Fall in Sussex County sets the perfect stage for romance, with its crisp air, colorful foliage, and cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a first date or looking to rekindle the spark with your long-time partner, the area offers a plethora of romantic activities. We’ve previously shared 7 Fun Fall Date Ideas in Sussex County New Jersey, but let’s explore a few more to inspire your autumn romance:
1. Scenic Drive and Picnic: Take a leisurely drive along the scenic routes mentioned earlier, pack a picnic basket with local treats from the farmers markets, and find a secluded spot with a breathtaking view to enjoy your meal together. Here is a recap of some routes that showcase the best of the county’s fall splendor:
High Point Scenic Drive: Start at High Point State Park and follow Route 23 south. The drive offers spectacular views from New Jersey’s highest point, with the fall foliage creating a stunning backdrop for the High Point State Park and New Jersey Veterans Memorial.
Delaware Water Gap Loop: Take Route 206 north to Milford, PA, then follow Route 209 south along the Delaware River. Cross back into New Jersey at the Delaware Water Gap for a drive that combines riverside views with mountain vistas.
Stokes State Forest Drive: Wind through the heart of Stokes State Forest on Route 206. This drive offers dense forests and occasional clearings with panoramic views of the changing leaves.
Enhance your fall journey by bringing along a packed meal to savor at a picturesque viewpoint or rest area on your route. Indulge in a steaming cup of soup or a filling sandwich amidst the cool autumn breeze and vibrant leaves. Remember to pack a snug blanket and your camera to preserve the experience.
Pro tip: For the best colors, plan your drive for mid-October, typically the peak of fall foliage season in Sussex County. Early morning or late afternoon light can make the colors appear even more vibrant, perfect for photo opportunities.
2. Wine Tasting at Local Vineyards: The Sussex County region is home to a variety of delightful wineries. Indulge in an afternoon of local wine tasting set against the backdrop of fall foliage. Select vineyards enhance the experience with weekend live music performances.
Brook Hollow Winery
Location: 594 State Route 94, Columbia, NJ 07832
Phone: (908) 496-8200
Wine List
Distance from Inn: Approx. 25 min
Brook Hollow Winery, established in 2006, marks Paul and Debbie Ritter’s transition from wildlife biology to full-time winemaking. What began as a retirement hobby blossomed into a thriving vineyard with over 2,000 vines. While Paul specializes in dry table wines, the winery offers a diverse selection for tasting and purchase. Visitors particularly enjoy their innovative frozen wine slushies and Chocolate Merlot Milkshakes. To experience their wines, schedule a tasting, and don’t miss the opportunity to browse their gift shop for holiday treasures.
Four Sisters Winery
Location: 783 County Road 519, Belvidere, NJ 07823
Phone: (908) 475-3671 (Closed on Wednesdays)
Wine List
Distance from Inn: Approx. 30 min
Established in 1984 by Matty and Laurie Matarazzo to support their four daughters’ education, Four Sisters Winery in Belvidere, NJ is a cherished family-owned gem spanning 23 scenic acres, with 8 acres dedicated to vineyards. Offering a diverse selection of 19 wines, each bottle embodies a commitment to quality and tradition. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings guided by knowledgeable staff, exploring a journey of flavors and aromas that celebrate the enduring bonds of family.
The winery offers a variety of experiences to savor. On weekends, guests can enjoy the Vineyard View Bistro’s delectable menu, ranging from comforting classics to gourmet delights, perfectly paired with Four Sisters wines. Live music from 12:30 to 5 PM enhances the relaxing ambiance, while an outdoor bar provides convenient access to tastings and purchases. Throughout the year, special events like barefoot grape stomping and murder mystery evenings add extra excitement, creating lasting memories for visitors.
Sky Acres Winery
Location: 1680 Black River Rd, Far Hills, NJ 07931
Phone: (877) 377-5359
Wine List
Distance from Inn: Approx. 30 min
Sky Acres Winery, nestled in 50 acres of pristine woodlands and pasture in Bedminster, New Jersey, has earned a stellar reputation in the wine industry. Named NJ Winery of the Year for six consecutive years (2018-2023) by the NYIW competition, Sky Acres reflects its owners’ passion for both winemaking and aviation. The winery’s name and logo, featuring a red Waco YMF5 biplane, pay homage to Meera and Vijay Singh’s love for flying.
More than just a production facility, Sky Acres serves as a hub for innovative winemaking research. The Singhs focus on developing sustainable methods to create high-quality wines while minimizing water usage and environmental impact. The winery is a testing ground for their patented technologies: the GOfermentor® winemaking machine, SmartBarrel® aging system, and GOfermentor Jr® home winemaking system. These innovations, available at GOfermentor.com, have garnered industry recognition, with the GOfermentor winning the 2019 Innovation Award from the Wine Industry Network.
