My 2026-2027 New Jersey Winter Bucket List❄️🎄⛸️ E My 2026-2027 New Jersey Winter Bucket List❄️🎄⛸️
Even though NJ gets most of its hype for the summer season, there is still a ton to enjoy in the winter!
Here are some activities you can enjoy this holiday season and some through the whole winter.
1. Christmas With The Goats at The Bubbly Goat (Stockton - Hunterdon County, NJ)
Purchase tickets online. Available select dates between 11/21/26 to 1/3/27. Suitable for ages 8+.
2. Go to U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland at Holland Ridge Farms (Cream Ridge - Monmouth County, NJ)
Purchase tickets online. Open 11/13/26 - 1/10/27.
3. Visit Congress Hall in December (Cape May, NJ)
Cape May as a whole is the most picturesque Christmas town in December, but Congress Hall really stands out. Enjoy the lit tree, festive decor, activities, train rides, and holiday market vendors. Free admission.
4. Go Ice Skating
There are many locations throughout the state offering skating this winter: Bergen County Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park, Newport Skates in Jersey City, Renault Winery’s Vintner Wonderland in Egg Harbor City, WinterFest at Cooper River in Camden County, the Red Bank Armory (indoor option), & more.
5. Go Skiing at Mountain Creek (Vernon, NJ)
6. Spend a Winter Day in Princeton, NJ
7. Visit Beach Plum Farm in December
(West Cape May, NJ)
Super cute farm to walk around and check out the market store.
8. Visit a NJ Downtown with Holiday Vibes: Sparta, Haddonfield, Red Bank, Ridgewood, Cape May, Morristown, Clinton, Maplewood, Lambertville, & more.
9. Visit Historic Smithville in December for festive holiday vibes
(Atlantic County, NJ)
It’s free to walk around the village. Enjoy access to a ton of cute shops & festive photo-ops.
10. Visit a Local Art Museum
The Princeton University Art Museum is highly rated, and will pair nicely with a winter day in Princeton.
11. Enjoy a Hike or Walk at a NJ-Local State or County Park
12. Enjoy a Winter Sunset at the Beach
13. Go to a NJ Devils Game
(Prudential Center, Newark, NJ)
Happy holidays, & don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for fun things to do in & around NJ & the Northeast!
#newjersey #nj #winteractivities #njthingstodo #explorenj
New fav date North Jersey night spot unlocked🍝 📍S New fav date North Jersey night spot unlocked🍝
📍Sapori, 9 Park St, Montclair, NJ
Dined here recently for their Couples Night special event and thoroughly enjoyed every bite of food we had!!
The Spicy Vodka Chicken Parm is a must-order!! Not too spicy and SO delicious and tender!
Sapori offers a variety of special events throughout the month, and their regular menu is fantastic!🔥
Happy dining! Don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for the best places to go in & around NJ!
#newjersey #northjersey #montclairnj #njeats #njrestaurants
New Fast-Casual Shawarma Restaurant in Bergen Coun New Fast-Casual Shawarma Restaurant in Bergen County, NJ!🥙😋
📍Mamush Shawarma Bar, 52 E Palisade Ave, Englewood, NJ @eat_mamush 
Everything we ate was full of flavor, fresh, and delicious!
They have wraps, pitas, and build-your-own bowls. Choose your meat or go for their freshly fried falafel, plus tons of yummy toppings and sauces!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #njeats #northjerseyeats #njrestaurants
This is my go-to jewelry store in Monmouth County, This is my go-to jewelry store in Monmouth County, NJ!✨💍
📍Allure Jewelry and Watches (Located in Bell Works - Holmdel, NJ)
Def follow @allurejewelryandwatches so you don’t miss out on their holiday deals and promos this season!🎁
