
Los Angeles brings a bevy of choice to the table in terms of both fun and functional Valentines Day activities. Los Angeles is a laid-back, flip-flops and shorts kind of town with champagne and caviar tastes. It's also one of the most romantic places on the planet, which makes it a great place to celebrate Valentine's Day. From the simplicity of a walk along the beach or a horseback ride through the mountains to the luxury of a sunset helicopter tour or a diamond-studded exploration of the Jewelry District, there's something to suit everyone's romantic sensibilities and budget in my guide to Valentine's Day in Los Angeles. From romantic double dates courtside at the Staples Center to carefully executed wining and dining good times, there's a plethora of things to do here in February. From theatre dates to romps in the park, there's something for every price point and every sect of recreation. Wherever you go, and whatever you do, be sure you don't forget the Valentines Day roses or flowers!
1. Take a Zeppelin Air Tour
Take an air tour over Los Angeles in the only airship in the US licensed for commercial passenger transport, Airship Ventures' Zeppelin Eureka. It's not private, but there are only 12 passengers per flight, with plenty of room to move around and enjoy the views out the large picture windows. All seats have a window for viewing so no one gets stuck sidelined. The sunset flight is most romantic for couples; this trip is also great fun for a gaggle of girlfriends on the big V-Day. Trip costs vary but are pretty pricey.
2. DTox Day Spa Couples Romance Package
Give the
gift of relaxation with a spa gift. The Spa changes the included services each year; in years past they've had couples hot stone massage, relaxing facials, and more! First you and Romeo (or Juliet) warm up in the steam room in matching robes, then get treated to mud baths, therapeutic massage, manicures and more! This is perfect for couples or for a pair of girlfriends! Relatively expensive, the treatments run from $90 to $200 each.
3. Score One at Lucky Strike Lanes
The famous bowling alley has a bevy of things to do for Valentines of all shapes and sizes. The "Be My Valentine" Bash features music, food, fun and bowling for couples or singles, so whether you're single and want to mingle or taken and want to cuddle, this will prove to be fun. Enjoy the usual haunts at Lucky Strike plus the bar that's featuring the latest in modern mixology, including cocktails rimmed with Pop Rocks! Make-up artist and more surprises also on board! This is a fairly cheap date night – actually, it's uber-affordable for everyone.
4. Disneyland for Two (or More)
Okay, so it is a "kiddie park," but what's NOT fun about Disneyland? And who cant NOT be in a good mood while there? A day's admission rounds out at a cool $30 but come prepared to buy snacks and drinks, plus play a few games! This is a great idea for families on Valentines and for groups of friends.
5. Take a Romantic Gondola Ride
You don't have to travel to Italy to take a romantic gondola ride. There are several locations in Southern California where you can get serenaded to as you're guided along calm inland waterways. Bundle up for a Valentine's Day ride. It's cold out on the water, providing a good excuse to cuddle. This is on the more affordable side of V-Day jaunts.
6. Romantic Beach Walks
Almost everyone loves long walks on the beach and finds walking on the beach romantic, even if you're the kind of person who would rather walk on the paved beach path than get your feet sandy. This one should almost be a given for any couple visiting Los Angeles. After all, with over 80 miles of coastline, the beach is one of LA's Top Attractions.
7. Sunset Champagne Flight over Los Angeles
If the Zeppelin flight isn't in the budget, a private
Sunset Champagne Helicopter Flight is another option. You can book the flight on its own, or fly to a romantic dinner! This 55-minute tour flies over Long Beach, the Queen Mary, the port, Palos Verde Peninsula and up the coast over the beach cities to Pacific Palisades, then inland over Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Dodger Stadium and Downtown LA. Hotel or airport pick-up or champagne and hors d'oeuvres can be added on. This Valentines option is for the more padded of wallets.
8. Dinner For Two
LA has a million and one famous restaurants to choose from for a Valentines Dinner for two. Check out Morton's LA, la Boheme, Bungalow Club, and Cliff's Edge. All have different fare, rousing drink specials, and require reservations in advance. Also, they vary in price but plan to spend at least $200 for two, including drinks.