How to Plan a Romantic Chicago Hotel Getaway

Chicago, known for its baseball, shopping and chill-inducing temperatures isn't always thought of as a romantic destination. There's plenty of lovin' going on in the Windy City, though, with more than enough cozy restaurants, fun events and flirty happenings to keep couples canoodling the night away.

Around Valentine's Day, couples planning to visit Chicago might want to carve out time for some of the following events. Whether the city is a road trip or a plane ride away, simple romantic touches can get the weekend getaway off on the right foot.

Creating a CD of meaningful or romantic songs to play on the way there is a sweet way to reminisce about past dates and events. Ordering champagne during the flight, or offering some heart shaped chocolates during the car ride are sure to up the romance factor.

To go a step further in setting the mood a romantic Chicago hotel package should be considered. Some Chicago hotels even offer spa packages, a popular amenity for many couples. For a more risque mood, how about flower petals on the bed and chilled champagne? The concierge at your hotel will be able to offer suggestions on other luxuries as well, that will keep you smiling.

Once you and your sweetie arrive at your hotel in downtown Chicago, take a few minutes to appreciate what makes the hotel unique. In some, it's a renowned spa, while others might feature world class chef-driven restaurants, or an intriguing list of signature cocktails in the hotel bar. The, get ready to leave the downtown Chicago hotel behind, because it's time to hit the town!

If you've got daylight hours left, consider one of these destinations.

Millennium Park:
The ice skating rink at Millennium Park is famous among Chicagoans, and a fun way to get some activity into a weekend likely to be filled with rich foods! Within walking distance to downtown Chicago hotels, the rink is open daily, and offers rental skates at a reasonable price. Gliding across the ice gives you a stunning view of the Magnificent Mile while putting a little color in your cheeks.

Garfield Park Conservancy:
For a more informative afternoon, visit the Garfield Park Conservancy, where Sweet Saturdays during February bring a chance to sample bananas, cinnamon, vanilla and chocolate straight from the trees they grew on. If you're a chocolate fanatic, you'll jump at this chance to try some as nature intended.

For the evening, romantic options abound, both in and out of your downtown Chicago luxury hotel!

The Poetry Center of Chicago:
Literary-types will appreciate the third annual Valentine's Day poetry celebration at the Poetry Center of Chicago. The event actually takes place a bit earlier in the month, so be sure to ask the concierge at your downtown Chicago hotel to check before heading out. Several local and national poets and writers will be speaking.

Lake Michigan:
Is there anything more romantic than a dinner cruise around Lake Michigan? There are several cruise ships that offer special Valentine's Day events, often featuring champagne, roses and deluxe buffets. You'll experience the city from a different viewpoint as you and your love dance the night away on this romantic outing.

After exploring some of the romantic activities the city has to offer, you're sure to consider Chicago one of the most romantic places you've ever visited!