places to visit in nj at night

38 Best Things to Do in New Jersey at Night & Late Afternoon | 2024 (with Photos)

James A. Smith - Chief Editor

Last Updated: January 4, 2024

Hey! I'm James, an avid traveler with a passion for exploring the East Coast, particularly New York and New Jersey. Through my personal experiences, I've curated a list of the most enjoyable activities and attractions that will make your visit to this amazing place unforgettable.

New Jersey , known as the Garden State, comes alive after dark with a plethora of unique and exciting activities.

From bustling cities to charming coastal towns, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the evening hours.

New Jersey has everything if you're seeking vibrant nightlife, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or delicious dining options.

Get ready for unforgettable nights filled with entertainment, relaxation, and memorable experiences. Join us as we list the best things to do in New Jersey at night.

Most Recommended Thing to Do

Jersey Shore

Top Choice Hotel

The Westin Jersey City Newport

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Razza Pizza Artigianale

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

D'Jais Bar & Grill

Best Time to Visit

Summer for beaches; also the fall

Average Temperature

Lows of 26°F, highs of 86°F

Transportation Options

Trains, buses, ferries, light rail

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Hudson River waterfront and indulge in delicious cuisine at the diverse range of local restaurants, offering everything from mouthwatering street food to fine dining experiences.

Then, head to Atlantic City. Known as the Las Vegas of the East Coast, this bustling city is famous for its casinos and vibrant nightlife. Spend your days relaxing on the beautiful beaches, trying your luck at the slot machines, or catching a world-class entertainment show.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Valid identification
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light and breathable clothing

What Not to Miss

• Atlantic City Boardwalk
• Cape May Lighthouse
• Liberty State Park
• Grounds For Sculpture
• Princeton University

What to Avoid

• Rush hour traffic
• High crime areas
• Overpriced tourist traps

Table of Contents

1. Experience the Jersey Shore

Discover the iconic Jersey Shore , where stunning beaches meet lively boardwalks.

Take a stroll along the shoreline of the Jersey Shore, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy the captivating views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Visit the historic sites along the coast, such as the former site of the World Trade Center in Seaside Park, and embrace the beauty and charm of this beloved coastal destination.

2. Relax at Point Pleasant Beach

Experience a relaxing evening at Point Pleasant Beach , where the gentle ocean breeze and the soothing sound of waves create a tranquil ambiance.

Take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, enjoy the dazzling lights reflecting on the water, and indulge in delicious treats from the local eateries.

Have a drink at one of the amazing spots at Jenkinson's Boardwalk, the most popular attraction in this city.

With its serene atmosphere and exciting attractions, Point Pleasant Beach offers a delightful escape and endless fun after the sun sets in NJ.

3. Have fun at Atlantic City

Get ready for non-stop fun at Atlantic City , known for its vibrant nightlife and thrilling entertainment options in NJ.

Hit the lively casinos, try your luck at the gaming tables, or enjoy live performances by world-class artists at Atlantic City .

Take a stroll along the iconic Boardwalk, indulge in gourmet dining, and dance your worries away at the city's vibrant clubs and bars.

With its endless excitement and lively atmosphere, Atlantic City guarantees a memorable nightfall filled with fun and excitement.

4. Try the coffee at Ocean City Coffee Company

Indulge in the rich aroma and delightful flavors of Ocean City Coffee Company .

Sip on a freshly brewed cup of their signature blends, crafted with care and expertise.

Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy spot to relax, this charming coffee shop offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can unwind and savor the perfect cup of joe.

Enjoy a quiet evening, surrounded by the comforting ambiance and the delicious taste of Ocean City Coffee Company's offerings.

5. Walk around Liberty State Park

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Liberty State Park , where amazing views and serene landscapes await.

Experience the park's hiking trails as the sun sets, and witness the stunning skyline of Lower Manhattan illuminating the night sky.

Take in the peaceful ambiance, enjoy the fresh air, and experience the tranquility of this urban oasis.

Liberty State Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy a calming evening amidst its picturesque surroundings.

6. Visit Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Embark on a fascinating journey into the depths of Sterling Hill Mining Museum after dark.

Discover the rich history of mining in NJ and the wonders hidden within this underground marvel.

Experience the illuminated tunnels, learn about the mining techniques, and marvel at the fluorescent minerals that glow in the dark.

