Regular date nights play a significant role in a happy relationship, even for those who are already married. For married couples, benefits of dating range from satisfactory communication to a stronger romantic spark and even boosted commitment to one another, a 2022 YouGov survey for the Institute for Family Studies and the Wheatley Institute revealed. Dinner and a movie has long been a timeless option for date night, though it can become rather mundane quite quickly. For those who are located in (or headed towards) California, there are a wealth of opportunities for a creative and memorable experience—especially for couples in search of a new and unique date night concept.
Famous Film Sites
For couples who enjoy watching films together, a visit to as-seen-on-film locations can be a great way to bond over a shared interest in a fun and unique way, especially when the goal is to go beyond the classic movie date night. Thankfully, California is chock full of destinations that can be found in favorite films. Visit California highlights several classic locations that can make for a worthwhile visit. These range from Big Bear Lake, which was featured in Elvis Presley’s 1964 classic Kissin’ Cousins, to the Griffith Observatory, which was featured in La La Land (as well as Rebel Without a Cause), Visit California points out. For a truly tailored experience, couples can prepare for a film-focused trip with a curated list of destinations from favorite films beforehand (a date night of binge-watching, for instance, can be the perfect way to do this together). Couples who enjoy movies can further supplement a trip to California with classic Hollywood-esque attractions, from a photo opportunity with the iconic Hollywood sign to a tour of the historic Warner Bros. Studio.
Outdoor Adventures in Sausalito and Marin County
While many couples may stick to hot-spot tourist destinations like Los Angeles or San Francisco, cities throughout California have plenty to offer, too. Located in Marin County, Sausalito has a variety of activities, especially for couples who appreciate the great outdoors. According to the Visit Sausalito website, the Marin Headlands are just one option for fresh air. The Marin Headlands feature scenic coastline, views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and popular hiking trails, though it’s far from the only thing to visit in Sausalito. Other attractions highlighted by Visit Sausalito, for instance, include art walks and galleries, historic tours of the city, and a cruise of the San Francisco Bay.
Couples who wish to extend their Cali trip may wish to stay overnight or even for the weekend, especially for those who may wish to venture to nearby San Francisco while in town. Sausalito hotels present a variety of comfortable options that are perfect for couples who need to rest and recharge, whether for a night or a full weekend. The Inn Above Tide, for example, is just one unique luxury option that provides visitors with panoramic views on the San Francisco Bay. Equipped with private decks and views of Angel Island and the city skyline, the Inn Above Tide is centrally located to a variety of locations like shops and galleries that are perfect for a bonus mini-date. Downtown, on the other hand, Hotel Sausalito & Suites is another conveniently located option for those who wish to escape after a full day. With a charming aesthetic that features prominent artwork, the accommodation is also located near activities like bike trails and art galleries.
Touring Haunted Los Angeles
Couples who wish for a new date night idea that is truly off the beaten track, may wish to indulge in a bit of haunted California history, and there are no shortage of locations to discover. One Time Out article highlights several haunted locations that can be found throughout Los Angeles, one of which includes the Queen Mary in Long Beach. While the ship began its life as a luxury liner, it was put to use in World War II to shuttle troops to battle areas, Time Out explains. Today, the ship is in retirement —- though claims of disembodied voices and chains rattling certainly bring the spook factor for those who wish to take a tour. Other haunted L.A. attractions include the Hollywood Wax Museum, the Cecil Hotel, Pantages Theatre, and even The Comedy Store for those who wish to plan a full day or two of exploration.
Couples who find themselves in the Golden State have a variety of options beyond the typical date night of dinner and a movie. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities together or want something truly off the beaten track like a tour of haunted L.A., there are a wealth of options to be found in the Golden State.
MORE ON THE FLASH LIST
