Looking to liven things up this Valentine’s weekend? Check out the Tualatin Valley’s vibrant array of events throughout February showcasing the best of the region’s breweries, wineries and more. Whether you’re planning a staycation or a getaway, you’ll be sure to make some special memories with your loved one.
Sip Your Way Through Tualatin Valley Wine Country
Over a dozen wineries are participating in this year’s Tualatin Valley Valentine’s Wine Loop. This winter wine-country tradition has been highlighting some of the best producers throughout the region for over a decade, giving visitors a chance to try new spots, partake in special activities and indulge in tasty treats.
To participate, grab a stamp card at any participating winery, and don’t forget to get a stamp at every stop on the trail you visit. Just four stamps enters you into a drawing for a gift basket packed with wine-country goodies. Although the Valentine’s Wine Loop will be buzzing with special events like chocolate-and-wine pairings, special flights, and food pop-ups February 10-12, 2023, visitors can check out any of the stops and gather stamps through the end of the month — and many wineries are open year-round for romantic visits anytime. Check each Wine Loop participant’s operating hours, as some will only be open during Valentine’s weekend.
Stay in a Historic Building
Family-owned McMenamins’ historic hotels take an eclectic approach to restoration. Myriad historic buildings across Oregon — including hotels, elementary schools and even religious institutions — have been transformed into unique and memorable stays.
At the center of the Valentine’s Wine Loop lies the Grand Lodge Hotel, a former Masonic and Eastern Star property tucked into a corner of Forest Grove. Enjoy a range of amenities across its expansive grounds, including on-site restaurants, a spa and even live music some evenings. The company also offers its own branded passport, which gives visitors a chance to explore the nooks and crannies of their locations through scavenger-hunt-themed challenges.
Diverse Dining Options
As the most diverse county in Oregon, Washington County is home to a multitude of cuisines, from Korean barbecue to Mexican taco trucks and Indian markets. Nak Won is a neighborhood favorite and prime destination for foodies in search of home-style Korean stews and banchan appetizers. Top Burmese offers vegan-friendly samosas, curry soups and tea-leaf salads out of Beaverton and Hillsboro locations. The recently opened Amaterra is an expansive winery, restaurant and bar in the Southwest Hills. Make a reservation to enjoy elevated dining options from pan-seared scallops to New York steak, seasonal salads and charcuterie boards — all with suggested wine pairings, of course. If you’re not a member, a $25 reservation fee can be applied to the purchase of bottles of wine to take home or your first wine-club shipment.
Tap Into a Thriving Beer Scene
The Tualatin Valley is also home to many high-caliber breweries. You can taste their ales, stouts and more at the second-annual Hillsbrew Fest, which takes place February 24-26, 2023, at the Wingspan Event & Conference Center. Enjoy snacks from on-site food vendors while you hunt for your new favorite brew.
Afterward, continue the fun at ABV Public House, with over 30 brews on tap and a stacked list of shareable appetizers like fried ravioli, Filipino lumpia and decadently garnished pretzels topped with cheddar, bacon and jalapeños. Then check in to Residence Inn Portland Hillsboro/Brookwood, which is just up the road from the event and offers a heated indoor pool. The next morning, grab a croissant or a slice of quiche to go with your coffee at La Provence, less than 10 minutes away by car.
You can also enjoy Washington County’s thriving brewing scene anytime by visiting the brand-new Tualatin Valley Ale Trail. Get the easy and free browser-based passport, then check in at businesses on the trail to earn points and receive prizes like bottle openers, coasters and more. With 17 breweries and counting on the trail, it’s a great way to keep date nights fresh all year long.
