Valentine's Day Celebration Ideas 2017. Are you looking for suggestions on where to go this year. -

Valentine’s Day Celebration Ideas 2017. Are you looking for suggestions on where to go this year.

VALENTINE’S DAY IDEAS

Most of us would agree with George Eliot’s words,  “I like not only to be loved but also to be told I am loved.”

Valentine’s Day is the occasion when you can experience both. Whether you’re celebrating with the great love of your life or cherished friends here are some traditional and not so traditional ways to celebrate throughout February.

We have put together some ideas on showing your loved one just how much they mean to you:
Romantic Restaurants
Dinner Cruises
Unique Ideas
Theater Events
Spa
Romantic Getaways

ROMANTIC DINNER DATES

Martell’s Waters Edge
Website | 732-269-3000
125 Bayview Ave., Berkeley Township, NJ 08721

A special place for you and your loved one

Martell’s Waters Edge welcomes you to dine with them on Valentine’s Day. February 14th is sure to be romantic when you and your significant other are surrounded by candlelight, and you can hear the music filling the air. Dinner will be held in the “Top of the Bay” dining room on the second floor where you and your loved one can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the majestic Barnegat Bay no matter where you are seated. You may even catch a glimpse of the Barnegat Bay Lighthouse!

Let your appetite set its course on a journey that will be filled with flavor. The restaurant’s continental cuisine is as delicious as their waterfront views are beautiful. The award-winning culinary team combines the freshest ingredients with innovative flair to prepare a waterside meal that caters to carnivores, seafood lovers, gluten-free and vegetarian diners. Reservations are recommended for this special evening out.

Amanda’s
Website | 201-798-0101
908 Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030

Amanda’s has been delighting Hoboken, NJ restaurant-goers for over 20 years. Enter into this elegantly restored brownstone to see for yourself why Amanda’s has earned its stunning reputation as one of New Jersey’s most popular restaurants. This Valentine’s Day, enjoy a three-course prix fixe menu and savor delectable menu offerings, such as tomato braised sea bass, maple glazed duck confit, grilled petite filet, herb crusted salmon and crispy Parisienne gnocchi. Their desserts are delicious, such as the tiramisu, pistachio brown butter cake, chocolate pannacotta, and key lime pie. This is the perfect location for Valentine’s Day dinner date before a night out in downtown Hoboken. Visit their website for more information.

The Brass Rail
Website | 201-659-7074
135 Washington Avenue, Hoboken, NJ 07030

For the perfect fusion of old city charm and modern cosmopolitan chic, The Brass Rail located in Hoboken, NJ offers a tantalizing alternative to conventional dining out. Whether you’re in search of a funky, energetic visit to the bar or an intimate experience in the upstairs dining room, The Brass Rail has the perfect combination of atmosphere and fine dining. Every year, The Brass Rail offers a three-course prix fixe dinner lovingly prepared by Executive Chef Douglas Gough. Couples will dine on a gourmet meal that is light yet satisfying. Dine on gourmet appetizers, entrees, and desserts at this Hoboken, NJ favorite. All guests will leave with a rose and chocolate truffles. Whether you are celebrating your first Valentine’s Day together or your fortieth, dinner at The Brass Rail makes for a special evening. Visit their website for more information.
The Frog and the Peach
Website | 732-846-3216
29 Dennis Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

The Frog and the Peach is one of New Jersey’s hottest restaurants. Although the name of this establishment comes from a comedy routine about a restaurant that only serves frogs and peaches, patrons can rest assured that the menu is filled with delicious and diverse culinary offerings. Both the a la carte and prix fixe menus are changed seasonally to showcase the freshest locally sourced meat, seafood, and produce.

This Valentine’s Day, enjoy a special prix fixe menu with Three Courses for $85. All winter on Friday and Sunday indulge with a loved one and order the Date Night Special at a $60 discount that includes five courses with wine featuring shrimp, lamb, and quail along with cheese and chocolate. Take advantage of this offer and enjoy a special evening at the state’s “Most Romantic” restaurant (as voted by NJ Monthly readers).
Personal Chef – Dine Out in the Comfort of Your Home
Traveling Gourmet
Website – Information and Ordering
201-741-3971 (Bergen, Essex, and Union counties in New Jersey)

Prefer not to hire a babysitter to go out for dinner? After a long day of work, do you prefer to go home and relax rather than heading out to a restaurant?

