Valentine’s Day is known to be all about showing your love for other people. Whether that be a partner or friend, there is something special about making time to spend with people we care about on such a special day.
The upside to living in Hoboken is the insane amount of access to amazing date locations in and around the city. So, no matter the budget, there is something for everyone in Hoboken.
Romantic Riverside Walk
The sights, the sounds, and most importantly, the price, what’s not to love about taking a walk by the Hudson River? If budget is an issue and you just want to have some nice quality time with your valentine, then a romantic walk might be the option for you.
Hoboken Public Library
With midterms coming up, there are those who may wish to spend more time cramming for their exams. For those studious individuals who also want to spend time with their special someone, a study date at the Hoboken Public Library may be for you. With dedicated areas for working and reading and gorgeous architecture and design details, it brings in the right amount of flair to impress your date.
Boba Date
Coffee is out, and bubble tea is in! Okay, not really, but it is still a lot of fun. Rather than a traditional coffee date, try going for some bubble tea. Not everyone likes coffee, but almost anyone can get behind some sugary milk in fun colors. Both cheap and easy, there are too many locations in Hoboken to pick from, but Kung Fu tea is great due to its proximity to campus and indoor seating availability.
Netflix and “Chill”
For a chill date night, consider getting some ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s. Getting a pint straight from the store means they take it out of the tubs in the store. This is objectively cheaper than buying individually portioned cups, and the ice cream is amazing. Then, go back to your (or your date’s) place and put on a movie or show of your choice.
Lunch at Honeygrow
As far as casual lunches that almost anyone can get behind, you would be hard-pressed to beat Honeygrow. It’s a stir-fry place that has both pre-made options and is also completely customizable. No matter your dietary restrictions, there is almost certainly something there that anyone can eat. It’s a great time and the best first-date option on this list.
Let’s Thrift!
If activities that you can do together are a priority, then thrifting has got you covered. The glory is there is no pressure to buy anything, but if you do, it is cheap and second-hand (a win for the environment and your wallet!). Shopping at St. Mary’s is a great option as it is affordable and has a variety of options in men’s and women’s clothing, making it accessible to a large range of people. If you’re not fashion forward, you can always make a game out of it, of you and your date creating the most ridiculous outfit you can for each other. Either way, fond memories are bound to be made.
Met Art Museum
If you are the type of person who simultaneously loves art and knows you are getting a good deal, then look no further than the Met Art Museum for your date night. As a student in New Jersey, you do not have to pay a cent to go in and explore the museum as long as you want. So if you and your date like this kind of thing, it is a great way to have a memorable time together exploring all the galleries.
Court Street Brunch
Calling all brunch people! Look no further to get your fix than Court Street Restaurant & Bar, available on Sundays. Though a pricier place than others on the list, it is about average to slightly below average for Hoboken prices on the brunch menu. It is a nicer place and definitely worth the money if you are trying to show off to your date. And for those 21 and up, they sell mimosas, among other cocktails, by the pint for $11 during brunch.
Carpe Diem Dinner
It does not get much more romantic than an intimate Italian dinner, but Carpe Diem takes that to an entirely new level. With a smaller space and food to die for, this is a cannot-miss spot. If Italian is not your thing, Carpe Diem has a lot of delicious non-pasta options, from burgers to steak. So, if you’re a lover of good food in unassuming packages, this may be the place for you.
Sirenetta Lunch
Having some of the best seafood in town is a fantastic time by all measures. Going to Sirenetta on the weekend between 11 and 3 makes their brunch menu available to you. With fresh oysters and clams being available a la carte for a great price, Sirenetta makes lunch a memorable experience for you and your date.
