Couples across America spend almost $10 billion on jewelry, an evening out and flowers to honor their partner on Valentine’s Day. This year, surprise her with an adventurous road trip to get away from the madness, kindle the romance and celebrate your love.
Overseas Hwy, Florida, United States
For dramatic sunsets, spectacular seascapes and a novel experience, journey over turquoise waters to tropical islands on the Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys. The National Scenic Byways program designated this 113-mile stretch the All-American Road due to its historic significance, unique flora and fauna, and picturesque landscapes.
Pack your swimsuit and flip-flops, ensure your vehicle is up for the challenge and hop on Route 1 from Miami for the drive to the final destination – Key West. But this trip is more about the pit stops along the way than the actual end destination. <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g34344-d618876-r234018449-The_Key_Largo_Conch_House_Restaurant_Coffee_Bar-Key_Largo_Florida_Keys_Florida.html">Enjoy roadside seafood in Key Largo</a>, stay a night in Islamorada, lunch in Marathon, and finally, get your romance on in Key West.
Yucatán, Mexico
If you’re more of a world traveler and have some extra vacation time this Valentine’s Day, take a road trip to the Riviera Maya on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen to Tulum and experience stunning cenotes (natural swimming holes), archaeological ruins and soft sandy beaches that dreams are made of.
Whether you rent a car or drive yourself there, you need to get your vehicle tuned up before heading off to a far-off destination. Make sure you <a href="http://www.tirebuyer.com/tires/brands/continental">have a set of touring tires</a> to take you the distance safely and get your oil and fluids changed and filled. There’s no better way to spoil the romance than being stuck on the side of the road with a steaming engine or treadless tires, especially in a foreign country.
Yosemite National Park, California, United States
For a spectacular journey through one of the country’s most magical forests, take a drive on roads that wind through the majestic sequoias of Yosemite Valley located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains east of San Francisco. Stop to explore trails, take in Glacier Point, travel through Tuolumne Meadows and don’t miss the scenic drive along Toga Road. There are four entrances into the area from Hwy 120, Hwy 140 and Hwy 41.
<a href="https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/conditions.htm">Check with the National Park Service</a> for alerts and park closures to be sure the roads aren’t closed due to rock falls or snow, which may require tire chains.
If you’re more in the mood to get fancy on your Valentine’s getaway, think Vegas. Accessible from many different directions, Las Vegas is the place for fine dining, drinks and dancing the night away. Take I-15 from LA or US 93 out of Phoenix for a road trip to Sin City. Las Vegas is known for partying, but it has a softer side for lovers as well. Take in a Cirque de Soleil show, go on a hot air balloon ride, enjoy the Eiffel Tower Experience or get hitched at one of the iconic wedding chapels.
Vegas has an overwhelming number of hotels to choose from, but take it from Travel + Leisure and Forbes Travel Guide readers who <a href="http://www.mandarinoriental.com/lasvegas/">named the Mandarin Oriental their favorite</a>.
Two hours from Phoenix, Arizona, lies a hidden gem of a town that has a spiritual vibe and tranquil setting. Not only do the majestic red rocks of Sedona welcome visitors, but the canyons and hidden little creeks offer a chance to cozy up with your loved one and spend some quality time. This is a road trip to one of the most romantic destinations in the country where you can hike to Vortexes, ride horses, have unique spa experiences and visit local art galleries.
<a href="http://www.briarpatchinn.com/">Stay at the Briar Patch Inn</a> that sits at the base of Oak Creek Canyon. Each romantic cabin has southwest décor and a fireplace and is separated from the other cabins.
No matter where you go, just get out of town and drive with the one you love this Valentine’s Day.
Anne-Marie Pritchett
Anne-Marie Pritchett: writer, editor, visionary, world traveler, outdoor enthusiast, urban bohemian, music freak, sports addict.