Bobby and Alli from Traveling Newlyweds here. Sun Valley may be known for their epic slopes in the winter, and the endless hiking, biking, and fly-fishing opportunities in the summer, but there’s an element of Sun Valley that isn’t always talked about. The romance. Sun Valley is without a doubt one of the most romantic mountain towns we’ve ever been to, with its quaint downtown streets, candlelit restaurants, and luxurious hotels. It’s the perfect couple’s getaway, whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just in the mood for a spontaneous adventure! Here’s our couple’s guide for a 2-3-night getaway in dreamy Sun Valley:
Stay
Knob Hill Inn
What’s more romantic than staying in a European Ski Chalet? Knob Hill is Sun Valley’s premier boutique hotel, and it’s easy to see why. The rooms are spacious, the staff is attentive, and the decor is gorgeous. Knob Hill Inn is warm and charming, yet modern and elegant, and the Grill at Knob Hill is one of the best in the area… which leads us to:
Eat
The Grill at Knob Hill
Using only the finest local ingredients, and an indoor/outdoor setting that is incredibly picturesque no matter the time of year, the Grill is as romantic as they get. Their “Rocky Mountain” menu is extensive, but take our advice and try one of the “fresh catch” fish options. Our mouths are watering already! (Opens nightly at 5:30pm. Reservations recommended.)
The Roundhouse
The Roundhouse has been an iconic, romantic Sun Valley restaurant since 1939! Perched on top of Baldy, not only are the views stunning, but you have to take a gondola to get there. If that doesn’t up the romance factor for you, you should probably just go home. Oh, and don’t even get us started on the food! The fondue in the winter will put you in a food-induced coma, and the Roundhouse burger in the summer is a must. (Open daily for lunch, 11am-3pm. Walk-in’s only.)
The Sawtooth Club
A spot where we felt more like a local than a tourist, the Sawtooth Club presents an intimate yet lively atmosphere with great steaks, seafood, and pasta. We sat on the outdoor terrace and enjoyed their amazing happy hour menu. They boast the best in town, and if you grab a couple drinks and their Crispy Idaho Potato Skins, you might agree too! (Bar open daily at 4:30pm, dining room at 5:30pm. Reservations recommended)
Sushi on Second
We can’t get over the quality of the food here. Considering you aren’t too close to an ocean, it’s mind-blowing how tasty their dishes are. Consistently voted as Sun Valley’s best sushi and seafood restaurant, this is a great date night spot that will be a little louder (and more exciting) than some of the other restaurants we visit. Sit at the sushi bar and enjoy! (Opens nightly at 5:30pm. Reservations recommended.)
Enoteca
Wood fire pizza, a nice glass or red wine, maybe even an artisanal cheese board to kick off the night? Enoteca is our go-to date night spot in Sun Valley – not only because the food is to die for, but because you simply can’t beat the ambiance. It’s warm and sexy, and bustling with Sun Valley locals and the friendliest servers. (Reservations HIGHLY recommended. It’s a happening place!)Enoteca is also in the center of town, so we recommend walking off your pizza and grabbing a nightcap at a local bar… which leads us to:
Drink
Warfield
We’re still dreaming about the cocktails at Warfield. They’re tasty, innovative, and many are made from their in-house distillery! It’s a modern take on a neighborhood pub, making for a fun and casual atmosphere. If you’re there in the summer, grab a seat on their rooftop patio! (Open daily, 4pm-late)
Duchin Lounge
If you’re staying at the Lodge, the Duchin Lounge is a great spot to grab a cocktail. Boasting a history of celebrities drinking at their bar, the lounge is known for delicious libations, an extensive wine list, and a nightly pianist to enhance the ambiance. Whether you’ve spent the day speeding down the slopes or hiking the trails, the Duchin Lounge is a great place to start your evening.
Do
E-Bikes
Take E-bikes through Wood River Bike Path: If you’ve never ridden an e-bike before, your life is about to be changed. Rent a couple through Four Mountain Sports, and spend the day biking along the Wood River Bike Path. You’ll cross rivers, ride through picturesque valleys, and find yourself in the charming town of Hailey. (While there, grab lunch and a few beers at the Powerhouse!) The e-bikes make you glide through the path with ease, allowing you to take in the scenery and go for miles without realizing it! (Summertime, check website for rental details & reservations.)
Sun Valley Summer Symphony
We can’t think of a more romantic evening than bringing a picnic to the world-renowned Sun Valley Pavilion for an inspiring classical music concert! Oh, and admission is free! Check their website for dates and times, and get ready to be blown away by the talent. And don’t forget a blanket and some wine! (Summertime, dates and times vary. Check website for details).
Pro tip: check out the “Guide to the Sun Valley Symphony” for all the insider information doing this event right.
Ketch’em Alive
Another free summer concert series in Sun Valley is “Ketch’em Alive” – located in the heart of Ketchum! Every Tuesday from 7-9pm you can catch a wide variety of musical acts, food trucks, beer, wine, cocktails, and more! Grab your significant other and swing them to the music… it’s a Tuesday night you’ll never forget! (Tuesdays in the Summer, 7-9pm)
Hiking
Hike to Lookout on Bald Mountain: We exercise so that we can eat, so we like to start our mornings with something active. Hiking Bald Mountain (in the warmer months) is an amazing way to start your day, with incredible views and beautiful wildflowers. The trail is generally packed dirt and leads you both through the forest and open areas. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can push yourself hiking up to the top and then take the chairlift down (or vice versa).
Coffe & Clothes
If a killer espresso and vintage finds are more your speed, look no further than Maude’s. Nestled a few blocks off of Main Street, Maude’s is a perfect spot for coffee, yummy pastries, or even to shop for vintage clothing. We have had amazing cappuccinos and chai lattes at Maude’s. They have seating both inside and outside, so you can enjoy the warm summers on the patio or be cozy in the winter. We miss Maude’s!
Dancing
Another one of our favorite forms of exercise… dancing. Whiskey Jacques is the place to go for live music in Ketchum, and the atmosphere will definitely get you out on the dance floor. If you need liquid courage, then you should probably head here on a Tuesday or Sunday when they have dollar well drinks all night long. Get ready to groove!
It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, Sun Valley is filled with possibilities for you and your significant other – this list barely scratches the surface! If you’re looking to getaway in the colder months, be sure to check out our Winter Getaway recommendaitons. Leave a comment and let us know what this list is missing, we’re always looking for a good excuse to return!