New Jersey is a state that truly shines all year long, offering endless activities no matter the season. Whether you’re hitting the slopes in the winter, soaking up the sun on a summer beach day, or strolling through vibrant spring flower fields, there’s something for everyone! My Ultimate 2025 New Jersey Bucket List features over 100 things to do, making it your go-to guide for unforgettable adventures throughout the Garden State. Have a favorite spot that’s missing? Be sure to share it in the comments below—I’d love to add it to the list!
1. Skiing & Snowtubing at Mountain Creek
Feel the thrill of snow-covered slopes and fun tubing hills.
When: December–March | Address: 200 NJ-94, Vernon Township, NJ
2. Visit a Pop-Up Ice Rink for Ice Skating
Glide on the ice at some of New Jersey’s seasonal outdoor rinks.
When: December–February | Example: Van Saun County Park, Bergen County, NJ
3. Go Skiing or Snowtubing at Campgaw Mountain
A perfect spot for beginner and family-friendly slopes.
When: December–March | Address: 200 Campgaw Rd, Mahwah, NJ
4. Take a Hike at Palisades Interstate Park
Enjoy the beauty of frosted trails and Hudson river views in the winter, or lush greenery in the warmer season. I recommend hiking the Peanut Leap Cascade Trail, which takes you from NJ to a waterfall in NY State.
When: Year-round | Address: Park at State Line Lookout, Closter, NJ
5. Take a Pottery Class at a Local Studio
Create your own masterpiece and unwind through art. A pottery studio that you can consider visiting is Blue Skies Pottery, with locations in Long Branch and Hoboken.
When: Year-round | Address: Variety of Studios in NJ
6. Take a Winter Hike at Ramapo State Forest
Enjoy the sound of peaceful streams and sight of snow-capped trees as you make your way along the Ramapo Lake Trailhead. You can also visit the nearby Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah for more scenic hikes and lake views.
When: Year-round | Address: 67 Skyline Dr, Oakland, NJ
7. Visit the New Jersey Botanical Garden & Skylands Manor
Experience a castle-like estate and plethora of beautiful gardens year-round. The NJBG is located within Ringwood State Park, which also offers nice hiking trails. I recommend visiting around May to June. Admission is typically free, but there may be a parking charge during the summer season on select days.
When: Year-round | Address: 5 Morris Rd, Ringwood, NJ
8. See the Cherry Blossoms at Branch Brook Park
Discover stunning blossoms at the nation’s largest cherry blossom collection. The flowers are usually in bloom beginning early April into mid-April.
When: April | Address: Park Ave, Newark, NJ
9. See a Field of Daffodils at Reeves Reed Arboretum
Delight in a golden field of daffodils at this Arboretum. The best time to visit is Mid-April typically. It is free to visit the grounds, except on Daffodil Day, which is an event that will be held on Sunday, April 13th from 11 AM to 3 PM.
When: April | Address: 165 Hobart Ave, Summit, NJ
10. Holland Ridge Farms U-Pick Tulips Spring Spectacular
Stroll through acres of colorful tulips at NJ’s largest U-pick flower field. Event details can be found here.
When: April–May | Address: 108 Rues Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ
11. See the Flowers at Frelinghuysen Arboretum
Explore vibrant gardens coming to life in the springtime. It’s free to explore the grounds and absolutely stunning! You can visit year-round, but I recommend visiting in the spring for cherry blossom season or summer.
When: April–July | Address: 353 E Hanover Ave, Morristown, NJ
12. Go Hydrobiking on Lake Hopatcong
Enjoy an invigorating activity at Lake Hopatcong this summer with The Lake Hopatcong Adventure Co.
When: Summer Season | Address: 37 Nolans Point Park Rd, Hopatcong, NJ
13. Explore Lambertville, NJ & New Hope, PA
Explore the charming shops and atmosphere in Lambertville, NJ, and New Hope, PA—two picturesque towns connected by a walkable bridge that adds to their unique charm.
When: Year-round | Address: Bridge St., Lambertville, NJ
14. Walk across the Swinging Bridge at Stony Brook in Princeton Battlefield State Park
Walk through a historic site and walk across the famous Swinging Bridge. I recommend visiting in the summer or peak fall season.
