Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity for destination marketers to woo visitors to their towns and cities. Crafting thoughtful and curated guides focused on Valentine’s Day inspires visitors and locals alike to plan something special for Cupid’s favorite holiday and positions your destination an irresistible choice for couples seeking love-infused getaways. Here are some top guide and digital passport ideas to elevate engagement this Valentine's Day.

But first, what is a Guide?

A guide is a curated collection of places and an associated map designed to help visitors discover things to do and plan trips. It serves as a go-to resource for a destination, offering information on must-visit places, activities, and noteworthy attractions. Further, destination marketing organizations (DMOs) use guides to attract ideal travelers to their destination by curating guides for niche audiences with specific interests.

What is a Digital Passport?

A digital passport is an interactive tool designed to enhance visitor experiences and engagement by encouraging exploration and participation in various activities. It provides a curated collection of places and experiences, often accompanied by maps and incentives, to guide visitors through a destination's highlights. Digital passports serve as a valuable resource for travelers, offering information on must-visit locations, activities, and unique attractions. DMOs utilize digital passports to attract ideal travelers by creating tailored experiences for niche audiences with specific interests. Digital passports can serve as a centerpiece to a destination’s marketing launch to elevate your destination's appeal and increase visitor engagement.

Top Ideas for Attracting Visitors this Valentine’s Day

The Chocolate Trail

Take lovebirds through a delectable chocolate trail, highlighting the sweetest confectioneries in your area. From artisanal chocolatiers to quaint dessert cafes, map out the most indulgent spots for an unforgettable chocolate-filled adventure. Turn your guide into a digital passport and gamify the experience with Check-in Challenges, awarding participants with Valentine’s Day themed badges and prizes.

Date Night Hotspots

Curate a guide to the most romantic date night spots in your destination. Whether it's a candlelit dinner at a charming bistro, a moonlit stroll along the waterfront, or a cozy spot for sharing desserts, showcase the best places to kindle the flame of love.

Hidden Gems for the Perfect Proposal

For those ready to take the next step, guide them to the most enchanting and picturesque spots for a memorable proposal. Whether it's a scenic overlook, a secluded garden, or a historic landmark, help couples create a moment they'll cherish forever.

Lovers Guide to Outdoor Activities

Appeal to nature-loving couples with a guide to the most romantic outdoor spots. From scenic trails for hand-in-hand hikes to charming picnic spots, highlight the beauty of your destination's natural landscapes as the backdrop for love.

Wellness Retreat for Two

Appeal to couples seeking relaxation and rejuvenation by curating a wellness guide. Highlight spas and wellness activities in your destination that offer intimate settings and couples' packages for a truly rejuvenating escape.

Sip and Savor

Guide couples on a journey through your destination's culinary scene. From wine tastings to intimate cafes, map out the perfect route for a day of culinary exploration and delightful tastings. Include restaurants featuring special Valentine’s Day menus and activities such as live music, prix fix menus and themed treats.

Sunset Seekers

Create a guide to the most breathtaking sunset viewpoints in your destination. Encourage couples to witness the magic of the setting sun from iconic locations, providing a backdrop for unforgettable moments.

IG-Worthy Spots

Appeal to shutterbugs and IG influencers with a couples guide to the most picturesque spots in your destination. From public art installations to adorable cafes, help them capture their love in stunning frames, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Girlfriend’s Guide to Galentine’s Day

Expand your audience beyond lovers by embracing the spirit of Feb 13th - also known as Galentine’s Day. Cater to the growing trend of celebrating friendship by creating a guide dedicated to activities for besties in your town. Showcase unique and fun things to do with friends, from trendy brunch spots and boutique shopping to relaxing spas and engaging group activities.

Our Favorite Romance Seekers Guides on Seeker

Grapevine, Texas’ Couples Guide, featuring the best spots in this charming Texas town for a romantic weekend, including everything from delectable chocolatiers to cozy book stores.

Jackson, Mississippi knows a thing or two about bringing the romance. Check out their Lit Lovers’ Guide to JXN.

In Romantic Date Ideas In Paris For Valentines Day, Seeker (👋) compiles a list of the most romantic places in the City of Romance, Paris.

For more inspiration, check out the Romance Seekers Hub - a curated collection community contributed guides on Seeker.

Incorporating these guide ideas into your Valentine's Day destination marketing strategy will not only capture visitors' hearts but also position your destination as the ultimate romantic retreat. Don’t forget to create a roundup of all your love-inspired guides to boost impact and reach. And most importantly, get creative! The more specific and unique your guide is, the most likely it will get noticed. Happy Valentine's Day planning! 💕

Capture Visitors’ Hearts This Valentine’s Day with These Must-Have Guides to Your Destination