The Best Weekend Date Ideas in Los Angeles

Taking your partner out on a date in La La Land means treating them like the A-lister they are. L.A. is the stage, you two are the performers, and the story ends with a “happily ever after”. There’s no better place for romantic nights out; Los Angeles has something new and exciting at every corner. From late-night strolls and bonfires to romantic dinners and poetry, your options are plenty. 

If you thought you’re running out of date night ideas in Los Angeles, think again. Thanks to these amazing ideas, your love story will bloom in the City of Angels. 

Creative Date Night Ideas In Los Angeles

1. Pedal Around in a Swan Boat

A swan boat ride at Echo Park Lake is the easiest way to impress your partner. With the help of Wheel Fun Rentals, your date will be swept off their feet under the L.A. night sky. Paddle the swan boats yourself or have someone else do it for you while you connect with your partner. Either way, there’s no way you’re going wrong with this one—this could make for a perfect first date idea.

2. Strengthen Your Bond at the Museum of Love

Do you feel like your relationship is moving in the right direction and you’re ready to take it to the next level? The Los Angeles Museum of Love is your stepping stone. The museum has a unique way of connecting couples on a deeper and more intimate level. Each of the eight rooms here has a set of tasks that help you open up to one another. Now that’s one way to bond!

3. Stargaze at Griffith Observatory 

Some might say that a midnight stroll at Griffith Observatory is super cheesy. To those, we say “so what?” Truth be told, no date at the observatory has failed to be the most romantic of them all—this place witnesses more love stories than library shelves do. Next time you’re not sure where to go, remember that the California sky is your limit and this top stargazing spot makes for a perfect free date in SoCal.

4. Challenge Your Date in an Interactive Game

Not all dates have to be candlelight dinners. Some can get loud, exciting, and give you a needed adrenaline rush. Luckily, there’s never a shortage of fun date night ideas in Los Angeles. The City of Angels is the home to the world’s first micro amusement park—Two Bit Circus. The carnival-themed high-tech attraction has custom escape rooms, VR cabanas, and a lot of interactive game shows. If you’re a couple that loves a good challenge, you can even go on a double date and check how well you partner up with each other. 

5. Catch a Flick at a Rooftop Theater

We’ve all been on a dozen movies and dinner dates, and while they never get old, they could use a little spicing up. Since we’re in Hollywood, we’d rather do it in style and opt for a rooftop theater. At Melrose Rooftop Theater, you get to enjoy both classic movies and new releases while surrounded by the beauty of West Hollywood. Once the movie’s over, you two can discuss the flick at the theater’s 152-seat restaurant—that’s a movie and dinner date your partner will definitely appreciate.

6. Cuddle Around a Bonfire

A day at one of L.A.’s beaches makes for the perfect outdoor date idea. Pair that with a bonfire and you’ll land yourself a second date. Dockweiler State Beach has dozens of fire pits lining its shore and is the perfect place for snuggling by the crackling fire. Roast marshmallows and make s’mores by the bonfire and head to the coast for the perfect late-night date idea in Los Angeles.

7. Add Magic to Your Relationship at a Hollywood Magic Show

Every relationship needs a spark of magic every once in a while. If you’re not in the mood to put in the work, Hollywood has your back. Treat yourself and your partner to a night of illusions at Black Rabbit Rose. Expect the unexpected while magicians, illusionists, and burlesque dancers wow the audience. You won’t have to think about creative Los Angeles date ideas anymore.

8. Dine at a Romantic Restaurant

Italian is often considered one of the most romantic languages in the world, and the same applies to the food. Combine them both and you’ve got yourself the most romantic date anyone can dream of. Il Cielo exists for the sole purpose of adding a touch of romance to any dinner date. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for first date ideas in Los Angeles, this restaurant will surely leave both of you impressed.

9. Spend a Night At the Museum

A jazz night at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) probably never crossed your mind. Now that it has, inviting your partner to a night out at L.A.’s oldest art institution will definitely gain you a few extra points. With over 135,000 pieces to explore, you’ll have a lot to go through on your unique date night in the City of Angels. Don’t forget to take photos by the Urban Light installation—your Instagram feed will thank you.

10. Discover the Venice Canals

Sometimes, all you need is peace, quiet, and your one true love. On nights like these, spending the late hours of the day at the Venice Canals is the perfect remedy (and did we mention it's totally free). The postcard-perfect spot is the ideal backdrop for your love story with its waterways, bridges, and lavish houses.

11. Explore the Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk

What’s better than visiting an art gallery? Exploring a walkable cluster of local galleries and studios at the Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk. This unique area reflects the full energy of D.T.L.A. and appeals to all kinds of tastes. Explore the L.A. art scene together with your partner in crime—is there anything more romantic to do in L.A.?

12. Pitch a Tent at a Beach Campsite

Coming up with outdoor date ideas in Los Angeles is no difficult task. But for a unique date, pitch a tent at a beach camping destination for a night to remember. Thornhill Broome Campground is a great option to consider—after a long day of swimming, hiking, and windsurfing, enjoy the beautiful California sunset as the crashing waves race to the shore.

13. Attend an Open Mic Night

Every Tuesday, Da Poetry Lounge invites people to expose their inner selves on stage. Whether or not you write poetry, attending the open mic night at least once is a must. Surprise your partner by expressing your feelings or simply enjoy each other’s company while others recite poetry.