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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown Santa Monica

Kid-friendly date spots

You want to keep your relationship a priority, and you refuse to choose between a meaningful evening and the reality of having kids.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Player One VR World image 1
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Amusement center

Massive VR playground offers spacious play areas with high-tech immersive graphics and a light-up glow theme. The atmosphere feels friendly and energetic, filled with lights and people moving freely. Games include interactive VR rides and escape rooms that create a unique, engaging experience.

Offers active, inclusive birthday parties where kids can play, run, and use screens simultaneously. Staff show patience and kindness with children, creating a fun environment for groups of various ages.

Offers a fun and interactive setting ideal for couples. Works well for group dates and creates a memorable night out.

People are saying

"It's a blast; the VR experience is so much fun."

"The staff here is so patient and friendly with kids."

"It's a super fun experience, especially for a date."

Good to know

1

Booking a party room requires at least two weeks' notice.

2

Parking is available nearby for easy access.

3

Prices are affordable, making it accessible for families.

02
Museum of Illusions image 1

Museum offers interactive exhibits with mind-bending illusions like the rotating tunnel and Vortox. Atmosphere feels bubbly and fun, appealing to both kids and adults. Space encourages exploration and photo opportunities throughout.

Interactive exhibits engage kids of various ages, making it a fun spot for families. Children from 9 to 14 years old find the displays especially enjoyable and entertaining.

Offers a fun and exciting setting for date nights with plenty of opportunities for silly photos. Works well for a couple of hours of shared laughs and unique experiences.

People are saying

"It's a fun place to play with your mind and see unique objects."

"It's a fun place with lots of activities for the kids."

"The staff here are so helpful, they even take your pictures for you."

Good to know

1

Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children.

2

The museum is located on the third Street promenade.

3

Expect to spend about 1-2 hours exploring the exhibits.

03
Lumee DIY Santa Monica image 1

Art studio with booth-style seating and spacious tables creates a cozy, colorful atmosphere. The vibe is friendly and relaxing, welcoming groups for hands-on, creative activities. Unlimited charm options add a playful, engaging element to the experience.

Kids enjoy unlimited crafting with hundreds of charms to choose from. Staff engage directly with children, helping with details like fixing clips, making it a fun and calming creative outing suitable for birthday parties.

Offers a relaxing activity that works well for dates or small groups. The setting encourages a fun, casual vibe perfect for hanging out or special events.

People are saying

"I had so much fun decorating my own phone charm and Polaroid frame."

"The staff is so kind and patient with kids."

"It's a super cute and fun spot for a date."

Good to know

1

An appointment is needed to visit Lumee DIY Santa Monica.

2

Walk-ins are okay if it's not busy.

3

They offer various items to decorate, including phone cases and notebooks.

04
THE CUBE VR Immersive Park image 1

Space offers bright, clean surroundings with high tech VR and airsoft games that engage both kids and adults. Atmosphere stays fun and stress-free, making it suitable for families and groups. Multiple immersive experiences like roller coasters and racing games create a unique, active environment.

Immersive rides like the Six Flags roller coaster offer fun for kids aged 6 to 13. The environment stays engaging for both kids and adults, making it a solid spot for family outings.

Couples can enjoy AR Car Racing and motorcycle racing games together. The spot offers a fun interactive experience for pairs.

People are saying

"I had so much fun with the VR experiences here."

"It's a super fun place, great for kids and parents."

"The AR car racing here is awesome and very fun for date spots."

Good to know

1

The park offers a 15% discount on admission for groups.

2

The VR experiences are suitable for both kids and adults.

3

Expect a variety of immersive experiences, including racing games and rollercoasters.

05
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior features modern design and beautiful chandeliers with a calm, clean atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. A robot waitress named Bella delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting.

Simple avocado rolls with giant, fresh pieces appeal to kids. A prize wheel offers chances to win a $20 gift card, creating excitement for children.

Cozy, modern interior creates a relaxed but polished vibe ideal for lunch or dinner dates. Macarons ice cream stands out as a favorite dessert for couples.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

"The sushi here is so fresh and beautifully presented for Date Spots."

"It's so kid friendly, my daughter won a gift card!"

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

06
The Butter End image 1

Bakery space feels dark yet stunning with beautiful cakes that look like works of art. Atmosphere suits those seeking gluten-free options and custom-designed wedding cakes. Energy is calm, focusing on high-quality, visually impressive pastries.

Cupcakes and cakes here appeal to kids with flavors like Strawberry Vanilla Bean. Cakes made for birthdays please both kids and adults.

Couples can enjoy custom wedding cakes with unique toppers like a Marine Pilot and Physician Assistant cutting the cake with a sword. Walk-ins can grab a carrot cake cupcake for a casual sweet treat.

People are saying

"This cake was so delicious, guests were raving about it."

"The cakes here are beautiful and perfect for special kid-friendly occasions."