Your Personal Chef will come to your home with the freshest groceries and equipment needed to prepare your meal. You leave work, drive directly home, and the dinner you’ve dreamed about is waiting for you. You just heat and enjoy. Menus are made to match each of your likes or dislikes. Low fat, low sodium, reduced carb, gourmet, home-style and many other personalized menus are available. International cuisines and kid-friendly entrees are also offered. They do the menu planning, grocery shopping, and food preparation. Your freezer and refrigerator are filled with freshly prepared entrees and side dishes to be enjoyed at your convenience

VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER CRUISES

Treat your sweetheart to a special Valentine’s Cruise. You’ll cruise down the Hudson River and get up close and personal with Lady Liberty. Dine and dance under the Brooklyn Bridge, and catch glimpses of the spectacular sights of One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, Governor’s Island & more! Nothing beats being on the water with the beautiful New York City skyline as your backdrop.

SPIRIT OF NY CRUISES
Cruises departing from Chelsea Piers, NY or Lincoln Harbor, NJ

Valentine’s Dinner Cruise
Saturday, February 11th
Tuesday, February 14th
Board: 6:30pm | Cruise: 7:00pm – 10:00pm

Valentine’s Sunday Brunch Cruise
Sunday, February 12th
Buffet-style Brunch Menu
Boarding at 11:00am | Cruise 12:00pm – 2:00pm

ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

Plan a weekend getaway at a quaint inn or B&B

Is there any accommodation that better captures romance than a country inn or a Victorian bed and breakfast? (We didn’t think so!) New Jersey abounds with charmers from top to tip. Like wine? Visit the Bernards Inn in Somerset County, which features a wine inventory of 12,500 bottles and 20 well-appointed rooms. Can’t decide between hiking and hibernating? Enjoy both at the comfy Whistling Swan Inn, conveniently near 14 miles of marked trails at Allamuchy Mountain State Park.

You’ll also find plenty of choices near the banks of Delaware in Lambertville, Stockton, Frenchtown and Milford, sophisticated river towns where you can combine R&R with antiquing, boutique shopping and fine dining. Or why not experience “down the Shore” in a different season? Cozy inns and B&Bs are set in seaside towns like the laid-back Beach Haven, elegant Spring Lake, historic Ocean Grove and, of course, Cape May, a National Historic District with nearly 600 Victorian buildings for those of you who like your romance with a touch of history.

Crystal Springs Resort
Website | 855-977-6473
1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg, NJ 07419

Crystal Springs Resort is one of the most romantic destinations in New Jersey. Nestled in the mountains and rolling hills of the New Jersey Skylands, this luxurious resort is the perfect escape for couples.

This Valentine’s Day, treat yourselves to a romantic getaway at Crystal Springs Resort. They have numerous offerings to make your Valentine’s Day weekend romantic and memorable. Enjoy dinner specials at the Crystal Tavern, the Springs Bistro or Restaurant Latour. These gourmet restaurants are perfect for a romantic Valentine’s date. Or stay for the weekend and book one of their Romantic Getaways packages. Enjoy spa treatments, massages, or just celebrate a relaxing weekend away from home. Visit their website for more information on an intimate Valentine’s Day at Crystal Springs.
Alba Vineyard & Winery
Website | 908-995-7800
269 Route 267, Milford, NJ 08848
Nothing is more romantic than wine and chocolate at a scenic vineyard. Alba Vineyard & Winery invites couples to their Wine and Chocolate Weekends this February. Couples will be treated to award-winning Alba wines paired with exquisite chocolates and gourmet food.

This event, which takes place on the first two weekends in February, features cuisine from Crave Caterers. There will also be Old World Belgian-style artisan chocolates from Chocodiem, which includes an assortment of pralines, truffles, chocolates and more, available for purchase. This event will also feature artisan cheeses, tours of the cellars and an etched Alba wine glass to bring home as a keepsake. No reservations are needed. This event is for guests 21 and older. New Jersey wine lovers will love this event. Visit their website for more information.
Wine and Chocolate Trail Weekend
February 11-12, 2017 11:00am – 5:00pm
http://www.newjerseywines.com

