The warmth of love drifts through the cool air at this time of year in Mercer County, where endless opportunities for romantic sparks abound within an hour of New York City, Philadelphia, and the Jersey Shore.

Enjoy fine wine and an intimate dinner for two, whether upscale or casual. Escape for a quick overnight stay or long-weekend getaway. Breathe in the crisp chill of the winter air while walking a nature trail. Or combine these and other experiences to create romantic memories that last a lifetime.

If you’re looking for new ways to stir the romance and passion in your life, Visit Princeton-Mercer offers plenty of opportunities to light the fire right here in Mercer County!

Romantic Mercer County Restaurants

Rat’s Restaurant in Hamilton, named Philadelphia Magazine’s “Most Romantic Restaurant.” Extraordinary cuisine made with seasonal recipes and farm-fresh ingredients is enhanced with stunning views of Grounds for Sculpture. Enjoy dinner at Rat’s followed by a romantic stroll through Grounds for Sculpture’s 42 magical acres of artistic treasures.

Teresa Caffe in Princeton’s Palmer Square, known for simply elegant Italian fare, gourmet pizza, and elegant wine bar with a predominantly regional Italian wine list.

Mediterra in Princeton, overlooking Palmer Square and serving upscale, casual cuisine of the 21 countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, along with an award-winning wine list.

Brick Farm Tavern in Hopewell, one of the country’s truest pasture-to-table experiences, serving food from Double Brook Farm. The Tavern campus is also home to Troon Brewing and Sourland Mountain Spirits.

Restaurant-Hotel Combos

The Perch restaurant at The Peacock Inn, a top Princeton fine dining destination and boutique hotel with a history that dates back to 1779.

Yankee Doodle Taproom at the Nassau Inn, with a special Valentine’s menu, warm fireplace, and 31 suites at Palmer Square in Princeton.

Bed and Breakfasts

Laurie House at Chauncey, with luxurious guest rooms overlooking a peaceful lake and surrounded by 370 acres of woodlands in Princeton.

The Inn at Glencairn in Princeton, a meticulously renovated 1736 Georgian manor that blends old-world charm with modern amenities.

Fine Wine and Spirits

Hopewell Valley Vineyards in Pennington, the Neri family’s gem, offering finely crafted wines, weekly music events, and private tastings and winery tours.

Sourland Mountain Spirits, nestled in the Sourland Mountains of Hopewell, a family-owned craft distillery that lovingly distills, ages, fills, and labels every bottle by hand and offers private tastings and tours.

Remember, romance shouldn’t be limited to Valentine’s Day. We encourage you to keep that romantic fire burning throughout the year. Fortunately, Mercer County offers plenty of ways to write your own love story! Check out Things to Do, Events, Hotels, and more on the Visit Princeton-Mercer Convention & Visitors Bureau website for more ideas!