San Marcos Is For Lovers: Or Just Coffee And Chill?

By Cristina Carreon

San Marcos was named one of the most romantic downtowns in America by Main Street America and the National Trust of Historic Preservation last year for a good reason.

The city oozes romance like the lights of New York draw hopeful new stars to its foggy and rainy streets.

But enough gooeyness. Practically speaking there are plenty of fun activities for students, residents and visitors alike to have a fun evening out, even for those who disparage the event as a “Hallmark holiday.”

Whether it’s your five-year anniversary or you’re just an over-achiever, here are a few things to consider when taking your partner out next Tuesday evening.

First, drop a sweet note or Valentine’s Day card in the mailbox at Kissing Alley at 121 E. Hopkins St. and someone will stamp your missive “Sent from Kissing Alley” before mailing it to the addressee. Valentine’s Day is just a week away, so try to send it early. You can also take your love interest to Kissing Alley for a killer photo-op on the day of.

Saturday night:

Take your date out Saturday night to The Spot, where a screening of Tiramisu for Two will be shown Feb. 6 – 12 featuring the 1970’s movie filmed right here in San Marcos. It’s earlier, but great for folks who would rather go out the weekend prior versus a weeknight. The film is a dark comedy centering around an Italian man’s search for the woman he loves 30 years later. For more information about the movie, visit www.tiramisufortwo.com.

Want to drink and enjoy a glass of wine with your date? There is always Pinky’s Wine Bar at the Dahlia Woods Gallery. Wander through the gallery of local artists with a glass of red wine, or peruse the bookstore.

Monday night:

If you were busy Saturday night, classy music is always a smooth move. The Texas State Symphony Orchestra will be playing at Evans Hall at 7:30 pm.

Valentine’s Day:

Even if your wallet is feeling light next week, there are still options for having a memorable night. Drop by The Spot Cinema-Eatery and Social Haus at 1180 Thorpe Lane, Ste.130 for a free screening of The Notebook on Tuesday night with popcorn, soda, and maybe some candy hearts.

Later, take your date to Cheatham Street Warehouse, recently bought by country singer Randy Rogers, for The Heartbreaker’s Ball, featuring Sunny Sweeney and Her Old College Buddy at 8 pm. Tickets are $20.

Stop into these places for a romantic meal:

Cody’s Bistro & Lounge at 690 Centerpoint Rd #209. Upscale and local, craft wine and beer selection.

Root Cellar Cafe & Brewery at 215 N LBJ Dr. Cozy and intimate with house brews and local art.

Palmer’s at 218 Moore St for upscale home southern comfort food, a courtyard, and a lovely fireplace.

Or try dessert, at Rhea’s Ice Cream or Frozen Cave on North LBJ for quirky flavors and a scenic walk.

If you want to avoid the downtown rush, Yogurt In Love opened in 2012 and serves up to ten different flavors of frozen yogurt; they also offer smoothies and crepes to satisfy that sweet tooth.

Get the conversation rolling and show your artistic side by checking out the art at Dubois Gallery 8 in the Price Center at 222 W San Antonio St from 5 – 9 pm. There is no admission, so you and your date can meander lazily around the gallery munching on snacks catered by Steger’s Chiffonade and discussing your next human statue project. Or you can head to the Tea Room to enjoy Chef Jay’s Surf and Turf dinner special at a low price.