With its unique blend of education and adventure, a nighttime visit to the Museum promises an unforgettable and enlightening experience for all.

7. Laugh at Stress Factory Comedy Club

Prepare for a night of laughter and entertainment at Stress Factory Comedy Club , one of the best comedy clubs in New Jersey.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy hilarious performances by top-notch comedians who will keep you entertained throughout the evening.

With its intimate setting and lively atmosphere, Stress Factory Comedy Club guarantees an unforgettable night filled with laughter and good times in NJ.

Get ready to have your funny bone tickled and leave with a smile on your face.

8. Have dinner at Atlantic City Boardwalk

Indulge in a delightful dining experience along the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk . Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you stroll past a variety of restaurants offering a wide range of culinary delights.

From fresh seafood to international cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the ocean, savor local specialties, and immerse yourself in the lively energy of the boardwalk.

With its diverse dining options and picturesque views, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and create lasting memories.

9. Visit Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Experience the captivating beauty of Barnegat Lighthouse State Park , situated along the picturesque Barnegat Bay.

Take a stroll along the shoreline, marvel at the majestic lighthouse, and enjoy panoramic views of the bay.

With ample parking available, you can easily access this charming park and spend a tranquil evening surrounded by natural splendor.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast or seeking a peaceful escape, the State Park offers a serene setting for relaxation and exploration.

10. Experience Liberty Science Center

Embark on an exciting journey of discovery at Liberty Science Center . This interactive science museum offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.

Experience interactive exhibits, engage in hands-on activities, and witness mind-blowing demonstrations showcasing science's wonders.

From exploring outer space to delving into the depths of the ocean, Liberty Science Center offers an educational and entertaining evening for curious minds.

Ignite your imagination, expand your knowledge, and immerse yourself in the world of science at this engaging destination.

11. Have a Six Flags Great Adventure with your kids

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with your kids at Six Flags Great Adventure in central New Jersey, even after the sun sets.

Experience the thrill of exhilarating rides, enjoy live entertainment, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this renowned amusement park.

Six Flags offers endless excitement and so much fun for the whole family with a wide range of attractions and nighttime events.

Create lasting memories as you take the park's thrilling rides and engage in the excitement of this popular destination, making it an unforgettable experience in New Jersey .

12. Take a tour of Ellis Island

Embark on a captivating tour of Ellis Island under the enchanting night sky. Step back in time and experience the rich history of this iconic landmark, which served as the gateway for millions of immigrants to the United States.

Marvel at the beautifully illuminated buildings, walk through the halls that once bustled with hope and dreams and gain a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience.

As you wander through the exhibits and galleries, you'll be immersed in the stories and struggles of those who passed through Ellis Island .

A nighttime tour offers a unique perspective and a chance to reflect on the significance of this historical site.

13. Unwind at Asbury Park

Unwind at Asbury Park , a charming coastal town known for its vibrant atmosphere.

Enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk, relax on the sandy beaches, and indulge in the local cuisine.

With its unique blend of culture, entertainment, and natural beauty, Asbury Park offers a delightful nighttime escape for visitors of all ages.

14. Spend time with family at Turtle Back Zoo

Spend quality time with your family at Turtle Back Zoo in the city of West Orange, where fun and adventure await.

Experience the diverse animal exhibits, observe fascinating wildlife up close, and engage in educational family activities.

With its wide array of animal species and fun things, Turtle Back Zoo promises a day filled with excitement and lasting memories for the whole family.

15. Discover Jersey City

Discover the vibrant city of Jersey City , where fun things await.

Experience breathtaking Manhattan skyline views, indulge in delectable cuisine at diverse restaurants, and experience charming neighborhoods.

Engage in a variety of activities, from art galleries to live performances, making Jersey City a haven for entertainment and adventure.

Immerse yourself in the dynamic atmosphere and discover the hidden gems that this bustling city has to offer.

16. Have fun at the Stone Pony

Have a blast at the legendary Stone Pony , a historic music venue that has hosted iconic performers like Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, enjoy live music performances, and dance the night away.

With its rich musical heritage and energetic ambiance, the Stone Pony is a must-visit destination for music enthusiasts and those seeking fun places in New Jersey.

17. Experience Newark Museum

Experience the Newark Museum's captivating art scene after dark. Experience the beauty and diversity of American art as you wander through the museum's galleries.

The museum showcases a wide range of artistic expressions from stunning paintings to intricate sculptures.

Immerse yourself in the world of creativity and be inspired by the masterpieces on display.

A visit to the Newark Museum offers a unique opportunity to appreciate art in a serene and enchanting setting.

18. Grab a snack from a food truck

Indulge in a tasty treat from one of New Jersey's vibrant food trucks .

From savory street tacos to mouthwatering desserts, these mobile culinary delights offer a wide array of delicious options.

Whether you're craving comfort food, international flavors, or unique gourmet creations, a food truck can provide a convenient and exciting way to satisfy your hunger and explore the local culinary scene.

19. Sip on your drink at Hub City Brewhouse

Sip on your favorite drink at Hub City Brewhouse, where good times are guaranteed.

This lively establishment offers a wide selection of craft beers, signature cocktails, and fine wines, ensuring there's something to please every palate.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, mingle with friends, and embrace the lively energy that makes Hub City Brewhouse a go-to spot for fun things and a memorable night out.

20. Try out one of the escape rooms

Embark on an exhilarating adventure by trying out one of the exciting escape rooms in New Jersey.

Test your wits, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as you race against the clock to solve challenging puzzles and unravel mysteries.

With a variety of themed rooms and immersive storylines, escape rooms provide so much fun and a thrilling experience for both friends and family, making them a must-visit destination for play and excitement.

21. Discover the New Jersey Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the New Jersey Botanical Gardens , one of the top Jersey attractions.

Take a stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, illuminated by the soft glow of night lights.

Experience the tranquility of the surroundings and marvel at the stunning flora and fauna that thrive in this serene oasis.

A visit to the New Jersey Botanical Gardens at night promises a magical and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

22. Have fun at Adventure Aquarium

Dive into a world of excitement and wonder at Adventure Aquarium .

Walk through the mesmerizing shark tunnel and witness these magnificent creatures up close in this fun place.

With its family-friendly exhibits and diverse marine life, Adventure Aquarium guarantees a fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages.

Immerse yourself in the underwater world and create lasting memories at this thrilling destination.

23. Have a blast at DreamWorks Water Park

Get ready to make a splash and have a blast at DreamWorks WaterPark . This super fun water park offers exhilarating water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and interactive play areas.

Dive into a world of excitement and enjoy thrilling water adventures inspired by your favorite DreamWorks characters.

Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping slides or a relaxing day and evening by the pool, this popular attraction promises endless fun and excitement for the whole family.

24. Be a part of Boogie Nights

Experience the wild nightlife at Boogie Nights , where the party never stops.

Step onto the dance floor and groove to the electrifying beats as you unleash your inner disco diva.

With its vibrant atmosphere, retro-themed décor, and energetic crowd, Boogie Nights guarantees an unforgettable night of non-stop fun and dancing.

Get ready to boogie the night away and create memories that will last a lifetime at this iconic hotspot.

25. Bring kids to Nickelodeon Universe

Take your little ones on an unforgettable adventure at Nickelodeon Universe , one of many attractions in NJ.

Located in New Jersey, this exciting theme park offers a plethora of thrilling rides, attractions, and entertainment inspired by beloved Nickelodeon characters.

From exhilarating roller coasters to interactive play areas, the place provides endless fun for kids of all ages.

Plus, with convenient parking available for a nominal fee, it's easy to enjoy a full day of excitement and laughter with the whole family.

26. Experience New Brunswick

Embark on a captivating trip to the vibrant city of New Brunswick , where the nightlife comes alive.

Explore the bustling streets, filled with an array of entertainment options, restaurants, and live music venues.

From cozy pubs to trendy bars, New Brunswick offers a diverse and lively nightlife scene that caters to all tastes.

27. See the Festival of Ballooning

Experience the joy of the Festival of Ballooning with exciting activities like face painting and a butterfly tent.

The little ones will love getting their faces transformed into their favorite characters, while the tent offers a magical encounter with these delicate creatures.

It's a delightful event that combines the wonder of hot air balloons with fun-filled attractions for a memorable day of family fun.

