The Best Valentine’s Dates in Orange County

I used to be a Valentine’s Day cynic, absolutely certain that this day for lovebirds was created by Hallmark to fill the void in between Christmas and the avalanche of “Mother’s Day/Father’s Day” cards. The reality is that Valentine’s Day is a wonderful time to celebrate love and friendship! Although, it can be VERY stressful.  If you are overwhelmed, or frozen in fear trying to plan the perfect date night, take a deep breath, and relax. Nerdy Sober Hipsters has got you covered with the BEST date night ideas for you and your sweetheart.  

Romantic Dinner at the Aquarium of the Pacific 

When: February 14th at 7 PM

Cost: $84.00 per person, includes admission and a 3-course dinner

Did you know that Emperor Penguins mate for life?! The male penguin presents the female penguin with a prized pebble as his declaration of love.  Serious relationship goals.  Events at The Aquarium of the Pacific are an amazing one of a kind experience.  My boyfriend and I spent New Year’s Eve at the aquarium and had the time of our lives (especially watching the penguins do fun underwater acrobatics)!  For Valentine’s Day they will be opening their venue to the public, and couples get to see lots of exhibits while enjoying a three-course dinner of salad, salmon, mushroom risotto, roasted vegetables and a surprise sweetheart dessert.  

Evening Gondola Ride at “Gondola Getaway”

When: February 11th – 15th

Cost: $170.00 per couple

The Gondola Getaway Valentine’s Day package includes a romantic evening gondola ride through the beautiful Naples Canals in Long Beach.  Each package also includes a long-stemmed rose, chocolate covered strawberries and a unique framed photo to commemorate the evening.  We enjoyed the Gondola Getaway during Christmas.  They do allow you to bring Hot Cocoa or coffee and provide blankets if it is a chilly evening!  

Sunset Horseback Riding Adventure

When: Feb. 9th – 18th

Where: Silver Stirrup Riding Academy in Lake Forrest

Cost: $185.00 All Inclusive for 2 Riders, includes a 45 minute trail ride to a picnic table awaiting you with Martinelli’s and chocolate covered strawberries.  

James Davis at the Brea Improv Club

Where: 120 South Brea Blvd, Brea, CA

When: Feb. 14th at 8:00 PM

A night full of laughter is the perfect way to spend Valentines Day with your sweetheart.  Brea Improv offers $20.00 admission on a first-come, first-served basis.  Once inside, enjoy fine dining and a hilarious show!

“Chocoholic” Cooking class at Sur La Table

When: Feb 14th at 5:00 PM

Where: 832 Avocado Ave.  Newport Beach

Cost: $75.00 per person

Sur La Table offers amazing cooking classes for you to enjoy with your significant other. The course catalog includes a chocolate menu, vegetarian classes, Parisian kitchen, and “A Night in Rome”. In their Valentines Day special chocoholic class, you and your date will learn to make a trio of delicious chocolate desserts!

Remember, the most important piece of Valentines Day is not WHERE you spend it, or HOW MUCH you spend.  The most important part of Valentines Day is to fill the lives of those around you with love and acceptance.  Send a goofy text to your best friend.  Make a minions E-card for your mom.  Bring some chocolates to work.  Or in my case … spend hours looking for the perfect “San Jose Sharks” Valentines Day Card to send your boyfriend.  

It’s always the thought that counts.  Happy Valentines Day from all of us here at Nerdy Sober Hipsters!