When we’ve written about Pittsburgh Valentine’s Day date ideas in the past, we had one big advantage: We didn’t need to worry about remaining safe from a pandemic! So, when we talked about the best restaurants in each neighborhood or romantic destinations, we did so without ever thinking that COVID-19 might interrupt your plans.
As February 14 approaches, we’re once again offering some of our favorite Valentine’s Day date ideas in Pittsburgh, but this time we’re making sure they’re COVID-appropriate.
COVID-Conscious Valentine’s Day Date Ideas for Couples in Pittsburgh
Here are some of the best ways to enjoy a little romance in Pittsburgh without getting sick:
1. Try our BINGO in the ‘Burgh game! To help celebrate Valentine’s Day and Pittsburgh at the same time, we’ve put together a scavenger hunt that combines riddles, BINGO, and your partner!
Here’s how it works: Use the BINGO board below and solve the clues to figure out each location. Then, visit the locations and cross them off the board. After crossing out an entire line, email us a list of your locations and a picture from your adventure.
By playing, you’ll get a chance to win a gift card to a local restaurant or coffee shop!
2. Take in the city’s lights. While you’re out and about and enjoying BINGO, take in some of Pittsburgh’s best views while enjoying your favorite hot beverage (a hot chocolate with marshmallows is a nice Valentine’s Day treat)! You can check out our full list of the best views in Pittsburgh, but two of our favorites for after dark in February are:
Mount Washington (of course!) - Where else can you find such a stunning view of the city? Starting at the Monongahela Incline gives you full access to the restaurants and shops along Shiloh Street, but you’re also a quick ride away from Station Square and the T station. Heading toward the Duquesne incline puts you in close proximity to some of Pittsburgh’s finest restaurants, and you’ll have a better view of Point State Park and North Shore.
Three Rivers Heritage Trail - Best accessed from North Shore, the trail puts you right up against the Allegheny River, where you can watch the city reflecting off the water.
Schenley Park Overlook - Even if it’s cold outside, you can drive right up to the overlook and watch the sunset over Oakland and Downtown. Enjoy a short or long stroll around the park while you’re there!
Schenley Park Overlook at sunset.
No matter where you decide to go, dress in layers! Standing on top of a mountain or down along a river is bound to expose you to a few cold gusts of wind.
3. Go ice skating! Valentine’s Day is on a Sunday this year, which means you have all day to lace up and get on the ice while gliding hand-in-hand with your partner!
The popular PPG Place ice rink is open on Sundays from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM this season, and it’s taking COVID precautions both while waiting in line and when people start skating.
Schenley Rink is another great option that is especially great if you haven’t been skating in a while. They are operating at limited capacity and don’t require reservations ahead of time. You can also enjoy a great walk or drive through the park and enjoy the views from the Schenley Overlook.
If you decide to go elsewhere, call ahead or check online. Some rinks are operating with limited attendance and a reservation system to keep COVID risk down. Plan ahead to ensure you have a spot reserved!
4. Get your favorite takeout. Some restaurants are still open for in-house dining for Valentine’s Day! If you’re uncomfortable eating outside of the home, however, you can always enjoy your favorite dishes through takeout. Check out our neighborhood reports for the highest-rated restaurants near you!
5. Cook at home! If you’re really intent on avoiding crowds on Valentine’s Day, try your hand in the kitchen. Valentine’s Day dinners don’t have to be complicated to be delicious and romantic, so check out Country Living’s list of romantic Valentine’s Day dinner recipes.
As much as we love cooking dinner at home with the kids, Ted and I might try to get to enjoy our own dinner alone!
6. Decorate and enjoy decadence! Who doesn’t love a beautiful, fragrant bouquet on Valentine’s Day? Pittsburgh has a large number of Mom and Pop florists, but you may especially like Gidas Flowers in Oakland—it’s one of the consistently highest-rated flower shops in Pittsburgh!
And while you’re at it, don’t forget the sweets! A quick stop at Grandpa Joe’s or Peace, Love, and Little Donuts (both in the Strip District) ensures you have the best options available for your sweetheart.
Of course, we’re still in the middle of a pandemic, so you might also pick this year to get creative at home. Try dipping your favorite fruits in chocolate or baking a sweet treat!
7. Enjoy a lovely walk through the park. The Pittsburgh region has tons of great trails in the metro region! North Park and Settlers Cabin Park offer some of the best trails without driving too far, but you might prefer something closer to home—and with shops and restaurants nearby! In that case, a stroll through Schenley Park or Frick Park lets you enjoy nature without sacrificing access to some of Pittsburgh’s best stores.
Have an idea you’d like to share? We’d love to hear it! Contact us at theblocks@blocksintheburgh.com.
Cheers,
Julie & Ted