Make it a Night to Remember With These Unique Date Night Ideas
Tired of your typical restaurant date night? While food is the ultimate love language for some, hitting the town to do something different might just be the perfect way to spice up your love life. Whether you’re looking to get creative and crafty or want to expand your artistic knowledge with a trip to one of the city’s renowned museums, Los Angeles has a plethora of unique activities and experiences to enjoy. Embark on a romantic horseback ride at sunset or sail around Echo Park Lake on an iconic swan pedal boat with these 10 memorable date nights in LA that aren’t restaurants!
Turkish Mosaic Lamp Making Class
Light up your home with a one-of-a-kind mosaic lamp made with your own two hands. This unique workshop takes place on the outskirts of DTLA and allows you to let your creative juices flow as you craft something that you can take home. Learn more about the detailed method behind Turkish mosaic art as you blend your favorite colors and shapes to build the base of your enchanting lamp. The workshop itself lasts for about two and a half hours and leaves you with a breathtaking accessory that is sure to shine.
Location: DTLA
Rooftop Pottery Class at Bitter Root Pottery
A pottery class is the perfect creative date idea for those who don’t mind getting their hands a little dirty. With locations in the Penthouse of the Baroque and Culver City, Bitter Root Pottery relaxes the mind and soul as you use a wheel to create your own pots, bowls, vases and more. The group adult class lasts about two hours and includes step-by-step instructions so that you can get comfortable at the wheel as you let your creativity soar. Whether you’re on a first date or a 50th date, the rooftop views and laid-back ambiance make this a must-try.
Location: Various Locations
Make a Rug at Tufthouse LA
Looking to spruce up your home without splurging? Rugs tend to be pretty pricey, but Tufthouse LA offers a one-of-a-kind class that lets you make your own. This new school is dedicated to the art of rug making, and participants can create their own designs that fit their personal aesthetics at home. From your bathroom to your living room, every time you step on your rug you’ll be reminded of the epic date on which you made it. In addition to leaving with a sense of accomplishment, you also leave with a solid piece of home decor.
Location: Glendale
Visit The Broad
Immerse yourself in the world of art and illusion when you embark on a date to The Broad. Best of all, entry to The Broad is always free, making this a Los Angeles date idea that won’t break the bank. General admission tickets can be reserved a month in advance, but be sure to secure the Infinity Mirrored Room tickets as well. This immersive installation was created by Yayoi Kusama, and it’s without a doubt one of the most magical spots for a first kiss.
Location: DTLA
Swan Boat Ride at Echo Park Lake
Despite being just a couple of miles away from the heart of DTLA, Echo Park Lake feels like a slice of heaven in the middle of the city. Surrounded by a sprawling park of green grass, spending the afternoon at Echo Park Lake is the ultimate chill-yet-intentional Los Angeles date idea. Of course, no visit would be complete without a ride on one of the iconic swan pedal boats. For a truly romantic experience, book the nighttime pedal and take in the glowing city lights from your LED-lit boat as you cozy up under a warm blanket.
Location: Echo Park
Astra Lumina
Take your romantic walk to the next level when you visit Astra Lumina. This enchanting night stroll transports you to an entirely new world of ethereal lights and glowing orbs. As you turn each corner, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered a magical forest in the middle of the cosmos, and you’ll definitely want to take advantage of the many photo opportunities. Those hoping to impress their date with an unforgettable ambiance and atmosphere should reserve their tickets ASAP—they’re going quick!
Location: Palos Verdes
Sunset Horseback Riding at Sunset Ranch Hollywood
Nothing says romance like horseback riding at sunset. Thankfully, Sunset Ranch Hollywood takes care of all of the nitty-gritty details so you can live in the moment and make some memories. As you trot along the winding trails, take in epic views during the two-hour trail ride that includes a professional guide. From the San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, guests can enjoy a panoramic perspective of the city that is unlike any other. If you’re looking to fall in love, this is the date in Los Angeles to plan.
Location: Hollywood
Sender City Obstacle Course at Sender One LAX
Ready to send it? Sender One is the ultimate date night destination for the adrenaline-junkie couple. This interactive climbing center lets you face your fears as you navigate a variety of obstacle courses and activities. The Sender City Obstacle Course is the most popular, featuring treacherous towers, rock climbing, steep slides and plenty more. All you need to do is learn the basics of belaying and wear your favorite close-toed shoes and you’ll be ready for a Los Angeles date night that is sure to get your heart pumping.
Location: Lennox
Couples Sesh at Pause Wellness Studio
Treat your love to a little R&R by booking a treatment at Pause Wellness Studio. With locations all across the city from West Hollywood to Venice, Pause Studio is never too far away. Start by booking a private plunge room for two, which features a high-quality infrared sauna and cold plunge bath for contrast therapy. Then, end the evening in your own float tanks and feel your worries melt away as you experience the weightlessness of a saltwater float.
Location: Various LA locations
Retro Romance at Player One Arcade Bar
Got a gamer girlfriend? Player One Arcade Bar is a funky and retro hotspot located in North Hollywood. Whether you’re a Dance Dance Revolution pro or like to keep things simple and classic with a couple of rounds of Mario Kart, Player One Arcade Bar has it all. Unleash your inner child as you run around the 5,4000 square-foot arcade with an ice-cold beer in hand. You can also order an array of cocktails, hard seltzers and more to eliminate any date night jitters.
Location: North Hollywood
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
