Venice, California, is known as 'the cool hangout spot.' It's a laid-back and trendy beachfront community, with a laid-back atmosphere and lots of outdoor activities. The area is home to Venice Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Los Angeles, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you entertained. Venice is also home to many great restaurants, bars, and shops that are perfect for a romantic first date.
1. Venice Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
If you’re looking for a place to take a leisurely stroll with your date, Venice has plenty of great parks and places to explore. Take a walk down the Venice Boardwalk and explore the unique shops and restaurants. Or, if you’re looking for a more tranquil setting, take a stroll through the Venice Canals, and marvel at the beautiful architecture and lush greenery. For a slightly more strenuous activity, take a hike up to the top of Mt. Lee and take in the amazing views of the city.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Venice
For a laid-back and classic first date option, a coffee date is always a good choice. There are plenty of great cafes in Venice that offer a relaxing atmosphere and great coffee. Check out Hyperion Public for some excellent coffee and unique atmosphere, or Intelligentsia for a more intimate setting. If you’re looking for something a bit different, try Groundwork Coffee for organic and sustainable fair-trade coffee.
3. Venice Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
If you’re looking for a culturally stimulating date idea, Venice has plenty of galleries, museums and exhibitions to explore. The Venice Art Walls offers a rotating selection of outdoor art installations, while the Venice Skate Park can be a fun way to explore the city. The L.A. Louver is a modern art gallery, while the Venice Japanese Garden is a tranquil and peaceful escape. Or if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, the Venice Street Circus provides a unique and entertaining experience.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Venice
Venice is a great place to check out some live music and entertainment. The Head-On Comedy Club offers a great variety of stand-up comedy acts, while The Trip provides a unique atmosphere for a night of music and dancing. The Venice Beach Music Fest is a great place to hear some local bands, and The California Soul Festival is a great place to enjoy some soulful music.
5. Venice Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For a classic bar and restaurant option, Venice has plenty of great pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from. Check out Abbot’s Habit for craft beer and classic American fare, or The Brig for classic cocktails and a variety of small plates. If you’re looking for something more upscale, try The Butcher’s Daughter for farm-fresh organic food, or The Tasting Kitchen for modern Californian cuisine.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Venice
If you’re looking for something a bit different, Venice has a variety of other date ideas to offer. Take a romantic bike ride along the Venice Beach Bike Path, or catch a movie at the historic Sidewalk Cinema. Or, go for a surf lesson at the Venice Beach Surf School. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, take a kayak tour through the Venice Canals, or take a stand up paddle board lesson. No matter what type of date you’re looking for, Venice has plenty of ways to make it special.