When: Year-round | Address: 500 Mercer Rd, Princeton, NJ
15. Visit the Grounds for Sculpture 16. Go Whale Watching in Cape May 17. Explore Willowwood Arboretum 18. Rudolf W. van der Goot Rose Garden 19. See Peonies in Bloom at Peony’s Envy 20. Go Birdwatching at Cape May Point State Park 21. Climb the Cape May Lighthouse 22. Visit the Ocean City Boardwalk 23. Spend a Summer Day on Long Beach Island (LBI) 24. Go Railbiking in Cape May With Rev Rail Co. 25. Visit Island Beach State Park 26. Stroll the Asbury Park & Ocean Grove Boardwalk 27. See the Roses at Deep Cut Gardens in Middletown 28. Visit the Leonard J. Buck Garden 29. Kayak at the Delaware Water Gap 30. See a Concert at the Stone Pony Summer Stage 31. Explore Batsto Village in Wharton State Forest 32. Do a Zip Tour at Mountain Creek This Summer/Fall 33. Ride the Alpine Mountain Coaster at Mountain Creek 34. Visit Jenkinson’s Aquarium & Boardwalk 35. See the Sunset Behind the Waves in New Jersey 36. Go Blueberry Picking at a Local Farm 37. Try Parasailing in Wildwood 38. Seek Thrill at TreEscape Aerial Adventure Park 39. Catch a Minor League Baseball Game 40. Spend an afternoon at Beach Plum Farm 41. Pick Your Own Flowers at Melick’s Town Farm 42. Visit the NJ Sunflower Trail at Von Thun Farms 43. Go Peach & Apple Picking at Melick’s Town Farm 44. Hike the Appalachian Trail Boardwalk (Pochuck Boardwalk) 45. Pick Lavender at Happy Day Farm 46. Go Strawberry Picking at Battleview Orchards 47. Enjoy a Loaded Smoothie Bowl from Soul Bowls 48. Take a Wild Ride at Six Flags Great Adventure 49. Enjoy a Hike at Cheesequake State Park 50. Go Back in Time at Sandy Hook 51. Spend a Day in Princeton 52. See the Sunflower & Zinnia Fields at Happy Day Farm 53. Oktoberfest at Mountain Creek Resort 54. Explore Allaire Village in the Fall 55. Go to Tops Diner & the Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Center 56. Attend the Chatsworth Cranberry Festival 57. Pick Pumpkins at Heaven Hill Farm 58. Go Apple Picking at Riamede Farm 59. Attend the Fall Festival at Happy Day Farm 60. Hike High Point State Park’s Monument Loop Trail 61. Tour the Red Mill Museum Village & Downtown Clinton 62. Explore Waterloo Village Historic Site 63. Explore Whitesbog Village 64. Corn Maze Fun at Stony Hill Farms 65. See Fall Foliage on a Delaware River Train Ride 66. Wander the Double Trouble Village Historic Site 67. Visit the Liberty Science Center 68. See a NJ Devils Game at The Prudential Center 69. Experience a Day or Weekend in Atlantic City 70. Hike The Red Dot-Blue Dot Trail at Mt. Tammany 71. Visit the Adventure Aquarium 72. Tour the Thomas Edison National Historical Park 73. Discover Rutgers Gardens 74. Explore the USS New Jersey Battleship Museum 75. Experience a Spa Day at SoJo Spa Club 76. Visit the Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park 77. Enjoy a Staycation at Renault Winery 78. Take an Underground Tour at Sterling Hill Mining Museum 79. Try Paddleboarding on the Navesink River 80. Visit NJ’s largest U-Pick Sunflower Field 81. Ride the Cape May-Lewes Ferry 82. Explore Liberty State Park 83. Discover the Morristown National Historical Park 84. Explore The Towne of Historic Smithville 85. See the Holiday Lights at Turtle Back Zoo’s Holiday Lights Spectacular 86. See the Holiday Lights at Congress Hall in Cape May 87. See the Holiday Light Display at Skylands Stadium 88. Visit Holland Ridge Farms’ Winter Tulip Festival 89. Enjoy a Peaceful Retreat at a Cozy A-Frame in South Jersey 90. Attend the Water Lantern Festival 91. Walk Around Cross Estate Gardens in Bernardsville 92. Enjoy a Fall Hike at Norvin Green State Forest 93. Take a Hayride at Secor Farms in Mahwah 94. Go Pumpkin & Apple Picking at Battleview Orchards 95. See Lucy the Elephant 96. Visit Lakota Wolf Preserve 97. Spend