Virginia Is for Lovers This Valentine’s Day
They say “Virginia is for Lovers.” So what better place to celebrate Valentine’s Day than in a state that fully embraces its slogan with special offers and activities to make for an unforgettable holiday?
It all began in 1968, when a creative team headed by George Woltz of Martin & Woltz Inc. won the Virginia State Travel Service (later the Virginia Tourism Corporation) account. A copywriter named Robin McLaughlin had come up with an advertising concept to show that Virginia is a place for everyone—with advertisements touting “Virginia is for history lovers,” “Virginia is for beach lovers,” “Virginia is for mountain lovers,” and so on. Feeling limited by the modifier, Martin and Woltz decided to put it more simply, and “Virginia is for Lovers” was born.
The new slogan first appeared in an ad in the March 1969 issue of Modern Bride, and the “bold and provocative” phrase led travelers to see a more exciting Virginia. More than 40 years later, the slogan lives on—in part because it can mean something different to everyone. Whether your travel plans are inspired by a love of history, beaches, mountains, vibrant cities, sports, theme parks, outdoor activities, or hospitality, Virginia is for you.
In order to show that “love is at the heart of every Virginia vacation,” the Virginia Tourism Corporation invites travelers to seek out the giant LOVE artwork popping up around Virginia. From DuCard Vineyards to the Virginia Welcome Center, the artworks traverse the state. Check out the map for all LOVE artwork locations, snap a photo, and share it on Facebook or on Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #LOVEVA.
There are also several special Valentine’s Day packages at hotels throughout the state, including:
Williamsburg-James River Plantation Package
Williamsburg
For Valentine’s Day (which also happens to be President’s Day weekend), lodge as our Founding Fathers once did at Piney Grove at Southall’s Plantation’s historic B&B, including arrival hot toddies, a roaring fire turndown, and a candlelight plantation breakfast in the 1790 Log Room. Champagne, sparkling cider, and a bouquet of fresh flowers will be available in-room. For additional Valentine’s romance, guests can add on the “James River Plantation Candlelight Progressive Tour” for two, featuring interior “Tours-by-the-Owners” of Piney Grove (1790), Ashland (1835), and Ladysmith (1857), and exterior visits to Dower Quarter (1830) and Duck Church (1917). Dinner is available nearby at Charles City Tavern, Courthouse Grille, and the Blue Heron Restaurant. Rates for this package begin at $176.89 per couple per night and $313.78 per couple for the weekend. Available Friday, February 13 through Tuesday, February 17.
Valentine’s Day at Graves’ Mountain Lodge
Syria
Spend the weekend in front of a roaring fire at Graves’ Mountain Lodge, nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. Kick Friday night off with delicious Southern comfort food followed by a relaxing evening. On Saturday, enjoy country breakfast followed by your choice of activity: hiking in Shenandoah National Park, taking a guided horseback trail ride, exploring local wineries, or simply lounging. The concierge will have trail maps and lists of nearby activities and specials to help plan the perfect day. After an action-packed afternoon, guests are invited to enjoy a steak and shrimp buffet, inclusive of two drinks, and live entertainment provided by the Dry Run Band following dinner. Breakfast will be served the next morning prior to departures. Rates begin at $325 per couple for two nights, Friday, February 13 and Saturday, February 14.
Valentine’s Day Spa & Dinner Package at Boar’s Head Inn
Charlottesville
Boar’s Head Inn offers countless ways to say “I love you” to your sweetheart with this romantic getaway at Charlottesville’s only Four Diamond Resort. Available Friday, February 13 through Sunday, February 15, the Valentine’s Day Spa & Dinner Package includes one night’s accommodations , a Valentine’s prix fixe dinner for two in the Old Mill Room , sparkling wine and chocolate-dipped strawberries in your guest room , breakfast for two in the Old Mill Room , a couples massage , resort fee, taxes, and gratuities. The package also includes full access to the Sports Club, complimentary parking, newspaper delivery, Wi-Fi, and afternoon pastries in the Ordinary Room.
Romantic Valentine’s Getaway at the Inn at Tabbs Creek
Chesapeake Bay Region
Celebrate your love old and new with The Inn at Tabbs Creek Waterfront B&B’s Romantic Waterfront Valentine’s Day Package. Book any available room over Valentine’s weekend and get this special package for just $200 in addition to cost of room. The package includes a $50 gift certificate to the White Dog Bistro for a special Valentine’s dinner (advance reservations required) ; one dozen roses, a chilled bottle of champagne, and gourmet chocolates, cheese, and a fruit plate in your guest room on arrival ; Saturday night Happy Hour at the inn ; a certificate for a free cup of soup with each entrée ordered at Southwind Cafe ; and a certificate for a free oyster and wine/beer pairing at Merroir.
Wine & Romance Getaway Weekend
Various properties in the Blue Ridge Highlands
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in style. The overnight getaway includes a “Puppy Love” lunch or dinner on Friday, February 14 for two people (wine, tax, and gratuity not included), a $100 lodging coupon toward one night’s accommodation at participating lodging facilities, wine and chocolate pairing for two on Valentine’s Day, a winery tour, and non-Kennel Club Members receive a 20-percent wine discounts in the Tasting Room. Rates begin at $274.
Whatever it is that draws you to Virginia, the state is ready to welcome you with open, loving arms.
