Summer isn't the only time things heat up in Mercer. As temperatures begin to dip, this list of date ideas around town gets even more creative to keep the flame alive. Because what's more romantic than freshly fallen snow amid the beautiful lights around town? Correct answer: Not much. Commence mitten holding.

Date Night in the Square

First Stop: Ice Skating at Palmer Square’s Glice Ice Rink

Second Stop: Dinner at Yankee Doodle Tap Room’s Personal Heated Igloos

One might argue that no winter date list is complete without skating mitten-in-mitten around an ice skating rink. Palmer Square’s eco-friendly outdoor rink offers not only beautiful views of the heart of the square, but is an enjoyable way to spend time outdoors.

Afterwards, head next door to Yankee Doodle Tap Room for your own personalized heated igloo, which are sanitized between each visitor. The Tap Room was voted one of the top bars in Princeton due to its substantial selection of local beers and cocktails. They have over 19 world beers on tap along with seasonal drinks, which are all guaranteed to warm you up after an evening on the rink.

Igloos at night Yankee Doodle Tap Room in Princeton

Photo via https://www.instagram.com/yankeedoodletaproom/

 

Date Night at the Winery

First Stop: Rosedale Park

Second Stop: Hopewell Valley Vineyards Wine + Dinner

Head to Rosedale for an afternoon walk around its stunning scenery, including the new bridge which leads to a pristine lake. Well-maintained trails and dog-friendly as well!

If you’re a wine lover (or want to impress someone who is), stop by HVV for award-winning wines, live music, pizza for dinner and other light fare. They offer walk-in wine tastings and can book private tours of the venue and winery any time of the year.

A woman hold a glass of wine at Hopewell Valley Vineyards near Princeton

Photo via https://www.instagram.com/julianasjoyfuljourney/

 

Hands-On Date

First Stop: Painting at Princeton’s Pinot’s Palette

Second Stop: Fireside Dinner at Salt Creek Grille

No art experience required! If you’re looking to get creative, have fun, and get to know each other in a new way, try this upscale paint party. Check out their Paint + Sip nights if you want to include wine. BYOB!

Afterwards head over to Salt Creek for a romantic dinner alongside their covered outdoor fire pit or step inside for drinks next to their indoor fireplace. Either way, they got you covered with good food and a cozy atmosphere.

A couple pose at Pinots Palette in Princeton

Photo via https://www.instagram.com/allie_nagy/

 

Ivy League Day-to-Night Date

First Stop: Princeton University

Second Stop: Dinner at Blue Point Grill

For those looking for a scenic walk that’s awe-inspiring, tour the ivy league grounds at Princeton, where the Gothic architecture will give you plenty to talk about. If you’ve been here before, know that it never gets old and there will always be something new to fall in love with. If you want to know more about Einstein's beloved town and university, try the self-guided tour available immediately upon download.

Once you're worn out from walking, head across the street to Blue Point Grill, a top spot for high-quality, fresh, local seafood. A top-rated restaurant in the area offering heated roof-top dining that overlooks Nassau Street.

Princeton University in the evening

Photo via https://www.instagram.com/ricovisuals/

 

Larger Than Life Date in Hamilton

First Stop: Walking Tour at Grounds for Sculpture

Second Stop: Rat’s Restaurant for Dinner

A true gem in Mercer is our Grounds for Sculpture park.  This 42-acre sculpture garden features over 300 life-size and oversize outdoor artworks displayed in natural settings, along with secret passages, a sculpture hunt, a lovely winter garden, and much, much more.

Connected to the park is their infamous Rat’s Restaurant, known for their exquisite French fare. Dine indoors or out alongside their extraordinary garden with fire pits and heaters to keep you warm.

Bridge in winter at Grounds for Sculpture in Princeton

Photo via https://www.instagram.com/groundsforsculpture/

 

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For more Mercer adventures, view more of our blog articles below: