Romantic Things to Do in LA: 20 Ways to Fall in Love with the City (and Your Plus-One)

Los Angeles has a way of making even the most practical people crave a little cinematic romance; the kind with city lights twinkling below and an ocean breeze that somehow makes everything feel like a scene from a movie.

Between rooftop dinners, scenic overlooks, and offbeat adventures, romantic things to do in Los Angeles aren’t hard to find; they’re just hard to narrow down.

From rooftop cocktails in Downtown to secret gardens in the Hollywood Hills, romantic things to do in LA are equal parts luxurious and laid-back, just like the people who fall in love here.

Ready to plan a date so good it’ll make every other couple on Instagram jealous? Keep reading—because LA romance is about to raise the bar!

Dine Above the City: Romantic Restaurants with a View

71Above

Perched 71 floors high above the City of Angels, 71Above is a full-blown sensory event. Every table in the sleek dining room has panoramic views stretching from the mountains to the Pacific, making it one of the best anniversary ideas Los Angeles could possibly serve. 

Expect refined modern American plates that look like they belong in an art gallery but taste like comfort in disguise. The mood lighting practically whispers, “Order dessert, you’ll regret it if you don’t.” 

Between the skyline glow and the quiet hum of happy diners, it’s the kind of dining experience that makes you forget time exists.

Perch

A romantic dinner at Perch feels like stumbling into a Parisian dream, if that dream also came with skyline views and great cocktails.

The vintage-meets-modern dining room oozes character, with glowing chandeliers, plush velvet chairs, and an open-air terrace that makes downtown look straight out of a postcard. 

On weekends, live music fills the air, adding just enough ambiance to make conversation feel like a scene from a rom-com. The French-inspired menu keeps things light but indulgent—think truffle fries, duck, and a wine list that basically insists you order a second glass. 

Between the clinking glasses and the sunset hues, Perch is one of those LA spots where time slows down and your phone stays forgotten in your bag. If you’re the kind of couple who loves good food and even better views, this is your date-night jackpot.

Yamashiro Hollywood

Few places pull off romance quite like Yamashiro Hollywood, where koi ponds, lantern-lit gardens, and skyline views set the stage for a flawless date night. It’s a go-to for any special occasion, whether you’re celebrating love, life, or simply surviving another week in LA traffic. 

The menu blends sushi and Cal-Asian flavors that are as beautiful as they are delicious, with cocktails that belong on your Instagram feed. The ambiance is a rare balance of luxe and laid-back. You can dress up, but you’ll still feel comfortable enough to laugh between bites. 

Sitting under the pagoda-style roof while the city twinkles below feels like escaping to another world, minus the jet lag. For couples chasing a mix of elegance and serenity, Yamashiro Hollywood is practically relationship therapy in restaurant form.

The Rooftop by JG

If your love language involves panoramic skylines and craft cocktails, The Rooftop by JG was built for you. Located atop the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, this garden-style oasis offers breathtaking views of the city from every angle, especially once those twinkling lights start showing off after dark. 

The vibe is upscale but unpretentious, perfect for couples who like their luxury with a side of calm. The menu leans toward seasonal New American fare, and every bite reminds you why Jean-Georges is, well, award winning. 

Service is attentive without being overbearing, which makes lingering over dessert almost mandatory. Whether you’re toasting a milestone or just pretending you are, The Rooftop by JG turns every dinner into a story worth retelling.

Chase the Sunset: Scenic Spots Made for Two

Griffith Observatory

There’s something wildly romantic about watching the sun dip behind the skyline from Griffith Observatory, especially after completing the Griffith Observatory Hike – Guided Walking Tour.

Perched high on Mount Hollywood, this classic LA landmark offers panoramic views that stretch from the ocean to the Hollywood Sign, making it the ultimate golden-hour date spot.

As couples gather along the terrace, the sky puts on its nightly show—pink, gold, and lavender blending into the twinkling city below. The observatory itself is free to enter, so you can pop inside for a mini astronomy lesson before heading back out for the real stars overhead. 

Pro Tip: Pack a light jacket, a sense of wonder, and maybe a bottle of something bubbly if you’re feeling bold.

Marina del Rey Cruises

For couples who believe love belongs on the water, Marina del Rey Cruises delivers pure seaside bliss. Take your pick between the Marina del Rey Premier Dinner Cruise for starlit elegance or the Marina del Rey Brunch Cruise for mimosas and morning sunshine. 

Both offer unbeatable ocean views and that gentle sway of the yacht that turns even the most casual outing into something cinematic. Dinner cruises feature multi-course meals, live DJs, and a backdrop of yachts gliding through the harbor. 

Brunch, on the other hand, keeps things breezy with bottomless bubbles and endless photo ops. Either way, this is romance at its smoothest, where the horizon meets your next favorite memory.

Pro Tip: For a unique twist on date night, Medieval Times Buena Park offers an immersive dining experience with candlelit vibes, dramatic battles, and just the right amount of over-the-top romance.

