Bayport

Why: With its romantic dining rooms and interesting tasting menus, Bayport Cookery, the little town’s culinary gem, is always a Valentine’s Day destination. Plus, it’s a long enough drive to warrant a night away. 651-430-1066

How: About forty-five minutes east on Interstate 94, then four miles north on Highway 95.

Stay: Down the road, Stillwater is brimming with B & Bs. Rivertown Inn has elegant rooms ($175–$325) and romance packages ($50–$100) that include roses, chilled Champagne, truffles, and a book of love poems. 651-430-2955

Eat: Book early for a spot at Bayport Cookery on the 14th. The annual chocolate menu incorporates chocolate into every course. Fixed three-, five-, and nine-course menus are $35, $55, and $85, respectively; wine pairings (highly recommended) are extra.

Pack: Something warm—if you don’t get a fireside table, you might be chilly.

P.S.: Rivertown Inn offers wine dinners and cooking classes. You may want to stay an extra night.