Fall in Love with Rancho Cordova: The Perfect Valentine’s Day Itinerary
Rancho Cordova is for lovers.
Valentine’s Day isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is Rancho Cordova. Whether you’re treating yourself, toasting your best friends, or planning a romantic day for you and your partner, this city offers the perfect mix of local flavor, sweet nature, and memorable experiences. From cozy breakfasts to creative outings and candlelit dinners, here’s how to spend a day filled with love (and maybe a little chocolate).
❤️ Valentine’s Day Activities for Singles
Who says Valentine’s Day is just for couples? Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge, explore, and enjoy your own fabulous company.
☕ Start Sweet at 85°C Bakery Cafe
Treat yourself first thing in the morning with a stop at 85°C Bakery Cafe. Sip a bold Vietnamese coffee or a refreshing boba drink while browsing dozens of freshly baked pastries. Whether you choose a flaky croissant, a decadent egg tart, or something fruity and light, it’s the perfect solo breakfast date.
🎨 Soak Up Some Art
Spend part of your day getting inspired at Mills Station Arts & Culture Center (The MACC), open Thursday through Saturday with free galleries featuring local artists and touring exhibits. You can also stop by Rancho Cordova City Hall, where another rotating exhibit is displayed on the first floor and open to the public.
🌍 Snack Your Way Around the World
Feeling adventurous? Wander the aisles of KP International Market or SF Supermarket to find your next favorite snack. These international grocery stores are packed with unique bites, sweets, and ingredients from across the globe. Challenge yourself to try something new. Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse!
🍻 End the Night in the Barrel District
A party of one can still be a party. Head to Rancho Cordova’s Barrel District, home to award-winning craft beer, creative cocktails, and fun events. Many spots offer festive, holiday-themed drinks and bites, food trucks, and live entertainment that make it easy to strike up conversation or simply enjoy the atmosphere.
💕 Palentine’s Day Ideas in Rancho Cordova
Grab your favorite people and celebrate friendship, laughter, and a day out together.
🥂 Brunch at The Mimosa House
Start your Palentine’s celebration with a colorful mimosa flight and a menu full of sweet and savory brunch favorites at The Mimosa House. There are dozens of mimosa flavors to choose from so everyone can try something different. The lively atmosphere makes it a perfect place to toast friendship and kick off the day.
🛍️ Vintage Treasure Hunting
Spend the afternoon browsing for one-of-a-kind finds at Bliss Marketplace and Stardust Vintage Emporium. From retro home décor and funky fashion plucked out of yesteryear to records, books, and furniture, these shops are full of personality... just like your friend group!
🔐 Team Up at Red Door Escape Room
Put your heads together at Red Door Escape Room, where you’ll work as a team to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and beat the clock to escape. It’s fast-paced, interactive, and guaranteed to spark laughs. It might also reveal who your most competitive friend really is!
🍣 Dinner at Wabune Sushi
Wrap up your Palentine’s adventure with dinner at Wabune Sushi. Share plates of fresh sushi rolls, sashimi, crispy potstickers, and edamame. It’s cozy, delicious, and perfect for lingering conversations about the day’s favorite moments.
❤️🔥 Valentine’s Day Date Activities for Couples
Ready for romance? Rancho Cordova offers the perfect balance of peaceful moments and playful adventure.
🌅 Morning Walk on the American River Parkway
Start your day hand-in-hand with a scenic stroll along the American River Parkway. Paved trails, river views, and morning sunshine create a calm, beautiful setting to talk, laugh, and just enjoy being together. We recommend entering from the Hagan Park access point.
🥞 Breakfast at Brookfield's
After your walk, head to Brookfield's Restaurant for a classic diner breakfast. This family-owned spot is filled with warmth and nostalgia, with family photos lining the walls and stacks of fluffy pancakes and mouthwatering benedicts on the menu. It’s the kind of place where you can imagine your life together and reflect in gratitude on how far your relationship has come.
🧗 Climb Together at Granite Arch
Add a little adventure to your love story at Granite Arch Climbing Center. Encourage each other, conquer fears, and celebrate small victories as you scale the walls and learn new climbing technique. It’s a fun, energizing way to bond and try something new side by side.
🍝 Dinner at Il Forno Classico
End the evening with a romantic dinner at Il Forno Classico, Rancho Cordova’s go-to date night destination. Located in the Gold River neighborhood, enjoy the mood lighting as you share classic Italian dishes, sip from an impressive wine selection, and toast to love in all its forms.
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