Shayla is a small-town Indiana native who bounced from city to city, until she settled in Carmel with her rescue pup, Maggie. A 2014 graduate of Ball State University, Shayla has a background in digital marketing and is now an Account Executive at The BSMNT—an Indy-based integrated marketing agency. She’s especially passionate about showcasing Indianapolis and often spends her free time exploring local restaurants and breweries.
A Local’s Guide to Valentine’s Day in Indy
What’s that old saying? “Indy is for Lovers?” Alright, maybe that’s not quite it. But take it from me—you can find plenty of fun date destinations right here in Indianapolis. From gondola rides to delicious dinners, Indy has everything you need to celebrate the love in your life.
Because that’s what Valentine’s Day is all about. Whether you spend the day with your partner, your besties, your pup, or all by yourself, Valentine’s is a time to celebrate love and appreciate the important people in our lives. All you need is the perfect way to make your V-Day a truly special occasion.
If you need inspiration for your holiday plans, check out this quick round-up of the best Valentine’s Day spots in Indy. With everything Indianapolis has to offer, it’s impossible NOT to fall in love with the city.
If you need a romantic restaurant for the foodie in your life…
Indy’s favorite brunch spot is opening for dinner—with an exclusive Valentine’s Day (or Anti-V-Day) menu! On February 14, Milktooth is opening their doors for couples, singles, and friends alike to enjoy an evening of love (of food, that is.) Their menu boasts classic goodies like spaghetti and meatballs, chicken piccata, tiramisu, and sangria. But be prepared to wait for this delicious meal, because Milktooth will not be taking reservations!
Meanwhile, Bluebeard is serving up a special 3-course prix fixe Valentine’s Day dinner complete with wine pairings. This award-winning, farm-to-table restaurant is famous for combining fine dining with authentic local flavors. Guarantee your reservation on February 14 by securing tickets at a fixed price of just $99 per person.
You can also treat your sweetheart to a heartwarming Indy classic with Mama Carolla’s. For just $50 per person, Mama Carolla’s is offering a special 3-course Valentine’s Day menu—with limited-time Valentine’s cocktails available to accompany. I’m honestly shocked when there are spots available, which can be booked online or by calling Mama Carolla’s.
If you’re not into traditional dinner dates….
Try cozying up with your partner beneath lights of Platt 99 at their annual Date Night Under the Lights! This 90-minute experience for two includes a bottle of champagne with a flight of Valentine’s-inspired juices, two specialty cocktails, and a charcuterie board filled with cheese, chocolates, and cakes. Yum! At $100 per couple, this romantic night can be booked from February 9 through February 19.
If love is ale you need, head to Field Brewing in Westfield for a Valentine’s Dinner for Two. This 4-course dinner proves that Field Brewing not only has an incredible selection of craft beers—but an impressive menu to match. From creamy Tuscan soup and strawberry panna cotta to Moroccan spiced striped bass with a pomegranate pilsner, you need to see this menu for yourself!
For something more casual, nothing says love like a night out at Indy’s premier honky-tonk bar. Starting at 8:00 PM, Duke’s will have performances by The Resonant Rogues with Joe’s Truck Stops. And grab your partner, because there will be two-step lessons with Sparrow and Keith, plus “Two-Fer” food and drink specials. Advanced tickets are $15 and at-the-door pricing is $18 (cash only at the door).
If you want a thrilling evening of suspense, laughter, and delicious food, check out The Prewitt during their interactive Murder Mystery Dinner. The upscale restaurant and lounge is rich with Plainfield history and offers the perfect ambiance for this mysterious event. For $85 a ticket, you will receive a set in the dining area, a 3-course dinner, a glass of wine or beer, and, of course, the chance to solve the case!
If you want to get their heart racing…
Heat things up at Era Pilates for their special Valentine’s Day workout, Flex & Flirt! You and your significant other can enjoy a 45-minute, partner-based class that’s uniquely tailored to your skill level. So, beginners are welcome! After you work up a sweat, Era Pilates is teaming up with Flower Boys to offer a small gift for you and your special someone. Tickets are just $79 per couple, but you’ll want to book this class through Era Pilates to reserve your time.
Metazoa Brewing Co. has an incredible lineup of events during the week. If you love a good old-fashioned rom-com, spend your Valentine’s Day testing your movie knowledge! From Sleepless in Seattle to Sweet Home Alabama, Metazoa Brewing Co. is hosting a Romantic Comedies Trivia Night on February 11. Reservations are free, but you must register online to reserve your table. On February 13, 14, and 15, Metazoa is partnering with animal rescue partners to host pet picture and adoption events at the brewery. For the cat lovers, bring your pet or visit adoptable kitties at their Purrfect Valentine’s Day event. On February 14, 10% of beer proceeds will be donated to Heaven After Hell Animal Rescue. Bring your furry valentine for dog-friendly v-day treats. Lastly, on February 15, head over to Metazoa Brewing Co. for their Valentine’s Day Paw-ty, which includes vendors, new beers to try, giveaways, and more!
If you’re interested in learning more about craft beverages, opt for Tango U: Valentine’s Day edition at Hotel Tango in Fletcher Place on February 9. This 90-minute guided mixology class will teach you how to make two specialty cocktails and (hopefully) impress your date with your new bartending skills. Each class includes snacks for the evening and a bottle of Hotel Tango spirits to practice with at home. So, mark your calendar, grab your tickets, and don’t forget to tip your instructor!
Valentine’s Day is also the perfect time for tea for two! Down at Tea’s Me Cafe, you can enjoy a special Valentine’s Day tea tasting with your partner, your friends, or just yourself. Tickets are only $20 per person, so everyone can enjoy a fresh brew to warm your heart.
If you’re celebrating with your Galentine’s…
This one’s for the girls! Celebrate the gal pals in your life at Kismetic Beer Company—a local woman-owned brewery that understands the importance of a girls’ night out. Their Galentine’s Day Party has everything you need to show your friends what they mean to you. They will have food from That Vegan Joint food truck, permanent jewelry by Zink Metals, plants from Life After Death Plants, clothing from Guide and Anchor, Synastry readings with Dash Away Rae, and a perfect diva playlist. Not to mention local craft brews from Kismetic Beer themselves! Join them on February 13 from 5:00 – 9:00 PM.
If you feel like dressing up for the occasion, come channel your ultimate Euphoria-inspired looks at Mansion Society! Mansion Society is an amazing mother-daughter coffee shop with delicious cakes, treats, and other eats. Their themed Galentine’s Day celebration will feature pop-ups, prizes, and more!
After all, nothing goes better together than you and your besties—except maybe yoga and wine. If you need some amazing local goodies, Tuggle’s Gifts and Goods is hosting a special Gals in the Square pop-up event on February 15 from 12:00 – 4:00 PM. Grab your friends for a fun afternoon of shopping and sampling!
You can also treat yourself and your friends to a night out at Ash & Elm Cider. For Valentine’s, they’re offering a delicious macaron and cider pairing, featuring handcrafted macarons from Gallery Pastry Shop for only $20. If you (like me) want a little salt to balance the sweet, they’ll be offering a cheese pairing flight—as well as a build-your-own-waffle menu so extravagant that Leslie Knope would be proud. Bring your favorite board games and your squad of gals for a night you’ll never forget!