsite spa, breakfast packages, and if you're really into indulgence, a Castle Escape package that will make you feel like royalty.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort

Photo Courtesy of Seven Springs

If you and your sweetie love the outdoors, a trip to Seven Springs is a no-brainer. The popular ski resort is offering several lodging packages including a Trillium Spa package (hello, relaxation!) as well as a Winter Fun package, and the dining options will fit every budget. For the ultimate in dining, make a reservation at Helens and savor top notch entrees with a beautiful, rustic ambiance.

Do you have a favorite romantic spot in and around Pittsburgh? Let me know below!