Philadelphia Emerges as Affordable Valentine's Day Getaway

City ranks among most budget-friendly major metros for romantic celebrations

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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With Valentine's Day spending hitting record highs this year, Philadelphia once again stood out as a hidden gem and a budget-friendly destination for couples, offering romantic experiences like dinner, drinks, and hotel stays for around $350 per person.

Why it matters

As Americans plan to spend more than ever on Valentine's Day gifts and celebrations, Philadelphia provides an attractive option for couples looking to enjoy the holiday without breaking the bank, cementing its reputation as an affordable yet charming destination for romantic getaways.

The details

A budget of $150 per person can cover a romantic evening with dinner and drinks at several prominent Philadelphia restaurants. Adding flowers typically costs between $80 and $115, while a hotel stay is the biggest expense at around $200 or more for the weekend. Budget-minded couples can also opt for a $40 movie date package.

  • Valentine's Day spending in Philadelphia closely mirrors the national average.
  • Americans planned to spend a record $199.78 on gifts on average this year, up from $188.81 last year and above the previous high of $196.31 that was set in 2020.
  • Overall Valentine's Day spending is projected at $29.1 billion, exceeding last year's $27.5 billion record.

The players

NRF

The National Retail Federation, a trade association representing the retail industry in the United States.

Katherine Cullen

Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights at the National Retail Federation.

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What they’re saying

“Much of that growth is driven by middle- and high-income shoppers who are expanding their gift lists to include friends, co-workers and even pets in addition to loved ones.”

— Katherine Cullen, Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights (NRF)

The takeaway

Philadelphia's reputation as an affordable yet charming destination for romantic getaways has been further cemented, as the city emerges as a budget-friendly alternative for couples looking to celebrate Valentine's Day without overspending.