We all know Valentine’s Day is approaching because every corner store is selling an incredible amount of heart-shaped chocolates and your local French or Italian restaurant is already fully booked for the night of the 14th. If you’re unsure about how to celebrate, let us give you some inspiration. Whether you’re single, in a serious relationship, or kind of confused because your significant other “doesn’t like labels” – we can all agree that it’s a great opportunity to get out of town, discover a new city, and do something that makes you happy.
We’ve listed 5 destinations for a cheap Valentine’s Day getaway that will surely make it is a memorable one. Each cheap destination can be reached from many places for under $40, meaning that you won’t have to break the bank to get there. These cheap Valentine’s Day destinations are located all over North America so you will for sure find something that suits you.
Quebec City
The closest thing to Europe you’ll find in North America has to be the old town of Quebec, which dates back to 1608. If you’re traveling here with your partner, we suggest you check out Montmorency Falls for beautiful sights, or head to Terrasse Dufferin, sitting at the bottom of the world-famous Fairmont Chateau Frontenac, for a romantic stroll with incredible views on the St-Lawrence river.
In the evening, wander through the fortified Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with plenty of places to wine and dine. Once you’ve had a couple of drinks, you may want to try the local dish, poutine, fries with cheddar curds and gravy. Don’t be scared, it tastes better than it looks.
How to Get to Quebec City
Quebec City can be easily reached by bus from Montreal. A bus Montreal Quebec will set you back around $31.
Miami
If you’d rather not spend Valentine’s Day in the cold, then migrate south to Florida! Head down to South Beach, an art-deco masterpiece in itself. You can take it easy and work on your tan at the beach, or get some good food and drinks on Lincoln Road. The warmth of the ocean and the city’s Latin sabor will make you feel like you’ve been teleported to paradise in the tropics.
Pro tip: Stay away from the Everglades if insects and rather large reptiles aren’t your jam. We rather suggest catching a bus ride to Key West if you have some time, you’ll be closer to Havana than Miami, and the drive is simply spectacular. You can get hop on a bus Miami to Key West for $18.
How to Get to Miami
Miami is very well-connected by multiple daily bus departures from all over Florida and out of state. Here are a few of the top routes for a cheap Valentine’s Day getaway:
- Bus Orlando Miami from $5
- Bus Key West to Miami from $18
- Tampa to Miami bus from $15
New Orleans
New Orleans is a good idea, any time of the year. The city beats with unparalleled energy and vibrant colors, NOLA has something to offer to all travelers. Enjoy a romantic stroll in sultry City Park or along the bustling riverfront in the French Quarter for free! We also recommend at least one evening spent listening to live music in one of New Orleans’ many music venues such as the Spotted Cat Music Club or Preservation Hall.
On February 13th, 2020, there will also be a parade down Bourbon Street in the heart of the French Quarter. Hosted by NOLA Second Line Parades, the parade promises to be colorful, vibrant, and so much fun!
How to Get to New Orleans
Turn your Valentine’s Day into a cheap getaway by heading to NOLA for as low as 1$! FlixBus is currently offering tickets from Houston to New Orleans for $1.
- Houston to New Orleans by bus from $1
- Bus Baton Rouge New Orleans starting at $5
- Atlanta to New Orleans starting at $15
San Francisco
If you’re on or near the West Coast, San Francisco is a great pick. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and views of the Pacific Ocean, and in the city, there’s something for everyone. Hang out at a fair-trade coffee shop, the Castro district, Fisherman’s Wharf, or the many farmers’ markets.
Every year, San Fran hosts the Great San Francisco Pillow Fight on Valentine’s Day. Taking place at Justin Herman Plaza, the event is open to everyone and starts at 5:50pm on February 14. Make sure to arrive with your pillow in a bag. When the clock strikes 6pm, the fun begins! The only rule is that you cannot hit anyone that does not have a pillow in their hands.
San Francisco will also host the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition of American wines in the world on Saturday, February 15th. This highly anticipated event offers a public tasting where you can sip and sample the wines entered into the competition. Remember to buy your tickets in advance online.
How to Get to San Francisco
Both Greyhound and FlixBus offer multiple daily departures from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Tickets are as low as $20, making the bus the cheapest mode of transportation between LA and San Francisco.
Austin
Looking for a little southern flair this Valentine’s Day? Let Austin, Texas be your cheap Valentine’s Day getaway. Take your date on a sightseeing tour and snap some romantic selfies at the Texas State Capitol or stroll down Congress Avenue, and make sure you don’t miss the historic Paramount Theater. For a fun night on the town, check out West 6th Street and enjoy the vibrant nightlife at one of many local bars. While in Austin make sure to get your fill of Tex-Mex cuisine and fine southern BBQ.
How to Get to Austin
With low-cost bus carriers offering cheap bus routes all over the South, getting to Austin is a breeze. Catch a bus from Houston to Austin for $10, or jump on FlixBus’ sale and grab a $1 ticket from Dallas to Austin!
Wherever you end up on Valentine’s Day, we just hope it’s not your couch (Netflix and Chill is so 2017). Traveling by bus is the most affordable, environmentally friendly, and hassle-free way to get around. With Busbud’s best-in-class search results, you won’t break the bank and our top-notch customer support team will never break your heart.❤️