Get an ADDITIONAL 10% OFF your already discounted diamond purchases when you shop in-store at Allure Jewelry and Watches now through 12/25/26! Just show this video and mention promo code LIFESTYLE JESSICA at checkout.
Don’t forget to save this video to keep it handy this holiday season!🎁🎄
If you’re looking for high-quality engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or watches, definitely check out Allure Jewelry and Watches!!
The owner is the sweetest, and they have a fantastic selection + great prices!
Happy holidays, & don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for the best holiday finds in & around New Jersey!
#monmouthcountynj #bellworks #holmdelnj #centraljersey #jewelrystore
🍜🛍️Had the most perfect day at @theshopsatriversid 🍜🛍️Had the most perfect day at @theshopsatriverside recently!! #itsasmallthing #sponsored
This mall literally has everything! You can take a workout class at Life Time, enjoy a relaxing massage or facial at The Fountain Spa, shop at the cutest stores like Free People, Anthropologie, J.Crew, and more, get a delicious dinner at one of their fantastic restaurants on-site, and even catch a movie at AMC.
Save this video for inspo for your next North Jersey mall day!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #theshopsatriverside
A trip to the mall isn’t the same without my speci A trip to the mall isn’t the same without my special someone and friends! @theshopsatriverside #itsasmallthing #sponsored
Love visiting The Shops at Riverside in Bergen County to shop, dine, and catch a movie!! We also LOVE Capon’s Chop House. Everything is so delicious here, and the service is fantastic!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #northjersey
November so far 🍂 Foliage has been peaking in Nor November so far 🍂
Foliage has been peaking in North Jersey recently! So glad I’ve had the opportunity to take it all in.
Also, had a fantastic dinner at @saporinj the other day, and can’t wait to share a vid about it soon🍝
#newjersey #northjersey #fall #fallfoliage #nj
Cape May is my favorite place to visit during the Cape May is my favorite place to visit during the holiday season!🎄❄️
The town is very charming, well-decorated, and super festive in December. It’s the perfect day or weekend trip in New Jersey if you want to get in the holiday spirit!
Congress Hall’s annual Winter Wonderland event will be held this year from November 27th to December 31st, and the tree lighting ceremony will be held on Friday, December 4th.
The holidays are around the corner. This is your sign to start planning your visit to Cape May!🎄
#newjersey #capemay #christmastown #nj #njthingstodo
Saturween adventures⚔️👑🌲 One of my fav last-min d Saturween adventures⚔️👑🌲
One of my fav last-min diy costumes we’ve done! After multiple trips to Michael’s and lots of sewing/painting, here’s the final result🙂
Crazy it’s November now. Is it time to start posting holiday season content now?👀
#halloween2026 #zelda #thelegendofzelda #halloweencostumes #couplescostume
  • Home
  • About
  • Work With Me
  • YouTube
  • Shop
    • My Etsy Shop
    • Shop my LTK Feed
  • About
  • Work With Me
  • YouTube
  • Shop
    • My Etsy Shop
    • Shop my LTK Feed
  • New Jersey
    • New Jersey Restaurants
    • New Jersey Places to Visit
  • Travel
    • Europe Travel
    • New England Travel
      • Vermont Travel
      • Massachusetts Travel
      • Rhode Island Travel
      • Maine Travel
    • New York Travel
      • New York City Travel
      • New York State Travel
    • Pennsylvania Travel
    • California Travel
    • Europe Travel
  • Lifestyle
    • Style
    • Healthy Living
    • At Home
  • Beauty
    • Skincare
    • Makeup
    • Nails

