Valentine's Day Destinations


Interior view of Simply Crepes in Pittsford, N.Y. Photograph by Kristen McNicholas.

It's that time of year again. Love is in the air, and in Rochester, so is the heavy snowfall. Feb. 14 is Valentine's Day, and if you are looking to celebrate with your loved one, have no fear! Despite the below-freezing temperatures in Rochester, there are still ways for you to take your favorite person out for a good time — even on a college student's budget.

Let's face it, Valentine's Day can be difficult for couples in college. On top of normal schoolwork, the pressure is on to wow your loved one with something special, whether it be a gift, dinner or fun activity. Luckily, Rochester houses plenty of Valentine's Day destinations that will warm your heart even in the middle of February. Here are some ideas for Valentine's Day dates if you are low on cash or if you just need some inspiration.

If you are looking for something to do:

Rochester has many historic attractions, one of them being the Strong National Museum of Play. The Museum of Play is fun for all ages. Whether you are interested in reverting to childhood playtime, reliving your childhood or just love arcade games, the Museum of Play will have something that sparks your interest. With your student ID, admission is two-for-one which is perfect for a day devoted to pairs. For two students, admission is $14. Once you are inside, you can explore a child-sized pirate ship, mail room and even a tiny Wegmans. On top of that you can purchase tickets to the butterfly room ($4 each) and spend quality time together surrounded by fragrant plants and over 800 butterflies. You can even put your partner to the true test of sportsmanship and challenge each other to arcade games in the upstairs part of the museum. 

If you are looking for something to eat:

There is no doubt that there are quite a few great places to eat in Rochester, but if you want a cozy Valentine's Day date, Simply Crepes has you set for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Located on Schoen Place in Pittsford, Simply Crepes features both savory and sweet crepes, but their menu also includes fresh juice, coffee, salads and desserts. The crepes are of good size and easy to share, but also so good you could eat one the size of your head. The ambiance of the restaurant is perfect for a romantic evening. The whole building is made of wood, which sets a homey mood. As you walk into the main dining area, it is lit up with many crystal chandeliers hanging from the elevated ceiling, and the fireplace lights and warms the room. The feeling of the whole place is intimate and perfect for a date. 

If you are looking to stay close to campus: 

Something that is really fun to do on campus that just takes some trust and hand-holding is ice skating at Ritter Arena. The arena is open for public skate in the evening on Saturday and the afternoon on Sunday. For $5 you can rent skates and spend as much time as you like on the ice together. After you cool down on the rink, a warm place to go on campus is Java Wally's in Wallace Library. There are comfy couches, warm coffee and hot chocolate to sip as you warm yourselves up. You can spend as much or as little time just talking and spending quality time together. 

Whatever you do this Valentine's Day, make it fun for both of you! Remember, even in the middle of winter, you can always warm each others' hearts.