Romantic Things to Do in Los Angeles for Valentine's Day

Twinkling lights, fairground rides and theatre tours... spending Valentine's Day in LA is a fabulous idea. Here are our best date ideas.

Published: July 18, 2024
Couple in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the city of lights, filled with glitz and glam and tons of magic. So what better place to spend a romantic weekend with your favorite person? Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day 2020 or another special occasion, there are plenty of captivating things to do in Los Angeles.

Our list of things to do in Los Angeles for couples includes...

  • Get views over all of LA
  • Dine aboard the Queen Mary
  • Explore the Griffith Park Observatory
  • Watch a show at one of LA's gorgeous movie theaters
  • Have an adrenalin-filled day at a theme park

See the City of Angels from above

aerial-view-west-hollywood

Los Angeles is the city of lights, filled with glitz and glam and tons of magic. So what better place to spend a romantic weekend with your favorite person? Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or another special occasion, there are plenty of exciting and romantic things to do in Los Angeles.

Our list of things to do in Los Angeles for couples includes...

  • Get views over all of LA
  • Dine aboard the Queen Mary
  • Explore the Griffith Park Observatory
  • Watch a show at one of LA's gorgeous movie theaters
  • Have an adrenalin-filled day at a theme park

Dine aboard the Queen Mary

night-view-famous-queen-mary

With stunning skyline views from the water and delicious gourmet cuisine, there’s no better place to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Los Angeles than aboard the Queen Mary. Guests have three different dining options to choose from, each promising the romantic dinner of a lifetime.

Sir Winston’s Restaurant and Lounge combines world-class cuisine with gorgeous views of the harbor and the Pacific Ocean.

Chelsea Chowder House is more contemporary, offering a great selection of steak and seafood for the classic dining palate. The Promenade Café is the most casual option, but certainly not the least romantic; the special menu and sweeping views of the Pacific will make your evening unforgettable.

There's also a popular bar called the Observation Bar, serving up classic cocktails in a chic atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for a romantic drink if dinner aboard the Queen Mary isn't in your plans. If you want to explore this historic ship beyond the dining options, they also offer tours, shows, and exhibits.

Explore Griffith Park

griffith-observatory-park-los-angeles-skyline

Griffith Park is one of our favorite outdoors destinations in all of Los Angeles. As well as the home of the famous Hollywood sign, it’s got a fascinating observatory, bike paths, hiking trails, picnic spots, and even the awesome Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

The botanical gardens are particularly fascinating, with their wide variety of local and exotic plants. Displays are designed to showcase the relationship between flora and fauna, and how animals depend heavily on all kinds of plants.

So rent a bike and pedal around the park - the weather is pretty mild even in the middle of February.

Enjoy the thrill of a theme park

los-angeles-santa-monica-pier-california

There is so much fun to be had in the theme parks around the greater LA area, make sure you check off at least one! You don't need kids to tag along, there are plenty of adult rides and experiences to keep you and your other half entertained. This is an ideal date if you’re both the fun-loving, active type who gets a kick out of movie magic and mayhem.

Movie fans will love Universal Studios Hollywood, which combines state-of-the-art rides with shows and the famous backlot tour which takes you around real-life movie and TV sets. There are tons of things to do there that showcase the behind-the-scenes parts of Hollywood.

If you want to go old school and enjoy a few amusement park rides with a view, then Pacific Park is a good option for you. It's nostalgic and modern at the same time – you'll feel like you're on a date at the fairground.

Check out the museum scene

If you love arts and culture but are looking for something a little less movie-centric, then a visit to an art museum or two might do the trick. This Valentine’s Day, check out the Getty Museum, which offers a diversity of beautiful things to look at, from the gorgeous Getty Villa architecture to the lush gardens surrounding the building. Of course, there are plenty of works of art, with a particular focus on antiquities.

More of a fan of the natural world? Then you’ll want to hit up the prehistoric La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, which showcases the research done on the artifacts and fossils found within.

Just can’t decide what you love more – nature, culture, or art? Then the Huntington Library is an absolute must for your romantic endeavors. In addition to a lush and gorgeous rose garden nestled among other gardens (the very epitome of love!), you’ll also find an astonishing manuscript collection, a vibrant art gallery, and a world-class research library.

Indulge your fandom at Madame Tussauds Hollywood

So you love nothing more than a cozy evening in with your partner and some Netflix? There’s no reason why your love of TV and movies needs to stay at home when you embark on a romantic evening. Pay a visit to Madame Tussauds Hollywood for some unparalleled fan experiences. This popular wax museum is organized into separate, themed sections that cover everything from famous athletes to pop icons to movie stars.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is bound to have a version of someone you admire so you can take plenty of selfies with your favorite stars. After you’ve had the chance to “meet” the celebrities in amazing wax replicas, head to the Hollywood Museum to pore over their vast collections of movie memorabilia and artifacts. A visit here is a great opportunity to go behind the scenes of some of your favorite movie franchises.

