Where to Be Merry: The Perfect Date @ Griffith Observatory & Cliff's Edge

I have a confession. I’m a little hesitant to say, because it's somewhat arrogant and pompous, but I’ll tell you anyway: I plan the best dates ever. Really, I do. Call it a gift, call it luck, or call it drawing upon my two-year stint covering the Los Angeles night scene. Whatever the reason, I’ve got the intuition to make the perfect evening filled with magical sparkles for anyone, on any budget.

One of my spectacular date ideas in particular has received praises and standing ovations from everyone I’ve referred there, and that’s to the Griffith Observatory, followed by a relaxing dinner at Cliff’s Edge.

So this perfect adventure begins on the way up to the observatory. After the ten-minute climb up a windy, twisted mountainside road into the municipal park, you’ll be more than 1,000 feet above sea level, far from the high-strung urban jungle below. Just being in the presence of majestic mountains and acres of rugged wilderness brings a welcoming sense of calm and peace, and who doesn’t want that on a date? A walk through the observatory’s astronomy exhibits inspires interesting conversations, but the best part, hands down, is cuddling up outside to watch the fiery sun slowly fade into the distance.

After an indescribably gorgeous sunset, dusk quietly settles in – along with a chilly nighttime breeze. But you don’t want this experience to end. And it shouldn’t. So, you just move it right along to Cliff’s Edge, a Silverlake restaurant that’s only minutes from the observatory. On its impeccably decorated patio, leafy arms of a grand oak tree graciously extend the width of the entire outdoor area, painting a picturesque scene to enjoy a hearty dinner. The strings of lights that adorn the branches and the candles scattered throughout provide just the right amount of subtle light to create a sultry vibe. I’ll be honest: the food isn’t as memorable as the setting, but the ambiance at Cliff’s Edge is still worth the trip. Trust me.

So for the next date night, skip the movie and dinner, and opt for the adventure off the beaten path!


PICTURED BELOW: Ok, so maybe my idea isn’t that original: for 75 years, the Griffith Observatory has been a sought-out destination for couples of all ages.


PICTURED BELOW: At every turn, the views of the city languidly sprawled out below will leave you speechless. Guaranteed.

PICTURED BELOW: Didn’t you know? Science is sexy. Wander through the exhibits and impress your date with how many astronomical facts you remember from your high school science classes.


PICTURED BELOW: There’s plenty to get your hands on at the observatory: star gazing (pictured above), exciting shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium and a rotating lecture series.

PICTURED BELOW: A peak into the patio of Cliff’s Edge. So warm and inviting!


For More Information:
Griffith Observatory
2800 East Observatory Road
Los Angeles, CA 90027
213.473.0800
www.griffithobs.org

Cliff’s Edge
3626 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
323.666.6116
www.clifssedgecafe.com