We asked our readers to reveal their most romantic date ideas in Los Angeles. We had an interesting mix of responses, including scenic hikes, hot spring adventures, outdoor movie screenings, unique themed experiences, and museum days. While “my house” and “In-N-Out” were also popular responses (and charming in their own right), we stuck to accessible places that would almost definitely get the sparks flying. Plus, it inspired many more of our own fun L.A. date ideas that we have given up below, in time to plan the perfect Valentine’s Day.
So whether you’re a hopeless romantic (or just dating one) you’ll find several Angeleno-approved ways to impress your special someone in this list. At the very least, you’ll rekindle your love affair with L.A.
Here are some of our favorite suggestions from our audience, with some of our own additions thrown in:
1. Attend a naughty Valentine’s burlesque show at Cupid’s Secret
Nestled inside a vintage speakeasy hidden atop the Beverly Center, Cupid’s Secret is a classy cabaret putting on a hell of a show just in time for Valentine’s Day. Sip on specialty cocktails while stunning performers perform erotic burlesque, seductive choreography, and mind-blowing acrobatics all around you. Enjoy a three or four-course dinner selected from Saint Valentine’s most potent aphrodisiacs and listen to some of the untold love stories behind famous classic romances.
📍 Location: Beverly Center, 8500 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles
🗓️ When: Feb. 1-18, 2024
2. Disconnect and reconnect at this hidden oasis
Nothing makes all the woes of the week disappear like an illuminated jacuzzi, a floating champagne breakfast tray and a soothing massage. Lotus Home Yoga and Wellness Retreats is a gorgeous oasis tucked away in the heart of L.A., making it the perfect staycation where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with your person.
3. Take a night ride on the Echo Park swan boats
Pedaling around on a spring day surrounded by lush greenery, lotus flower beds and the Downtown skyline in the backdrop is a classic L.A. experience. But on a balmy summer night, the Echo Park swan boats are illuminated and the city lights dance across the dark waters turning the lake into a pool of shimmering reflections. It’s definitely one of the most iconic romantic date spots in the city.
4. Marina Del Rey Premier Dinner Cruise
Marina del Rey Premier Cruise offers cruise options in the beautiful Marina del Rey area. They typically provide sightseeing tours, dinner cruises, and special event cruises. This allows guests to enjoy stunning views of the coastline, Santa Monica Bay, and landmarks like the Venice Pier and Santa Monica Pier. They offer a three-course meal to experience onboard dining, live entertainment, and a relaxing atmosphere for guests to unwind and feel romantic under the stars.
5. Go for an evening stroll at Griffith Park Observatory
No list would be complete without LA’s Art Deco gem, the Griffith Park Observatory. If you don’t have time to gaze at the stars inside the historic building, the views of the city from the outside are just as breathtaking (especially at night). If you’re up for something a little more active, the park’s hiking trails offer plenty of scenic spots for a daytime plan.
6. Step through a field of falling stars at Astra Lumina
What if you could combine a peaceful stroll through a garden, some delicious cocktails, and the intimacy of stargazing into one experience? The soothing lights, ethereal soundscapes, and the lush nature of South Coast Botanic Garden result in a fairy-tale atmosphere that’s the perfect, illuminated escape for you and your loved one. Grab your tickets to Astra Lumina here!
7. Grab takeout from Tito’s Tacos
This Culver City institution has been winning over the hearts (and taste buds) of locals for generations and you only need to take one bite of their legendary hard shell tacos will know why. Not only is this low-key date idea the perfect way to bond, but you’ll be supporting a beloved, local jewel where you could probably cover the bill alone.
8. Enjoy dinner and a show at Hawg Heaven
Located in the renowned historic district of Old Pasadena, this late-night pop-up offers a delicious 2-course meal in a lively speakeasy ambiance. Besides the morish bites and pours of rich wines, you’ll be serenaded by the town’s best acts bringing you a range of genres from The Rat Pack and Elvis to Neil Diamond and jazz numbers alongside your Sunday brunch. Book your romantic night out here.
9. Take Bachata & Salsa lessons
At The Victorian, you can experience the vibrant world of Latin music while dancing with their salsa and bachata lessons. Held in a stunning Victorian home turned nightclub, these lessons cater to beginners and intermediates alike. Learn the fundamental steps and techniques from experienced instructors in a fun and welcoming environment.
