Best Valentine's Day Dates For Parents In San Francisco

(credit: www.hornblower.com)

It can be a rare treat for parents to spend a night out on the town without the kids in tow. What better time than Valentine's Day to make a date, dress up in your finest and romance your sweetie? San Francisco has festive options for everyone from the wine lover to the athlete. Here is a list of five fantastic options for Valentine's Day dates for parents.

Date: Feb. 13, 2014

This year marks the 5^th annual Hearts After Dark fundraiser. The 21-and-over event held on the field of AT&T Park benefits the San Francisco General Hospital, and is one of its main yearly fundraising events. The evening includes live music, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and offers a rare opportunity to hang out in the Giants' dugout. Snatch up this chance to dress up in fancy cocktail attire and dance on home plate without the kids.

Nestled in the Hayes Valley neighborhood, Two Sisters Bar and Books is a wonderfully intimate place to enjoy a drink or bite to eat with someone special. Run by a pair of sisters who drew inspiration from their travels in Europe, the cozy casual bar has a selection of whiskey, rye, bourbon and scotch, as well cocktails, wines and bistro-type foods. Offerings range from cheese plates and salads to bread pudding or the fish of the day. With dimmed lighting, a wall of books and small tables, this bookworm's haven is the perfect place to spend some quality adult time.

Date: Feb. 9, 2014

The third annual Valentine's Day Dash is held in both Seattle and San Francisco. The 5K run and walk welcomes both individual and team entries, and prizes will be awarded to both, in multiple age categories. The race competition also includes a costume contest, and kids under 10 can participate in a special kids' dash for free. Don't miss the race's signature Tunnel of Love near the end of the course, which includes notes of love and encouragement placed by loved ones for race participants. This year's event will also include a beer garden after the race to help runners refuel.

Date: Feb. 15, 2014

The 13th annual San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition will be held over Valentine's Day weekend. This event is the largest competition in the country with contenders comprised solely of American wines. During the massively popular public tasting, wine lovers will have the opportunity to enjoy pours from the thousands of wines entered in the competition. In addition to the libations, there will be a variety of artisan-produced foods to sample, including breads, meats and cheeses.

Hornblower cruises is offering three different Valentine's Day cruises. Choose from an afternoon brunch buffet, buffet dinner or four-course seated dinner and dancing cruise. Scheduled throughout the holiday weekend, these cruises provide an excellent opportunity to leave the kids at home and spend a few romantic hours touring the bay in style.

Joanna Metheny is a freelance writer covering all things South Bay. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.