It’s been a long {and cold} four months in Hudson County. From an epic snowstorm in November to a polar vortex in January, it’s about time the temperature starts to rise. We’re nearing the end of winter this month and spring is right around the corner {or so the calendar and Punxsutawney Phil says}. Even if you absolutely hate winter, it’s no secret there are some things you can only do when it’s cold out. So we’re rounding up the best winter coffee deals, recommended skincare products, books to read on a chilly night and more. Read on for your guide to surviving the rest of winter in Hoboken + Jersey City:
Order Your Favorite Soup From a Local Spot
^This one from South Street Ramen Co
Nothing says winter like warming up with a bowl of hot soup while you’re out to eat with friends or even having it delivered right to your door.
Some of the best include the Noodle Soup or Pho Bo Vien from Pho Nomenon {516 Washington Street}, the French Onion Soup from Elysian Cafe {1001 Washington Street}, or the Italian Wedding Soup from Frankie and Ava’s Italian Eatery {208 Washington Street}. Ani Ramen and Miso Ramen downtown and OZU in the Heights are clutch Jersey City spots to check out for slurp-worthy warmth as well.
Shop For Lightweight Jackets + Discounted Coats
Shops like Anthropologie and Dor L’Dor in Hoboken and Mint Market in Hoboken/JC, have crazy good deals for late-season winter coats right now with up to 50% off in their sale sections.
If you’re in the market for a more lightweight coat, Alba Boutique has some adorable finds — and the stores listed above have a few options as well as other spring necessities like pastel jean jackets and fun jumpsuits.
See More: Hoboken Boutiques to Shop Locally All Day Err’Day
Chill By The Fire at Pilsener Haus or Zeppelin Hall’s Polar Vortex
We all know Pilsener Haus + Biergarten {1422 Grand Street} had igloos this winter and they’ve been an excellent way to keep warm. But for a more relaxing, cheaper option, the bar has a roaring fireplace where guests can kick their feet up and chill.
Cozy up with friends, have a couple of drinks, and keep warm before the cold is gone for good. In Jersey City, Zeppelin Hall also has a similar vibe — complete with a covered and heated area, drinks, and eats. The Rooftop XP also has some spiked hot chocolate and a view, if that’s more your speed.
Plan Final Skiing + Snowboarding Trips
Whether it’s Hunter Mountain, the Catskills, Windham Mountain, or any other resort, make sure to plan a weekend getaway to experience the last winter sports excursions of the season. Get that squad or couple Instagram photo in the snow and enjoy some hot alcoholic beverages while you’re at it {tip: hot apple cider with rum or an Irish coffee is the way to go}.
Sip On Winter-Themed Coffee Specials
If you’re a coffee lover, here are a few must-try seasonal drinks from local cafés. Bwè Kafe is featuring a Mint Mocha or Spicy Mocha coffee until the end of winter, which can also be enjoyed as hot chocolate. Bean Vault has a St. Patrick’s Day special — an Irish cream syrup for all the Bailey’s lovers out there. Carpe Diem also has an INSANE spiked hot chocolate that really is all the rage.
Finish A Good Book Or Grab A New One From Your Local Bookstore
Pick up that book that’s been sitting on your nightstand for months and finish it. Quick — warm weather + outdoor happy hours begin again. For those in the market for a new read, Kerry and Izzy from Little City Books {100 Bloomfield Street} recommend The Far Field by Madhuri Vijay or Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime. WORD in Jersey City also has a wide selection right on Newark Avenue’s pedestrian plaza in Jersey City.
Read More: 4 Binge-Read Books For Spring {Found Locally}
Perfect Your Skincare Routine
If you’ve got dry skin and chapped lips {thanks, cold air}, Dr. Todd Newman, a physician’s assistant at Schweiger Dermatology Group, recommends avoiding prolonged hot showers {hard, we know!} and moisturizing more than usual in your daily routine. He suggests Neutrogena Hydro Boost for extra hydration, Aquaphor as chapstick {or Schweiger Lip Balm with SPF}, and investing in a cool-mist humidifier for your bedroom at night.
Sign Up For A WIO Class + Shop for Cute Winter Workout Gear
It’s time to work on those summer bod goals – try a class at Work It Out through an exclusive Hoboken Girl special — a 6-month membership with the 1st month FREE {at $150 a month— click here to redeem} OR a 6 classes for $100 deal {click here to redeem} or dive right in with a single or 12-month membership.
Have a tip to survive the last stretch of winter? Let us know in the comments!
