We don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day, aside from maybe a punny card… “I Whale Always Love You.” “You’ve Got a Pizza My Heart.” “I Love You a Latte.” You get the idea. Instead, we prioritize new experiences and adventures in Vermont throughout the year. Simply put, I can’t wait a whole year for “us time”. Therefore, I am a big fan of “surprise-and-delight” moments on a regular basis. Whether on Valentine’s Day or not, these simple gestures, from dinner out somewhere new to booking a hotel room in your local town for a staycation, is a great way to show someone special you care. If you’re looking for a special experience this Valentine’s Day, our guide to Valentine’s Day in Vermont should help! Here are our recommendations for romantic restaurants in Vermont, charming lodging destinations in Vermont, unique Valentine’s Day experiences, and Vermont-made gifts.

Romantic Restaurants for Valentine’s Day in Vermont

Hen of the Wood – Waterbury or Burlington: Arguably the best restaurant in Vermont, Hen of the Wood is a splurge worthy culinary destination for any special occasion. Just ensure you make reservations well in advance, as it books up quickly.

Waterworks Food + Drink, Winooski: Whether you’re in the mood for burgers or a fine-dining meal, Waterworks delivers. The cocktails are also outstanding. Ask for a table overlooking the falls for the ultimate recommendation dining experience.

Tourterelle, New Haven: There’s something utterly romantic about French cuisine, especially in an intimate space. Tourterelle offers high-end French cuisine in a charming renovated farmhouse just outside of Middlebury.

Peasant, Waitsfield: The simple feast offered at the family-owned Peasant is warming and romantic in an intimate setting. Take a stroll over the covered bridge after dinner for a wintery walk in downtown Waitsfield.

The Mill at Simon Pearce, Quechee: The dining experience at Simon Pearce is like none other. I enjoy eating and drinking of their products, especially with a view to the falls and Quechee Covered Bridge.

Romantic Lodging in Vermont for Valentine’s Day

The Pitcher Inn, Warren: The Pitcher Inn tops my list of all inns I’ve ever stayed in. Each room in the Relais & Chateau Property is wholly unique. Enjoy dinner upstairs at 251 Main or downstairs in their basement lounge at Tracks.

The Dorset Inn, Dorset: When it comes to historic charm in a quintessential tiny Vermont town, The Dorset Inn tops my list for a romantic getaway. Dine on site and don’t miss Three Pear Art Gallery just across the green.

Jackson House Inn, Woodstock: The Jackson House Inn boasts the best, high-end breakfast in Vermont. The rooms are tastefully decorated, and the town of Woodstock is one of charm and romanticism at its core.

Stone Hill Inn, Stowe: Every room at Stone Hill Inn on the mountain road in Stowe features a king-sized bed, jacuzzi tub, and gas fire place. The adults-only retreat features luxurious retreats, a pillow-closet and DVD room for a quiet night inn, and delicious breakfasts.

The Four Chimneys Inn, Bennington: For a visit to Southern Vermont, The Four Chimneys Inn is a picturesque, historic estate dating back to 1783 on 11 acres. The totally refurbished inn is brimming with charm and elegance.

Hill Farm Inn, Sunderland, Vermont: Hill Farm Inn, located just a few miles outside of Manchester, is a stunning renovated inn with luxurious rooms and a gorgeous living room complete with an oversized fireplace on site.

Special Vermont-Made Gifts for Valentine’s Day

Jewelry from Matthew Taylor Designs, Shelburne: If jewelry says I love you, head to Matthew Taylor Designs in Shelburne to see what Matthew has for sale or work with him on a custom piece. His jewelry is bomb proof, of the utmost quality, and more cost-effective than make jewelry makers and stores in Vermont.

Jasper Hill Farm Cheese: If going out for Valentine’s Day isn’t your style, make a charcuterie platter at home with cheese from Jasper Hill delivered right to your doorstep and local Vermont wine.

Radical Alchemy Bath Salts: For your partner who deserves relaxation, Radical Alchemy salts, available on Etsy or at local brick-and-mortar stores locally, smell divine and have a host of wellness benefits.

Locally Made Chocolates: If you’re a fan of giving (or receiving) chocolate for Valentine’s Day, shop small from Farmhouse Chocolates, Vermont Nut-Free Chocolates, Snowflake Chocolates, or Lake Champlain Chocolates. From truffles and salted caramels, these chocolatiers deliver, big time.

Red Kite Candy or Fat Toad Farm Caramel: To give a sweet treat that’s not chocolate, try Red Kite Candy’s handcrafted sea-salt caramels or Fat Toad Farm’s gourmet goat milk caramel – perfect on ice cream (or by the spoon).

Birdfolk Collective Valentine’s Day Cards: To say I love you, grab a punny or sweet card from Birdfolk. You’ll also find lots of other US- and Vermont-made gifts if you want to pair a heartfelt note with a small gift as well.

Unique Activities in Vermont for Valentine’s Day 2019:

Vermont Wine & Chocolate Weekend: The weekend before Valentine’s Day, explore wineries throughout the state for Wine & Chocolate Weekend, hosted by the Vermont Grape and Wine Council.

Burlington Glassblowing Challenge, Valentine Edition: If you’re ever be interested in learning how to blow glass, there’s a special couple’s competition on February 9 at the Bern Gallery. Free entries to the competition and free lessons!

Valentine’s Day Kissing Special at Mad River Glen: Head to Fayston for a day of skiing with your parter. Kiss your partner, whoever they may be, at the ticket office and you both ski for half price!

Valentine’s Day Spa Yoga with Sanghe Studio: Get into a slow-flow with your partner. Afterwards, enjoy from treats from City Market. 5:30pm to 7:00pm on Valentine’s Day in Burlington.

Heartless – A Heart / Zepplin Experience at the Rusty Nail: The touring New England act comes to Stowe on Friday, February 15. Make sure to snag your tickets in advance.

What are your plans for Valentine’s Day in Vermont? Keep the conversation going. Share in the comments below!