Tomasello Winery
Location: 1 Alstede Farms Ln, Chester, NJ 07930
Phone: (800) 666-9463
Wine List
Distanced from Inn: Approx. 20 min
Tomasello Winery’s roots trace back to the 1930s when Frank Tomasello, a berry farmer in Hammonton, NJ, recognized the area’s potential for grape cultivation. As Prohibition ended in 1933, Frank swiftly obtained one of the country’s first winery licenses. His initial wines – Ranier Red, White, and Rosé – named after his wife’s maiden name, became instant successes. The 1940s saw Frank’s sons, Charles and Joseph, join the business, expanding operations and introducing sparkling wines made using the traditional French méthode champenoise.
Over the next decades, the Tomasello family continued to innovate and grow. Charles Sr. introduced French-American hybrid grapes in the 1970s, while the third generation – Charles Jr. and Jack – added Vinifera vines and launched a successful line of fruit wines in the 1990s. Now in its fourth generation with Brian and Sean at the helm, Tomasello Winery has expanded to nearly 70 acres of vineyards. As New Jersey’s only fourth-generation family-owned winery, Tomasello produces award-winning wines distributed across 37 states and internationally, standing as a testament to almost a century of winemaking expertise and family tradition.
3. Couples’ Dance Class: Spice up your stay with a couples dance class at Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Roxbury, just 15 minutes from the Inn. Learn ballroom, Latin, or social dances in a fun, romantic setting. Perfect for all skill levels. Contact the studio directly to book: Phone: 973-252-9600
4. Sunset Hike: Choose one of the easier trails in Allamuchy Mountain State Park or the Delaware Water Gap for a romantic sunset hike. Don’t forget to bring a thermos of hot cocoa or hot apple cider from the Inn to share at the summit.
5. Antiquing Adventure: Explore the charming antique shops in the area’s small towns. It’s a great way to spend a crisp fall day, and you might find a unique memento of your trip. Take a drive down 206 into Andover and you will find Scranberry Coop, a vintage Antique shop with a variety of independent vendors all under the same roof! When you are ready for more shops, continue on 206 North and you will find Grey Barn Antiques as well as other small shops on Main Street in Andover. You can also head on to the Shoppes at Lafayette and have a late lunch or early dinner.
6. Cozy Coffee Shop Date: Find a quaint local café such as Roosters Coffee House in nearby Roxbury and spend a relaxing morning or afternoon chatting over pumpkin spice lattes and freshly baked pastries.
7. Fall Foliage Boat Tour: Experience the vibrant autumn colors on a Fall Foliage Boat Tour with Lake Hopatcong Cruises. This unique excursion offers stunning views of New Jersey’s largest lake and its 45-mile shoreline adorned in fall hues. The tour, typically lasting 90 minutes, provides a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery reflected in the calm waters while learning about the lake’s history and ecology. Best enjoyed from late September through October, it’s advisable to book in advance and check foliage reports for optimal timing. Bring warm layers, a camera, and binoculars for wildlife spotting. This romantic outing offers a fresh perspective on leaf-peeping, perfect for couples seeking a memorable autumn experience.
8. Couples’ Spa Day: After a day of outdoor activities, unwind together with a couples’ massage in your room or a spa treatment at one of the local wellness centers such as Kula Wellness and Yoga, a short walk from the Inn.
9. Stargazing Picnic: For a romantic Stargazing Picnic in Sussex County, NJ, consider Waterloo Village or High Point State Park. Pack warm blankets, pillows, snacks, and hot drinks. Bring a star chart or app to identify constellations. Arrive before sunset to set up, then enjoy cuddling under the stars, spotting constellations, and sharing dreams. Optional items: portable speaker, binoculars, and a red flashlight. Important: Check park hours, as some close at sunset. Choose a clear night away from city lights for the best stargazing experience.
10. Romantic Inn Stay: Complete your romantic fall getaway with a stay at the charming Whistling Swan Inn. This historic Victorian mansion turned elegant bed and breakfast offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Nestled in New Jersey’s picturesque countryside, the inn boasts uniquely decorated rooms with plush bedding and amenities like fireplaces or Jacuzzi tubs in select accommodations. Unwind in the cozy common areas, perhaps sharing a glass of wine by the fireplace or enjoying the crisp autumn air on the wraparound porch. Wake to the aroma of a freshly prepared gourmet breakfast featuring locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. With its warm atmosphere, attentive service, and proximity to fall activities, the Whistling Swan Inn provides not just a place to stay, but an integral part of your memorable autumn escape.
Remember, the key to a perfect fall date is embracing the season and each other’s company. Sussex County provides an ideal backdrop for autumn romance, offering a wealth of activities for couples to enjoy. From admiring the vibrant foliage and sipping warm cider to taking hand-in-hand strolls through quaint towns, there’s no shortage of romantic experiences. For more ideas on how to make the most of your fall getaway in the area, including scenic drives, festive events, and cozy dining spots, check out our blog post “Your Ultimate Autumn Guide” . This comprehensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable romantic autumn adventure in Sussex County.