Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day Celebrations

Cupid is flying toward Springfield, so it’s time to start making your Valentine’s Day and Galentine's Day plans. Whether you’re wanting to celebrate with dinners and roses or enjoy the holiday with your gals, the Queen City has a ton to offer. We’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate to make the most of the holiday.

Stick with a Classic

Dinner and a movie is a bit of a stereotypical date night, but with a bit of a spin you can elevate your dating experience. Start with an intimate dinner downtown, we recommend something dimly lit and romantic like The Order, Flame or Gilardi’s, and then end with a show at Springfield Little Theatre (311 E Walnut St., Springfield; 417-869-1334). Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is playing through February 12, making it the perfect opportunity to feel fancy while admiring the beauty of The Landers Theatre.

Feel like a Kid Again

There is something about going to an arcade that makes you feel like you’re in a rom-com movie montage, sneaking in a quick kiss playing laser tag, laughing while trying to keep up during air hockey, pretending you don’t know how to properly throw a bowling ball so your date has to guide your hand. You can experience all of this and more at Andy B’s Bowl Social (1127 E Battlefield Road, Springfield; 417-883-1234), plus you can have dinner and drinks without even having to leave the building.

Catch Up

Get those familiar heart flutters back—this time because you’re exercising, not because you’re nervous—and check out all of the amazing local parks we have. The cold weather only makes walking more romantic, you can bundle up and cuddle close as you walk hand in hand, talking uninterrupted and getting in your steps for the day. Try Jordan Valley Park for this particular stroll, so you can end your brisk walk with a warm drink at Coffee Ethic or European Café downtown.

Branch Out

Go to an art museum. You don’t have to know anything about techniques or practices to enjoy looking at what local amazing artists are accomplishing in our area. There is something romantic about seeing such beauty made right here in Springfield, Missouri. If you’re artsy, go for Springfield Art Museum (1111 E Brookside Drive, Springfield; 417-837-5700), and if you’re a history buff, opt for History Museum on the Square (154 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-831-1976).

Slow Down

Watch the sunset at Top of the Rock (190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale; 800-225-6343). While it may be too cold for a sunset toast on the patio, you can have a great date with a view by visiting one of the spot’s eateries, like Osage Restaurant with its panoramic lake view.

Try Something New

Bring your best girlfriend down to Finley Farms (802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark; 417-210-6644) for a Galentine’s Charcuterie Class! Learn how to make your own charcuterie board with a selection of meats, cheeses, fruits and other delicious accompaniments. Snack on your board while you work and take home your custom creation when finished.