28. Stargaze over the Sunset Lake

Embark on a captivating trip to Sunset Lake , a great place in New Jersey for stargazing enthusiasts. As the sun sets and the night sky unfolds, you'll be treated to a stunning celestial display.

Find a cozy spot by the lake, lay back, and gaze up at the vast expanse of stars twinkling above.

The tranquil ambiance and minimal light pollution make Sunset Lake an ideal destination for observing the wonders of the night sky.

29. Experience the Museum of Art

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of New Jersey at the Museum of Art . Located in the Garden State, this museum offers a super fun experience for art enthusiasts of all ages.

Explore captivating exhibitions showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums.

Discover inspiring works by local and international artists, expand your cultural horizons, and indulge in a delightful journey through the world of art.

30. Have a date at one of the New Jersey Hotels

Indulge in a romantic date at one of the charming hotels in Jersey City, where outdoor seating sets the stage for a memorable evening.

Enjoy a leisurely dinner under the stars, savoring delicious cuisine while basking in the enchanting ambiance of Jersey City.

With convenient parking options available, you can easily access these fantastic venues and create lasting memories with your loved one.

31. Have your own American Dream

Embark on an unforgettable adventure at the American Dream , where a world of fun things awaits you.

This sprawling entertainment complex in New Jersey offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors of all ages.

Dive into exhilarating rides at the indoor amusement park, discover unique shops and boutiques, indulge in delectable dining options, and immerse yourself in the excitement of various entertainment attractions.

32. Dance at Jaguar Bar & Liquor

Get ready to groove the night away at Jaguar Bar & Liquor , one of the most exciting and fun places in New Jersey.

This vibrant NJ venue offers an inviting outdoor seating area where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere while sipping on your favorite drinks.

The pulsating beats and energetic ambiance will entice you to hit the dance floor and showcase your moves.

Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a memorable date night, Jaguar Bar & Liquor guarantees a fantastic time filled with music, laughter, and a lively party atmosphere.

33. Meet friends at Perle Night Club

Gather your friends and head over to Perle Night Club for an unforgettable night of fun in New Jersey.

This popular nightlife spot offers a vibrant atmosphere, pulsating music, and a stylish ambiance that sets the stage for an epic evening.

With its spacious floor, impressive lighting, and top-notch sound system, Perle Night Club creates an electrifying environment where you can dance the night away.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to have a great time with friends, Perle Night Club promises an exciting and memorable experience in the thriving nightlife scene of New Jersey.

34. Enjoy live music

Indulge in the magic of live music in New Jersey and let the rhythm carry you away.

Whether you're a fan of rock, jazz, blues, or any other genre, the state offers a vibrant music scene with countless venues showcasing talented artists. From intimate jazz clubs to lively concert halls, there's a venue to suit every taste.

Immerse yourself in the energy of an NJ live performance, feel the music reverberate through your body, and let the melodies transport you to another world.

Grab your friends, find a local music hotspot, and let the night come alive with the soulful sounds of New Jersey's live music scene.

35. Spend a night at Headliner Oasis

Experience a night of unforgettable fun at Headliner Oasis in New Jersey.

This lively NJ venue promises an exciting atmosphere and a memorable time. Dance the night away to the beats of talented DJs, sip on delicious cocktails, and soak up the vibrant ambiance.

With its energetic crowd and top-notch entertainment, Headliner Oasis is the perfect destination for a night out with friends or a celebration.

Let loose, make unforgettable memories, and embrace the fun-filled spirit of New Jersey at this lively hotspot.

36. Discover The Osprey NightClub

Jersey City comes alive at night, and one of the must-visit spots is The Osprey NightClub . Located in the heart of Jersey City, this vibrant venue offers a thrilling nightlife experience.

Dance to the beats of talented DJs, enjoy signature cocktails at the bar, and immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere.

Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a place to celebrate a special occasion, The Osprey NightClub is the perfect destination.

Get ready to party, mingle with the crowd, and create lasting memories in the vibrant nightlife of Jersey City.

37. Participate in the Hammonton Food Truck Festival

One of the most fun things to do in New Jersey is to participate in the Hammonton Food Truck Festival . This lively event brings together a variety of food trucks offering delicious and diverse cuisines.

Indulge in mouthwatering NJ dishes, from gourmet burgers to international street food, all in one place.

