What to do on Valentine's Day in Alamosa
Revel in the Beauty of a Frozen Zapata Falls
In February, Alamosa’s hidden gem, Zapata Falls, is typically still frozen into a magnificent work of art. Start your Valentine’s Day with a romantic hike up to the falls, and they are well worth the journey. Don’t forget to stop along the way, as the trail has sweeping views of the San Luis Valley that simply cannot be ignored. Tucked away in a rocky crevasse, Zapata Falls awaits. The falls freeze in a truly spectacular fashion, and sometimes running water can be heard from just below the ice’s surface. Don’t forget to bring a camera, so you can snap some photos of the gorgeous falls (and your gorgeous someone) and make the memory last a lifetime.
Local’s Tip: If you time your hike right, you can reach the parking lot right when the sun is going down and won’t be disappointed. Grab a to-go lunch from Locavores before you leave and have a picnic with your Valentine as you watch one of those sunsets that Colorful Colorado is famous for.
Enjoy Dip in a Hot Spring…or two…or three
In February, three of the San Luis Valley’s hot springs are open and offer you the perfect relaxing getaway for you and your sweetheart. Sand Dunes Recreation has an adults-only Greenhouse that has four soaking pools, a sauna and The Steel Box Bar, with a wide selection of beer and wine to choose from. New in 2019, you can order off their small plates menu without having to leave the Greenhouse. If you are looking for you and your date to be pampered, you can also try Joyful Journey Hot Springs, where you can be treated to a facial or massage in addition to soaking in their rejuvenating waters. Joyful Journey also has a variety of accommodations, including native tipis and yurts, to stay in for an even more unique experience. Valley View Hot Springs offers a more natural hot springs experience for you and your Valentine. You can walk along the ground’s many wilderness trails and soak in the pools of hot water right in the river. Valley View Hot Springs allows you to completely immerse yourself in nature, as the entire grounds is clothing-optional.
Take a Romantic Drive on a Scenic Byway
Nothing is quite as romantic as the wide open road. The Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway travels through the San Luis Valley, including some of Colorado’s oldest towns and some absolutely breathtaking views. Experience authentic cuisine, museums and natural wonders along the way. Take a journey back in time with your Valentine by following the trails of Spanish explorers. View beautiful adobe churches, panoramic mountain views and discover wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
Local’s Tip: Start your journey at the Colorado Welcome Center in Alamosa, where you can pick up a guide to the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway, so you can be sure you don’t miss any of the historic stops along the byway.
Stargaze on North America’s tallest Sand Dunes
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is the perfect couple’s getaway, no matter what time of year (and luckily, the park is open 365 days a year!). By going in mid-February, you can avoid the summer crowds and really feel like you are in a world of your own.
However, if you are looking for something to really impress your Valentine, as they say, “half the park is after dark!” Pack up a blanket and settle in for a night of stargazing. With almost no light pollution, prepare to see the night skies as you have never seen before. Make sure to minimize your own use of lights and to keep an eye out for the nocturnal wildlife. Visit the GSDNP website for more tips on experiencing the night.
Explore Alamosa’s Downtown
For the adventurous type, try exploring Alamosa’s historic downtown together. Download the Alamosa Historical Walking Tour Brochure, or stop by the Colorado Welcome Center in Alamosa for a copy. Many of Alamosa’s shops and restaurants are housed in historical buildings with rich histories. You and your Valentine can delight in the striking and unique architecture of downtown Alamosa, while enjoying its small town charm. Then, stop in at one of Alamosa’s restaurants for a bite to eat, and a truly authentic cultural dining experience. End your night at one of our three breweries for some delicious craft brews in a fun and inviting atmosphere.
Local’s Tip: As a part of Alamosa’s Artscape program, our downtown is also home to a collection of public art from across the nation. It’s like an outdoor art gallery! While you are taking the Historical Walking Tour, be sure to stop and view the artwork along the way. Guides can be picked up from the Colorado Welcome Center in Alamosa.
Get Inspired, Then Get Creative
If your Valentine is the creative type, Alamosa is home to a number of iconic and photogenic destinations. Photograph the wildlife at the Alamosa Wildlife Refuge, or simply enjoy the beauty of this heavenly sanctuary. The San Luis Valley is home to over 100,000 acres of wetlands, which serves as a habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. You can also pick one of the trails from the San Luis Valley Trail Guide to explore with your Valentine. There is plenty to choose from, whether you’re up for a challenging alpine adventure or just want a casual hike with beautiful Colorado scenery.
Once the San Luis Valley’s splendor has you fully inspired, head over to the Wet Paintbrush, Alamosa’s sip and paint art studio, to put those creative juices to work! All levels of artistic ability are welcome and beer and wine are available during the class.
