By Liz Johnson
With so many restrictions still in place to ward off a Coronavirus resurgence, there’s still plenty to do in Hunterdon County to make you swoon this summer. If you need ideas for things to do with your soul mate, here are a few suggestions:
Take a Stroll
Hunterdon County has no end of charming towns that are perfect for leisurely, hand-holding strolls. People watch or window gaze along the main streets of Clinton, Frenchtown or Lambertville, all popular favorites for Best Main Street, according to Hunterdon Happening List voters.
Play Tennis
Any game that scores in the name of “love” has to have a dose of romance to it. There are plenty of free courts throughout the county for either singles or couples games. All you need is a racquet and a set of tennis balls.
Hint: Courtside Racquet Club in Lebanon, selected the Best Tennis Club by Hunterdon Happening List voters, is a great place to play when it’s too hot outside. It also offers pickleball and a pool.
A Romantic Dinner along the Waterfront
While away an evening with along the riverside, dining at any of the county’s popular restaurants.
Hint: Hunterdon Happening List voters have no end of riverside dining favorites to recommend, including The Patio at The Clean Plate Kitchen in Clinton, 2020 List Winner for Best Scenic View. For more places to dine al fresco (Lambertville Station Restaurant & Inn is another favorite!), read THIS article.
Visit a Vineyard
Hunterdon County is home to several vineyards that offer magnificent views, wine tastings and entertainment, particularly on the weekends.
Hint: Hunterdon Happening List voters recommend Beneduce Vineyards in Pittstown, named a finalist for both Best Winery and Best Date Night.
Explore Off-The-Beaten-Path
There’s no end to breathtaking scenery in Hunterdon County. Pack a picnic and head off to one of the county’s parks or preserves such as Hollandview Farm on Ellis Road or Musconetcong Gorge Nature Preserve on Dennis Road, a 523-acre park that features hiking trails with scenic views and a waterfall.
Listen to Live Music
Put on your dancing shoes and belt out some tunes. Live music is a fun way to add energy to a date night.
Tip: Artie’s Bar & Grille in Frenchtown was voted Best Live Music Venue in the 2020 Hunterdon Happening List. Take a look at their Facebook page for upcoming events. Plus, you can catch live music every Friday night during Clinton’s Come Together Friday Night Music Festivals.
Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn
Try a Staycation
Hunterdon County has many bed and breakfasts and inns that offer a romantic escape from the daily hustle and bustle without a long drive.
Hint: Check out the Widow McCrea House in Frenchtown, voted Hunterdon Happening List Winner in 2020 for Best Bed and Breakfast. Or Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn, located riverside with incredible views and within walking distance of all of Lambertville and New Hope’s attractions, was voted Best Date Night.
Go Antiquing
Flemington and Lambertville both have a range of antique stores worth perusing for eclectic finds. Readers voted for Yesterday’s Treasure in Flemington as Hunterdon Happening Best Antique Shop. (It hopes to open in mid/late August.) The People’s Store Antique Center and A Touch of the Past in Lambertville, were Hunterdon Happening finalists and are both currently open.
Drive-In Movie
You won’t be holding hands in a big theater anytime soon, but there are still ways to get cozy and watch a movie on the big screen. Snuggle up in the bed of your truck or in the backseat of your car and enjoy a drive-in movie presented by The ACME Carpool Cinema.
Get into the Swing of Things
Whether you’re both pros or just getting started, golfing can offer a fun night out. There are plenty of driving ranges, courses and miniature golf courses throughout the county.
Hint: Pine Creek Mini Golf in West Amwell, voted a Hunterdon Happening Finalist for Best Golf Course, features two challenging 18-hole miniature golf courses spread over creeks and storied countryside.
Row, Row, Row Your Boat
You’re not limited to a row boat for your boating adventures. Paddle boarding, kayaking, tubing and canoeing are also options.
Hint: If you and your sweetie don’t have a boat of your own, consider renting equipment from a business such as Yellow Dog Paddle (a 2020 Hunterdon Happening List Finalist) or Delaware River Tubing.
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