is a small, bucolic borough in Essex County, New Jersey. Its stunning landscape is covered in rolling hills, tree-lined roads, streams, and ponds. A popular destination for hikers and walkers, the area boasts several trails that offer great views, such as the Eagle Rock Reservation, a 1,140-acre county park. Essex Fells is home to several historic sites and attractions, such as the Essex Fells Manor House, a former estate built in 1912, and the Essex Fells Museum, a repository for local history.
1. Essex Fells parks and places for a walk on a first date
A great choice for an outdoor first date is to take a walk together in one of Essex Fells’s many parks and trails. Eagle Rock Reservation is a great option for a hike, with numerous trails in the park winding through the woods and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Other great places to hike are the Thomas F. Sheehan Rail Trail, the Essex Fells Nature Preserve, and the Great Piece Meadows State Park. For a more leisurely stroll, head to the center of town and explore the historic main street, lined with 19th-century homes and buildings.
2. Places for a coffee date in Essex Fells
For a laid-back coffee date, the small town of Essex Fells has plenty of cafés and coffee shops to choose from. The café at the historic Essex Fells Manor House is a great choice, serving up gourmet coffee, herbal teas, and light snacks. Nearby, Beechwood Coffee is a cute and cozy café offering specialty coffee drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. For a more intimate experience, head to the cozy Agora Café, located in the heart of town.
3. Essex Fells galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
For something a bit more culture-focused, Essex Fells has a number of galleries and museums to explore on a first date. The Essex Fells Museum is a great place to start, as it is housed in a historic and picturesque Victorian building and is home to an extensive collection of local artifacts, including antiques and tools from the turn of the century. Also in town is the Open Space Museum, which features various exhibits and interactive displays on ecological sustainability.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Essex Fells
For a night out, Essex Fells has several live music and entertainment venues to choose from. The Oaks Club is a great place to see live music, with a regular rotation of local and national acts. For something a bit more intimate, head to the nearby café The Fireplace, which hosts acoustic acts on Thursday evenings and open mics on Sunday evenings. The historic Bell House is also worth a visit, with regular jazz shows and special events.
5. Essex Fells pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Finally, Essex Fells is home to several great restaurants, pubs, and bars to choose from for a night out. The Kitchen at the Essex Fells Manor House is a great option for a romantic dinner, featuring modern American fare with a classic touch. For something a bit more casual, head to The Porch, a relaxed gastropub with a great selection of beer and wine. For a classic bar experience, head to the Bell House, which features classic cocktails and bar snacks.
6. Other date ideas to try in Essex Fells
For something totally unique and unexpected, Essex Fells has plenty of fun date ideas. One great option is to rent a boat from the local marina and spend the day exploring the lakes and ponds in the area. Or, head to the nearby mountain and saddle up for a horseback riding adventure. For a more cultural experience, take a cooking or mixology class at the local culinary school, or take a painting class at the local art gallery. With its stunning landscape, quaint downtown, and plentiful attractions, Essex Fells is a great place for a memorable first date.
