Pandemic Guide to Valentine's Day in Austin
Step 1: Order flowers early! We suggest planning at least a week or two in advance. We predict flower shops will be busy this year and the post office isn’t going to turn around overnight.
Austin flower shop, Enchanted Austin, sells plants, flowers, and bouquets for all occasions. They also offer a “Designer’s Choice” arrangement, by request.
Check out https://enchantedaustin.com/
Step 2: Buy a gift. For Valentine’s Day, you can’t go wrong with chocolates. Maggie Louise Confections in Austin offers “handcrafted confections combining nostalgic flavors, modern design, and meaningful bespoke details.” You can checkout the storefront on East 6th, or just go to their website.
Step 3: Make dinner reservations. One of the benefits of living in Texas is that you can eat outdoors practically year-round. That means that your Valentine's Day dinner date is still on.
Here are some romantic restaurant patios in town.
Perla’s, 1400 S. Congress
Kalimotxo, 607 W. 3rd St.
Olive & June, 3411 Glenview Ave.
Step 4: Do something fun. Celebrate your love by playing miniature golf or taking a hike.
Play Mini Golf
Peter Pan Mini Golf, which has been an Austin mainstay since 1948, has two 18-hole courses. They have a BYOB policy, so bring some libations — but in cans, please. No glass containers allowed. https://peterpanminigolf.com/
Take a Hike
Mt. Bonnell is located in Covert Park. At 775 feet, it’s the highest point in Austin. At certain points, it overlooks the city, lake, and 360 Bridge. Mt. Bonnell is one of the most popular places to take photos in the Austin area. The peak is named for Commissioner of Indian Affairs for the Texas Republic, George Bonnell. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/texas/mount-bonnell-trail
Blue Starlite Drive-in
Blue Starlite is a “mini urban drive-in.” They specialize in screening old childhood favorites, indie films, art house, cult films, and pop culture favorites from the 80s and 90s. There are locations in Austin at Mueller, downtown, and in Round Rock. Some of the films that will be screened on February 14th include The Princess Bride, Casablanca, and Breakfast at Tiffany’s. https://www.bluestarlitedrivein.com/