Planning a romantic, meaningful and memorable Valentine’s Day date can be stressful. What vibe should you go for? Will a fancy dinner woo your partner? Or is a casual paint-and-sip event more your speed?
For inspiration, here’s a trio of fun date-night combo ideas. Plus, 10 more downtown San Diego events for couples, singles and/or Galentine’s celebrators to enjoy.
Date 1: Coastal Romance
In a city known for its coastal charm, it’s only right to start the most romantic day of the year on City Cruises’ luxe brunch cruise. As a part of the cruise package, you and your date will enjoy a brunch buffet, bottomless mimosas and live music. Not to mention stunning panoramic views of the San Diego skyline.
After enjoying the two-hour cruise (and possibly reenacting the “Jack, I’m flying!” scene from Titanic), spend the rest of your evening strolling through Seaport Village, where a “Love is in the Air” theme will be embraced with sweetheart light tunnels, a live DJ and something from Seaport Fudge for dessert.
Date 2: Dance The Night Away
After the sun sets, you and your date can let your bodies do the talking at Quartyard’s Salsa Under the Stars event. There will be live Latin music by The Manny Cepeda Orchestra Quartet. Happy hour features a $6 margarita and 2 for $6 Mexican candy shots. If you work up an appetite, El Comal will be offering a $22 buffet-style dinner. The best part of this event: Admission is free! Just RSVP online to reserve a spot.
For a nightcap and sweet treat, swing by Extraordinary Desserts in Little Italy before 9 p.m. to immerse yourself in The Love Den popup. Share love-inspired desserts and drinks against the lush, floral backdrop of the space. Commemorate the romance and intimacy of your date night at the den’s Instagram photo wall.
Date 3: Open Your Heart (Chakras)
A successful relationship is all about flexibility, especially at Cielo Rooftop Lounge’s Valentine’s Partner Yoga Class. In this late morning practice, you’ll flow through poses aimed at opening your heart chakras. After the class, you and your boo will share a champagne toast to love and self-care.
To continue with a day of mindfulness and growth, head over to Balboa Park for Mingei International Museum’s Stitch Together – Patchwork workshop. Develop a new skill with your partner as you learn the techniques of stitching and indigo. This event is meant to be beginner-friendly and fun. The goal is to express yourself through creativity.
Since you’re already at Mingei International Museum, stop by their restaurant, ARTIFACT, for a special Valentine’s dinner. ARTIFACT’s craft cooking is inspired by ancient recipes and methods. The restaurant could be considered an experiential exhibit. And, since it’s Valentine’s Day, no one will judge you for playing footsie under the table.
OTHER VALENTINE’S DAY HAPPENINGS
Saint Valentino Gondola Cruises
Daytime or nighttime private cruise through the canals of the Coronado Cays. Includes a single red rose and box of See’s chocolates. Bottles of wine and bubbly are available for purchase. More info
Valentine’s Day San Diego Singles Club Crawl
Includes free entry, drink specials and express admission to American Junkie, Double Deuce, Good Night John Boy and Parq. More info
Dueling Hearts at The Shout! House
Dueling live piano performances. A date night package includes a private table, bottle of prosecco and romantic decor. If you’re ready to tie the knot, piano player James Martinez is an ordained officiant and can perform a spontaneous “shout-gun” wedding on the spot (with the necessary paperwork, of course). More info
Havana Nights Galentine’s Event
Girls’ night out at the immersive, Cuban-inspired Havana 1920. Live music, tray-passed bocaditos and liquor tasters all included for free when you RSVP online. More info
Valentine’s Day Paint and Sip
Guided painting at Cielo Rooftop Lounge. Couples package includes paint, canvases and a bottle of wine. A three-course dinner is also available after the event. More info
Going Dutch, presented by Don’t Tell Comedy at Nason’s Beer Hall
Performance that blends stand-up comedy with live dating advice at Nason’s Beer Hall inside the Pendry Hotel. Comedians will answer questions written in from the audience, creating an interactive experience. More info
Scissor Skills: Love Bird Valentine’s Day Cards
Craft session for kids aged 5 through 8 at the Central Library. All materials provided for kids to create unique Valentine’s cards for family and friends. More info
Singles Night at Ginger’s
Two specialty cocktails will be available: the “Hot to Go” (Jameson Irish Whiskey, Red Hots cinnamon syrup. bitters, candy hearts) and the “Love Me Love Me Not” (Sainte Marguerite Cote de Provence Rose, rose water, sparkling water, bubbles). Three-course dining menu also available upstairs at barleymash. More info
Valentine’s Day Motown Tribute with The Bearded Pianist at El After Social Club. (Courtesy photo)
Motown classics are the soundtrack to a soulful evening of romance. A glass of champagne is complimentary upon entry. Food and drink specials are available all night long. More info
Valentine’s Day Luau at The Smoking Gun
This event promises that everyone will get lei’d. Specialty cocktails and snacks available. Festivities include the bar’s ping pong table, pool table, shuffleboard and full size arcade. More info SDSun