an Afternoon Wandering Duke Farms 98. Visit The World’s Largest Miniature Wonderland 99. Visit One of The Largest Hindu Temples in The World 100. Game on at the Silverball Museum Arcade 101. Enjoy Sliders in a Mid-Century Diner/Burger Joint 102. Visit the Cape May Zoo 103. Explore the Deserted Village of Feltville And there you have it—your ultimate New Jersey bucket list for 2025! Whether you’re soaking up the scenery, trying something totally new, or just enjoying a classic Jersey experience, this list has a little bit of everything. So grab your friends, your family, or just yourself, and start checking these off one by one. Here’s to making memories, exploring all the cool stuff our state has to offer, and having an amazing year ahead. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and TikTok for real-time posting of fun things to do in and around NJ and the Northeast!
Wander through art-filled landscapes at this unique 42-acre Sculpture garden in Central Jersey.
Spot migrating whales and dolphins along the coast. Eventhough you aren’t guaranteed to see whales when you do the boat tour, it’s still a quintessential Jersey Shore experience you’ve got to do at least once in your life. Tours are offered through Cape May Whale Watcher.
When: Summer Season | Address: 1218 Wilson Dr, Cape May, NJ
See blooming flowers and tall trees as you wander this free public garden. I recommend visiting in the spring/summer.
When: April–August | Address: 300 Longview Rd, Chester Township, NJ
Wander amidst fragrant, blooming roses at this iconic Somerset County public garden. The best time to visit is early-to-mid June.
When: June | Address: 156 Mettlers Rd Lot A, Somerset, NJ
Wander through vibrant gardens of these stunning flowers. Peony’s Envy requires paid admission for its display garden, which will be open this year from April 25th to June 8th. Their cut flower fields are expected to open the end of May.
When: April – June | Address: 35 Autumn Hill Rd, Bernardsville, NJ
Spot colorful migratory birds year-round, but particularly in the spring. This is a free state park that features lovely walking trails as well.
When: Year-round | Address: Light House Ave, Cape May Point, NJ
Take in panoramic ocean views. Tickets to climb up the lighthouse can be purchased on-site. I recommend pairing this with a stroll around Cape May Point State Park, which is free to wander.
When: June–August | Address: 215 Light House Ave, Cape May, NJ
Enjoy classic rides, treats, and beach vibes.
When: Summer Season | Address: Ocean City, NJ
Relax on sandy beaches or explore seaside shops. You can check out Barnegat Lighthouse State Park and Fantasy island Amusement Park while on the island too.
When: Summer Season | Address: Long Beach Island, NJ
Pedal through nature and historic sites when you take a railbiking tour with Rev Rail Co. This is the perfect afternoon activity to add into a weekend stay in Cape May! I recommend booking a tour sometime between May and October.
When: May–October | Address: 609 Lafayette St, Cape May, NJ
Escape to a serene beach getaway when you visit the 10-mile stretch of Island Beach State Park. There is a fee to enter during peak summer season and parking is limited.
When: Year-round | Address: Seaside Park, NJ
Enjoy vibrant boardwalk culture with local shops, eateries, and ocean breezes. It is usually free to park in Ocean Grove, so I like to park there and then walk to Asbury! While you’re in Asbury, check out Cookman Ave and get a delicious dinner at Talula’s.
When: Year-round | Address: Asbury Park & Ocean Grove, NJ
Explore manicured gardens filled with fragrant blooms. Deep Cut Gardens is a free Monmouth County park that is known for it’s rose garden in the summer season. Check out Tatum Park across the street for some hiking trails!