What goes better than wine and chocolate? Visitors to New Jersey wineries celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Garden State Wine Growers Association’s annual Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend. Each winery will feature their own unique treat for visitors to the trail including wine and chocolate pairings, special entertainment, flowers, local vendor displays, etc.
Diamonds are a couple’s best friend
Winter is also an ideal time to hide away at one of New Jersey’s AAA Four Diamond–rated hotels. Add a little nightlife bling to your escape with an overnight at the Borgata in Atlantic City. Transform date night into a luxurious spa day at the Hilton Short Hills’ before Spa. Visit the home turf of the Cake Boss on a Hoboken Food & Culture Tour and then stay on trend at the city’s W Hotel. For sophistication close to home, check out The Westminster Hotel in Livingston. And you’ll forget all about man caves when the two of you escape to the cave-themed steam room at the 10,000-square-foot tropical indoor pool complex at the Grand Cascades Lodge in Hamburg.

SPA TREATMENTS

Spa Dew
Website | 201-461-0949
2025 Lemoine Avenue, Fort Lee, NJ 07024

It is so easy for couples to get swept up in their hectic schedules and forget to relax. Busy couples know that a relaxing spa excursion is a perfect way to unwind and celebrate Valentine’s Day. Spa Dew is a Northern NJ spa that offers several romantic packages specifically designed to help couples unwind. Mad About You is a deluxe package that includes a scrub, deep tissue massage and facials. The First Kiss package uses a chocolate scrub for a sweet and sensual surprise. Enjoy reflexology and a warm stone massage with the Romancing the Stone package. Spa Dew also offers 60 and 90-minute Couples Bliss massages for a simple yet enjoyable spa experience. Relax and rejuvenate together this Valentine’s Day at Spa Dew. See their complete list of couples packages here, and visit their website for more information on all their spa offerings.
The Woodhouse Day Spa
Website | 973-509-8488
56 South Park Street, Montclair, NJ

The Woodhouse Day Spa is Northern NJ’s most luxurious and relaxing day spa. Their service menu offers a full complement of body treatments, skin care, waxing, massage therapy and more. Treat yourself to a relaxing Valentine’s Day this year.

The Woodhouse Day Spa offers multiple Signature Services for an entire day of relaxation. This is perfect for couples seeking an afternoon getaway. The Woodhouse Experience is over five hours of the best that The Woodhouse has to offer, including an aromatherapy bath cure, facials, pedicure and four-handed massage. The Two’s Company package features a couples massage, facials, and pedicures. Other spa packages include Great Expectations, Organic Renewal and Spa Classics. With so many different package options, there is something to delight every couple at The Woodhouse Day Spa. Visit their website to see all of the amazing things The Woodhouse Day Spa has to offer this Valentine’s Day.
Gentle Healing Wellness Spa
Website | 609-409-2700
1274 Cranbury-South River Road, Cranbury, NJ

Located in an updated and luxurious 1853 Queen Anne Victorian farmhouse, Gentle Healing Wellness Spa offers a unique spa experience in Central NJ. This day spa features an extensive list of amenities, such as robes, slippers, organic tea, wine and gourmet meals. The beautifully maintained grounds feature a quaint gazebo, relaxing porches, and a sun-splashed patio. This provides the perfect backdrop to a relaxing spa afternoon.

This Valentine’s Day, couples can take advantage of numerous packages offered at Gentle Healing Wellness Spa. The “Two” Be Well package includes an aromatherapy steam, facial rejuvenation, aromatherapy target massage and a gourmet lunch with chocolate and champagne. The Romance for Two package includes an aromatherapy steam, a signature massage, and romantic fireside dinner. The Suite Romance for Two is their most romantic offering. Begin with a stay in a candlelight Jacuzzi, followed by an essential oil massage. Finish with Champagne and chocolate in the private suite. Visit their website to see all of the luxurious offerings of this NJ day spa.

THEATER EVENTS

Dancing & Romancing With the NJ Symphony Orchestra
Sunday, February 12 3:00pm
State Theater New Jersey 
15 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Ticket Office 732-246-7469
https://www.statetheatrenj.org/

The timeless elegance and romance of the golden age of Hollywood musicals will sweep you off your feet with song and dance standards inspired by Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Gene Kelly, and “the queen of tap dancing” herself, Eleanor Powell.  Come early and sing favorite love songs from Broadway, the movies and beyond. Free for ticketholders.