Explore the festival grounds, enjoy live music, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Whether you're a foodie looking to satisfy your cravings or simply want to enjoy a fun day out with friends and family, the Hammonton Food Truck Festival promises a delightful and memorable experience in NJ.

38. Drive around the Garden State for breathtaking views

Embarking on a night time drive around the Garden State is an enchanting way to experience mesmerizing views. As you cruise through the scenic roads, the city lights and illuminated landmarks create a mesmerizing spectacle.

Enjoy the twinkling skyline, bridges spanning majestic rivers, and the peaceful beauty of the countryside.

Whether you venture along the coast or through charming small towns, the drive in NJ offers a sense of adventure and serenity.

Take in the sights, feel the cool night breeze, and create lasting memories on this captivating trip through the Garden State .

FAQs Regarding the Best Things to Do in NJ at Night

In this section, we'll take a look at some frequently asked questions about the best things to do in NJ at night.

Does NJ have nightlife?

Yes, NJ has a vibrant nightlife that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. From bustling cities like Jersey City with its trendy bars and clubs to iconic entertainment venues, there are plenty of options to enjoy a night out in the Garden State.

What activities do you do at night in NJ?

In NJ, there are numerous activities to enjoy after nightfall. You can explore the vibrant nightlife of cities like Jersey City, catch live music performances at iconic venues, experience the thrill of casino gaming in Atlantic City, stroll along the scenic boardwalks, indulge in delicious dining experiences, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful nighttime views.

What is Jersey City nightlife like?

Jersey City's nightlife is vibrant and dynamic. With a variety of bars, clubs, and lounges, it offers a lively atmosphere for entertainment and socializing. From Ocean City Coffee Company to Stone Pony, there's something for everyone.

What is there to do indoors in NJ?

Indoors in NJ, you'll find an array of fun things to do. From visiting museums and art galleries to enjoying live performances at theaters, there's no shortage of cultural experiences. If you're looking for a unique and enjoyable time, check out places like Hub City Brewhouse, where you can savor craft beers and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Summing up: The Best Things to Do in New Jersey at Night

As you can see, there's no shortage of things to do in NJ at night.

Experience the best of both worlds in Jersey City and the Jersey Shore , where endless fun awaits. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Jersey City with its lively nightlife, diverse dining options, and captivating entertainment scene.

Then, venture to the stunning beaches of the Jersey Shore for sun-soaked days, thrilling water activities, and mesmerizing views.

Whether you're seeking city adventures or beachside bliss, these destinations have it all.

Don't miss the opportunity to create lasting memories and embrace the unique charm of Jersey City and the Jersey Shore . Pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and let the fun begin.

Experience the Jersey Shore

Relax at Point Pleasant Beach

Have fun at Atlantic City

Walk around Liberty State Park

Visit Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Take a tour of Ellis Island

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New Jersey At Night: Ten Fun Things To Do

New Jersey has no shortage of things to do after dark. Whilst it’s largely known for its wild nightlife, the state also offers more leisurely and cultural activities for those that want a break from partying. Here are just ten fun activities to try out whilst visiting NJ.

Watch the sun set over Sunset Lake

Sunset Lake’s main appeal is in the name. Located near Bridgeton, this large reservoir offers some of the most stunning sunset views in all the state. It’s perfect for those wanting to experience the natural side of New Jersey. There’s a local amphitheatre here that sometimes hosts concerts and plays – if you’re lucky, you may be able to visit whilst one of these events is on. Sunset Lake also has many attractions worth checking out during the day such as kayaking and swimming. There are a few hotels, vacation rentals, and cozy rentals in New Jersey nearby, some of which have views of the lake. These could be worth looking into whilst visiting the lake.  

See the Manhattan skyline at night

For more impressive evening views, make sure to also visit Liberty State Park. Situated across from New York, you can take in incredible views of the Manhattan skyline from here. There are also boat tours from here that could allow you to see Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty at night. You could even consider visiting New York from here and soaking up the night attractions that this city has to offer. Be sure to be on the look out for a good digital marketing agency in New York . There are many ways to get to Liberty State Park including by bus, by train and by car – if you drive, be wary that parking can be expensive.

