The most romantic day of the year is swiftly approaching and it’s time to think about how to celebrate your relationship with your loved one. Whether you share an interest in culture, upscale dining or like to explore the great outdoors, Torrance is the perfect choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day. With the 14th falling on a Friday this year, you can even turn this into a full-blown weekend of romance and quality time with your beloved!
Check out our guide to what to see, do and eat in Torrance this Valentine’s Day.
What to see
During the day, culture vultures can browse the contemporary installations at the Torrance Art Museum. The current exhibition Alptraum is an internationally acclaimed ‘wandering’ exhibition now entering its 11th year. It explores artists’ reflections on nightmares, and will give you plenty to chat about over lunch at the Miyako Hotel restaurant in Torrance.
By night, how about catching some glamorous, melodious live music? To celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend LA’s premier soul, jazz, ska and improvisational groove collective, Angel Town Combo, will be making an appearance in the city. They have two gigs confirmed at the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, on the 14th and 15th. Transcending musical boundaries, these evenings will be upbeat and evocative and give you a musical experience you’ll never forget.
What to do
Take a romantic road trip into the nearby mountains, and share a hike through the gorgeous Californian scenery. The nearby Palos Verdes Hills offer a variety of hiking trails with panoramic ocean views, canyons and some historic sites. After your hike, check into one of thespa hotels in Los Angeles and enjoy a rejuvenating massage together. Alternatively, for something a little different you can reward yourselves with a Gan Ban Yoku, a special Japanese bathing routine with heated hot stones.
If you fancy staying closer to town, pack a picnic and explore one of the parks in central Torrance such as the Madrona Marsh Nature Centre or the Charles H. Wilson Park. Be sure not to miss the sunset from the Torrance County Beach; pack a bottle of wine and make the most of Mother Nature’s spectacular show.
What to eat
With the largest population of Japanese people in the United States right here in Torrance, it comes as no surprise that there is a thriving dining scene for delicious sushi, tempura and teriyaki, among other popular specialities. Ise-Shima Torrance presents a fusion of Japanese classics with modern California. The Sushi Dinner menu is perfect for sharing over a romantic Valentine’s Day meal. Assorted sushi and sashimi is prepared fresh from the ocean, expertly rolled and garnished. Team your platter with a cocktail or two from the innovative drinks menu.
As you explore the city, be sure to make a pitstop at the Torrance Bakery for a homemade sweet treat. Choose between freshly baked cakes, pies, donuts and scones. Expect some deluxe, themed specials in time for Valentine’s Day that will melt in your mouth.