Whether you’re a new couple, long married, or something in between, the Pacific Surfliner is your gateway to dates that take romance to the next level. From onboard fun, to strolls in scenic parks, to intimate outdoor movie nights, join us as we explore a few of the most romantic train trips and date ideas for couples in Southern California.
Date Ideas in Southern California
Date Ideas in Santa Barbara - Botanic Gardens
Hand-in-hand strolls through enchanting displays of native California plants, trees, and flowers? Yes please! A trip to the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens is a sure way to grow your love in all the right ways. Enjoy 5 miles of easy walking trails as you wander through a living museum of the Golden State’s varying biomes, from inland desert to redwood forests. If the gardens inspire a picnic-y mood, these lush grounds offer plenty of romantic spots to lay out a blanket and share snacks or people watch to your heart’s content.
How to Get There: The Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens are a 15-minute Uber or Lyft from the Santa Barbara Station.
Date Ideas in San Diego - The Prado at Balboa Park & Cinema Under the Stars
Located in San Diego’s Balboa Park, love is always in the air at The Prado at Balboa Park. There’s something about the Spanish architecture, fragrant flowers, and award-winning menu that’s simply irresistible! Grab a table inside the charming historic building, or dine al fresco on their outdoor patio. Then, get ready to treat your taste buds to a delicious culinary journey, complete with fine wines and signature cocktails. When you’re finishing eating, there’s always plenty more of Balboa Park for you to explore together.
You’ve heard of al fresco dining; now get ready for al fresco film! At Cinema Under the Stars in San Diego, you and your sweetheart can catch a movie in a unique open-air movie theater, complete with a heated patio, comfy seats, and all the blankets, space heaters, and other amenities you need to get cozy.
How to Get There: Balboa Park is a 5-minute Uber or Lyft from the San Diego Santa Fe Depot; Cinema Under the Stars is a 6-minute Uber or Lyft from San Diego’s Old Town Station.
Date Ideas in Los Angeles - Hauser & Wirth Downtown Los Angeles
Artsy couples, this one is for you! The Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles sets the stage for a perfect date full of culture and creativity. We highly recommend checking out Hauser & Wirth Downtown Los Angeles, an arts complex housed in a beautifully restored flour mill. Hauser & Wirth connects people through an ever-rotating selection of cutting-edge exhibitions, public gatherings, and immersive galleries designed to spark dialogue and inspire creativity in us all. From thought-provoking installations to interactive events, there’s plenty to explore and experience together.
When you’re ready for a bite, head over to the on-site restaurant, Manuela, for fresh, seasonal dishes and creative cocktails shaken and/or stirred to perfection.
Extend the adventure by exploring the myriad breweries, cafes, bars, and arcades of the Arts District, or stop by the Los Angeles Institute of Contemporary Art for even more thought-provoking, art-fueled fun!
How to Get There: The Los Angeles Arts District is about a 10-minute Uber or Lyft from Los Angeles Union Station.
Date Ideas in Camarillo - Premium Outlets
Who says shopping can’t be romantic? At the Camarillo Premium Outlets, you can wander through over 150 brand-name and designer stores, hunting for deals, picking out outfits for each other, or finding the perfect gift to surprise your sweetheart. For a twist, dare to set a shopping challenge—who can find the best outfit under a set budget? You can also test each other’s tastes by picking out something unexpected for your boo, and spending the rest of the day in your new clothes!
Between laughs and fashion choices, kick back, refuel, and enjoy a relaxed lunch or coffee break at one of the many eateries located at the Outlets.
How to Get There: The Camarillo Premium Outlets are a 5-10-minute Uber or Lyft from the Camarillo Amtrak Station.
Date Ideas in San Juan Capistrano - Mission San Juan Capistrano & Los Rios Historic District
If you and your date are history-lovers, look no further than the scenic getaway of San Juan Capistrano for a perfect romantic day out. Start your journey at the iconic Mission San Juan Capistrano, known affectionately as the “Jewel of the California Missions.” Explore its beautifully preserved grounds, including abundant gardens, ancient adobe buildings, and the remains of the Great Stone Church, built way back in 1797.
Next, treat yourselves to a stroll through the nearby Los Rios Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in California! Its tree-lined streets, quaint cafes, and boutique shops set the perfect scene for a leisurely afternoon exploring the best of this charming city.
How to Get There: Both the Mission and the Los Rios Historic District are a short walk (less than 5-minutes!) from the San Juan Capistrano Station.
Date Ideas On Board the Pacific Surfliner
We all know the destination is important, but it doesn’t hurt if the journey is nice too, right? You and your boo will find plenty to do on board the Pacific Surfliner— here are just a few ways you can pass the time together on your way to romantic escapades.
Get Your Game On
A little friendly competition is the cornerstone of all great relationships, don’t you think? Bring your favorite game (please, no Twister!) or load up a co-op game on your chosen device, and you’ll be on track to pass the hours in style.
Treat Yourselves
Don’t let your sweetheart get hangry! Treat yourselves to a stop at the onboard Market Café for sandwiches, snacks, and beverages, including delicious local products from top California breweries and wineries.
Tune In, Together
Sometimes, it’s the simple things that mean the most. Start up a shared listening session with your favorite playlist, podcast, or audiobook (or do it the old-fashioned way via shared earbuds), and let those sweet sounds be the backdrop for your romantic journey.
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That perfect date you’ve been dreaming of? It’s just a train ride away. From stunning romantic destinations to onboard moments you’ll never forget, the Pacific Surfliner offers a totally unbeatable way to connect with the one you love.
Ready for your romantic getaway? Book your train tickets here!