After mastering the moves, you’ll have the opportunity to hit the dance floor, accompanied by refreshing drinks and the infectious rhythm of Latin beats. It’s the perfect way to learn, practice, and immerse yourself in the joy of salsa and bachata in a unique and lively setting.
10. Check out the view at Angel’s Point
This spot in Elysian Park is known for its not-so-secret secret swing. It has recently been removed, but every now and then it reappears. Regardless, it’s the perfect option for active lovers that want to be rewarded with epic views—just leave the selfie stick at home.
11. Attend a Candlelight Concert at a historic venue
It’s hard to think of anything more romantic than taking in a classical concert bathed in the gentle glow of candlelight, especially when it’s in a stunning historic venue like the Immanuel Presbyterian Church. These exclusive musical experiences feature talented musicians and cover a wide spectrum of genres. From Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and jazz classics to Coldplay renditions and other seasonal focuses. Explore all of them here.
12. Take a Cooking Class at Green Haus
At Green Haus Studio, you will be able to immerse yourself in the art of sushi making with their cooking lessons. Led by expert instructors, these classes guide you through every step of the meal process, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of rice preparation and perfecting their intricate techniques.
You’ll learn about the history and cultural significance of sushi while gaining hands-on experience in creating delicious and visually stunning rolls. If you are passionate about Japanese cuisine: Itadakimasu!
13. Dig into dinner with a view at Il Cielo
This twinkling, award-winning restaurant nestled in Beverly Hills is known as one of the most romantic restaurants in town. You and your date will be treated to modern Italian cuisine with Japanese flair in a gorgeous setting with scenic views of the sky above. It’s an ideal place to celebrate an anniversary that screams romance.
14. Watch the sunset at the Korean Bell of Friendship
The Korean Bell of Friendship is an ornate structure located in San Pedro that offers expansive sea views and a touch of history to keep the conversation going. You can head there with your date to catch a romantic sunset over the ocean.
15. Go on a culinary journey for the senses with this Dining In The Dark experience
At Dining in the Dark, you’re invited to envelope yourself in a veil of gastronomic intrigue. With your eyesight dimmed, your palate awakens to an orchestra of flavors, transforming your meal into an enigmatic voyage of the senses. Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on an immersive and captivating culinary experience that will challenge and delight your taste buds. Secure your tickets now for a night of delicious enchantment!
16. Enjoy cliffside dining on Catalina Island
Located southwest of Los Angeles, Catalina Island is known for its wildlife, dive sites and Mount Orizaba (its highest peak). You could spend your day kayaking, snorkeling, or paddle-boarding on the beautifully clear water and settle in for a rewarding bite to eat. If you’re up for something a little more land-bound then you could wander through Wrigley Memorial Botanical Garden and take in the incredible view of Avalon Bay while marveling at rare Channel Island plant species.
And if you do enjoy a tipple, you can immerse yourself in the essence of Los Angeles with a wine-tasting experience at Garçons de Cafe, where you choose from a curated selection of by-the-glass wines expertly paired with their house signature Olive Hummus Crostinis and learn about each wine’s unique characteristics and the captivating stories behind them from a knowledgeable sommelier.
18. Have a martini at Musso & Frank
Cinephiles, this one’s for you. Pretend it’s the 1920s and take your date out for a romantic night of Old Hollywood charm at the legendary Musso & Frank. Known as the oldest restaurant in Hollywood and often referred to as the “genesis of Hollywood,” this iconic locale feels like you’ve stepped back into a bygone era.
The restaurant was known as the go-to spot for the Hollywood elite, even boasting a secret back room for industry insiders. It’s been memorialized in countless films, most notably Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Cozy up in one of the old-school wooden booths and order their world-famous martini for a night to remember.
19. Wander through The Huntington Garden
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens offer breathtaking scenery year-round. Why buy flowers when there’s a diverse array of flora to marvel at within the themed gardens? Not to mention the stunning buildings filled with an incredible collection of artworks which makes for a refreshingly, cute date idea.