When: June-July | Address: 152 Red Hill Rd, Middletown, NJ
Wander around this stunning, free public garden during the spring and summer months to take in vibrant blooms. The best time to visit is during the warmer seasons.
When: May – September | Address: 11 Layton Rd, Far Hills, NJ 07931
Paddle through the Delaware River and take in scenic landscapes. Kayak rentals are available through Delaware River Trips, which is based right over the border in PA. They also offer rafting adventures!
When: April-October | Address: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Rock out at this iconic venue in Asbury Park! Here’s the 2025 lineup. The Sea.Hear.Now Festival in Asbury Park is typically held mid-September.
When: May–September | Address: 913 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ
Discover a preserved 19th-century glassmaking town. Enjoy walking trails as well!
When: Year-round | Address: 31 Batsto Rd, Hammonton, NJ
Soar through the treetops for an adrenaline rush. This is a great outdoor activity for those seeking adventure. In the past, I went in the summer and had a blast, but I’d love to do it this year with the fall foliage. More info and tickets can be found here.
When: June–September | Address: 200 NJ-94, Vernon Township, NJ
The Alpine Mountain Coaster is perfect for those seeking thrill. You’re in control of your cart and can take in beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
When: Summer/Fall | Address: 200 NJ-94, Vernon Township, NJ
Enjoy family-friendly activities and oceanfront fun. I always loved doing the rides and playing in the arcades growing up!
When: Summer Season | Address: 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
Sunset Beach in Cape May is the ultimate spot to catch a breathtaking sunset. It’s one of the few beaches in New Jersey where the sun sets behind the water.
When: Year-round | Address: 502 Sunset Blvd, Cape May, NJ
Harvest sweet, fresh blueberries straight from the bush. New Jersey has a bunch of local spots offering U-pick blueberries including DiMeo Farms in Hammonton and Happy Day Farm in Manalapan.
When: June–August | Address: Multiple Throughout NJ
Soar high above the ocean for spectacular views with Atlantic Parasail in Wildwood Crest. They are highly rated and have been in business for over 30 years, having done over 200,000 flights.
When: Summer Season | Address: Wildwood Crest, NJ
Take on a thrilling activity this year with TreEscape. This self-guided aerial obstacle course makes for a unique activity with friends and family. The courses range in difficulty and offer a combination of rope walks, obstacles, climbing elements, and zip lines.
When: May-November | Address: 414 County Road 517, Vernon, NJ
Enjoy a local baseball game with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, Somerset Patriots, Trenton Thunder, Sussex County Miners, or the New Jersey Jackals.
When: June–August | Address: 5 Teams Throughout NJ
Beach Plum Farm in West Cape May, NJ is a must-visit at least once per year. From vibrant hydrangeas in the summer to festive holiday decor in December, this is one of my favorite spots to visit. My favorite months to go are June, July, October, and December.
When: Year-round | Address: 140 Stevens Street, West Cape May, NJ
Melick’s Town Farm in Oldwick is the perfect spot to spend a summer afternoon. With their U-pick flower experience, you can wander through vibrant fields and pick your favorites—only paying for what you pick, with no entry fee required. They also have a market store on site.
When: July | Address: 170 Oldwick Rd, Oldwick, NJ
The NJ Sunflower Trail can be found at Von Thun Farms’ Washington location. Plan to visit mid-July to early August. Paid entry is required, and you can also pick the sunflowers along with other blooms to take home for an additional fee. They also offer peach picking!
When: July-August | Address: 438 Route 57 West, Washington, NJ
Harvest sweet, juicy peaches in the summer or crisp apples in the fall at Melick’s Town Farm orchards in Califon.
When: July-Early November | Address: 472 County Road 513, Califon, NJ
This easy trail offers unique scenery and a long stretch of boardwalk surrounded by lush greenery. You can tack this onto the Stairway to Heaven hike, which is more challenging. Park in the Stairway to Heaven Parking Lot off Route 94 (limited spaces) or across from Heaven Hill Farm. Hike the boardwalk trail until you at least get to the Suspension Bridge; it’s so cool to see!