Take in a show

chinese-theatre-hollywood-road

With such a large population of talented actors, musicians, artists, and more, it's no surprise that LA has an amazing theater scene. From high-class performances like opera and classical music to indie theater and funky art installations, you’ll find it all here. Be sure to look out for some free or low-cost community events, too.

If you prefer to keep your entertainment in the spirit of Hollywood, watch a romantic movie! As you might expect, there are also several beautiful movie theaters to enjoy, like the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre and Egyptian Theatre.

For fans of the Academy Awards, don't miss the chance to take a tour of the Dolby Theatre. It's an elegant building with a grand spiral staircase and an intricately-decorated ceiling. A visit here will bring you to the same backstage areas that the biggest names in Hollywood have inhabited. While you're here, be sure to stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame to see if you can spot your favorite celeb's star.

Enjoy a scenic cruise

What could be better than a romantic afternoon with your loved one aboard a sightseeing cruise? If you're visiting LA on a romantic getaway and aren't familiar with the city, the Long Beach Harbor Cruise can be an excellent way to see the sights and enjoy some quality time together.

If you're taking the cruise around Valentine's Day, it's important to remember that February falls in the middle of grey whale season. Keep an eye out for these rare beauties! A big fan of whales and other marine mammals? The whale watching option from Long Beach Cruises may be right for you.

A cornucopia of romantic activities

So there you have it. Our list of some romantic things to do in Los Angeles, just in time for Valentine's Day. Please note that the special events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed. Happy Valentine's!

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Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Epic Teen Activities in Los Angeles You Can’t Miss

