If you’re looking for the best locations on the Palouse to celebrate Valentine’s Day with that special someone, here’s a list of the top 10 best restaurants, outdoor recreation sites and businesses to visit during the holiday. When celebrating, keep Idaho’s Rebound plan and guidelines in mind, and be sure to be safe and respectful of others.
10. Visit Spring Valley Reservoir
This location requires a slightly longer commute outside of Moscow, but the reservoir is well-worth the drive. As for getting there, according to Idaho’s Fish and Game website, “From US Hwy 95 in Moscow go about 12 miles east on State Hwy 8 through Troy. Continue 2.7 miles and turn north at the brown Access sign onto Spring Valley Rd. The reservoir will come into view in about two and a half miles.” If you’re looking to enjoy a crisp winter day on the water, set up a picnic or enjoy the surrounding nature of the site, consider making the trip.
9. Visit the University of Idaho’s Climbing Center
This date is perfect if you and your partner enjoy physical activities and a bit of a thrill. The Center is located in UI’s Student Recreation Center on campus and is free for UI full-time students. Participants must pass the basics clinic or pass a belay check and fill out a release of liability form to access the facility, according to the UI’s page for the climbing center on their website. Visit for more information on full memberships and the facility’s fees and usage guidelines.
8. Tour Prichard Art Gallery
This gallery will allow for a more refined date appreciating the fine visual arts. The simplistic layout and architectural focus on the artists’ pieces create a calming and relaxing viewing experience. Enjoy two floors of exhibits of visually stunning work. Located at 414 S. Main Street, Prichard’s hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday and closed Monday. Masks and social distancing are required to view the gallery at this time.
7. Visit The Top of the World
Also accessible by car or foot, visit the “Top of the World” in Moscow. A short, winding drive on a seemingly abandoned road branching off of Highway 95 to Lewiston will leave you and your companion looking over the Palouse enjoying the view of the city and the rolling hills at 2,579 feet. Go at night to see the added bonus of the stars and city lights. Parking availability may vary.
6. Try Palouse Ice Rink
Ice skating stands to be one of the most classic date ideas. If you’re looking to enjoy the day bundled up on the ice on a fitting February day, this is the place to be. Located at 1021 Harold Ave, the rink has varied opening times and capacity limits due to COVID-19 regulations. To view skating periods, visit their website or call (208) 882-7188.
5. Hike East Moscow Mountain
This is a very accessible and rewarding hiking trail located in Moscow. To get the best payoff view, hike the 4.2-mile trail on foot or drive to the top of the mountain and enjoy a beautiful winter sunset over the Palouse. Parking availability may vary.
4. Enjoy La Casa Lopez’s Mexican Restaurant
If you’re craving classic, authentic Mexican cuisine, drop-in by La Casa Lopez’s restaurant. The colorful atmosphere, friendly service and musical ambiance makes for a truly splendid dining experience if you choose to dine-in. Curbside pickup is also available. Hours are 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday, Masks and social distancing are required to dine-in at this time.
3. Stop into One World Café
One of the most sought-after things during the early months of the year is a warm drink. If you’re looking to share a beverage or other refreshment with someone special, One World Cafe is for you. The cafe is located at 533 S Main St. Their hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 7 a.m. to 6 p.m Saturday-Sunday. Customers are welcome to dine-in and enjoy the charming interior of the cafe with comfortable furniture and delightful service or use takeout and delivery services.
2. Stroll University of Idaho’s Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The Arboretum is a center of nature and tranquility right next to the Greek Row at UI. This botanical garden is the perfect place for a romantic stroll at any time of year, but the crisp air and clear night skies of February provide a beautiful winter backdrop to a cozy picnic or garden photoshoot.
1. Enjoy Gambino’s Italian Restaurant
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine and are looking for curbside pickup, takeout or dining in at this classic location, this is the place to visit. Located at 308 W 6th St, hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Friday and 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Masks and social distancing are required to dine in at this time.
Katarina Hockema can be reached at [email protected].