What to Do in Dayton on Valentine’s Day

Cover photo from Public Domain Pictures

Maddy Bartsche  
Arts & Entertainment Staff Writer 

MetroParks Ice Rink

Where at?

Located at 237 E. Monument Ave., this rink offers sweeping views of both the Great Miami River and Dayton skyline. Measuring 70’ by 150’, the rink is sheltered under a pavilion. The rink, complete with skate helpers (plastic walkers you can use to hold yourself up as you skate) is a great date option for skating rookies. Simply ask the rental office for one free of charge.

When to go?

On Friday, Feb. 14, the rink will be open from 2:30 -10 p.m., providing the perfect opportunity for a post-lunch date or romantic evening. If you’ve ever experienced Friday night skate in grade school where you and all your classmates headed to the rec center rink for some disco lights and Dj music, RiverScape will bring back childhood ice skating memories. And don’t let the cold deter you from a fun evening! With a heated tent beside the rink, RiverScape allows guests to warm up and take a break from the ice. 

How much?

With a $6 admission and a $2 rental fee, this date doesn’t break your bank. They have reasonably priced concession stand drinks and snacks, and your wallet is sure to enjoy the rink almost as much as you will. 

Gem City Catfé

Where at?

Located on Fifth Street, the Gem City Cafe is offering a special Valentine’s Day event including 20 minutes in the cat lounge and the chance to paint your own macaroons. The Gem City Catfé consists of a downstairs cat lounge and upstairs art gallery. With pastries, hot chocolate and a full bar, the Catfé provides a unique afternoon or evening destination.

When to go? 

The ‘Cat and Cuddles: Valentines Day’ event takes place from 4 -8 p.m. The entire experience should last around one to two hours.

How much?

Tickets to this special Valentine’s Day event are $12 per person and include 10% off cocktails. If you really wanna give into your crazy cat lady tendencies on more than just Valentine’s Day, another option is purchasing a $25 dollar membership which cuts the cat lounge entry fee in half every time you go.

See also- What to Do if You’re Single on Valentine’s Day 

Dining: 

Roost Modern Italian

Where at?

If you prefer a traditional romantic candle lit dinner, Roost Modern Italian on E. Fifth Street in the Historic Oregon District will give you just that. The intimate, upscale atmosphere sets the scene for a memorable Valentine’s Day date.

What to order?

Roost Modern Italian offers your favorite Italian dishes with modern techniques and ingredients. Pick from dishes such as butter-poached filet mignon, grilled north atlantic swordfish and ricotta & asparagus ravioli. 

How much?

Google awards Roost Modern Italian with three dollar signs, so it’s the perfect option if you are looking to make it a special occasion. 

Lily’s Bistro

Where at?

Another Oregon District favorite, Lily’s Bistro is offering a special Valentine’s Day menu on the 14th from 5 to 10 p.m. Lily’s Bistro is known for its farm fresh seasonal dishes that prove to be refreshing any day. With an emphasis on sourcing produce from local farms, Lily’s Bistro proves to be an environmentally friendly date idea. 

What to order?

Lily’s has crafted a special Valentine’s Day menu that’s sure to make your stomach fall in love with you! The three course meal is complete with elegant options such as squash bisque, rabbit quarter confit and basil pasta. Now for the best part…dessert! Lily is serving up delectable sweets like rose and strawberry cheesecake, chocolate and raspberry mousse and lavender-honey ice cream! 

How much?

Costs vary depending on your menu selection. Overall, Google gives Lily’s a two dollar sign price rating.

Duck Donuts 

Where at?

Just a quick 5 minute walk from campus, Duck Donuts on Brown Street is a must try Dayton staple. The made-to-order donut shop allows you to decorate their freshly made vanilla cake donuts with any combination of toppings you desire. You can also choose from their own menu of donut creations. Currently, they are featuring winter creations including chocolate icing with toffee crunch, lemon icing with shredded coconut, strawberry icing with raspberry drizzle and maple icing with chopped bacon.

When to go? 

Duck Donuts will be open from 6:30 a.m to 8:30 p.m. on the 14th. Their sweet treats can make the perfect breakfast date or late night snack.

How much?

Duck Donuts will run you around $7 for a half-dozen. It’s definitely worth it to get a sweet treat for a significant other or best friend.

Hopefully these five date ideas can help you and your valentine come up with the perfect Dayton date!