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Published February 6, 2023

The Best Unexpected Date Ideas in LA

It's time to take a stand against boring dates, and spice things up. ❤️‍🔥

by Los Angeles Bucket List

 

Looking for the perfect spot for a first date? Stuck in an endless cycle of Netflix and chill? Don't worry, we're here to help rescue you from the same old boring date ideas. Los Angeles is jam-packed with exciting things to do, from horseback rides through the Hollywood Hills to underground comedy shows. Lucky for you, we've compiled all the best ideas into one handy list that will keep your date nights fun all year long.

 

18 Unique Date Ideas in LA

Go on a Jetski Adventure to Catalina Island

Take to the high seas for your next date with this once-in-a-lifetime jetski adventure! This date will get your adrenaline pumping as you take a journey on the Pacific Ocean. Together you’ll speed across the waves, swim through beautiful caverns, snorkel in crystal clear water, and catch a glimpse of ocean wildlife like dolphins and sea lions, plus create memories to last a lifetime! 

Where: 700 Queensway Dr, Long Beach, CA 90802
For tickets to the Jetski Adventure to Catalina Island.

 

BEST PRICE

location_on
Catalina Island, California, USA
Jetski Adventure To Catalina Island
Starting at $349

Book now

 

Check Into LA's Scariest Hotel for an Escape Game

Show off how brave you are and see if you and your date have the chemistry to work as a team at the world's largest multi-themed escape room. Located in Hollywood, Escape Hotel features multiple escape game rooms with various themes and difficulty levels to choose from. From the moment you step in, you'll be transported into a 1920s hotel where all the dead souls are still around to haunt you—and it's not just inside the game. From the grand lobby to the eerie hallways, you'll find haunting surprises around every corner.

Where: 6633 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA
More information.

 

Take a Creative Sneaker Customization Workshop

Stylish couples will love this custom sneaker-decorating class, where you can create a unique work of art that you can wear! In this workshop, a pro from Majorwavez Lab will guide you through the process of sewing or painting your sneaks to create a one-of-a-kind design. The best part? Once you’re done, you can think of your date every time you rock your new kicks with your favorite outfit! 

Where: 
Nesquik: 1457 Colorado Blvd. unit 102, Los Angeles, CA, 90041
Northridge Mall: 9301 Tampa Ave, Northridge, CA 91324
For tickets to the Custom Sneaker Class.

 

location_on
Multiple locations
Sew/Paint Shoe Workshops
Starting at $120

Book now

 

Take a Ride on Santa Monica's Iconic Ferris Wheel

Soar high in the sky together as you take in unbeatable ocean views and the Santa Monica Pier with your date on this iconic Ferris Wheel. Try to time your visit so you can catch the sunset for an extra romantic touch, and then stroll down the boardwalk and try your luck at a few games to end the evening. If it was romantic enough for Paris Hilton's wedding carnival, it should work for your SO too.

Where: 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
For more information on the Santa Monica Ferris Wheel.

 

Sample World Cuisine at Grand Central Market

This one-of-a-kind food market has everything you can dream of, from piping hot pupusas to fresh handmade pasta and more. Come hungry and roam the stalls with your date, sampling everything the market has to offer. There’s even a vintage photobooth on-site for you to snag some photos of your visit! 

Where: 317 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
For more information on the Grand Central Market.

 

Go on a Vintage VW Bus Tour Through Malibu

No basic happy hour dates allowed! Instead, channel your inner hippy together while riding in style on a retro-chic VW bus to tour some of Malibu’s best vineyards. On this adventure, you’ll sample wines and nosh on snacks at several wineries along the way, plus take in the views from Malibu’s gorgeous canyons and cliffs. Each tour also comes with two bottles of wine to take home, so you can keep the fun going! 

Location: 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
For tickets to the Vintage VW Bus Wine Tour.

 

Transport Yourselves to France with Dinner at The Little Door

When you step through the doors of this chic spot and onto its Mediterranean-inspired patio, you and your date will wonder if you’re still in LA or if you’ve teleported straight to France! The candlelit tables surrounded by lush greenery create the perfect cozy, intimate ambiance for a romantic night out. Share a few farm-to-table dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and paired with a glass of vin from their impressive wine list. 

Location: 8164 W. 3rd Street, West Hollywood, CA 90048  
For more information on The Little Door.

 

Take a Joyride Together

Looking for a way to really top off your date? Leave the puns to us and put your pedal to the metal during this thrilling experience. Face the excitement of driving a trendy Polaris slingshot as you jet around town taking in the sites together. Hourly rates start at $75.

Where: 100 W. Broadway Glendale, CA 91210
For tickets to the Top Off Ride Around LA.

 

location_on
Top Off Rides, West Broadway, Glendale, CA, USA
Top Off Rides Los Angeles
Starting at $75

Book now

 

Wander the sprawling Los Angeles Flower Market

You and your date can wander the stalls and shops together at this historic flower market as you admire row upon row of fresh, unique flowers. Stop here in the morning before heading out to brunch nearby for a perfect weekend date. As a bonus, you can pick up a romantic bouquet on the spot! 

Where: 754 Wall St. (between 7th and 8th), Los Angeles, CA 90014
For more information on the Los Angeles Flower Market.

