The friendly confines just beyond your front door are not as mundane as you might think. Charming bed and breakfasts, luxury hotels, untasted restaurants and never before visited places can make for an affordable, romantic anniversary. The key is to select places you know, but have never visited, like the hotel you drive by every day that is out of your everyday price range, the park you never have time to visit, or the restaurant where reservations are mandatory. You will create memories which will be rekindled every time you see one of those places again. You can also plan the celebration on the day of your anniversary unlike a trip out of town that must be scheduled for the weekend.
A national park anniversary offers escape, dramatic scenery and quiet evenings. The routine of Old Faithful, the beauty of Yosemite Falls and the history of Grand Canyon are a few romantic representations from America's 58 national parks. For some solitude, head to Great Basin National Park located in northeastern Nevada. For those on the East Coast, Shenandoah National Park offers scenic drives and hiking a few hours from D.C.
Big cities are like genies in a bottle. Shops, restaurants, hotels, attractions, parks and almost anything else can be granted in the big city. The most important thing to remember when you plan a big city anniversary is location. Even if you have to book a lower-quality room, be sure to locate yourself in the city center. Walking big city streets is a romantic pastime. With easy airline connections to major cities one isn't too far away. American hallmarks like New York, Chicago, D.C. and Boston are anniversary favorites. For an outdoorsy anniversary head to Seattle or Portland. Warm weather escapes can be found in Miami, Atlanta, Houston, San Antonio and San Diego.
Bring something new into your relationship. A new flag, new people, new language and new food will bring you closer on your international anniversary. The Caribbean, Mexico and Central America are convenient getaways where airfare is similar to what national flights cost. Plan an anniversary visit to Buenos Aires, one of the most romantic cities on earth, for a lustful combination of wine, meat and Tango.
Mood music is an important element to any successful anniversary. Becoming a concert goer for one night will bring out the romance. Just about any musician or venue is suited for an anniversary. A little known band playing a dive bar or Jimmy Buffet playing to 70,000 has the same effect. Try and locate a cover band for one of your favorite groups from your past for a throwback evening.