When: Year-round | Address: 443 Vernon Warwick Rd, Vernon, NJ
There are many local farms in New Jersey that offer U-pick lavender, including Happy Day Farm in Manalapan. You can combine this activity with raspberry picking, which typically occurs at the same time.
When: June | Address: 106 Iron Ore Rd, Manalapan, NJ
Late May is a great time of year to go a strawberry picking in New Jersey. I enjoyed doing it at Battleview Orchards last year and would recommend.
When: May | Address: 91 Wemrock Rd, Freehold, NJ
Soul Bowls has two locations in New Jersey; one in Metuchen and one in Scotch Plains. They have the BEST smoothie bowls in the state. You can visit the Metuchen location on a nice spring day and walk around the downtown to make an afternoon out of it.
When: Year-round | Address: 50 Pearl St, Metuchen & 2397 Mountain Ave, Scotch Plains, NJ
Enjoy roller coasters, wildlife safaris, and seasonal events. Six Flags is anticipated to reopen this spring. If you plan on visiting the park more than once this year, it is worth it to get a season pass.
When: March-December | Address: 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson Township, NJ
Cheesequake State Park is home to numerous easy hiking trails. It’s a local favorite for those in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties.
When: Year-round | Address: 300 Gordon Rd, Matawan, NJ
Take a tour of the oldest operating lighthouse in America and see the abandoned yellow-brick buildings at Fort Hancock. Visitors can also enjoy miles of walking/biking trails here, along with the beaches. I personally recommend visiting in the non-peak season to avoid parking fees and crowds.
When: Fall Season Recommended | Address: 84 Mercer Rd, Highlands, NJ
Explore the University campus, go shopping in the downtown, and enjoy a nice meal at one of Princeton’s eateries. If you’re looking for a nice dinner, try Agricola Eatery. More casual? Check out Tacoria or get ice cream at The Bent Spoon.
When: Year-round | Address: Downtown Princeton, NJ
Wander through bright, cheerful flowers in the summer and early fall. U-pick is also available if you want to take some home. Info can be found here. Zinnias are usually available for picking in the summer, while sunflowers are available in the summer and fall.
When: July–September | Address: 106 Iron Ore Rd, Manalapan, NJ
Celebrate fall with beer, sausages, and live music.
When: Usually Late September | Address: 200 Route 94, Vernon, NJ
Step back in time at this charming historic site amid fall foliage.
When: October | Address: 4263 Atlantic Ave, Wall Township, NJ
Tops Diner is one of New Jersey’s highest rated, most popular diners! Nestled in Newark, this diner is only a 7-minute drive away from the Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Center. Easily combine the two for an evening out with friends.
When: Year-round | Address: 500 Passaic Ave, East Newark, NJ (Diner)
Celebrate New Jersey’s cranberry harvest with food and vendors.
When: October | Address: Chatsworth, NJ
Find the perfect pumpkin while enjoying hayrides and Halloween festivities. This farm is also near the Stairway to Heaven & Appalachian Boardwalk Trail, if you want to combine the activities in the same day.
When: September–October | Address: 451 NJ-94, Vernon, NJ
Enjoy fresh-picked apples and fall farm fun. P.S. Riamede Farm has some of the BEST apple cider doughnuts! Here’s my 2024 apple picking guide to NJ.
When: September–October | Address: 122 Oakdale Rd, Chester, NJ
Celebrate autumn with corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and seasonal treats. The photo-ops are also fantastic!
When: September–October | Address: 106 Iron Ore Rd, Manalapan, NJ
Take in stunning views at the highest point in NJ. I recommend going during the peak fall season to take in the vibrant foliage, but it’s also beautiful during other seasons.
When: Year-round | Address: High Point Monument, Montague, NJ
Experience a Ghost Tour in October, or more casual history tour in the summer. While there is an admission fee to walk around the village, you can get some nice views of the famous Red Mill for free from the town.
When: Year-round | Address: 56 Main St, Clinton, NJ
Take in history and vibrant fall colors at this restored village. I recommend visiting in summer or fall. It’s free to wander the grounds!
