San Marino is an affluent and historic enclave in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in Los Angeles County, California. It is one of the most exclusive communities in Southern California. San Marino is famous for its Georgian-style mansions, lush gardens, breathtaking views, and well-manicured parks. It is a tranquil neighborhood that is close to all the buzzing amenities of the greater Los Angeles area.
1. San Marino parks and places for a walk on a first date
San Marino is home to some of the best parks and gardens in the area, providing the perfect setting for a romantic walk with your date. Lacy Park is one of the most popular parks in the area, boasting a lake, rose garden, terraced lawns, and paths for a leisurely stroll. San Marino also has six additional parks—Valley Hunt Club Park, San Marino City Park, San Marino Motor Classic, San Marino Community Church Park, Santa Anita Park, and San Gabriel Park—that provide plenty of outdoor activities and beautiful views of San Gabriel Valley.
2. Places for a coffee date in San Marino
For a more casual date, there are plenty of places to grab a cup of coffee in San Marino. San Gabriel Valley Coffee is a cozy cafe near Lacy Park with all sorts of pastries and coffee drinks for you and your date to enjoy. You can also check out the Downey Street Café, or the French-inspired Café Parisien. For something a bit fancier, the Mission Street Pantry offers gourmet creations and a variety of teas in a cozy setting.
3. San Marino galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
For those who want to experience some culture on their date, there are several galleries and museums to visit in San Marino. The Huntington Library, Art Gallery, and Botanical Gardens is a must-see, with its vast collection of rare books and art, as well as its beautiful gardens. The San Marino History Museum offers an insight into the city’s past, and the San Marino Chinese School Museum offers an interesting look at the city’s Chinese heritage.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in San Marino
Live music and entertainment also provide an exciting and unique way to spend a date in San Marino. The Crowell Public Library features live music performances in its Great Hall, while the recently remodeled Art Center in San Marino offers regular concerts, plays, and other performances. The San Marino Summer Concerts at the San Marino Community Church Park are a great way to enjoy live music in a stunning outdoor setting.
5. San Marino pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
San Marino is full of great places to grab a drink or a bite to eat with your date. The Mission Street Pantry offers a variety of craft beers, wines and spirits), as well as gourmet-style cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. The San Marino Grill is a great spot for traditional Italian cuisine, or you can opt for a more modern setting at the 89 Agave Kitchen & Tequila Bar. The San Marino Wine Bar & Café is a great place to enjoy a casual evening with your date.
6. Other date ideas to try in San Marino
If you are looking for something a bit different, there are plenty of other date options in San Marino. The San Marino Motor Classic is a spectacular event for car enthusiasts, and the San Marino Bike Tour takes you on a cycling adventure around the area. The galleries and museums offer a great opportunity to explore the city’s culture, and the San Marino Real Estate Showcase is an interesting way to get to know the local real estate market. Additionally, San Marino is home to plenty of boutique shopping and fine dining options.
