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

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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

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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

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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

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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!

Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City®  

Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, and more.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Make It a Perfect Friday: Top Things to Do in LA

Fridays in Los Angeles hit differently. There's excitement in the air as the city wakes up, ready to show you its movie-star sparkle, beachy breezes, and neighborhoods bursting with flavor. If you’re a tourist on a mission to make the most of your trip, Friday is when LA’s energy really kicks in—from sunrise moments at the Griffith Observatory to dancing under neon lights downtown. Here’s where you can catch epic views, snap sunsets, feast on world-class treats, walk with Hollywood legends, and soak up that endless summer feeling, all in one jam-packed, joy-filled day. Ready for your best LA Friday ever? Let’s start planning.  Our Friday favorites in Los Angeles include:  Griffith Observatory Tour  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Natural History Museum  Aquarium of the Pacific  Grand Central Market lunch adventure  Rooftop drinks at Perch  Live music at The Troubadour  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour: Doorway to LA’s Neighborhoods  Don’t want to stress about parking or deciphering addresses? Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour is your all-access pass to LA’s dazzling neighborhoods—all while riding in style. Hop aboard an open-top double-decker and lean into that tourist life as you cruise, guided by lively narration packed with local scoops and cheeky stories.  Why do we rate this as a top Friday pick? Because it blends total flexibility with classic sightseeing—step off wherever catches your eye, and you’re already part of the party. Maybe you want to wander in Beverly Hills, snap the palm-lined streets, or scope out Melrose’s famous murals. Maybe the Walk of Fame is calling, with its ever-changing crowd and glittering theater marquees. Big Bus lets you bounce effortlessly between must-sees and hidden gems. With multiple loops connecting Hollywood, Downtown, and the beaches, you set the pace—people-watch in West Hollywood, dig up vintage finds on Fairfax, or jump back on and head for the ocean breeze.  The vibe on Fridays is unbeatable: you’ll cruise by locals gearing up for the weekend, artists setting up pop-up galleries, and musicians spilling tunes onto sidewalk patios. It’s sightseeing with zero stress and max fun—just don’t forget your sunglasses.  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour: Sunshine, Surf and Street Art  You can’t say you’ve done LA right without hitting the coast, and our secret weapon for Friday feels? The Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking. Imagine miles of golden sand, ocean air in your hair, and a parade of street performers, sunbathers, and bodybuilders giving you a real SoCal welcome.  Start by cruising through the Santa Monica Pier, spinning the Ferris wheel, and admiring the view from above. As you pedal south, the scenery quickly shifts: surfers dot the horizon, rollerbladers flash by, and palm trees sway in the salty breeze. Your guide will point out colorful murals, muscle beach gyms, and secret photo spots you’d probably miss alone. Venice’s meandering canals and Boardwalk buzz put you in the center of LA’s most eclectic artistry—think mural-covered walls, skate parks, and high-energy music.  Stop for a smoothie at a sidewalk shack or snap selfies with the famous Venice sign overhead. Every stop offers a fresh surprise: street art, boutique food stands, and even a quick detour to quirky local shops. By the tour’s end, you’ll feel like a beach-town regular—sun-soaked, smiling, and ready for the next adventure.  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood: Step Into the Stories  Movie magic hits different when you’re walking right on set. Enter the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood—a Friday adventure that catapults you onto the backlots where big-screen legends (and your favorite TV characters) come to life. This isn’t just a tour; it’s a full-on immersion into the lifeblood of Los Angeles storytelling.  What makes it special? Guides share industry secrets and surreal facts—stand in “Central Perk” from Friends, explore the DC Universe, and see where superheroes, sitcom families, and Hogwarts students found their roots. The enormity of the sets, all those vintage cars, and the behind-the-scenes wizardry are enough to make even movie buffs speechless. You’ll recognize corners from recent hits and classic films alike.  Friday tours run with extra buzz—maybe you’ll spot a real film crew at work, or catch the stardust whirling as actors and directors scuttle between shoots. The on-site café gets you close to celebrity dining (try their themed lattes!), and the gift shop is a goldmine for souvenirs. Every LA visitor needs a brush with Hollywood—here, you’re part of the story.  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes: Epic Views, Legendary Letters  If your LA dreams revolve around catching that up-close shot of the Hollywood Sign, nothing beats The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes. It’s a Friday hike with layers—exercise, city lore, and views you’ll replay in your mind for years.  