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Photos: Top 14 Colorado places for a Valentine's Day kiss

One way to make Valentine's Day happier is if you have someone to kiss. But what's the best place to smooch? We mean "place" as in "place to go." Get your minds out of the gutter (until later, that is). Well, our friends at the Colorado Tourism Office have compiled...
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One way to make Valentine's Day happier is if you have someone to kiss. But what's the best place to smooch?

We mean "place" as in "place to go." Get your minds out of the gutter (until later, that is).

Well, our friends at the Colorado Tourism Office have compiled a list of the most romantic places in the state to steal a kiss, and as luck would have it, there are fourteen suggestions -- perfect for today. Continue to count down the photo-illustrated suggestions, complete with tourist office text.

Number 14: Over a Fine Meal Colorado has no shortage of amazing restaurants to inspire warm feelings. You might opt for the latest offering from a local celebrity chef, such as Alex Seidel, of Fruition in Denver, who was voted one of Food and Wine's best new chefs in 2010; or Kelly Liken, whose eponymous restaurant is in Vail. Or, you might choose a destination restaurant like Ragnar's in Steamboat Springs, where getting there is half the fun -- guests can arrive only via skis, snowboards or snowshoes. Number 13: On a Scenic Overlook Take your better half sightseeing in a whole different way by following one of Colorado's scenic byway driving tours. Any of these roads will provide you with ample photo opportunities, and every time you pull over to admire the view, you can take a moment to admire each other, too. Number 12: On Top of the World Whether you ski or not, Colorado's ski resorts can be some of the most romantic places in the world: Imagine a winter wonderland viewed from a peak that seems to touch the sky. Ride the lifts to the highest peaks, or just snuggle by the fire in the lodge. Continue to keep counting down the top fourteen Colorado places for a Valentine's Day kiss. Number 11: In a One-Horse Open Sleigh Where there's snow, you'll find sleigh rides in Colorado. Search for operators near you and opt for all the extras, like warm beverages for the trip. Number 10: 10. In the Dark Cave of the Winds, outside Colorado Springs, offers lantern tours that replicate the flickering flames early explorers used to light their way. Just make sure your sweetie isn't too afraid of the dark! Number 9: In Formal Wear For many ladies and gents, there's just something about formal attire that gets the heartstrings stirring. Book a night out in Denver with Opera Colorado, the Colorado Symphony or the Colorado Ballet for an excuse to dust off the dinner jackets and ball gowns. Continue to keep counting down the top fourteen Colorado places for a Valentine's Day kiss. Number 8: By the Fire One of the hottest (pardon the pun) trends in Colorado hotels is an outdoor fire pit to cozy up to when the weather is frosty. From big hotels, like the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch in Beaver Creek to small bed and breakfasts, rooms with a roaring fire offer choice cuddling -- don't forget the s'mores. Number 7: Over a Glass of Colorado Wine Book a private wine tasting at one of Colorado's wineries for an educational and delicious event you'll both remember. Although the majority of Colorado's vineyards are located on the Western Slope in and around Grand Junction and Palisade, wineries can be found all over the state, including in Denver, Boulder and Cañon City. Number 6: At a B&B No matter where you want to go in Colorado, you're sure to find a bed and breakfast nearby. Many bed and breakfasts offer romantic amenities like in-room hot tubs or fireplaces to complete your stay. Try the Cliff House at Pikes Peak, outside Colorado Springs, which was named one of Travel + Leisure's Top 100 Hotels in the World. Continue to keep counting down the top fourteen Colorado places for a Valentine's Day kiss. Number 5: On a Scenic and Historic Train Colorado is known for its historic railroads, and trains are known for romance. Book a wine dinner trip on the Royal Gorge Railroad's in one of their scenic Vista Dome cars. Or, make a day trip of the Cumbres and Toltec railroad in southern Colorado, which winds its way through landscapes unreachable by any other motorized transport. Number 4: On the "One Mile" Step in Front of the Colorado State Capitol While sightseeing in Denver, be sure to note your elevation: one of the steps in front of the Colorado State Capitol building is marked with a plaque signifying that it is exactly 5,280 feet, or one mile, above sea level. A perfect opportunity to snag a memorable smooch in the Mile High City --"mile high club" jokes totally optional. Number 3: In Loveland (of course) Located along the north Front Range, near Fort Collins, Loveland (the town, not the ski hill) is known as Colorado's "Sweetheart City." Aside from its popular Valentine's Day love stamp program, the city is known its thriving local art scene. Continue to keep counting down the top fourteen Colorado places for a Valentine's Day kiss. Number 2: Soaking in a Hot Spring What could be more romantic than soaking in hot springs while a gentle snow falls around you? Choose a place that offers private tubs for optimum romance. The historic Wiesbaden Hot Springs near Ouray, the Dunton Hot Springs in Dolores and The Springs Resort and Spa near Pagosa Springs make perfect secluded getaways. Number 1: On the Royal Gorge Bridge The Royal Gorge Bridge near Cañon City is America's highest suspension bridge hanging 1,250 feet above the raging Arkansas River. Cling to one another as you walk (or drive) across the bridge to enjoy the stunning views and sneak a kiss right in the middle.

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts.

More from our Things to Do archive: "Photos: Top thirteen best free day trips from Denver."

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