When: Year-round | Address: 525 Waterloo Rd, Stanhope, NJ
See how this historical cranberry and blueberry farm harvests the berries in the Pine Barrens, or attend one of their events throughout the year.
When: October | Address: 120 W Whites Bogs Rd #34, Browns Mills, NJ
Navigate a sprawling 10-acre corn maze with family and friends this fall.
When: September–October | Address: 15 North Rd, Chester, NJ
Take in stunning autumn views from historic train cars. The Delaware River Railroad Excursions offers a variety of seasonally-themed train rides throughout the year.
When: October | Address: Phillipsburg, NJ
Double Trouble Village was one of the largest cranberry operations in the 20th century. The bog shutdown in the early 21st century and is now known as Double Trouble State Park, where visitors can enjoy walking trails.
When: Year-round | Address: 581 Pinewald Keswick Rd, Bayville, NJ
Enjoy hands-on learning and exhibits for all ages.
When: Year-round | Address: 222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, NJ
Cheer on our home team at an exciting game!
When: October–April | Address: 25 Lafayette St, Newark, NJ
Try your luck or relax at one of New Jersey’s free beaches! The Ocean Casino Resort is wonderful and they have a fantastic restaurant.
When: Year-round | Address: Atlantic City, NJ
Enjoy this moderate hike through the woods and enjoy an iconic view of the Delaware River. I recommend visiting in the October for peak fall foliage.
When: Year-round | Address: Dunnfield Creek Natural Area, 1-80, Columbia, NJ
Meet sharks, penguins, and hippos at this family-friendly attraction.
When: Year-round | Address: 1 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ
Learn about the inventor at this preserved laboratory. The museum is planned to reopen mid-March.
When: March-December | Address: 211 Main St, West Orange, NJ
Explore 180 acres of stunning horticultural displays and wooded trails. The best time to visit is during the summer season to see the blooms.
When: Year-round | Address: 112 Log Cabin Rd, North Brunswick Township, NJ
Tour one of the most decorated battleships in U.S. history.
When: Year-round | Address: 62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ
Relax in thermal pools with views of the NYC skyline.
When: Year-round | Address: 660 River Rd, Edgewater, NJ
Witness the beauty and history of this powerful waterfall. The falls are free to visit year-round, but can look really beautiful during a winter snowfall.
When: Year-round | Address: 72 McBride Ave Ext, Paterson, NJ
Plan a relaxing retreat at Renault’s beautiful resort equipped with a pool, stunning rooms, winery, and other seasonal activities.
When: Year-round | Address: 72 N Bremen Ave, Egg Harbor City, NJ
Explore fascinating tunnels of this historic zinc mine.
When: Year-round | Address: 30 Plant St, Ogdensburg, NJ
A tranquil way to explore beautiful waterways. Oceanic Marina rents out stand-up paddle boards along with boats and kayaks. If you’re in the area, I recommend getting a nice sit-down dinner at Salt Creek Grille in Rumson. Riposo Coffee Roasters is also a very popular cafe in the town.
When: Summer Season | Address: 8 Washington Street, Rumson, NJ
Holland Ridge Farms offers the largest U-pick sunflower field in the state. The festival is typically offered in the early fall season, and also features photo-ops, food trucks, and other varieties of flowers for picking.
When: September-October | Address: 108 Rues Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ
Cross the Delaware Bay while spotting dolphins and enjoying the views.
When: Year-round | Address: 1200 Lincoln Blvd., North Cape May, NJ
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Looking for a nice dinner? Check out The Liberty House which dishes up delicious steak, seafood, and American eats with stunning skyline views.
When: Year-round | Address: Multiple Lots Throughout Park
Dive into Revolutionary War history at this preserved site. The park offers visitors tours of a museum & library collection related to George Washington, as well as items relating to pre- and post-Revolutionary America.
When: Mid-February-December | Address: 30 Washington Pl, Morristown, NJ
Walk through quaint shops and enjoy the lakeside view. I love visiting in December when it’s decorated for the holidays, but it operates year-round. Visit their official website here.
