Studies show that the secret to happiness is spending money on experiences, not things—and that’s especially true when you’re talking Valentine’s Day. Flowers and chocolates are sweet, and a romantic dinner is always a win, but if you want to make lasting memories with your love, try an unexpected experience. If you're in need of a little extra inspiration, check out these cupid-approved experiences across the state, listed north to south.
Take Part in an Epic Pillow Fight in San Francisco
San Francisco’s Justin Herman Plaza becomes the site of a battle royale for the pillow-packing set with the annual unofficial, unsponsored, and unsanctioned Great San Francisco Pillow Fight. Held each year on Valentine’s Day, it’s open to everyone and starts at 5:50 p.m. (but no hitting until the clock strikes 6). A few miles north on the Embarcadero, the Exploratorium will take you on a tour of the procreation proclivities of the world outside of humans on its Sexplorations After Dark event on Thursday, Feb. 15. Check out these other events and things to do throughout the city.
Create Old-School Romance in Concord
The East Bay town of Concord is a quick hop from San Francisco, and has a lot of home-grown charm. Share a flight of craft beers at the buzzy Epidemic Ales, or enjoy a stroll through the manicured rose garden at Markham Nature Park & Arboretum. In the run-up to the holiday, if you’re looking for a romantic gift, stop by the Super Valentine’s Boutique on February 4. And of course, there’s that most classic of date activities: Snuggle up for a movie at the West Wind Drive-In, a retro delight where you can watch new releases with the sound streaming to your car radio.
Explore Channel Islands National Park
Make your lover’s heart beat faster with an all-day adventure through the country’s most isolated national park just off the coast of Santa Barbara. Start the morning with a ferry ride (watch for dolphins) before kayaking through hidden sea caves and snorkeling next to sea lions.
Hop Aboard the River Fox Train in Yolo County
On Valentine’s Day, you and your partner can enjoy a romantic dinner and listen to timeless love songs on the Valentine’s Day Train. In the mood to splurge? Upgrade to the VIP package, which will put you in the high-top car with upgraded Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries.
Get Cheeky in Los Angeles
If roses and a box of chocolates aren't your style, good news—Los Angeles has plenty of other events, from symphony performances to horror burlesque to Mexican wrestling, as well as super chic Valentine's Day dining specials. Head to Grand Park for the evening Lovers Rock event, which will feature live music, a pop-up art gallery, paint-your-own-cookie kits, food trucks, a photobooth, and more. Feel like celebrating in the midst of priceless works of art? Team up with your number one for an R-rated scavenger hunt with Naked at The Getty. Answer questions about the museum's clothing-optional paintings and sculptures for a chance to win some artful swag.
Go on a Date-Date in Palm Springs
The oasis-like area around Palm Springs is full of old-school romance. Take your date on a date for a date at the Shields Date Garden in Indio. Hold hands in the shaded garden, cheers with a refreshing date shake, and watch the sweet film, Romance and Sex Life of the Date. A girl can’t live on dried fruit alone, so make a reservation at restaurants and clubs offering holiday deals such as Michael Holmes’ Purple Room and Lulu California Bistro, or play nine holes with your sweetheart at Indian Wells’ Couples on Course Valentine’s special.
Whale Watch—with Wine—in Orange County
Immerse yourselves in sweeping scenery and check out majestic creatures at Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. Explore the Orange County coastline with your love, searching for dolphins, whales, and sea lions, as you sip on four varieties of organic wine
Soak Up Art in San Diego
Art lovers, this one’s for you. Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Museum of Art is featuring guided tours of the most romantic pieces in its collection. After the tour wraps, you’ll relax with a picnic basket dinner (complete with Champagne) at neighboring Panama 66. But why let the celebration stop there? Check out other off-the-beaten-path ideas for the perfect San Diego V-day weekend.
Looking for even more ideas? Check out 8 Romantic Escapes for 8 Kinds of Couples.