You’ll join a lively crew at the base of the Hollywood Hills, ready to trek up winding city trails. The guides aren’t just fitness pros—they’re local experts, sharing juicy Hollywood gossip, history, and fun facts at every turn. Along the route you pass whimsical hillside houses and spot landmarks straight out of your favorite movies.  The grand finale? You're rewarded with panoramic views of the LA skyline, the valley, and a rare side-angle shot with those world-famous white letters. The mood up here feels electric: everyone’s snapping pics, sharing stories, and soaking up that “top of the world” high. Trust us—your Instagram grid will thank you.  Aquarium of the Pacific: Ocean Wonders Just Down the Coast  Santa Monica and Venice get all the beach buzz, but just a short drive south, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach delivers a whole different kind of sea excitement. Step inside and instantly, you’re transported to the deep—shimmering tanks, interactive touch pools, and sea otters playing hide-and-seek.  What’s extra-special on a Friday? Local families, school groups, and travelers mingle in the glow of blue-lit galleries. Watch sharks swirl, see jellyfish undulate like living art, or pop outside for a waterfront view of the busy harbor. Dive into interactive experiences, from feeding rays to inspecting tidepool creatures, all guided by friendly staff bursting with ocean facts.  Each exhibit explores a different slice of Pacific coastline, from tropical reefs to the chilly waters of the north. The Aquarium even spotlights California’s vibrant marine conservation movement, giving you a sense of place and purpose while you explore. With food stands and picnic tables overlooking Rainbow Harbor, it’s easy to make an afternoon of it—plus, you’re close to the Queen Mary for a bonus stroll after.  Grand Central Market: Global Eats in Every Bite  Lunchtime in Downtown LA means one thing: Grand Central Market. This grand old market, running since 1917, brings together LA’s best and boldest food purveyors under one buzzing roof. On Fridays, the energy is infectious—locals and globetrotters alike lining up for everything from ramen to tacos.  What’s on our must-try list? Start with an Eggslut breakfast sandwich (the “Fairfax” is famous for a reason!), then grab a carnitas taco from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, or cross continents with Filipino rice bowls from Sari Sari Store. Love spice? Sichuan bites at China Café kick up the heat. For dessert, we vote for the funfetti doughnuts at The Donut Man or a classic horchata from Horchatería.  The setup is 100% unpretentious—long communal tables, neon signs, and a hustle-bustle soundtrack of cooks, buskers and happy eaters. It’s the definition of LA’s never-ending food story, and the perfect pit stop before your next adventure.  Rooftop Drinks at Perch: Sundowners with Style  Sunset hour in Los Angeles means rooftop bars, and Perch is where the Friday transformation really happens. Located downtown, this French-inspired sky lounge delivers knockout views, lush greenery, and a soundtrack of clinking glasses and live jazz. As day turns to night, the mood is both elegant and easygoing.  Perch’s 16th-story perch (pun intended) means you get glittering panoramas stretching across the city, while the décor—think Parisian garden meets contemporary LA—makes every seat selfie-worthy. The signature cocktails are a feast for the senses: “French Maid” with cucumber and mint is a crowd-pleaser, and the truffle fries are outrageously good for sharing.  On a Friday, Perch draws a mellow yet lively crowd: date nights, friends celebrating, out-of-towners gazing wide-eyed at the LA cityscape. Come for the sunset, but stay for the shared plates, tunes, and the sheer feeling of being part of something special. You’ll leave with a fresh appreciation for how LA does “Friday night out.”  Live Music at The Troubadour: Legends and New Discoveries  Round off your Friday with the beating heart of LA’s nightlife: live music. For this, The Troubadour in West Hollywood gets top billing. Since the 1950s, this intimate venue has hosted everyone from Elton John and Joni Mitchell to today’s hottest indie stars. You never know if you’re catching an emerging legend or experiencing a surprise secret show.  What sets The Troubadour apart? The space oozes character—low ceilings, simple wooden décor, and a stage close enough you feel every note. The sound is pristine, and the crowd comes for one thing only: great music. Fridays here range from folk and indie to rock and jazz, often with two or even three bands on the bill. Grab a craft beer at the bar and settle in—one night at The Troubadour and you’ll understand why LA’s music scene still leads the pack.  Friday in LA: The Full Experience  If you want to know what makes Los Angeles so endlessly fascinating, it’s Friday. Art and sunshine, world-class eats and blockbuster studios, panoramic hiking trails and salty ocean breezes—all within reach in a single city. Whether you’re chasing celebrity trailblazers, noshing at vibrant markets, or raising a toast on a glowy rooftop, LA’s Friday rhythm is pure magic. Trust us: you’ll want to stay until Sunday.    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do When it Rains in Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes.    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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Things to Do in Los Angeles in Summer 2020 - Attractions, Activities & More