 

Get Lost in the Getty Villa Museum

While you may not be able to hop on a plane with your beau and jet off to Italy, you can head to the Getty Villa museum for your own Italian adventure right in LA. This museum is located in a recreated Roman country house with stunning gardens to stroll through, plus an impressive collection of classical art to peruse with your date. Entry is free, but reservations are required. 

Where: 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
For more information on the Getty Villa Museum.

 

Hike the Park to Playa Trail

The Park to Playa trail connects a network of trails and open spaces to the Pacific Ocean at Playa del Ray. Starting at Baldwin Hills Parklands, there are multiple trail access points in six segments: Stocker Corridor, Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, Blair Hills – Segment C, Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, Culver City Park, and Ballona Creek Bike Path. The gorgeous trail opened in 2021 and offers a lower elevation with peaceful views.  

Hiked it already? Check out the Bucket Listers LA hiking guide for a list of the most scenic trails in the area. 

Trailhead address: 34°00'57.6"N 118°22'55.4"W.
For more information on the Park to Playa trail.

 

Go to the Break Up Bar

This Anti-Valentines Pop-Up Bar isn't romantic per se, but it could be where you meet your next date. For one day only, you can bond over terrible exes, sip themed cocktails like the "EX-presso Martini," enjoy art installations like the wall of failed relationships, and catch live entertainment. Each ticket includes a welcome glass of bubbly and one complimentary cocktail.

Where: Harvard & Stone: 5221 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA
For more information on the Break Up Bar.

 

EXCLUSIVE

location_on
5221 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
Break Up Bar
Starting at $38

Book now

 

Experience a Wine Tasting for Two

Have fun sipping your way through a variety of wines during an exclusive tasting experience at Malibu Beer & Wine! Each experience includes a pre-set flight for two with a tasting note sheet so you can remember your favorite sips, plus a cheese and charcuterie board to nibble on and branded glassware to take home. It’ll be a day to remember, and you might even find a new favorite wine to share on future date nights! 

Where: 23130 Sherman Way, West Hills, CA 91307
For tickets to Wine Tasting for Two.

 

location_on
23130 Sherman Way, West Hills, Los Angeles, CA 91307, USA
Wine & Cheese Pairing for 2
Starting at $49

Book now

 

 

Catch an Underground Comedy Show at the Nite Cap

Get ready to laugh the night away together at an Underground Comedy show at the Nite Cap. This hidden gem, located in Burbank, frequently has big-name comedians from places like Netflix or Comedy Central drop in for a set, so you’ll catch a killer show no matter what night you stop by. 

Where: 2200 West Burbank Blvd, Burbank, CA 91506
For tickets to Underground Comedy at the Nite Cap.

 

location_on
2200 W Burbank Blvd, Burbank, CA 91506, USA
NITECAP Comedy
Starting at $4

Book now

 

Take a Ride on the Angels Flight Railway

LA’s Angel’s Flight puts the “fun” in funicular. The historic landmark is located in Downtown Los Angeles and boasts the title of “world’s shortest railway.” The fare is $1 each way, making it the perfect cheap (but fun) date. If you were a “LaLa Land” fan, you’ll recognize Angels Flight from a romantic scene in the movie! 

Where: 350 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071
For more information on Angels Flight.

 

Take a Guided Horse Trail Ride

Take a guided horseback ride with your boo through the Hollywood Hills and see some of LA's most iconic landmarks like the Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Sign. Schedule an evening tour to catch sunset views and romantic vibes, or go on a Saturday or Sunday morning and round out your day date at one of LA's best brunch spots.

Where: Sunset Ranch Hollywood: 3400 N Beachwood Dr, Los Angeles, CA
For more information on Guided Horse Trail Rides.

 

BEST PRICE

location_on
Sunset Ranch Hollywood, North Beachwood Drive, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Horse Trail Rides with Sunset Ranch Hollywood
Starting at $63

Book now

 

Experience the Mosaic Tile House

The Mosaic Tile House is an epic celebration of art and color right in the heart of Venice. Almost every inch of this unique space is covered in vibrant tiles, and the mix-matched shards provide a unique backdrop for photos and exploring the property. With eye-catching pieces of art to investigate everywhere you turn, you can definitely get lost in this labyrinth.

Where: 1116 Palms Blvd Venice CA 90291
For more information on the Mosaic Tile House.

 

Fly Above LA on a Sunset Flight Tour

Watch your love soar to new heights! Experience the city from a new perspective as the sunset flight tour flies you above Downtown Los Angeles, Dodger Stadium, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Sign, and much more!. The 45-minute flight can include champagne for a $60 add-on. 

Where: Sunset Flights 4015 Santa Anita Ave, El Monte, CA 91731
For more information on flight tours of Los Angeles.

 

location_on
Sunset Flights, Santa Anita Avenue, El Monte, CA, USA
Sunset Airplane Flight Tours (+ Day & Night!)
Starting at $99

Book now

 

 

Visit The LAB Anti-Mall

The LAB Anti-Mall is the perfect indoor-outdoor hangout spot, packed with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes to peruse. “LAB” stands for “Little American Business,” as the retail center aims to support artisans and local businesses. With a ton of art around and live music often on the agenda, you wouldn't get bored with your date here. 

Where: 2930 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
For more information on The LAB Anti-Mall.