20. Step into this pastel-hued adventure at Bubble World!
Surprise your date with a dreamy limited-time experience at Bubble World, taking romance to another level! Interact with hundreds of bubbles, soar to new heights with your love in a hot air balloon flight simulator reminiscent of the movie Up, and explore sensory-filled rooms while capturing the sweetest photos in this one-of-a-kind adventure.
21. Embark on a little road trip to one of the most stunning beaches in SoCal
Beaches may seem like an obvious choice, but with the incredible array of sandy gems and cliffside havens in Southern California, it would be a crime to leave beaches out of the equation. You could back a little picnic and spend the day soaking up the sun or bring a bottle of wine and a blanket and get cozy while you take in an evening sunset.
22. Wander through Van Gogh’s paintings at this multisensory experience
Watching the emotionally charged brushstrokes of Dutch master Van Gogh swirl around as glowing projections is a truly unforgettable experience. The unique immersive exhibit has already blown audiences away in NYC, Paris, London and other major cities around the world and it’s coming to L.A. soon. It’s definitely one you’ll want to share with your S/O by your side. Surprise your date and get tickets here.
23. Go back in time at Buena Vista Street
The quaint street beams with old-world charm and immediately transports guests to a simpler time, reflecting Walt Disney’s early years in SoCal. It’s hard not to be seduced by the magic of Buena Vista Street. Over the holiday season, the twinkling lights add a gorgeous glow for night strolls while picking up candy and exploring the fantastical offerings. Of course, you could switch up the mood and head to the rides at Disneyland for a fun date night in L.A.
24. Sip on cocktails and eat calamari on the beach at Paradise Cove
Why blow money on a vacation when you can just drive along the California coast to a cafe on a private beach in Malibu? Though many restaurants in the 90265 claim to be beachfront, Paradise Cove Beach Cafe is the only restaurant in the area where you can enjoy a meal with your toes in the sand. If your idea of a romantic getaway is lots of food, ocean views and sunshine within a short drive, then this is your spot.
25. Take a trip along Mulholland Drive
This iconic drive offers sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley, Downtown Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign. Whether you head out to catch a sunset or the flickering city lights, it’s bound to brighten up anyone’s day.
26. Pack a picnic for two at Hollywood Bowl
While there’s nothing quite as romantic as catching an outdoor concert at this landmark venture, there’s still something that’s just as romantic as taking your wine and picnic to the exterior park. You can find a nice shady spot and sip away while reminiscing over your favorite concert experiences at the Bowl.
27. Treat yourself to a fancy meal at the most romantic restaurants in Los Angeles
Whether you’re out to impress a date or have a penchant for lingering in a gorgeous setting while you nosh on delicious eats, any one of these romantic restaurants in Los Angeles will leave you more than satisfied.
28. Get cozy and catch a film under the stars
If you’re lucky enough to call this city home, most of your date nights can be scheduled under the stars thanks to the warmer climate. There are plenty of outdoor pop-up cinemas happening every season where you can enjoy movie magic, delicious food, music and more at one of the city’s most scenic locations. Whether it’s a historic rooftop or an iconic park, view our Ultimate Guide To Every Outdoor Movie Screening in Los Angeles this summer.
29. Take a stroll along the Venice Canals
Strolling over the quaint bridges with vivid sunsets multiplied in the waters below, it would be almost impossible not to find the Venice Canals charming. Each home has its own unique style which means you’ll never get tired of exploring. If you’d like to make it a little more adventurous, you could hire a canoe and paddle your way around, or head a little further out and take a gondola ride in Long Beach.
30. Immerse yourself in culture (for free) at one of these museums or galleries
These world-class institutions boast breathtaking architecture and manicured gardens filled with visually arresting works that inspire conversations. If you or your date is more of an intellectual or culture buff then you cannot go wrong with a wander through one of L.A.’s top museums or galleries and you can even visit them for free if you plan ahead.
While there are endless date ideas Los Angeles has to offer, this list offers some inspiration for almost any occasion, mood and budget. Happy dating!
31. Unwind together with the ultimate spa day
Some couples will want to lean allll the way into a steamy LA spa day, and we’re here for it! Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast or simply need a moment away from the daily grind, we’re sure these local spa and massage experiences will help. Get ready to disconnect in 3, 2, 1…