Forget Mistletoe: Sleigh your date night with these cozy spots

The holiday season is upon us, so now's the best time to spend some quality time with your partner. Instead of relying on the usual mistletoe and ice skating, try breaking out of your comfort zone and making this winter a little more special.

Here are some must-try date night spots in New Brunswick.

Clydz

If you're looking for a casual spot that radiates a romantic ambiance, look no further than Clydz. This is an ideal restaurant and bar for date night due to its wonderful atmosphere and seasonal cocktail menu. It's sure to get you into the holiday spirit. It's also an underground restaurant, which makes it a welcoming hidden gem. 

They have a diverse menu and some amazing appetizers and drinks to choose from. Clydz is located on Paterson Street — it's only a short drive from the College Avenue campus. 

Rutgers Cinema

Movie nights are undoubtedly one of the best cozy date options, especially when you're not in the mood to get all dressed up and go out. All you have to do is throw on some warm, snug clothes and relax.

Rutgers Cinema is close and convenient for students, located on Livingston campus, near the Livingston Student Center. Rutgers Cinema always has different movies playing daily, and tickets are less than $10 if you show your student ID. So, if you're looking for the perfect affordable date night, check it out.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

What's a more romantic way to ring in the holiday season than a horse-drawn carriage ride with your significant other? Starting Saturday, you can take a lovely horse-drawn carriage ride right here in New Brunswick, courtesy of the New Brunswick City Center.

This is a fun, unique date idea that will surely get you ready for the holidays. The rides are located right out front of the Hyatt Regency on Neilson Street. Be sure to get your tickets before they sell out, and the festivity ends on December 21.

Christmas Lights

Driving around and looking at Christmas lights is an excellent way to spend quality time with your partner while staying comfy. Play Christmas music in the car, stop at Dunkin' or Starbucks for hot chocolate, then hit the road!

There are Christmas lights all over New Brunswick and its surrounding towns to look at and get you feeling cheerful. There's also the New Brunswick tree located at Monument Square.

You can also visit a local Christmas light drive-through — East Brunswick hosts the largest animated light show of its kind in New Jersey.

The Stress Factory Comedy Club

The Stress Factory Comedy Club is an intimate comedy club that serves food, drinks and laughs! Exciting comedians perform at the Stress Factory monthly, so you can choose who you want to see.

A comedy show is fun for bonding with your partner and enjoying downtime together. There are also some holiday events happening at The Stress Factory this month, namely the "SNL Annual Holiday Comedy Jam" on December 18.

The Stress Factory is located on Church Street, surrounded by restaurants, just in case you want to make date night even better and grab a nice meal before or after the show.

If you're looking for some ideas to help you plan a wholesome date night and make your significant other feel special this holiday season, try out some of these locations and enjoy some quality time with your loved one before the rush and stress begin.