When couples plan romantic getaways in New Jersey, they usually head straight for the shore or Cape May. Vernon Valley has 1Club Vernon, which takes a completely different approach. You get mountain views instead of the ocean, the chance to play park golf on rolling greens, and the opportunity to learn something together that neither of you has probably tried before. It’s more about unwinding in a quiet setting than fighting boardwalk crowds.
Why Vernon is a romantic backdrop
Vernon Valley has wide open views and seasons that really shift the landscape – autumn paints the hills in oranges and reds, while summer makes everything look overgrown and green. It stays relatively quiet compared to other spots in New Jersey, which lets couples escape busy areas without needing to drive into other states. There are hiking trails scattered around, plus some local wineries and smaller inns, so you can turn what started as a day trip into a whole weekend without much planning.
1Club Vernon: a different kind of date
At the heart of the experience is park golf. Traditional golf intimidates a lot of people with all the equipment, lessons, and unwritten rules. Park Golf throws all that out – you show up, pick up a club and ball, and start playing. You can figure out the basics in a few minutes, and nobody expects you to be any good at it. The course spreads across five acres of rolling terrain, with holes that work with the landscape rather than forcing some artificial layout. It feels more like wandering through a pleasant park than trying to conquer a challenging sport, which suits couples who want to spend time together outdoors without turning it into a competition.
Unwind together with food and drinks
After a round, couples can walk over to Hef’s Hideaway, which sits right next to the course and serves craft cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, and cold sodas. The setting is relaxed and offers good views of Vernon Valley – a nice spot to sit and talk after spending time on the course.
If you’re ready for a meal, Hef’s Hut is right on site. The menu features locally inspired dishes, wood-smoked favorites, and comfort food, all great to share after being outdoors. Pair it with a drink and the day feels complete.
Those getaway stats: why outdoor weekends matter
Weekend outdoor time together does more than just fill up your Saturday – it strengthens relationships in ways that sitting on the couch can’t. Research keeps finding that couples who do fun things together end up happier and communicate more openly with each other. One research project discovered that shared leisure experiences led to improved relationship quality and deeper connections between partners.
That’s precisely what makes 1Club Vernon work so well: you get active outdoor time, move at your own speed, and connect with each other naturally – all without having to organize anything complicated beforehand.
Make it a full weekend
1Club can be the centerpiece of a weekend in Vernon. Spend the morning playing park golf, enjoy lunch at Hef’s Hut, and then explore nearby wineries or hiking trails. Stay overnight at a local inn or bed-and-breakfast and you’ll have the perfect balance of activity and downtime.
Why couples love it
- It’s playful but low-key – you can focus on enjoying each other’s company instead of worrying about technique or keeping score
- The scenery works for romance – especially when the valley shows off seasonal colors in fall and spring
- Food and drinks are right there – no need to leave and find another spot, so you can take your time without feeling rushed
Practical details
- Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, weather permitting. We encourage guests to book in advance to ensure availability.
- No equipment or experience needed — everything is provided.
- Location: 414 County Road 517, Vernon Township, NJ, 07462.
Book a tee time here to make sure you have a spot.
Wrapping it up: romantic weekend getaways NJ
For couples searching for a unique and easygoing escape, 1Club Vernon offers a fresh take on romantic weekend getaways in NJ. Everything’s right there in one spot – you can play outside, grab some good food, and relax without having to plan three different stops. You’re there for an afternoon or decide to stay the weekend, and it beats the usual dinner-and-movie routine because you did something together that you’ll remember later.