Couples don’t always have the same idea when it comes to planning a romantic getaway.  For some, an ideal itinerary is packed with wine tastings and horseback riding, while others favor historical sites and chef-inspired meals. If you’re planning a grand romantic gesture, head to the Princeton-Mercer Region—where you will find all this and more.

One of the 15 Top Places for Romance in New Jersey

With its charming hometown setting and central location between New York City and Philadelphia, the Princeton-Mercer Region is the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway. In fact, U.S. News & World Report ranked the area as one of the top 15 romantic places in the Garden State.  Here, we uncover some hidden gems—all near major roadways and connected by public transportation—that will make your romantic escape easy to get to and impossible to forget.

Play and stay in Princeton
This college town is romantic year-round, but you'll want to stick even closer to your significant other as you enjoy the natural beauty and stunning architecture. Consider booking a room at the iconic Peacock Inn, a renovated 18th century colonial mansion that was once a gathering place for great minds, including Albert Einstein and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Start with the Inn’s charming afternoon tea service before strolling the grounds of Princeton University. Outside the campus gates, you’ll find the streets burgeoning with shops and impressive eateries, including Mediterra Restaurant & Taverna, which offers a tapas menu for happy hour. If you’d rather stay in the cozy confines of the Peacock, you can dine at the award-winning, fine-dining restaurant onsite.

Wet your whistle in Hightstown or Hopewell

Would you like your getaway to revolve around craft beers, spirits, or wines (or all three!)? Raise your glass to Hightstown. Wine lovers must visit Working Dog Winery, a local vineyard making award-winning estate wines amid the rolling terrain of eastern Mercer County. A recent visitor raved, “No better way to spend your weekend then at a dog-friendly vineyard!” Mark your calendars for the Live Music Series over the next few weeks.

Are craft spirits and brews more your speed? Hopewell is home to Sourland Mountain Spirits Distillery situated on the idyllic Double Brook Farm. This sustainable farm also features Troon Brewing and Brick Farm Tavern & Bar, making it the only location with a craft distillery, a craft brewery, and a pasture-to-fork restaurant in one place.

Get active in Trenton

Are you an active couple that likes adventure with your romance? Whether you want to break a sweat with a thrilling indoor experience or venture into the great outdoors, Trenton has the excitement you crave.  Visit Rockville Climbing Center, where you can challenge yourselves to indoor rock climbing in a safe, controlled environment. For some outdoor action, hit the historic towpath along the Delaware and Raritan Canal stretching from Bakers Basin Road, Trenton, to New Brunswick for hiking, jogging, horseback riding, and biking. Before you leave, consider stopping by 1911 Smokehouse Barbeque on Front Street for “the world’s best BBQ” or Blue Danube Restaurant for Eastern European cuisine.

“Escape” to Hamilton
Some people may think of it as a group activity but escape rooms can make for a fun twist on the typical date night. Visit Cloak and Dagger Escape Rooms in Hamilton, and huddle in one of their high-tech rooms packed with stellar storylines. While you’re in the area, check out Grounds for Sculpture, a 42-acre sculpture garden, arboretum, and museum, then enjoy some food at Rat’s Restaurant onsite.

There’s much more to enjoy in the Princeton-Mercer Region, so keep the romance alive and visit us today!