Valentine’s Day is less than a week away. This means that if you don’t already have a plan in place, it’s time to get moving. 

If you want to get extra creative this Valentine’s Day, why not plan a day of hiking and exploring in Zion National Park? Better yet, make a whole weekend of it with a stay in your very own private villa. But while a visit to the park is a bit of a non-traditional way to spend the holiday, it doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice every tradition.

Springdale offers a variety of dining options for every taste. Keep reading to learn a few of the best for Valentine’s Day or any date night out.

Switchback Grille Steakhouse

Perhaps Springdale’s swankiest dining option, Switchback Grille Steakhouse delivers a double whammy of delicious food and classy atmosphere. Their beautiful dining room features commissioned artwork by Utah’s Kirk Randal, as well as natural cherry woodwork. As if that isn’t enough, the restaurant also embraces the beauty that surrounds it, bringing the outside in with panoramic windows framing Zion’s West Temple and The Three Mary’s. 

Friendly, attentive staff will see to it that you and your date have everything you need. Dine on hand-selected prime beef that’s aged for a minimum of 28 days before it’s carefully trimmed. If the Switchback’s signature doesn’t strike your fancy, you can also choose from filet mignon, New York Strip, and classic rib-eye. Utah may be land-locked, but that doesn’t keep the Grille from serving up Alaskan king crab, jumbo shrimp, and sushi-grade Ahi tuna, all meticulously sourced from the nearest coast and around the world.

Finally, toast a perfect ending to a perfect Valentine’s Day with an incredible glass selected from one of the most extensive wine lists in all of Southern Utah.

Zion Canyon Brew Pub

If you don’t want to worry about heading back to your villa to shower and change clothes after a day of hiking, a more laid-back dinner date might be more your style. Zion Canyon Brew Pub still offers plenty of delicious options, but with a casual feel. And, of course, plenty of options for washing down that grub and toasting a memorable day in the park.

You won’t have to go far for your dinner, either. The Brew Pub is located just outside of the entrance to Zion National Park. You won’t find those tired, greasy bar staples here. Instead, their upscale pub menu features gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and even steaks. Everything is made from scratch, and locally sourced ingredients are used whenever possible. 

While their outdoor patio with Zion views might be a chilly choice this time of year, inside you’ll find modern, relaxed vibes. Their ever-changing beer list features Zion Canyon Brewing Company’s own brews. The Brewing Company is the very first microbrewery in Southern Utah. If you’re staying at Watchman Villas, you could easily walk to and from the brewery so you won’t have to worry about climbing behind the wheel after having a drink!

Bit and Spur Restaurant & Saloon

For a fun and funky Valentine’s Day date, head to Bit and Spur Restaurant & Saloon. This quirky local favorite has been serving up amazing food and a funky setting for more than 35 years, with no signs of slowing down any time soon.

Bit and Spur is known for their innovative, modern Southwest food. From house-made margaritas to a chile-rubbed ribeye steak, sweet potato tamales, and decadent desserts, there’s something for every taste bud on the menu. A social atmosphere makes it a great spot for breaking the ice on a first date or relaxing with your significant other and friends. No date for Valentine’s Day? Head to the bar to mingle with locals and visitors alike to swap hiking stories and enjoy a tasty cocktail or two.

Hiking in Zion in February means braving the chill, and maybe even a little winter weather. Bit and Spur is the perfect place to warm up with hot food and friendly, welcoming staff.

Oscar’s Cafe

Why not start off your non-traditional Valentine’s Day with a breakfast date? No one does breakfast quite like Oscar’s Cafe. From massive breakfast burritos to Southwestern favorites to piles of pancakes, they have it all. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly waiters are the perfect way to start your day, and maybe get some sightseeing tips from a local.

Oscar’s might be the place for breakfast, but they also pack a punch for lunch and dinner too. Known for big portions and even bigger flavors, you’ll find everything from fresh salads and sandwiches to oversized burgers and Mexican staples.

Planning a Perfect Valentine’s Day Weekend

Whether your style is a fancy night out or a laid back drink with your favorite person, Springdale has a Valentine’s Day option for every taste. Keep the fun going all weekend long by booking a last-minute stay at Watchman Villas. Within easy walking distance of most of Springdale’s restaurants and with incredible views of the park, it’s the perfect spot to spend any weekend, holiday or not.