Date Destination

South Lake Union knows how to show a little love. As February rolls in, the neighborhood fills with easy, feel-good ways to celebrate—whether that means planning a low-key date, rounding up friends for a Galentine’s outing, or simply finding a reason to linger a little longer after work. From pop-ups and public art to coffee tastings, live music, and special Valentine’s Day experiences, SLU offers plenty of ways to make the season your own.

P.S. I Love SLU
Throughout February, Day 1 Playfield
Free

All month long, love also takes center stage at Day 1 Playfield with the P.S. I Love SLU installation. This nostalgic, vintage phone-booth setup offers one of February’s most photo-ready backdrops, perfect for date nights, Galentine’s hangouts, or a quick selfie break during the workday.

Nearby, the Day 1 Staircase features Valentine’s-themed chalk art by Anna Tono, created in partnership with Urban Artworks. Tono is a Japanese American artist and designer known for community-centered public art, from interactive murals and light installations to traffic box designs, live painting, and collaborative zines. Her whimsical illustrations and bold, colorful compositions invite play, spark reflection, and encourage passersby to see the neighborhood with fresh eyes.

On February 13, head to Day 1 Playfield from 12–2 pm for a hands-on Valentine’s Day Pop-Up. Guests can snap a photo at the free photo booth, then turn it into a custom card at Gage Academy of Art–led crafting stations. It’s free, festive, and open to all—an easy way to get creative and spread a little love.

In addition, here are four date ideas worth planning for in South Lake Union. Bring a partner—or simply treat yourself.

Wine and Dine
Dockside at Duke’s, February 13, 21+
$100+

Love is in the air at Dockside at Duke’s in South Lake Union on Friday, February 13, with an early Valentine’s Day food and wine pairing event. Guests will enjoy world-class wines curated by Dossier Wine Collective and Passing Time Winery, paired with small plates created by Dockside Executive Chef Amanda Herrera—all set against stunning Lake Union views. Dockside at Duke’s is located on the ground level of Duke’s Seafood at 1111 Fairview Avenue North. Complimentary valet parking is included. Click for tickets.

Meet Through Music
The Collective, February 12, 21+
$28–$38

Can a live band lead to true love? Sofar Sounds and Thursday are testing that theory at The Collective for a Valentine-season night of live music designed for single people. One surprise artist. One intimate set. The goal? As the lights dim and the music starts, conversation become easier and the sparks begin to fly. Click for tickets.

Cruise Lake Union
Waterways Cruises, February 14, 21+
$65

Celebrate your special someone with a Valentine’s Day sunset cruise on Lake Union on February 14. Toast with a complimentary glass of wine and enjoy a beautifully arranged charcuterie and crudité spread while taking in Seattle’s winter sunset from the water.

The cruise runs from 5–6:30 pm and departs from Lake Union Piers at 901 Fairview Ave. N. The sunset package includes a 90-minute cruise plus a dockside welcome featuring wine, snacks, and sweeping views of Seattle icons—including the Space Needle, floating homes, historic bridges, seaplanes, and the city skyline. Waterways also offers Valentine’s Day lunch and dinner cruises for those looking to extend the celebration. Click for tickets.

Paint With a Partner
Tapster Seattle, February 14, 21+
$50

Valentine’s Love Partner Painting comes to Tapster Seattle on February 14. You paint one half, your partner paints the other, and together you create a single piece of art. Master artists from Stir Up the Paint will guide you through the process. Tickets are $50 per person and include two glasses of wine. Each participant must purchase a ticket. Not feeling a partner-based event? Tapster also hosts paint-and-sip nights most weekends, along with a rotating lineup of other events. Follow Tapster on Instagram to see what’s coming up next. Click for tickets.