When: Year-round | Address: 615 E Moss Mill Rd, Smithville, NJ
Marvel at thousands of sparkling lights and festive displays at Turtle Back Zoo.
When: December | Address: 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ
Experience the magic of Christmas at this historic seaside hotel in the beautiful town of Cape May. I recommend spending a full day or weekend in Cape May so that you can see other attractions in the town during the holiday season including Beach Plum Farm and the Washington Street Mall.
When: December | Address: 200 Congress Pl, Cape May, NJ
Drive through a dazzling light show and enjoy festive activities.
When: November–December | Address: 94 Championship Pl, Augusta, NJ
Walk through millions of illuminated lights and a field of light-up tulips. The event was held for the first time ever in December of 2024 and I hope they offer it again in 2025.
When: December | Address: 108 Rues Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ
Lokal not only offers a beautiful boutique hotel/apartments in Cape May, but also a stunning A-frame cabin in the woods of Cumberland County. This area is quite remote, but so peaceful. I recommended visiting in the fall with a group of friends.
When: Year-round | Address: 3 Penny Ln, Dorchester, NJ
The Water Lantern Festival usually hosts events in Jersey City and Millville. They may have other events this year too. 2025 dates will be announced on their website.
When: Typically August/Summer | Address: Varied Throughout State
This free public garden is absolutely stunning in the spring and summer with the colorful flowers in bloom. It’s open year-round, but I recommend visiting between April and August.
When: April-August | Address: 61 Jockey Hollow Rd, Bernardsville, NJ
Take a scenic hike at Norvin Green State Forest in Passaic County. Park at the Norvin Green State Forest Otter Hole Parking Lot and hike the “Chikahoki Falls via Highlands, Post Brook, and Carris Hill Trail” on All Trails. There are other trails here worth exploring as well!
When: Fall Season | Address: 582 Glenwild Ave, Bloomingdale, NJ
A visit to Secor Farms in Mahwah is perfect for those looking for a family-friendly activity in October. Go pumpkin picking, traverse the corn mazes, and check out the market store.
When: Fall Season | Address: 85 W Airmount Rd, Mahwah, NJ
The perfect fall activities, and you can do both at the same spot! Don’t forget to check out their market store up the road from the Orchard for apple cider doughnuts.
When: September-October | Address: 91 Wemrock Rd, Freehold, NJ
Lucy the Elephant is a 6-story National Historic Landmark nestled in Margate City, NJ.
When: Year-round | Address: 9200 Atlantic Avenue, Margate, NJ
Lakota Wolf Preserve is a unique experience offered in Warren County, NJ. It’s a nonprofit dedicated to wolves, bobcats, foxes, and lynx. You can book a guided tour and see the animals up close.
When: Year-round | Address: 89 Mount Pleasant Road, Columbia, NJ
Duke Farms is a 2,740-acre nature preserve and environmental center. Enjoy a plethora of walking/biking trails and beautiful scenery.
When: Year-round | Address: 1112 Dukes Pkwy W, Hillsborough Township, NJ
Northlandz offers a unique, family-friendly activity where visitors can walk through a larger showroom of miniature railroad displays and more.
When: Year-round | Address: 495 US-202, Flemington, NJ
BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham is open to the public. Visit here for information on the dress code, hours, and rules.
When: Year-round | Address: 112 N Main St, Robbinsville Twp, NJ
Go back in time at the Silverball Museum Arcade in Asbury Park. Combine this retro arcade with a stroll along the boardwalk and Cookman Ave.
When: Year-round | Address: 1000 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ
White Mana Diner in Jersey City and White Mana in Hackensack serve up classic eats like burgers with onions in a mid-century joint.
When: Year-round | Address: 358 River St, Hackensack & 470 Tonnelle Ave, Jersey City, NJ
The Cape May Zoo makes for a great family-friendly activity in South Jersey. It is free to enter and open daily, except Christmas.
When: Year-round | Address: 707 US-9 North, Cape May Court House, NJ
The Deserted Village of Feltville is located within the Watchung Reservation. Enjoy a hike and see the abandoned building and history left behind.
When: Year-round | Address: 9 Cataract Hollow Rd, Berkeley Heights, NJ