Los Angeles has a reputation for red carpets, palm trees, and movie magic, but when you’re traveling with teens, you need more than just famous streets and celebrity spotting. Fortunately, LA is a city that knows how to keep every energy level—and every attention span—engaged. Whether you’re here for the surf, the snacks, the theme parks, or just unbeatable people-watching, there’s seriously something for everyone, especially teens. In this guide, we’ve pulled together the absolute best things to do with teens in Los Angeles. Think hands-on science, wild rides, famous filming locations, and the kind of experiences that get Insta-approval. If your family’s ready to chase after big thrills, tasty treats, and West Coast sunsets, you’re in the right place.  Our top things to do with teens in LA include:  Universal Studios  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  Knott's Berry Farm  California Science Center & IMAX  Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Ride  The Grammy Museum  Griffith Observatory  Whale Watching & Dolphin Tour  Battleship IOWA Museum  Heal the Bay Aquarium  Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Step Into Your Favorite Stories  If your teens are into behind-the-scenes moments, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a must. Here, you don’t just see where the TV and movie magic happens—you step right into it. Walk through real sets from classics like Friends and modern hits like Gilmore Girls or the DC Universe. Batmobiles, soundstages, props from Harry Potter, and super-immersive DC exhibits fill the tour.  What makes this special for teens? It’s interactive. Pose on the real Central Perk couch, get sorted into a Hogwarts House, and see costumes from Wonder Woman and The Flash up-close. Knowledgeable guides share the gossip and fun facts, and there are tons of hands-on experiences, from sound mixing to green-screen photos. The energy here is creative and fun; expect plenty of “Wait, this was filmed here?!” moments. Plus, the on-site Starbucks is a favorite for a well-earned treat when you’re done.  Knott’s Berry Farm: Classic Thrills and Wild West Vibes  Looking to max out the adrenaline? Knott’s Berry Farm delivers rollercoasters, water rides, and an infectious Wild West atmosphere. Teens looking to prove their thrill-seeking credentials will love GhostRider (one of the tallest and fastest wooden coasters in the West) or Xcelerator, which rockets from zero to 82 mph in under three seconds. If coasters aren’t their speed, there are plenty of other options, from the spinning La Revolución to more laid-back boardwalk games.  The park’s Ghost Town brings an old-word LA flavor with staged outlaw standoffs and craft demos, and live shows offer a breather in between the rides. Hungry? Teens never say no to Knott’s famous fried chicken and their legendary boysenberry funnel cake. There’s also plenty of Instagram gold with quirky Peanuts-themed rides and street performers. Knott’s offers classic amusement park vibes with just the right edge for teens.  California Science Center & IMAX Movie: Interactive Exploration  Sometimes you want to swap cotton candy for curiosity, and that’s where the California Science Center shines. The hands-on exhibits are all designed to keep restless minds engaged, whether your teens are budding astronauts or science skeptics. Climb inside a real space shuttle—Endeavour sits here in all its glory—or learn about deep-sea explorers, wildlife, and human biology.  The highlight for most teens is the IMAX Theater. Blockbuster documentaries and stunning nature films play in giant-screen format, making even reluctant learners stop scrolling and look up in awe. The vibe is friendly, busy, and full of “a-ha!” moments. With free general admission (and a modest fee for IMAX films), it’s budget-friendly too. After you explore, there’s a beautiful rose garden outside for an easy lunch or a photo stop.  Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Ride: Beaches, People-Watching, and Retro Fun  Nothing says LA like its beaches. But instead of just lounging, grab a pair of wheels and cruise between Santa Monica and Venice Beach with a bike rental or guided ride. The boardwalk vibes are unbeatable: street performers, skateboarders, and mural artists create a living backdrop that’s pure California cool. Stop at Muscle Beach for a flex (or a selfie), grab a cone at Perry’s Café, or shoot hoops at the legendary Venice Beach courts.  The pier at Santa Monica offers classic amusements, including an Instagram-worthy ferris wheel and old-school arcade, while Venice is famous for its wacky shops and colorful murals. This experience is high-energy, electric, and fun, with the Pacific as your soundtrack. Don’t miss Abbot Kinney Boulevard for edgy boutiques and Poke-Poke for a killer snack stop. For full summer vibes with minimal hassle, this bike ride is an LA must.  Griffith Observatory: LA Views and Stargazing  You know you’re in LA when you’re watching the sun slip behind the Hollywood sign with your teens. Head up to Griffith Observatory for some classic SoCal scenery, unbeatable city views, and science fun that won’t bore anyone. The building itself has starred in plenty of movies, and the planetarium shows are fun, fast-paced, and just the right blend of eye-opening and awe-inspiring.  Nighttime is especially great for teens who are slightly nocturnal: peer through public telescopes and meet local astronomy geeks happy to answer every burning question about black holes. If you’re feeling energetic, trek the gentle trails around the observatory first, then settle in to watch the city lights and snap a few skyline selfies. Grab a bite at the on-site café, which has great salads, big cookies, and a relaxed terrace.  Whale Watching & Dolphin Tour: California Wildlife Adventure  If your teens love animals—or you just want to do something wildly different—a Whale Watching & Dolphin Tour is a splashy favorite. Leaving from Newport Beach, tours glide down the Pacific coast with a good chance of spotting dolphins leaping beside the boat, sea lions soaking up the sun, and, depending on the season, gray or blue whales making their migration.  The guides keep things lively with fun facts, and deck seating gives everyone a spectacular front-row seat. The ocean air, sea spray, and surprise visits from marine life make this an adventure teens remember long after the trip. Pro tip: bring extra layers (the wind can be cool) and film the dolphin pods—they’re pure social media gold. After your cruise, there are great lunch spots at the marina for fish and chips or Baja-style tacos.  Battleship IOWA Museum: Life at Sea, LA-Style  Docked in San Pedro, the Battleship IOWA Museum gives your action-loving teens a tangible piece of American history—with a side of serious cool factor. Clamber around the decks where sailors once steered this massive ship through global events, check out the Captain’s Quarters, and brave the gun turrets for some dramatic family photos.  What really hooks teens is the tech: hologram guides, interactive missions, and exhibits that let you test your skills at everything from radar to coding Morse code. The vibe is hands-on, adventurous, and surprisingly immersive, with plenty of nooks to explore and trivia to collect. Plus, with the LA Waterfront nearby, you’re steps away from trendy seafood restaurants and fun shops—perfect for rounding out a day at the port.  Heal the Bay Aquarium: Responsibility Meets Discovery  Under the Santa Monica Pier, Heal the Bay Aquarium offers a slice of marine magic in a compact space. Dedicated entirely to Southern California sea life, this aquarium feels intimate and interactive—perfect for teens who care about the planet and want to understand their impact. Tidepool touch tanks let everyone get hands-on with starfish, urchins, and small sharks, while massive tanks showcase the ocean’s weirder, wilder creatures.  The educators make everything personal, with demos about plastic pollution and all the odd facts teenagers love (did you know octopuses can fit through holes the size of their eyeballs?). Heal the Bay also offers beach cleanup days if your crew is up for doing good. Afterward, you can savor hot dogs and churros on the pier or hang out on the beach—it’s teen-friendly, wallet-friendly, and fun.  Wrapping Up Your LA Teen Adventure  From film studios and theme parks to wild ocean adventures and hands-on science, Los Angeles serves up experiences that guarantee zero yawns and plenty of memories, whether your teens are thrill-seekers, music obsessives, or low-key beach lovers. In a city this packed with energy and color, every day holds the promise of something new—and with these picks on your itinerary, your LA trip with teens is sure to be legendary.    Looking for more Los Angeles inspo? Discover the best free things to do near Madame Tussauds and our deep dive into Knott’s Berry Farm.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®      We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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