We asked our readers to reveal their most romantic date ideas in Los Angeles. We had an interesting mix of responses, including scenic hikes, exploring landmarks and unconventional dining options. 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 go-to date ideas that we have given up below.
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:
1-2. 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. You can choose one of their divine romantic experiences below:
- Romantic Wellness Day for Couples, Massage in Chocolate Spa and Floating Tray of Champagne & Fruits
- Cozy Couple Experience: Fireplace & Charcuterie + Jacuzzi
3. Discover The Depths Of Love At This Titanic Exhibit
Exploring the untold stories of love and loss through this groundbreaking Titanic exhibition in L.A. is definitely something that will bring you and that special someone closer. Discover the moving records unveiled through real, never-before-seen artifacts that have been brought to the surface for the first time. You can even meet on the Grand Staircase and recreate the on-screen magic from the movie. Get your boarding pass and embark on a jaw-dropping voyage through history.
4. 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.
5. Enjoy Cliffside Dining On An Island
Located southwest of Los Angeles, Santa Catalina 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.
6. 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.
7. Van Gogh: The Immersive 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. Suprise your date and join the waitlist to be the first to know when tickets are released..
8. 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.
9. A Meal At Sorriso
Located in the renowned historic district of Old Pasadena, this elegant late-night pop-up offers delicious Mediterranean dishes with 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 on Fridays or jazz numbers alongside your Sunday brunch. Book your romantic night out here.
10. 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. Take Out 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.
12. 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. We’ve also got a curated list of romantic restaurants for more options that will suit any tastes.
13. Sunsets At The Korean Bell Of Friendship
The Korean Bell of Friendship is an ornate structure located in San Pedro which 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.
14. A Visit To The Santa Monica Pier
Another classic L.A. date experience is admiring the neon-kissed pier and watching the waves crash into the sands below. The nostalgia of the Ferris wheel and rides is irresistibly romantic.
15. A 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.
16. A Little Road Trip To One Of The 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.
17. 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.
18. Sipping On Cocktails And Eating 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.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. 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, here are all the best places to catch a film al fresco in Los Angeles:
- Streetfood Cinema
- The Rooftop Cinema Club
- The Cannabis And Movies Club
- Melrose Rooftop Theatre
- Tropicana Movie Nights At The Roosevelt Hotel
- Cinespia
22. 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.
23. 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.
24. Ice Skating With A Scenic Sunset
It’s unlikely that you’re a seasoned skater in this climate, but if you are then one of these beachfront ice rinks would be the perfect place to flex your athletic prowess. Even if you’re not, there’s still something adorable about wobbling around the ice with your S/O and the magical sunset over the Pacific Ocean. You’ll also get to get cozy around a firepit at the rink-side bars after your session. Here are two rinks to check out:
- Paséa On Ice: The ice rink is open from November 25 through December 31 and tickets are $35 per hour.
- Skate By The Sea At Hotel del Coronado: The skating season runs from November 17 through January 1 and tickets start at $40 per half hour with proceeds benefiting the Make-A-Wish® San Diego