Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and the time to start planning is now! Don’t worry though, you aren’t in this alone. Our team of experts are here to point you in the right direction, so that even Cupid would be impressed with your plans for Valentine’s Day. Here are some of our recommendations to make Valentine’s Day 2026 extraordinary.
1) Restaurants~ A Hard to Beat Classic
Kansas City has tons of incredible restaurants that are perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal with your sweetheart. Check out our extensive list of romantic restaurants to find something that fits your taste buds, vibe, location, and budget. Remember to call ahead for reservations or snag one online ASAP. Don’t wait to the last minute or you’ll shoot yourself in the foot (and not with Cupid’s arrow).
2) Belger Arts Center~ Couples Crafting
Belger Arts Center has three different workshops for you and your Valentine to enjoy together this year. These hands on workshops are perfect for couples who want to get their hands dirty and do a little crafting together. Whether you and your Valentine sign up for one of the pottery wheel throwing workshops, a glass fusing workshop, or one of the glass heart workshops you’re sure to have fun making crafts and memories together.
3) Beer Kitchen~ Love on the Rocks
Kick Valentine’s off a little early, on February 12, with “Love on the Rocks: A Valentine’s Mixology Experience.” At “Love on the Rocks,” you and your Valentine will learn how to make four craft cocktails using local spirits. Each cocktail will be expertly paired with a course of the incredible four-course meal you will be enjoying together. You’ll want to make reservations for this experience NOW, so you can toast to romance and Valentine’s.
4) J. Rieger & Co. Distillery~ Various Valentine’s Fun
J. Rieger & Co. has gathered up all sorts of Valentine’s fun. Starting on February 10, “André’s Chocolates x Amaro Pairing Experience” kicks things off in the Electric Park Garden Bar. Obviously chocolates and Valentine’s goes hand in hand! Treat your Valentine to this tasty experience to set the bar high. On February 13 & 14th the Monogram Lounge will be hosting the “Valentine’s Dinner Date Night,” a three-course pre fixe dinner with optional cocktail pairing. Another Valentine’s Day option is “A Cheeky Valentine’s Featuring KC Burlesque” in the Hey! Hey! Club. This “cheeky” experience includes a retro supper club, four-course dinner with cocktail pairings and performances by KC Burlesque. These are all going to be popular events so get your tickets ASAP.
5) Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium~ Kiss & Tail
This adults only, after hours event at the zoo is perfect for Valentine’s Day. You and your Valentine will celebrate romance with a night of hilarious skits performed by some of Kansas City’s finest. You’ll learn about some of the animal world’s most unique mating rituals, meet some adorable animal ambassadors and take home complimentary chocolates. There are two show times and a VIP option. The VIP option includes dinner in the aquarium before the second show.
6) Tom’s Town~ Love Fest
Love Fest is back for a second year and is a great way to kick off Valentine’s weekend. On February 12, the 2nd floor of Tom’s Town will be transformed into Love Fest with shopping from local makers, live music, and (of course) Tom’s Town cocktails and spirits. There are two VIP options if you want to step up your Valentine’s game. “VIP for Two” includes a reserved table and tasty charcuterie board. The “Ultimate VIP Lounge” is perfect for a double date with couch seating for four, charcuterie, and decadent dessert. Love Fest is limited to 100 guests so you need to get tickets fast!
7) Baecation~ Romantic Staycation
A baecation is a great option for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day! You can make it a baecation/staycation by booking an overnight stay in Kansas City. We recommend Southmoreland on the Plaza’s Valentine’s Experience that includes a guest room, four-course dinner with drink pairings for two, and an adorable Valentine’s craft.
8) Last Minute, Budget Friendly~ We’ve Got You Covered
If you forget to plan something for Valentine’s Day, don’t stress. Romantic Spots Kansas City is here to save the day. Pack a picnic and head to one of our favorite parks. Do a scavenger hunt together or if you’re feeling creative make a scavenger hunt with clues leading to your favorite places. Go on a self-guided fountain tour and take pictures with your favorites. Craft Putt is hosting two Valentine’s themed events (Rom-Com Movie Trivia Night on 2/12 and Valentine’s Edition Glow Golf on 2/13). Head to Union Station for KC Love and make sure to take advantage of the photo ops for some great couples’ pics.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, Valentine’s Day is really about one thing: spending quality time with the person who makes your heart skip a beat. Kansas City has no shortage of ways to make Valentine’s feel extra special. Just remember to plan ahead, lean into the romance, and don’t be afraid to try something new. After all, the best Valentine’s memories aren’t about perfection, they’re about connection. Now go forth, lovebirds, and make Valentine’s Day 2026 one for the books.
