This year, let’s ditch the notion that Valentine’s Day is all about couples because, truth be told, if there is anyone in the world to whom we owe our love, apart from our family, it is our friends who are the real MVPs. They’ve weathered the storms and celebrated the highs, making every day a memorable chapter in our lives. So, this Valentine’s Day, let’s shake things up and shower our friends with the love they truly deserve. Who needs a significant other when you’ve got a squad that’s nothing short of legendary? Here are 10 cupid-approved ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day with friends in Tampa.
1. Get your hands dirty at a pottery class
Unleash your creativity with your friends at a pottery class. Get your hands dirty and laugh at each other’s attempts at Practically Pikasso. This unique spot in St.Petersburg offers everything from walk-in sessions to intricate pottery classes that range from $12 to $120. Here, you can create lasting memories along with some unique clay masterpieces to take home.
2. Catch some views at Beacon
If you’re looking to catch some scenic views, head to Tampa’s highest rooftop bar, Beacon. Located on the JW Marriott’s 27th floor, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and the shimmering waterfront as you toast to friendship with stunning cocktails. Call all your girlies (and boys) for an evening under the stars.
3. Attend a heart-warming Candlelight concert
“Where words fail, music speaks,” said Hans Christian Andersen, author of The Little Mermaid! So, if saying “I love you” isn’t something you are used then taking your friends to a Candlelight concert might do the trick. You can enjoy a romantic concert featuring songs from Titanic or Rome and Juliet —if that’s your vibe— or live it out at a Coldplay, Queen or Taylor Swift tribute any time. This Valentine’s the choice is yours and venues like Centro Asturiano de Tampa await your arrival!
4. Snap some shots with your friends at a photo studio
Capture the essence of your friendship with a fun photo sesh at a photo studio. Tampa is filled with talented photographers waiting to be booked to make your Valentine’s shoot a reality. Although these photo sessions usually are around the $250 to $500 mark, there are other affordable ideas, like hitting up your local JCPenney and doing a 90s-themed shoot or setting up your living room with a couple of pink curtains for a backdrop.
5. Get a cute heart-shaped cake to share
If there’s a word that describes Valentine’s day is SWEET. From chocolates to cupcakes, it’s impossible to celebrate this day without indulging in a sweet treat. That’s why if you’re looking to really impress your friends, you should get a vintage heart-shaped cake from Mabel’s Baking Co. Mabel is the star pastry chef here; she uses intricate techniques to create the most coquette cakes in Tampa.
6. Drink milkshakes and bring all the boys to The Yard
And talking about sweets, The Yard Milkshake Bar has to be in your list. Bring all the boy (and girls) to the yard for a milkshake date like no other. Indulge in their big *ss milkshakes —excuse our foul language but they are BIG!— filled with everything from classic Oreos to Carrollwood’s exclusive key lime pie.
7. Grab drinks at a speakeasy
Word on the street is that this Tampa speakeasy is stealing the hearts of everyone who visits. Jekyll is a literary-inspired cocktail bar hidden away inside a bagel shop. To visit this hidden bar, you’ll need to make a reservation since no walk-ins are accepted. Have your friends step into Wonderland with their signature “White rabbit” cocktail featuring Monkey 47, lemon, lime, vanilla, condensed milk, orange air, and orange blossom water. However, if your squad is more adventurous, then their “Memories of Capri” cocktail, inspired by The Talented Mr.Ripley, will surely be of their liking.
8. Go on a Galentine’s brunch
Brunch? It’s not just a meal; it’s practically a lifestyle! Gather your squad and dive into the best brunch this Valentine’s. Forget the typical breakfast joints with their basic toast and eggs – AVA is where it’s at! They know how to spoil you with the most mouthwatering brunch in Tampa. We’re talking Lemon Ricotta French Toasts that’ll make your taste buds dance, and the Breakfast Pizza that’s a total game-changer.