Met Opera Encore: Roméo et Juliette (Broadcast Live in HD)
Sunday February 12, 1:00pm
Pollak Theatre at Monmouth University
400 Cedar Avenue, West Long Branch, NJ 07764
732.571.3400

Broadcasted live in HD at Monmouth University, this epic love story is sure to pull at your heart strings. Bring your beloved for a night of opera based on this Shakespeare classic.

Once
Sunday, February 12 2:00pm & 7:30pm
Mayo Performing Art Center
100 South St, Morristown, NJ 07960
Box Office: 973-539-8008

Get dressed up for a night out at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown, showcasing this Tony Award-winning musical about an epic love story and the power of music.

10 UNEXPECTED VALENTINE’S DATES

Take Cooking Classes

Hudson Table
https://hudsontable.com/
1403 Clinton Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Classic Thyme Cooking School
Classic Thyme Class Schedule
710 South Avenue West, Westfield, NJ  07090
908-232-5445
Heirloom Kitchen
Heirloom Kitchen – Valentines Day
3853 Route 516, Old Bridge, NJ 08857
732 727 9444

Valentine’s Day is all about romance. Rather than sitting down in a restaurant to a meal prepared by a famous chef, this year sign up for a cooking class so you and your sweetheart can create an evening of delicious memories. Learn to cook restaurant caliber dishes, your valentine’s favorite dinner, or just bone up on some culinary skills; there are classes for all interests and level of involvement.
Sip and Paint

Pinot’s Palette
40 Market Street
Morristown, NJ 07960 
973.671.8676

258 Newark Street, Suite 300
Hoboken, NJ 07030 
551.227.7278
https://www.pinotspalette.com/

A toast to the colorful life. Cheers to full glasses and fulfilling experiences.

Time with friends and loved ones is valuable, and Pinot’s Pallet is all about providing an extraordinary experience. Perfect for celebrating a special evening, they bring out the creative expression in everyone including those who haven’t held a paintbrush since grade school, and others who were art majors in college. Amaze yourself while enjoying your favorite beverage and leave with a hand-painted masterpiece. Get inspired by a local artist and discover a new way to unwind.
Snow Moon Hike
February 10, 2017
Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary
324 Forest Dr. S, Short Hills, NJ 07078
Website | 973-376-3587

Take in breathtaking views of the full moon (known as the “Snow Moon” in February) with a guided evening hike. Explore the Arboretum under the light of the moon and discover why winter nights are much quieter than summer nights, look for wildlife tracks on the ground and more!

Romancing Under the Stars
Saturday, February 11th, Tuesday, February 14th, 7:00 p.m.
Raritan Valley Community College
118 Lamington Road, Branchburg, New Jersey
Website | 908-526-1200

It’s date night at the Planetarium!  Enjoy a light-hearted look at the universe. Stars, constellations, songs, and stories all celebrate love. Take a trip into outer space in the state-of-the-art, digital RVCC Planetarium. Using the SkySkan DigitalSky system, we can recreate the day and night skies from here on Earth, or anywhere else! We will show you what stars and planets are visible in tonight’s sky. For ages 16 & older (no children, please)
Take a Valentine’s Plunge
Saturday, February 4th, 12:00 pm 
Boardwalk, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Website | 732-690-5929

If you and your significant other are dedicated to helping worthy causes consider taking part in this year’s Valentine Plunge on February 4th. This NJ fundraiser will be raising money for the Joan Dancy and PALS (People with ALS) Foundation. 2017 marks the 11th year that this event will take place and everyone is encouraged to participate. Whether you register individually, as a group, or only decide to spectate, you will be helping the cause.

Plunging into the freezing Atlantic Ocean is essentially taking part in the biggest ice bucket challenge ever! Although this may not seem like the typical romantic activity you and your partner could do on such a special day, it could bring the two of you closer together as you spend the rest of the day cozying up to each other and recovering from the event. Or attend a post-plunge party at Leggett’s Sand Bar & Restaurant, the Manasquan Beach House or Reef & Barrel. To register and be a part of this activity or donate to the cause, click here.
Get a Birdseye View at Hot Air Balloon Adventure
1045 New Jersey 173, Asbury, NJ 08802
In Flight Balloon Adventures, LLC
Website | 888-301-2383

For a romantic getaway, the overnight romantic getaway package combines the adventure of a Hot Air Balloon flight with the romance of elegant dining, followed by a comfortable night in a charming country Bed and Breakfast. Surprise him or her with this unusual and romantic Valentine’s Day date idea in Hunterdon County. Combine a Sunrise flight, evening flight, pre or post dinner – your choice. There are several quaint and cozy Bed and Breakfasts nearby including Riverside Victorian B&B, Berry Preserve B&B and several more only miles from the launch site. Let In Flight Balloon Adventures make all the arrangements – they take care of everything, so all you have to worry about is relaxing and enjoying the company of your significant other.

