Valentine's Day is around the corner, and thankfully Los Angeles has all the ingredients you need to get the sparks flying with sparkling city lights and dreamy waterfront spots to explore and admire. Whether you're looking to go all out with chocolate, flowers, and the perfect romantic restaurant or want something a little more lowkey, our list of romantic date ideas has something for everyone.

Not feeling Valentine''s Day this year? Gather the crew and take yourselves out to an epic group dinner. Or, celebrate Galentine''s Day (officially February 13), and round up your besties for mimosas and bloody marys at one of LA''s best brunch spots!

 

16 Romantic Ways to Spend Valentine's Day in Los Angeles

Wander Through the Exposition Park Rose Garden

Chocolates and roses are pretty much synonymous with romance and Valentine''s Day, so what better way to spend an afternoon with your date than touring the Exposition Park Rose Gardens? Dubbed one of the city''s "best-kept secrets," this hidden gem is home to thousands of fragrant blooms, ranging in shades of deep reds to cheerful yellows and bright pinks to soft corals. Go in the late afternoon to experience an unforgettable golden hour—you bring the chocolates, the Park will bring the roses.

Where: 701 State Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90037
For more information on the Exposition Park Rose Gardens.

 

Watch a (Bloody) Valentine's Movie Together

If your idea of romance is snuggling up and watching a scary movie, this one's for you. Celebrate the lovely bloody holiday with screenings of Queen of the Damned, Bram Stoker''s Dracula, and Jennifer's Body at the Million Dollar Theater. Bring your special someone for a night of live comedy, photo opportunities, audience games, and more. Plus, enjoy wine, beer, and specialty cocktails at our Lovers Lounge.

Where: 307 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
For more information on Bloody Valentines.

 

 

Attend a Pre-Valentine's Day Singles Event

This one's for all the single, hopeful romantics out there. Jigsaw Dating is a new app that just launched in California, and it's here to help you find your next date. On February 10, they're hosting a pre-Valentine's OPEN BAR party with unlimited brews, sours, goody bags, and more. Enjoy a fun night of mingling, and who knows, maybe you'll leave with a date for Valentine's Day!

Where: HiDef Brewing 1203 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
For more information on the Pre-Valentine's Day Singles Event.

 

Laugh Together at a Cocktails & Comdey Show

Nothing encourages connection like laughter. Shake things up and step back in time at the one-of-a-kind immersive Blockbuster pop-up bar, which is hosting a Valentine''s Day special where you can enjoy a night of comedy and themed cocktails. Sip cocktails inspired by romantic 90s and 2000s movies like Clueless, Titanic, and Pretty Woman, and then sit back and enjoy a lineup of top comedians from Conan, America''s Got Talent, and HBO.

Where: 7174 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
For more information on Cocktails & Comedy at the Blockbuster Pop-Up Bar.

 

 

Rent a Swan Boat at Echo Park Lake

Renting a Swan Boat and spending the afternoon pedaling around Echo Park Lake may be the most adorable date idea ever. The lake features an unbeatable view of the LA skyline and makes a great backdrop for your date. Go for an afternoon and pack a picnic (food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed onboard), or wait until sunset and take a night ride with the boats all lit up! You can even play an interactive Find & Seek Trivia game, included with your boat rental.

Where: Echo Park Lake: 751 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles, CA
For more information on Swan Pedal Boat Rentals.

 

Enjoy a Wine Tasting Together

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.

Want to shake things up? Take a wine hike together through the Malibu hills, or go on a private 4x4 vineyard tour and experience epic views paired with wine and charcuterie.

Where: 23130 Sherman Way, West Hills, CA 91307
For more information on Wine & Cheese Pairing for Two.

 

 

Have a Romantic Dinner at Zinqué

If you’re not catching a flight to the city of love, head to Zinqué in the Fashion District for the next best thing. Come for the authentic French cooking, stay for the romantic vibes both on their patio and inside. They have other locations around the area, but we think their DTLA one is extra romantic. 

Where: 939 S Broadway St
For more information on Zinqué.

 

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.

 

 

Take in the View at Castaway

Castaway has one of the best outdoor patios in the city, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a romantic date night out. Whether you’re with a first date or longtime partner, everyone will enjoy sinking into a plush cushion by the fireplace and sipping refreshing cocktails while taking in an unmatched view of the San Fernando Valley and DTLA from every seat.

Where: 1250 East Harvard Road
For more information on Castaway.

 

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 more information on Custom Sneaker Classes.

 

 

Take a Sunset Flight Tour

If you want to make a big, romantic gesture, taking a private plane ride over the city to watch the sunset should do the trick. Experience LA from a new perspective, where you'll catch views of Downtown Los Angeles, Dodger Stadium, Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Sign, and much more!

Where: 4015 Santa Anita Ave, El Monte, CA 91731
For more information on Sunset Flight Tours, including Day and Night options.

 

 

Enjoy an Intimate Dinner at Formosa Cafe

Built in 1939, this Hollywood landmark spot serves Asian eats with a side of nostalgia decor. Cozy up with your date in an intimate, red leather booth, and choose from a menu that includes dim sum, tropical cocktails, and fan-favorite chili wontons. The history of famous guests (John Wayne, Elvis Presley, and Frank Sinatra) is matched well by Formosa’s menu today—it was voted best in West Hollywood by Eater LA.

Where: 7156 Santa Monica Blvd
For more information on Formosa Cafe.

 

Spend an Evening at Bathtub Gin

Bathtub Gin is a Roaring Twenties-inspired speakeasy named after the homemade alcohol that was watered down in bathtubs during the years of Prohibition. Slink into this sultry and intimate spot on Melrose Avenue and enjoy an evening of jazz and burlesque while sipping craft cocktails. The iconic speakeasy is offering a special 4-course Valentine's menu featuring a variety of delicious menu items like prosciutto skewers, linguine pesto, pinot noir chicken marsala, chocolate fudge cake, and more.

Where: 7174 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA
For more information on Bathtub Gin.

 

Take a Sushi Making Class Together

If your at-home date night is ordering in sushi, take your cutie to a sushi-making class this month for an extra special treat. This beginner-friendly, chef-led class will guide you through the process of perfecting sushi rice, cutting the ingredients properly, and the art of rolling. Let your creativity flow while making three different rolls: Tuna, Salmon, and a Veggie. 

Where: Penny Oven, 2131 Colorado Blvd, Eagle Rock
For more information on Sushi Making Class in LA.

 

 

Reserve a Private Gondola in Newport Beach

Picture this: You and your special someone, a platter of appetizers, and a romantic gondola ride through Newport Harbor. Choose an Antipasto or Dessert cruise—both include wine/champagne, or go more casual with a pizza cruise that includes a slice of gourmet cheesecake for dessert! The tours are hosted by a charming gondolier who will be happy to tell you about the history of gondolas or serenade you with a traditional Venetian tune.

Where: 200 Bayside Drive, Newport Beach
For more information on private gondola rides.

 

 

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.

 

 

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