Lifestyle Jessica

  • New Jersey
    • New Jersey Places to Visit
    • New Jersey Restaurants
  • Travel
    • New England Travel
      • Vermont Travel
      • Massachusetts Travel
      • Rhode Island Travel
      • Maine Travel
    • New York Travel
      • New York City Travel
      • New York State Travel
    • Pennsylvania Travel
    • California Travel
    • Europe Travel
  • Lifestyle
    • Style
    • Healthy Living
    • At Home
  • Beauty
    • Skincare
    • Makeup
    • Nails

New Jersey, New Jersey Places, Travel · January 8, 2022

When Should You Start Booking Your New Jersey Summer Vacation Rental?

Image: Daniels Realty

While summer may not be right around the corner just yet, that doesn’t mean it’s too early to start booking your summer vacation rental! According to The New York Times, 90 percent of Jersey Shore and Cape Cod beach rentals for July 2021 were booked by March. So when is a good time to start looking for a rental?

I recommend beginning your beach house rental search at least six months prior to when you plan on having your stay. As a fellow Jersey Shore native myself, I know the best rentals tend to go quick, so being early to the game will allow for more options to choose from.


Find A Vacation Rental

Image: Daniels Realty

There are many ways to go about finding your next summer vacation rental. It is important to find a company that will offer quality customer service as well as a great selection of rental options. If you are looking for a vacation rental in the South Jersey area, utilizing a realty company such as Daniels Realty can be efficient and helpful with your search. Daniels Realty will help you find your next vacation rental by having you put in your ideal arrival and departure date, budget, number of rooms you’d like, and preferred location. You can find your dream vacation rental with ease and sort through many different rental properties via Daniels Realty. This company can efficiently help you find your next Diamond Beach NJ rental.


5 Things to Consider Before Booking Your Vacation Rental

Image: Daniels Realty

1. Figure Out What Type of Place You Want

When you are beginning your vacation rental search, figure out if you want a place that is beach-front, ocean-front, kid-friendly, has a pool etc… This will help narrow down your search for your dream rental.

2. Be Flexible With Your Dates at First

If you begin your search during the early winter, you will have more time to figure out what week(s) you want to take your trip. The most popular times for people to visit the Jersey Shore are in July and August. Planning your beach vacation for June may be more ideal as it can be less crowded and less money, while still being a beautiful time to visit.

3. Avoid Holiday Weekends if Possible

Rentals are typically going to be more expensive for a holiday weekend as this is a common time for people to have off of work. I personally still enjoy going to the beach during the Fourth of July holiday, but it definitely gets very crowded, so be aware of this when planning your summer rental. If you have flexibility with your job, then planning a vacation during a non-holiday set of weekdays may be best for you.

4. Be Safe and Avoid Scammers

Unfortunately, trying to find a vacation rental online may not always be reliable. That is why it is important to utilize a trusted company to source your next rental. I also recommend asking a lot of questions to ensure you are paying for what you expect.

5. Research the Area/Town You Want To Stay In

Before choosing a town you want to rent in, look up activities, restaurants, and things offered in that area. New Jersey has so many amazing beach towns, and each of them offers a different vibe. If you are vacationing with kids, then looking for a rental in a town with amusements may be a fun option. Research beach towns based on what they have to offer such as nightlife, fine dining, mini golf, a relaxed vibe etc…


Don’t Wait Until The Last Minute

Beach rentals go quick and are mostly booked up before the spring even hits. I suggest not waiting until the last minute if you have a specific time frame, list of amenities, or area you want to vacation in this summer. Beginning your vacation rental search in January is a great time as options are more widely available. Yes, you may be able to save some money if you wait until the last minute, but then it isn’t guaranteed that you will even get a place, or one that you will truly enjoy. Plus, it’s fun to start thinking about warm summer fun during the winter!


Comment below your favorite NJ beach town to visit in the summer!

In: New Jersey, New Jersey Places, Travel

You’ll Also Love

11 Hikes to Try in New Jersey: Best Hiking Spots in North Jersey
Where To Grab A Quick Lunch in Highlands, NJ: Bay Ave Bakery & Cafe
The Ultimate New Jersey Fall Bucket List 2026
Next Post >

2021 Yearly Round Up: Travel, Style and Beauty Favorites

Hi! So excited to have you here! My name's Jess and I'm a content creator based in New Jersey. Follow my socials to stay connected!

