Date Like You Mean It in the Skylands Region
For a decadent dose of summertime pursuits in the middle of winter, enjoy a mountain escape complete with cascading indoor pool, spa services and scenic views at the Minerals Hotel in Vernon. Located across the highway from The Minerals Hotel is Legends Riding Stable, with over 150 miles of inviting scenic trails ready to explore on guided horseback. Can't decide between hiking and hibernating? Enjoy both at the comfy Whistling Swan Inn, conveniently located near 14 miles of marked trails at Allamuchy Mountain State Park. Be sure to get your Jersey State Parks Passport for a chance to earn rewards for all that fresh air fun!
Make Date Night Epic in the Gateway Region
Plan a weekend getaway on Hoboken’s vibrant waterfront at W Hotel, where you can dine at the hotel’s popular Halifax, a great spot for spotting celebs. Or spice up your next date with a foodie adventure in Newark’s Ironbound District, known for its rich Portuguese and Spanish flavors. This vibrant neighborhood offers everything from tapas and paella to fresh-baked pastries and sangria. At Newark's GlassRoots Studio, you and your date can share your passion for creating art during a one-of-a-kind glass-blowing workshop. Wholesome couple fun awaits at Tenafly Nature Center, which offers maple sugaring outings in February and March. And everyone knows winter is a great time to nurture your inner lovebird with a birdwatching excursion. One of our top picks: Liberty State Park, where you could possibly spy a snowy owl and the Statue of Liberty in one unforgettable outing.
Say Yes to Unique Date Escapes in the Central Jersey Region
Like wine? Visit the Bernards Inn in Somerset County, which features a wine inventory of 1500 labels and 20 well-appointed guest rooms. Are you dating a hockey fan? Score major points with your partner by catching a New Jersey Devils game at the Prudential Center. With fast-paced action on the ice and an electric crowd atmosphere, it’s the perfect date for sports lovers or anyone looking to break out of the dinner-and-movie routine.
Dare to Date Different in New Jersey's Shore Region
In Asbury Park, The Stone Pony offers a distinctive date setting with live performances spanning rock, indie and more. Catching a show here means experiencing the same stage that launched icons like Bruce Springsteen, all while soaking in the vibrant energy of the crowd. Or head over to Paradise (101 Asbury Avenue), Asbury’s iconic LGBTQ-friendly nightclub, with themed dance parties and drag performances. Is your SO seriously into beer? Alternate Ending Beer Co. in Aberdeen serves up craft beers, delicious bites and a cozy, cinematic atmosphere. Or experience date night at the iconic Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, where there is a show waiting to wow you and your special someone.
Spark Something New in the Delaware River Region
Take your date to Downtown Haddonfield, where you can shop at over 200 Haddonfield shops and galleries and enjoy a candlelight dinner. Relive your favorite Hallmark movie moments with a date to the Winterfest Ice Skating Rink at Cooper River Park. Bowling at The Big Event (1536 Kings Highway N, Cherry Hill) makes for a fun and lively date, offering the perfect mix of friendly competition and lighthearted moments. Beyond the lanes, you’ll find giant Jenga, ping pong, shuffleboard and a sports bar. For an intimate and elegant dinner date, try The Little Hen (220 Kings Highway E, Haddonfield), a French-inspired BYOB sure to impress your other half. This charming restaurant features just 18 seats, so be sure to secure a reservation before you go!
Dates Worth the Drive in the Atlantic City Region
Winter is an ideal time to get away at one of New Jersey's AAA Diamond–rated hotels. Add a little exhilaration to your escape with an overnight at Borgata, known for A-list shows, a luxurious spa, celebrity chef restaurants, lit nightlife and a thrill-packed casino floor. Or enjoy a sophisticated getaway at Seaview, A Dolce Hotel, home to two golf courses, a driving range, three restaurants, an indoor pool and the Noyes Gallery, featuring works from local South Jersey artists. Step back in time for a charming date at the Towne of Historic Smithville, where you can wander hand-in-hand through cobblestone paths lined with over 40 unique shops and quaint restaurants. There’s even a seasonal light display on the lake.
Heat Up Your Winter with Date Ideas in the Southern Shore Region
Like romance with a touch of history? Cape May, a National Historic District with nearly 600 Victorian buildings and horse-drawn carriage rides, leads the way to your perfect wintertime day trip or weekend stay. Nestled among the fields, the charming farm cottages of Beach Plum Farm (140 Stevens St, West Cape May) offer a peaceful retreat where you can unwind by the fire, sip hot cocoa, and enjoy the rustic comforts of farm life. Browse local products, handmade housewares and gifts in The Market, and enjoy farm-to-table dinners at The Farm Kitchen.
You Can't Go Wrong with a Garden State Date
There are plenty of thrilling places to stage your next date along the banks of the Delaware River in places like Lambertville, Stockton, Frenchtown and Milford. These idyllic towns combine R&R with antiquing, boutique shopping and fine dining for exciting days and fun-filled nights. There is also something romantic about the off-season at the Jersey Shore. Look for amazing getaways nestled in seaside towns, including Beach Haven, Spring Lake and Ocean Grove.
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