Universal City Overlook

If you want a view that feels like a secret but is easy to reach, the Universal City Overlook has you covered. It’s one of those under-the-radar Los Angeles date ideas that delivers major payoff for minimal effort.

No tickets, no long lines, just pure cityscape bliss. 

From this hilltop perch on Mulholland Drive, you can watch the San Fernando Valley light up as dusk settles in, with the mountains framing the horizon like a movie set. It’s ideal for spontaneous dates or post-dinner detours when you’re not quite ready for the night to end. 

Ascot Hills Park

Short hikes, rolling hills, and sweeping sunset views, oh my! Tucked within Los Angeles County, Ascot Hills Park is where nature and skyline romance collide. This underrated urban escape is perfect for couples who prefer a little adventure with their affection. 

As you climb the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panorama of Downtown LA and the surrounding mountains, glowing in the late-day light. It’s quieter and more private than Griffith Park, which makes it perfect for heart-to-hearts and handholding moments without the crowds. 

Bring a small picnic or just sit on the grass and watch the city exhale as the sun melts into the horizon. For a date that feels meaningful but effortless, Ascot Hills Park nails that balance beautifully.

Vista Hermosa Natural Park

Hidden right in Downtown LA, Vista Hermosa Natural Park is one of those secret romantic spots in Los Angeles that even locals brag about finding.

A winding trail leads to a grassy clearing and a single bench that perfectly frames the skyline with city lights flickering just as the sun sets behind them. 

It’s the kind of spot that feels stolen from a movie scene, quiet enough for whispers but bright enough for dreamy photos. Couples spread blankets, unpack cheese boards, and pretend the traffic below doesn’t exist. 

The best part? It’s totally free, making it one of LA’s most accessible romantic escapes!

Newport Beach Sunset Cruise

Few date ideas capture Southern California romance like the Newport Beach Sunset Cruise. Departing from the historic Balboa Pavilion, this 90-minute voyage serves up pastel skies, salty air, and the kind of stillness that makes couples lean a little closer.

As the sun sinks behind the coastline, the harbor glows gold and pink, and you’ll glide past beach houses and yachts straight out of an envy-inducing travel ad.

It’s casual enough for new couples but effortlessly elegant for longtime duos celebrating something special. 

Make It a Date to Remember: Creative and Adventurous LA Experiences

L.A. Cornell Building Pottery Classes

If you’ve ever wanted your own “Ghost” moment without the pottery disaster, the L.A. Cornell Building offers classes that are as fun as they are flirty.

It’s one of those romantic things to do in Los Angeles that turns simple clay into an unfiltered laugh fest, complete with a little competitive spirit and a lot of hand-holding. 

The instructors walk you through the basics, but the real magic happens when you and your partner start creating something together—messy, imperfect, and kind of adorable. You’ll leave with clay on your sleeves and a keepsake that actually means something. 

It’s affordable, easy to book, and perfect for couples who like an activity that sparks conversation and creativity.

Candlelight Performances

For couples craving that old-school elegance, Candlelight Concerts are the kind of experience that makes your regular date night feel suddenly underdressed.

These evenings, held in stunning venues across the city, combine classical and modern music played live by string quartets under hundreds of flickering candles. 

It’s easily one of the most magical romantic things to do in Los Angeles California, blending visual drama with emotional depth. Whether it’s a tribute to Taylor Swift or Vivaldi, you’ll find yourself completely absorbed in the glow and sound. 

The best part is how easy it feels. No stuffy dress codes or pretension, just pure atmosphere and intimacy.

As the lights dim and the first notes rise, it’s impossible not to fall a little harder for the music, and each other.

Black Rabbit Rose Magic

Step into a world of illusion and intrigue with Black Rabbit Rose Magic at Hudson Hollywood Apartments, a venue that proves date night doesn’t have to mean dinner and Netflix. This hidden gem combines a sultry cocktail lounge with intimate magic shows that flirt with your senses in all the right ways. 

It’s easily one of the most original romantic things to do in LA, where world-class magicians perform inches away while you sip craft cocktails that taste like smoke and mystery. The 55-minute show is adults-only and full of surprises, making it ideal for couples who love a bit of spectacle. 

Dress to impress, as it’s upscale without being uptight, and you’ll want to match the vibe.

Between the tricks, the mood lighting, and the electric buzz of the room, you’ll leave wondering what just happened, and wanting more.

LA’s Art Deco & Beaux Art Architecture: Private Walking Tour

Architecture and romance might not sound like an obvious pairing, but the LA’s Art Deco & Beaux Art Architecture: Private Walking Tour proves otherwise.

This guided stroll through the arts district and downtown landmarks is a love letter to LA’s past—glamorous buildings, vintage facades, and hidden design details that tell the city’s story. 

It’s a surprisingly intimate experience; you and your partner can wander hand in hand through marble lobbies and ornate courtyards straight out of the 1920s. Your expert guide adds fascinating history, but it’s the shared discovery that makes this tour special. 

