Romance Packages
For those looking to make one call to take care of every romantic detail, the Foundry Park Inn and Spa has again come through for a Dinner and Evening with Jazz Legend Francine Reed. Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner prepared by award-winning chef Steve Vining followed by a soothing jazz performance at The Melting Point. Couples seeking a luxurious getaway may even select an overnight deluxe package. Several ticket options range from the show-only price of $25 to the all-inclusive overnight package for $245 per couple. More information and reservations are available at 706-549-7020, toll-free 1-866-9-ATHENS and www.foundryparkinn.com.
The Colonels Bed & Breakfast is one of Athens' finest overnight retreats. The grand antebellum mansion is offering a romantic two-day getaway package that includes champagne or Belgian beer, fresh flowers and snacks in a lovely candlelight setting. Couples may start their morning with a "Tete a Tete Breakfast" with the Colonel's finest Wedgwood china, Bohemian crystal and French Chateau silverware. The romantic getaway package is $500 per couple for the weekend of February 14 - 17. More information is available at 706-559-9595 and www.thecolonels.net.
Hotel Indigo is offering a special Valentine's Day package, which includes one night of accommodations and two general admission tickets to the exclusive Songwriters in the Round concert on Friday, February 15. The show will feature Nashville Hall of Fame Songwriters Mike Dekle, Pat Alger, Byron Hill and Wayland Holyfield. This special holiday package is $199 per couple. Special VIP meet and greet options are also available. More information is available at 706-546-0430 and www.indigoathens.com.
Couples seeking a luxurious getaway may enjoy the Valentine's Romance Package at the Hilton Garden Inn. Upon arrival, guests will enjoy in-room sparkling wine or cider and access to the hotel's fitness center, pool and whirlpool. Couples will also enjoy a full breakfast for two in the hotel's restaurant. If dinner is preferred, couples may even exchange their breakfast credit for a special dinner discount. Late check-out is available upon request. More information is available online at www.hiltongardeninnathens.com.
Entertainment
This Valentine's Day the Georgia Museum of Art is screening the classic 1953 film, Roman Holiday. The film follows an American reporter as he escorts a runaway princess through Rome. Before and after the film, couples can decorate Valentines and place them by their favorite works of art in the museum's collection. The most popular Valentines will be shared via the museum's social media channels. The event will begin at 7 p.m. and admission is free. Parking is also free after 5 p.m. More information is available at 706-542-9078 and www.georgiamuseum.org.
Couples can let loose and enjoy live music while experiencing a great meal at Buffalo's Cafe. On Thursday, February 14, David Prince returns to perform favorite love songs. There will be a prix fixe menu available featuring three courses for $30 per couple, as well as Buffalo's full menu and beverage services. The event will be from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and admission is $8 per person. On Friday, February 15, couples can enjoy the annual Elvis Valentine's Day Show, starring Chris Shuppe as Elvis. Both prix fixe menu and full menus will be available, along with a full bar service in the Big Back Room. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. More information is available at www.buffaloscafe.com/athens.php.
Merle Haggard will perform at The Classic Center Theatre on February 14. Known as the godfather of country music, Haggard is sure to put on a fun show for Athens couples. Admission is $52 for pit seats and $45 for all other seats. Show begins at 7:30. More information is available at 706-357-4444 and www.classiccenter.com.
Couples can dance the night away on February 14 with the revolutionary sounds of Papadosio at the Georgia Theatre. Melding progressive rock with psychedelia, folk with electronica, and dance music with jam, Papadosio has amassed a dedicated following of thousands of individuals. Doors open at 8 p.m., and the band will perform at 10:15 p.m. Tickets are $10. Tickets are available online at www.georgiatheatre.com.
For a special day-after-Valentine's-Day event, couples may enjoy the music of Jonathan Richman at the 40 Watt. Featuring Tommy Larkins on the drums, this performance includes guileless honesty and playfully catchy compositions. Doors open at 8 p.m. on February 15, and the show will begin at 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $12. Tickets are available online at www.40watt.com.
Fine Dining
Athens is definitely making a name for itself on the dining scene. Talented chefs take pride in locally-sourced ingredients to craft exceptional meals, and they'll be bringing out all the stops for Valentine's Day.
Heirloom Cafe is offering a variety of romantic dining options the week of Valentine's. For an early celebration. couples can attend the Heirloom Tuesday Tasting on February 12 at 6 p.m. The tasting will feature five "Romantic Red" wines for only $15. On Valentine's Day itself, Heirloom will offer an intimate Prix Fixe dinner with a la carte options available at the bar. More information is available at www.heirloomathens.com.
Couples can enjoy a romantic evening dinner at Athens famous Five & Ten. Owned by award-winning author and Top Chef judge Hugh Acheson, the restaurant will feature a variety of delicious dinner options, ranging from poached Maine lobster to dry-aged ribeye. The Valentine's special will cost $75 for food and $35 for wine pairings. More information is available at www.fiveandten.com.
The National will be serving an elegant three-course Prix Fixe meal on Thursday, February 14. The National is known for its Mediterranean inspired food and wine, while providing a casual neighborhood gathering spot reminiscent of European bars and cafés. A variety of choices will be offered for each course, including a decadent dessert. Tickets will be $50 per person. More information is available at http://www.thenationalrestaurant.com.
Taste of Athens, on Sunday, February 17, makes for a wonderful way to round out Valentine's weekend. Over 50 local restaurants will have food samples and wine and beer tastings; the event also features live music and a silent auction. Taste of Athens weekend benefits Community Connection of Northeast Georgia. Admission is $50 presale/$60 day of event for general admission and VIP tickets are $80 presale/$90 day of event. More details are provided at www.tasteofathens.com.
Additional restaurant special menus and events will be posted at www.VisitAthensGA.com.
Travel Information
The Athens Welcome Center is open daily to provide maps, brochures, self-guided tours and visitor information. Guided bus tours of historic Athens depart daily from the Welcome Center at 2 p.m.
More information on Valentine's Day getaways to Athens, Georgia is available at 706-357-4430 and tourinfo@visitathensga.com. The Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau offers a wealth of official visitor information at www.VisitAthensGA.com.