Although Los Angeles has the particularly attractive benefit of being a warm city year-round, it’s probably at its most delightful in the summer. With tons of festivals, events, musical performances, theme parks, and top-notch museums, there’s no shortage of fun things for visitors and locals alike to enjoy this summer in LA. If you’re planning a visit and looking for things to do in Los Angeles in summer 2020, check out our list of the top attractions and activities going on this year, including... JUSTICE LEAGUE: Battle for Metropolis at Six Flags Magic Mountain Knott’s Berry Farm Roaring Nights at the LA Zoo & Botanical Gardens First Fridays at the Natural History Museum and more... Heading to the area to celebrate Independence Day? Then check out our post on things to do in Los Angeles 4th of July Weekend. Want some more summer time suggestions? Here are a few fun things to do in Los Angeles Labor Day Weekend. Save on Summertime Activities Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available on the Go Los Angeles pass. Choose as you go from popular attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Check out all Los Angeles tourist passes, attractions and prices. Please note, some of these special Summer events may be separately ticketed and not available on the Go Los Angeles pass. Universal Studios Hollywood Explore the world-famous Universal Studios and see real film sets from some of your favorite Hollywood movies. Some of the top attractions there now include: Fast & Furious - Supercharged, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, TRANSFORMERSTM: The Ride-3D, and more. Plus, Kung Fu Panda comes to Universal Studios, featuring state-of-the-art visual effects and innovative technology to immerse you into Master Po's journey. You can't miss the Universal Studios tour. Head behind the scenes on this interactive tour that immerses you in the world of movies and TV like nothing else. Getting In: Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are included with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles passes. LEGOLAND® California Resort Every kid’s dream park, LEGOLAND® California is where the best toys in the world come to life. Enjoy the intimacy of playing with LEGO and making your own creations, as well as the excitement of enjoying LEGO rides, slides, and other attractions. Visit the beloved Heartlake City, scope out Miniland USA, and visit all the Star Wars-themed models and rides. You should also check out the NINJAGO exhibits and attractions, which have been immensely popular since their opening. Immerse yourself in the world of these stealthy warriors, and test your own ninja skills at multiple interactive attractions. Getting In: LEGOLAND California tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles pass. Huntington Library & Gardens This multi-faceted attraction is among our favorite almost-hidden gems in the area. Enjoy lush, cultivated gardens, a world-renowned research library, and an impressive art gallery. Plus, a series of textual exhibits featuring a Gutenberg Bible, an original folio of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, and more. Special exhibitions are often fascinating, too. For example, there's one this spring and summer highlighting the Orbit Pavillion, from NASA themselves. The Huntington Library is a must see and great thing to do in Los Angeles in the summer. Getting In: Huntington Library & Gardens tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles pass. Mariachi USA Festival Hollywood Bowl June 20, 2020 The first Mariachi Festival was held in 1990 and the event has been going strong ever since, running for over 30 years. The event showcases the best Mariachi bands from the U.S. and Mexico all on one stage. Featuring traditional dancing and fireworks display that is well worth the price of admission, the Mariachi USA Festival is the only annual Latino-themed event at the Hollywood Bowl. Getting In: The Mariachi Festival is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles pass. Let's Recap So there you have it. Our picks for some of the top things to do in Los Angeles in the summer. There are lots of fun attractions and activities so you won't be short of things to do. The hardest part will be deciding what to do first! Please note, the summer events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go Los Angeles pass. Plan to visit some of these top attractions during your trip. Whether you are traveling with your family or a couple of friends, we're sure you will have a great time.
Katie Sagal

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