Valentine’s Day in Los Gatos!
It’s February and, for couples, that means it’s time to plan your Valentine’s Day! And what better place to celebrate your love than in the Valley of Heart’s Delight (Silicon Valley’s old nickname), or more specifically, in the Gem of the Foothills – our very own LG! Here we’ll give you some ideas on how to celebrate a romantic Valentine’s Day in Los Gatos.
Valentine’s Day on a tight budget: picnic with your sweetie
Los Gatos is filled with beautiful parks, and lately the weather has been in the 70s and 80s! If you want or need to be frugal, get a simple assortment of cheeses, crackers, grapes and wine and enjoy a picnic at Vasona Park or your favorite of any one of the lovely parks in town. It’s affordable, easy, and you can enjoy some romantic views.
How about an unhurried walking tour of Los Gatos?
Stroll through scenic downtown Los Gatos. The “village” area is full of neat shops with an enchanting feel. Head over to Old Town too, and while there, walk across the pedestrian bridge between Old Town and Forbes Mill. There is something about being still on this little bridge with the world passing by underneath that’s very special. Have a look at the old mill. This was the first commercial venture in Los Gatos – and it’s tucked away, off the beaten path. . . . But easy to find if you know what to look for.
You might also consider doing the “LOST Gatos” historic walking tour – just share a pair of earbuds or put it on speaker. Download the free app to enjoy the various self-guided tours.
Valentine’s Day Lunch in town
If you can swing a lunch date, we’re just getting to the season when eating al fresco is a good choice, particularly mid-day. For some dining ideas, please visit my article: Restaurants with patio dining in Los Gatos for a list.
A fun, low key, and interesting spot for delicious pub food and excellent (award winning) beer is Loma Brewing Co., which has warehouse style decor and is in a fantastic location for enjoying all of downtown Los Gatos any time of day (they even have a coffee bar, should you be in the area during the morning).
Dinner out in Los Gatos for Valentine’s Day? Reserve early!
Need to do the official Valentine’s supper out? Los Gatos is oozing with great restaurants. Just don’t wait until the last minute to call in for a table. Some of my favorites include the Wine Cellar, Aldos (Italian), and Pedro’s (Mexican, 2 locations), Deo Dekka (Greek), The Bywater (Cajun). Looking to totally “wow” him or her? A world class restaurant is Manresa. I haven’t eaten there yet but understand that it’s one of the finest restaurants to be found anywhere (and a serious splurge! $$$$$).
After you’ve dined, head back to North Santa Cruz Avenue and pick up some dessert at Dolce Spazio.
Shopping for Valentine’s Day in Los Gatos : Flowers, Chocolates, and Lace
Need flowers? Bunches in downtown is very nice. Do yourself a favor and visit a proper flower shop if you’re going to do it. The grocery store flowers just don’t tend to last very long. And Bunches has a bonus, the resident pet duck! But be warned, the line for Valentines day flowers can get quite long at this well loved florist!
Need chocolate? I love Chocolate Dream Box on Union Ave by Safeway (this shop was previously in King’s Court Shopping Center after moving out of downtown), it makes mouth watering truffles in beautifully delicate shapes and prints. Another good option is Fleur de Cocao, which sells truffles, artisan chocolate bars, and cakes. Their downtown location is also a cafe, so you can sit with your sweetie over a cappucino and some sugary treats.
Need something sensual? Something lacy, silky, luxurious, and quite skimpy? Romantiques on University Avenue near Old Town, Los Gatos, is worth a visit! Ladies intimates line the wall, beautiful silk goodies that you are not likely to find in a chain store, with articles ranging from the luxurious yet practical to the, well… less practical and significantly more luxurious. Maybe don’t bring the kids on this shopping trip!
Wishing you all a wonderful Valentine’s Day, no matter where or how you celebrate it!
Related – please also read:
Great Places to Kiss in Los Gatos
Affordable Treasures in Los Gatos: Great Place for Party Favors & Stocking Stuffers (for kid-friendly Valentines goodies!)
Los Gatos is a Great Place for a Weekend Away, a Family Reunion or Romantic Date