Perfect for architecture buffs or couples who just love exploring together, it’s a fresh twist on the classic city date. Who knew that appreciating old buildings could feel this new?

Sunset Rooftop in Hollywood

If your dream date includes art, cocktails, and skyline views, Sunset Rooftop in Hollywood is about to become your go-to. Known for its “Sip, Smoke & Paint” nights, this event mixes painting, laughter, and city views into one perfectly balanced evening. 

It’s one of the best things to do in Los Angeles for couples who want to feel creative without needing to be, well, artistic.

The vibe is relaxed, the drinks flow freely, and the instructors keep things light, more like a friend guiding you through a masterpiece than a teacher grading your brushstrokes. 

Add in the DJ-curated playlist and twinkling skyline backdrop, and it’s basically date-night therapy with better lighting.

You’ll walk away with a canvas, some stories, and possibly paint on your sleeve, but who’s complaining?

The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood

For couples who prefer to dance their way into romance,  The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood delivers the perfect mix of rhythm and rooftop glamour.

Their weekly salsa, bachata, and kizomba socials turn date night into a full-blown event, complete with city views and a crowd that knows how to move. 

It’s one of those romantic things to do Los Angeles that gets your heart rate up in the best way. The vibe is friendly, the music infectious, and the setting (think sleek rooftop lounge meets lively Latin club) is pure energy. 

Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or simply faking confidence, no one’s judging because everyone’s too busy having fun.

Grab your partner, spin under the lights, and discover why dancing might just be LA’s most underrated love language!

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

For movie-loving couples, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood at 3400 Warner Blvd in Burbank is as close as you can get to stepping inside your favorite films. This behind-the-scenes experience lets you explore working soundstages, iconic backlots, and the sets from Friends and The Big Bang Theory.

You’ll ride through 110 acres of Hollywood history while learning how cinematic magic comes to life—making it one of LA’s most nostalgic date options. Couples can grab selfies at Central Perk or channel their inner superheroes in the DC Universe exhibit.

It’s a balance of entertainment and curiosity that sparks great conversation long after the tour ends. For anyone looking to mix fandom with romance, this tour is pure blockbuster material.

Universal Studios Hollywood

If your idea of love involves adrenaline, laughter, and shared popcorn, Universal Studios Hollywood at 100 Universal City Plaza in Universal City has you covered. This world-famous theme park combines movie magic with heart-pounding rides that make every moment feel like an action scene. 

Whether you’re screaming on Jurassic World or strolling hand in hand through Hogsmeade, it’s impossible not to feel connected here. Between the excitement and the nostalgia, it’s one of the most energizing date experiences in LA. 

Couples who play together stay together, right? End your day with the Studio Tour for that cinematic cherry on top. It’s everything a romantic adventure in LA should be.

Pro Tip: For couples who love a little thrill with their romance, Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles also makes for a surprisingly fun and playful date idea.

Secret Food Tours Los Angeles

Food is love language number one, and Secret Food Tours Los Angeles speaks it fluently. This guided culinary journey takes couples through some of the city’s tastiest neighborhoods, offering local insight and irresistible bites along the way. 

It’s an experience that goes beyond restaurants. You’ll discover hidden gems, learn foodie trivia, and share dishes you’ll both still talk about days later. From tacos to artisanal desserts, every stop feels like its own little date. 

The walking pace keeps things casual, the guides keep it funny and friendly, and the food? Let’s just say it’s relationship-strengtheningly good.

Los Angeles Bike Tours

Active couples, rejoice! Los Angeles Bike Tours are the perfect way to explore and connect at the same time.

Choose between the full-day Los Angeles: LA in a Day Electric Bike Tour, the scenic Sunburst Railbikes – Guided Rail Bike Tour, or the breezy Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour for a more coastal vibe. 

You can even opt for the LA Electric Bike Tour if you like the idea of gliding past traffic while still breaking a light sweat. Each route shows a different side of the city, from murals in the Arts District to beachside sunsets that practically glow. 

It’s active but not exhausting, educational but never boring; a win-win for couples who like adventure with a side of vitamin D.

Ready to Turn These Date Ideas Into Your Own LA Love Story?

From candlelit rooftops to coastal cruises, these romantic things to do in Los Angeles prove that the city’s sparkle isn’t just for the movies. Rather, it’s for anyone willing to chase a little magic.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a spontaneous Tuesday adventure, LA is overflowing with ways to fall in love all over again.

The best part? Planning your trip is easier than ever with vacation packages through Tripster, where you can bundle and save on Los Angeles attractions, shows, and hotels without the endless scrolling and price comparing.

You can curate your dream itinerary and know it’s all handled in one place. Whether you’re a local in need of a reset or a visitor ready for a romantic escape, these romantic things to do in LA make the city feel brand new.

So grab your partner, pack your sense of adventure, and let LA show you what romance really looks like!

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