Follow My Socials

Categories

instagram

Follow @lifestylejessica

My 2026-2027 New Jersey Winter Bucket List❄️🎄⛸️ E My 2026-2027 New Jersey Winter Bucket List❄️🎄⛸️
Even though NJ gets most of its hype for the summer season, there is still a ton to enjoy in the winter!
Here are some activities you can enjoy this holiday season and some through the whole winter.
1. Christmas With The Goats at The Bubbly Goat (Stockton - Hunterdon County, NJ)
Purchase tickets online. Available select dates between 11/21/26 to 1/3/27. Suitable for ages 8+.
2. Go to U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland at Holland Ridge Farms (Cream Ridge - Monmouth County, NJ)
Purchase tickets online. Open 11/13/26 - 1/10/27.
3. Visit Congress Hall in December (Cape May, NJ)
Cape May as a whole is the most picturesque Christmas town in December, but Congress Hall really stands out. Enjoy the lit tree, festive decor, activities, train rides, and holiday market vendors. Free admission.
4. Go Ice Skating
There are many locations throughout the state offering skating this winter: Bergen County Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park, Newport Skates in Jersey City, Renault Winery’s Vintner Wonderland in Egg Harbor City, WinterFest at Cooper River in Camden County, the Red Bank Armory (indoor option), & more.
5. Go Skiing at Mountain Creek (Vernon, NJ)
6. Spend a Winter Day in Princeton, NJ
7. Visit Beach Plum Farm in December
(West Cape May, NJ)
Super cute farm to walk around and check out the market store.
8. Visit a NJ Downtown with Holiday Vibes: Sparta, Haddonfield, Red Bank, Ridgewood, Cape May, Morristown, Clinton, Maplewood, Lambertville, & more.
9. Visit Historic Smithville in December for festive holiday vibes
(Atlantic County, NJ)
It’s free to walk around the village. Enjoy access to a ton of cute shops & festive photo-ops.
10. Visit a Local Art Museum
The Princeton University Art Museum is highly rated, and will pair nicely with a winter day in Princeton.
11. Enjoy a Hike or Walk at a NJ-Local State or County Park
12. Enjoy a Winter Sunset at the Beach
13. Go to a NJ Devils Game
(Prudential Center, Newark, NJ)
Happy holidays, & don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for fun things to do in & around NJ & the Northeast!
#newjersey #nj #winteractivities #njthingstodo #explorenj
New fav date North Jersey night spot unlocked🍝 📍S New fav date North Jersey night spot unlocked🍝
📍Sapori, 9 Park St, Montclair, NJ
Dined here recently for their Couples Night special event and thoroughly enjoyed every bite of food we had!!
The Spicy Vodka Chicken Parm is a must-order!! Not too spicy and SO delicious and tender!
Sapori offers a variety of special events throughout the month, and their regular menu is fantastic!🔥
Happy dining! Don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for the best places to go in & around NJ!
#newjersey #northjersey #montclairnj #njeats #njrestaurants
New Fast-Casual Shawarma Restaurant in Bergen Coun New Fast-Casual Shawarma Restaurant in Bergen County, NJ!🥙😋
📍Mamush Shawarma Bar, 52 E Palisade Ave, Englewood, NJ @eat_mamush 
Everything we ate was full of flavor, fresh, and delicious!
They have wraps, pitas, and build-your-own bowls. Choose your meat or go for their freshly fried falafel, plus tons of yummy toppings and sauces!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #njeats #northjerseyeats #njrestaurants
This is my go-to jewelry store in Monmouth County, This is my go-to jewelry store in Monmouth County, NJ!✨💍
📍Allure Jewelry and Watches (Located in Bell Works - Holmdel, NJ)
Def follow @allurejewelryandwatches so you don’t miss out on their holiday deals and promos this season!🎁
Get an ADDITIONAL 10% OFF your already discounted diamond purchases when you shop in-store at Allure Jewelry and Watches now through 12/25/26! Just show this video and mention promo code LIFESTYLE JESSICA at checkout.
Don’t forget to save this video to keep it handy this holiday season!🎁🎄
If you’re looking for high-quality engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or watches, definitely check out Allure Jewelry and Watches!!
The owner is the sweetest, and they have a fantastic selection + great prices!
Happy holidays, & don’t forget to follow @lifestylejessica for the best holiday finds in & around New Jersey!
#monmouthcountynj #bellworks #holmdelnj #centraljersey #jewelrystore
🍜🛍️Had the most perfect day at @theshopsatriversid 🍜🛍️Had the most perfect day at @theshopsatriverside recently!! #itsasmallthing #sponsored
This mall literally has everything! You can take a workout class at Life Time, enjoy a relaxing massage or facial at The Fountain Spa, shop at the cutest stores like Free People, Anthropologie, J.Crew, and more, get a delicious dinner at one of their fantastic restaurants on-site, and even catch a movie at AMC.
Save this video for inspo for your next North Jersey mall day!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #theshopsatriverside
A trip to the mall isn’t the same without my speci A trip to the mall isn’t the same without my special someone and friends! @theshopsatriverside #itsasmallthing #sponsored
Love visiting The Shops at Riverside in Bergen County to shop, dine, and catch a movie!! We also LOVE Capon’s Chop House. Everything is so delicious here, and the service is fantastic!
#newjersey #bergencountynj #northjersey

Categories

Copyright © 2026 Lifestyle Jessica · Theme by 17th Avenue