Valen-Town’s Day: Spend The Holiday Falling in Love With Truckee

BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA

Whether spending Valentine’s Day solo, gathering with friends and family or celebrating your soulmate, make the most of this memorable holiday by savoring all the small-town charm and character of Truckee.

Morning Vibes – Cozy Breakfast + A Walk to Remember
While waiting for the overnight chill to burn off, dip into the Cornerstone Bakery and Kitchen , a cozy café tucked away in the historic district on West River Street, for a slowed-down breakfast of Euro-inspired delights. With its perfectly patinaed brick façade and evocative of the bygone days of Truckee’s Gold Rush Era, take a step back in time while enjoying an espresso and fresh-baked croissants, flaky morning buns, shareable croquettes, savory croque madame sandwich and more.

Afterward, head down to the newly-built pedestrian bridge and cross over to explore Truckee Springs and the expanded Truckee River Legacy Trail that runs along the scenic western portion of the Truckee River. Teeming with wildlife and a favorite hunting spot for bald eagles, this easily accessible nature walk provides a tranquil alternative to the hustle and bustle of weekend morning ski traffic that promises endless rewards for your well-being.

Mid-Day Jaunt – A Historic District Treasure Hunt
Discover an assortment of unique treasures in the shopping district in Historic Downtown Truckee. Take the afternoon to leisurely peruse while you collect a trove of simple delights to be cherished long after the day is gone. From the latest high-alpine styles at Cabona’s, authentic Indigenous textiles and Native American turquoise jewelry at White Buffalo or handcrafted goods from local artisans at Riverside Studios to classic and best-selling literature at Word After Word Books and your favorite musicians and artists on vinyl in the basement at Rock Cellar Records, set the mood for later in the evening with a special gift, a memorable piece of literature or new records to enjoy.

For a classic Valentine’s treat, stop into Sweets Handmade Candies for a heart-shaped gift box of assorted chocolates made with love in-house by Truckee’s premier chocolatiers.

Afternoon Delight – Wine + Flowers
Before wrapping up your day downtown, walk over to The Pour House on Jiboom Street for specialty wines, artisanal cheeses and an array of treats to prepare your charcuterie board, including olives, nuts, crackers and cured meats. This quirky little wine shop, off-the-beaten-path, boasts a selection of over 350 wines for every taste, occasion and budget and offers tastings to help you find your perfect wine.

Then hop in the car and head up to Pioneer Trail Road to Love and Lupines. Known for their stunning arrangements for weddings and other special events, let this boutique floral design studio help you showcase your love and appreciation with an elegantly crafted bouquet of fresh, seasonal and locally sourced flowers.

Evening Downtime – No Reservations Required
After a full day exploring, before heading up the hill, make your final stop at Truckee Food Shop for gourmet provisions and farm-to-table take-out meals prepared daily with ingredients sourced from organic farms, area, fishermen and local co-ops. You can look forward to a night in, with no advanced reservations required or fancy dress code. Soak in the solitude and serenity of your home – in your pajamas if you want! –immersed in the bounties of your love affair with Truckee.