For fans of the critically-acclaimed series Ozark, the words “love” and “fun” might not immediately come to mind when considering the series’ namesake location in Missouri. While the show may be fiction, the reality of the Ozarks is much more inviting — and a perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Whether escaping self-quarantine solo, rounding up the girls for a Galentine’s getaway or looking for romance as a couple, there’s something to entertain in the Ozarks. This underrated rural getaway boasts gorgeous views and outdoor activities, even in the off-season.
For some luxury right out of the gate, consider Big Cedar Lodge your home away from home. With rustic-meets-luxury accommodations, a golf course, exceptional dining options and relaxing spa services, this retreat is one for the books, no matter if you’re flying solo, with the family, as a couple or with a group.
Family Fun
For families, enjoy the resort’s many amenities and activities before finding your way to the Wonders of Wildlife museum and aquarium, and Dogwood Canyon nature park.
Dogwood Canyon
Gal Pals
For those embarking on a long-awaited girls’ trip, Big Cedar Lodge will host a Galentine’s Day Celebration Feb. 11, 6–9 p.m., including wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, trivia and a group wine and paint night. Prices begin at $65 a person.
Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
Couples
Speaking of arts and crafts, couples can get in on the fun with the Painting with a Splash package, hosted Feb. 12 at Wonders of Wildlife. Lovebirds can paint their own flamingoes while enjoying drinks and refreshments. Prices begin $80–100 and include all supplies.
For the classic date night experience, enjoy a foodie experience at Big Cedar Lodge’s Osage Restaurant at Top of the Rock, Feb. 14. Couples will enjoy a four-course Romance Dinner, including a 28-day, dry-aged filet; oysters; and lavender salted caramel cake for $85 a person. Devil’s Pool Restaurant will also offer a Valentine’s Day menu for $69 a person, including three courses.
Devils Pool Restaurant. Photo: Big Cedar Lodge
For couples, friends and families interested in a socially distanced escape — and some added privacy — Big Cedar Lodge boasts a lineup of standalone cabins and cottages.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedMultigenerational
Apr 22, 2024Travel Sustainably with BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels invites family travelers to experience sustainable practices across its global portfolio. The brand prioritizes sustainable and responsible tourism through its Because We Care program and various partnerships with eco-friendly brands.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Parents
Apr 22, 20244 Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day fast approaches, and all mothers and mother figures deserve something extra special this year. Treat the mom in your life, whether she’s an outdoor enthusiast or host extraordinaire, to these four great gifts.
Multigenerational
Apr 19, 2024Family-Friendly Offerings from Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection
Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection includes the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world — many of them perfect for family travelers. And two current offers might entice your family even more.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Cruising
Apr 15, 2024Some of Europe’s Best Day Cruises
A week cruising along the Danube or the Rhine may be the stuff of dreams for many, but family travelers can enjoy views from the water in ways kinder to the family budget. Many riverside cities offer scenic cruises, and some Baltic or Mediterranean ports have daytrips to nearby islands or coastal attractions. In several cities you can cruise the canals, and in Switzerland you can spend a day cruising on Lake Geneva, with sightseeing stops in lakeside towns.
ShareThis