Celebrate Valentine's Day With the National Parks: The National Park Foundation Reveals Excellent Events and Locations for a Memorable Romantic Holiday

WASHINGTON, Feb. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As Valentine's Day approaches, many strive to plan romantic activities or getaways.  This year, instead of the traditional gift of chocolates and flowers, treat yourself and your loved one to a memorable and intimate experience in your national parks.  Whether it's a destination up the road or across the country, you will find world-class vistas, scenery and activities that provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable Valentine's Day memory.

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The National Park Foundation, the official charity of America's national parks, suggests the following parks as the backdrop to an exceptional Valentine's Day experience.  This year's highlighted parks and experiences range from the picturesque to the unexpected, however many more events can be found on the National Park Service website:

ARKANSAS - Hot Springs National Park – Luxuriate in our nation's history while enjoying the royal spa treatment in the therapeutic waters of the Hot Springs.

CALIFORNIA (Northern) - Golden Gate National Recreation Area – Dine overlooking the Pacific Ocean at San Francisco's historic Cliff House.

CALIFORNIA (Southern):  Channel Islands National Park – Set sail for romance around the Channel Islands during the whale watching season.

FLORIDA - Biscayne National Park – Take a relaxing island boat tour before enjoying a presentation on the beauty of natural light photography on Key Biscayne.

HAWAII – Haleakala National Park – Revel in the grandeur of the night sky at the summit of Haleakala, considered one of the world's best locations for star gazing.

MASSACHUSETTS - Salem Maritime National Historic Site – Tempt your sweet tooth by visiting the current Chocolate and Sugar in Salem exhibit.

MISSOURI -  Jefferson National Expansion Memorial – Dine on a riverboat before taking in the sites of St. Louis on a tram ride to the top of the Gateway Arch.

PUERTO RICO – Castillo De San Marcos National Monument – Take a sunset stroll around the iconic fort looking out over the Atlantic Ocean.

WYOMING – Grand Tetons National Park – Cozy up with your loved one on a wintery sleigh ride.

Whether it is on Valentine's Day or any other day of the year, it is the generous support of individuals, foundations and corporations that allow the National Park Foundation to continue its Congressionally-chartered mission to support and protect America's treasured national parks.  Find out more about the work of the National Park Foundation and how to help at www.nationalparks.org.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL PARK FOUNDATION The National Park Foundation is the official charity of America's national parks. Chartered by Congress, we work hand in hand with the National Park Service to strengthen and connect all Americans to our parks, so they are protected for present and future generations. It is a legacy that began more than a century ago, when private citizens took action to first establish, then protect and endow our national parks. Today, the National Park Foundation carries on that tradition as the only national charitable partner for America's national parks.  To learn more visit www.nationalparks.org.  

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Media Contact: Marjorie Hall, +1-202-354-6480, [email protected]

SOURCE National Park Foundation