Your flight is followed by a complimentary champagne, non-alcoholic drinks and hors d’oeuvres tailgate party, a great opportunity for passengers to communicate with the pilots, crews, and other passengers!
Climb Historic Absecon Lighthouse
DeLIGHTful Date Days
Saturday, February 11th and Sunday, February 12th 
11:00am – 4:00 pm
Group Vow Renewal and Toast
Saturday, February 11th 6:00 pm
Website | 609-449-1360
31 Rhode Island Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 084010

Valentine’s Day weekend is a special time at the Historic Absecon Lighthouse. New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse is opening its doors so couples can share a romantic day looking out onto the Atlantic Ocean. On Saturday, February 11th and Sunday, February 12th Celebrate Valentine’s Day with DeLIGHTful Date Days– two climbs for the price of one! On Saturday stay for the Group Vow Renewal and Toast at 6:00 pm. Couples make a private donation to participate based on the event’s value to them (minimum donation $40). This is a great inexpensive date idea before a night out in Atlantic City, or a fun day trip destination. Visit their website for more information on the Historic Absecon Lighthouse.

Masquerade at a Ball in a Castle
Friday, February 10th 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm 
Lambert Castle
Website | 973-247-0085
3 Valley Road, Paterson, NJ 07503

The Passaic County Historical Society cordially invites you to attend their Valentine’s Day Masked Ball at Lambert Castle on Friday, February 10th. Semi-formal attire is requested. Light refreshments served. Cash Bar. Guests must be over 21 and make a reservation ahead of time. Conceal your identity behind an elegant mask and spend an evening dancing among friends…and perhaps a secret admirer?

On Saturday, February 11th, stop by the Lambert Castle from 1pm-4pm to make your Victorian-style Valentine cards. Learn about early Valentine’s Day cards and the evolution of this romantic holiday. Those who are passionate about history can bring the romance of the Victorian era to life by celebrating Valentine’s Day at Lambert Castle. Visit their website for more information.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day on the Farm
February 11, 2017
Howell Living History Farm
70 Woodens Lane, Lambertville, NJ 08530
609-737-3299
Website

For a rustic country, inexpensive romantic celebration, experience farm life on an early 20th century. You and your date can celebrate an agricultural country Valentine’s Day at the Howell Living History Farm in Mercer County, NJ. Couples will be treated to free horse-drawn carriage rides for a romantic countryside date. Families and groups can take a ride on a horse-drawn wagon, making it a perfect double date idea or a fun family outing. After your ride, warm your hands with hot chocolate around an open fire. There will also be homemade Valentine’s Day sweet treats available to purchase at the visitor’s center. Enjoy them at the farm or bring them home to a loved one. Visit their website for more information on this romantic country Valentine’s Day event.
Ski or Snowshoe at High Point XC Ski Center
1480, Rt. 23
Sussex, NJ  07461
http://www.xcskihighpoint.com
973-702-1222

With the highest snowfall in New Jersey, High Point XC Ski Center offers cross-country skiing and snow shoeing. This is a great area for beginners and intermediates, as well as for experienced cross-country skiers who enjoy a scenic setting. High Point is an ideal place to learn from experienced instructors and experience the joy of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. High Point is the most equipped and best-groomed cross-country ski & snowshoe area in NJ, and one of the few with equipment rentals. Take in a day of cross country skiing or snowshoeing and combine it with an overnight stay in a nearby romantic Bed & Breakfast.

Other Unique Ideas

At Newark’s GlassRoots Studio, share your passion for creating art at a glass-blowing workshop. Nurture your inner lovebird with a winter birding excursion. Check out the nature center in the Meadowlands or other NJ wildlife trails. Or double date with a pair of well-mannered steeds. Legends Riding Stable in Vernon offers trail rides over 350 scenic acres.

Your Lifestyle Management Specialist is happy to create a gift your sweetest is sure to love.