More Unique Valentine's Day Date Ideas For the Southland

Need a one-stop round-up for out-of-the-box date ideas for Valentine's Day in Los Angeles? Well, here it is.
Whatever you decide to do - something romantic and fancy, creative and funny, or artsy and daring, we hope you enjoy your Valentine's Day. Remember, these date ideas aren't just for one day of the year. Remember to show your special someone that you care all throughout the year. Happy Valentine's Day!

LOOKING FOR ADVENTURE?

Some people love that thrill. If your significant other likes that rush of adrenaline, why not take her/him on a Hot Air Balloon Ride? Napa Valley has many of these but for something more local, try checking out the hot air balloons in Temecula. Want to up the ante? Why not a Helicopter Ride to see the coast and mountains of Southern California? Up the ante more? Jump out of a perfectly good plane! Sky Diving together will definitely be on that list of unforgettable experiences. If that is too much of a thrill, try indoor skydiving instead. If you are looking for cheaper and not-so-scary thrills, go to your nearest amusement parks such as Six Flags, Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm in Southern California. Scream in unison as you suddenly drop from great heights on those the roller coasters.

GET ARTSY

If you want to do something artsy, Los Angeles has many beautiful museums, gardens and centers to visit that would be perfect for a date. There are always new and exciting exhibits that rotate fairly often at places like LACMA and the Getty Museum. Get educated on the arts as you impress your date on your creativeness for thinking of this date idea in the first place. Not into museums? Head on over to the Huntington Library and walk through the exquisite roses and other flower gardens. It is a gorgeous site to see especially around this time of year. There are numerous parks and recreational centers that you can visit together.

TAKE CENTER STAGE

Southern California has many theaters and shows. If your date has never been to an opera or classical orchestra performance, be the first person to take her/him to one. Los Angeles and Orange County is home to the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Segerstrom Center of the Arts, the Pantages Theatre, the Hollywood Bowl and many more similar venues. You are sure to find a show that your date would enjoy watching with you. Looking for something more magical? Iris by Cirque du Soleil is playing at the Kodak Theater. See aerial performances and contortionists in this modern day circus. The Magic Castle is right up the street as well if magic shows are what you are looking for. Or how about taking your date to a comedy club? There are many improv comedy clubs in Southern California and she/he would enjoy the laughs.

LOVE DON'T COST A THING

Who said you had to break the bank to have a memorable date? There are many cost free or more affordable date ideas as well. With the wonderful SoCal weather we typically enjoy, hiking is an excellent outdoor activity you can both enjoy. Pick a hiking trail along the Pacific Coast Highway like the one at Top of the World Park or at Griffith Park. While you are in that area, check out the Griffith Observatory for free and watch the sunset or the city lights at night. Take your date out on a picnic at the beach or local park. All you need is a blanket, basket of snacks and a bottle of wine to romance it up. Griffith Park and the Getty Museum are beautiful places to setup your romantic picnic date. If you are a couple that always goes out on dates, why not stay in this time and make it a DVD night? Cook for one another or for each other. Dim the lights, get those candles lit and turn on the slow jams.

BEST WAY TO THE HEART IS THROUGH THE STOMACH

Does your date love food? Like LOVE food and drinks? Many restaurants prepare pre-fixe menus that are especially made for Valentine's Day. Many menus feature aphrodisiacs in their dishes. *wink wink* Find out what your date's favorite cuisine is and pick out a restaurant. If you want to be a bit more creative, call the restaurant and ask if they can seat you at the Chef's Table or Chef's Counter where you can see all the culinary action. It is the best seat in the house! If the chef is open to doing it and is not busy (try going before or after the actual date for Valentine's Day), ask if they can prepare a tasting menu for you. This is a unique way of tasting smaller portions and having several courses. Most of the time, these dishes are not available on the regular menu. Make your date feel extra special that way. Another date idea is to shop at your local Farmer's Market together. The Farmer's Market is fun and helps to support your local economy. Look for fresh produce and ingredients to use together. Make it a fun activity then use what you purchased to cook your special someone a nice brunch, lunch or dinner.