"The wedding cake here is incredible and delicious."

Good to know

1

The cake costs $77 for the smallest size.

2

Booking a wedding cake tasting requires weeks in advance.

3

The bakery uses quality ingredients, especially butter.

07
Purple - Santa Monica Place image 1

Showroom features sleek modern design and a soft inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation. Staff provide clear, informative explanations about mattress technology without pressure to buy. Mattresses offer balanced comfort, supporting back and neck without being too soft or firm.

Kids can play with animal puzzles on the beds while adults shop. Staff clean up spills quickly and let children test products fully before deciding.

People are saying

"Dominique guided me through mattress options for better sleep."

"The staff here are so helpful and knowledgeable about the products."

"The staff here are so helpful and knowledgeable about everything."

Good to know

1

The store offers a 100-day trial for free return and exchange.

2

Parking is available in the garage at the mall.

3

Knowledgeable staff provide detailed explanations of products.

08
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Menus adjust to both adult and kids' tastes. The spot balances a kid-friendly vibe with a setting suitable for date nights.

Warm, welcoming atmosphere with a husband and wife team running the place. Offers delicious food that works well for a date night or a casual meal with family.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"The kids menu was awesome and had very affordable prices."

"The food here is superb, making it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

09
Benihana - Santa Monica image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open hibachi-style setup offers an engaging dining experience with chefs performing theatrical grilling shows at each table. Dim lighting and cozy decor create a fun, lively atmosphere suited for date nights and family outings. A second-level bar adds to the venue's entertaining vibe and interactive energy.

Kids get special souvenirs and enjoy interactive entertainment. Hosts take extra steps like photo keepsakes to make birthdays memorable.

Perfect atmosphere sets the tone for every date night here. The experience suits celebrations like birthdays or just doing dinner differently, making it a happy experience for couples.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"Marlon made my daughter's birthday a night to remember."

"The chefs here are so entertaining, it's a fun date spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The staff celebrates birthdays with a special song and treat.

10
1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Staff handle food allergies carefully, confirming details with the kitchen. Kids enjoy dishes like the cheeseburger and fries and perfectly cooked salmon with charred broccolini.

Great atmosphere near the promenade offers good people watching and a lively vibe. Food feels authentic and fresh, making it a solid choice for happy hour date nights or special occasions.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"The servers here are so attentive, making it a great spot for a date."

"The servers here are so attentive and friendly, making it feel Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

11
Holey Moley Golf Club Santa Monica image 1

Miniature golf course features unique themed holes spread over several floors with a great bar and live magician entertainment. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with karaoke music playing openly and tight spaces causing frequent bumping. The vibe suits energetic nights out rather than quiet, relaxed play.

Multiple Putt-Putt courses offer fun challenges for kids. Friendly staff like Johnny and David engage well with children, making the experience enjoyable.

Offers a fun and casual vibe ideal for date nights. Staff add to the experience, making it feel welcoming and budget-friendly for quick outings.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is amazing fun and super creative."

"The mini golf courses here are super unique and fun for date spots."

"It's so kid friendly, the mini golf courses were fun for everyone."

Good to know

1

Events can cost over $1000 for limited time slots, so plan accordingly.

2

No kids are allowed after 8pm, so check age restrictions before visiting.

3

The venue lacks air conditioning, making it very hot during summer visits.

12
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Staff provide personalized attention, remembering kids' names and suggesting quiet spots for families. The pool offers a fun space where kids can enjoy themselves.

Dinner offers a nice setting for celebrations with options like a salad with skirt steak that stands out. The atmosphere suits special occasions with family.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The rooftop offers breathtaking ocean views and smart cocktails."

"The staff remembered my daughter's name, making it feel kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

13
Two Bit Circus image 1
Video arcade

Digital-circus theme blends with spacious layout and varied arcade and VR games. Atmosphere mixes bright lighting with cool vibes suitable for both kids and adults. Bar area offers views of gaming action, supporting a lively but casual energy.

VR games keep kids engaged while adults watch from a nearby bar area. The venue shifts from a kid-friendly daytime spot to an adult space in the evening, making it versatile for families.

Offers a fun date night atmosphere with games and activities that keep things lively. Thursdays bring a college night vibe with discounted game plays, adding a playful edge to dates.

People are saying

"I loved the virtual reality games and experimental experiences here."

"It's a fun place with lots of interactive games and VR experiences."

"It's a super fun place for date night with lots of games."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and snacks.

2

Thursdays are college nights with an extra $5 for students to play games.

3

Check their Instagram for updates on public events and special activities.

14
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

Kids enjoy the calamari and Kobe beef here. The atmosphere suits family celebrations like birthdays.

Memorable date nights happen here with a warm atmosphere. It suits special occasions like graduations and romantic evenings.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The DJ played awesome international music and took requests."

"The calamari here is above and beyond, and my kids approved."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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