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Ah, Valentine’s Day.
A day for romance and grand gestures. An evening for candlelit dinners and rekindled passions. Of luxury getaways and the crippling societal pressure of spending far more than you can afford but feeling guilty and doing it anyway. If the last part sounds applicable, read on.
If you’re considering a romantic getaway this Valentine’s day (if you’ve forgotten and need some help– stat), don’t be duped into thinking you need to spend an arm and a leg. There are plenty of amazing hotels and other accommodations to match your budget. Maybe they don’t have butler service, but they will make up for that in charm and individuality.
To get you started, we’ve listed some of the best hotels in and around major US cities that cost under $200 during the week of Valentine’s Day.
The Price: From $135 the week of Valentine’s Day
The Feel: Simple Up-state Getaway
The Rundown: If a quiet weekend away is just what the doctor ordered, The Bond 1835 is perfect. The leafy converted home was built in the same year as its name suggests and boasts simple, cozy decor from its lakeside perch in Upstate NY. The in-room breakfast is particularly delightful and will serve well for a few days’ exploration of the area.
The Price: From $139 the week of Valentine’s Day
The Feel: Rustic cliffside charm
The Rundown: Just a few hours’ drive from Philadelphia and New York City, Ledges Hotel is a quietly spectacular getaway. Built into a rocky rock, guests can relax on the terrace as the creek works its way downstream. The restaurant is popular, and the serviced itineraries include happy hours, champagne toasts, cocktail classes, and other tidbits. Book this month for their specialized Valentine’s packages.
Tabard Inn, Washington, DC
The Price: From $170 the week of Valentine’s Day
The Feel: Historic DC Exploration base
The Rundown: While not traditionally romantic, the Tabard Inn is a gem in DC. A far cry from the branded mega-chains down the road, the Tabard has the unique privilege of being the oldest operating hotel in the city. It holds onto its heritage, bursting with knick-knacks from over a century of hosting. It’s also perfectly located for exploring the city, just by Dupont Circle. And don’t miss the brunch. The line outside on a Sunday morning is the only evidence you need for how good it is.
Metropole Suites South Beach, Miami
The Price: From $108 the week of Valentine’s Day
The Feel: Budget-conscious on South Beach
The Rundown: Miami and affordable don’t typically go hand in hand. Thankfully, Metropole Suites stepped in to create a fashionable little hotel right in the middle of South Beach. The location is perfect, the rates are a breath of fresh air, and the private plunge pool and sunbed are the cherries on top. Now go grab a Valentine’s Day $30 cocktail.
Hotel Figueroa, Los Angeles
The Price: From $181 the week of Valentine’s Day
The Feel: Stylish urban tranquility
The Rundown: Chic, historic, and a lot of fun, Hotel Figueroa was originally built in the twenties as a hostel for women, providing a rare opportunity for them to live life on their own terms as they chased their creative dreams in LA. Nowadays, it’s open to all, and features a stunning pool terrace, endlessly stylish rooms, and an outstanding bar. The downtown hotel punches well above its price tag – and make sure to book a spot at the on-site Mexican restaurant.
Captain Whidbey, Coupeville, WA
The Price: From $187 the week of Valentine’s Day
The Feel: Northeastern Island escape
The Rundown: Seattle natives are spoiled for choice when it comes to natural getaways. A romantic reset in the mountains, forest, or coast is never far away. But this waterside island retreat is up there with the best. The lodge itself is over a hundred years old, and while it’s been modernized for comfort, it never shies away from its rustic roots. Cuddle up with your loved one by the water’s edge, then head inside to warm up in the restaurant.
Refinery Hotel, NYC
The Price: From $155 the week of Valentine’s Day
The Feel: Big-city class, small-town price
The Rundown: If New York is on the cards (and why wouldn’t it be, thanks to Hotel, restaurant, and theatre week), you’ll struggle to find better value than Refinery Hotel. Beautifully designed rooms and a rooftop bar to compete with the best of them all for under $200. You don’t need to go for a Holiday Inn to stay on budget in the Big Apple.