See a live band at the Stone Pony

Those that love their live music may want to plan a trip to The Stone Pony . This renowned music venue has a vibrant history: it opened in 1973 and has since helped launch the careers of artists as big as Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen. The venue regularly hosts world-class names and is a popular attraction for those visiting New Jersey (it’s worth booking tickets far in advance to secure entry). On top of great live music, The Stone Pony also offers a fantastic selection of drinks from cocktails to unique beers, helping to add to your experience.

Check out the entertainment at Borgata

Atlantic City’s Borgata is primarily a hotel, but is also the city’s leading casino. Whether you fancy a go on the slot machines or want to try your hand at poker, this is the casino to place your bets. On top of its casino, Borgata also hosts plenty of live entertainment – it’s most popular shows include its comedians and returning musical acts such as Loverboy . If this all wasn’t enough, Borgata also sports extensive spa facilities for those that want a relaxing escape. You don’t have to be a guest here to take advantage of all these services (although you can book a room if you want all these services on your doorstep).

Taste some ales at Hub City Brewhouse

Fancy tasting some of New Jersey’s most exciting ales? Hub City Brewhouse in New Brunswick is a must-visit attraction for those that love their IPAs. It regularly hosts ale-related events and even brews some of its own beers. The bar also sells some of the best grilled food in the state thanks to the help of its winning grillmaster chef, making it a great dining destination. Given its reputation, it’s also surprisingly affordable – so if you’re looking for a good night out without having to seriously splurge, this could be the place to try out.

Pay a visit to the Stress Factory Comedy Club

The Stress Factory Comedy Club is the place to go for live comedy. Located in New Brunswick, this comedy venue attracts local and national comedy acts. On top of getting entertained, you can also order food and drink here, making it the perfect evening dinner spot. It’s not even particularly pricey, so could be ideal if you’re on a budget. Make sure to visit the club’s site to check out dates so that you can choose the best time to visit.

Hit the nightclubs of Atlantic City

For those that want the true Jersey Shore experience, be sure to head down to Atlantic City and check out some of the buzzing nightclubs. The Pool After Dark is a nightclub containing a swimming pool and plays primarily EDM and modern hip hop. Boogie Nights meanwhile offer a more retro experience, predominantly playing music from the 70s and 80s, whilst also hosting 90s nights. Drinks in some of these nightclubs can be pricey and you should make sure to look up the dress code beforehand. There are plenty of other nightclubs across New Jersey that you can also try.

Chill at 46 Lounge

46 Lounge is a tropical-themed lounge bar located in Totowa that’s also well worth visiting if you’re looking for somewhere unique to drink. Here you can taste some of the most incredible cocktails in New Jersey, whilst also sampling some great wines. There are various rooms and a balcony with palm trees. It’s ideal for a laid-back evening when you don’t feel like raving. That said, 46 Lounge does have more uptempo nights when it turns into more of a nightclub – music on these nights ranges from Top 40 to house.

Take a walk along Ocean City boardwalk

New Jersey is known for its many boardwalks – there are 18 boardwalks to be found across NJ’s coastal towns. Ocean City arguably has the most exciting boardwalk of any of the resort towns in the area. At night, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to try, all with sea views. Alternatively, you may wish to try your hand at some of the amusements along the boardwalk – Gillian’s Wonderland Pier is open late and great for kids and adults alike. You could even decide to simply spend the night strolling along the boardwalk and taking in the sights.

Grab a cup of coffee at Ocean City Coffee Company

If you fancy a late night coffee, the Ocean City Coffee Company might be the place to try. This is the atmosphere where I want to write my college paper , and it’s the place where I’ll bring my friends next time. In short, it’s the best spot to work and relax. This chain currently consists of three coffee shops spread out across Ocean City – two of which are open until 11pm. You can choose from over 110 varieties of roasted, gourmet coffee here as well as numerous varieties of tea. Coffeeholics and tea lovers alike will love it. 

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15 Best Places to Visit in New Jersey, According to Local Experts

Don’t miss these awesome spots in the Garden State.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

aimintang/Getty Images

Bordered by New York to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Delaware to the south, and Pennsylvania to the west, New Jersey stretches 150 miles from top to bottom. And while some may joke that it’s just one big highway, residents and return visitors know of its many charms. The Garden State has something for just about every type of traveler (not to mention some great places to live ), whether you prefer the sandy beaches and Victorian homes of Cape May, the nostalgic fun of the Ocean City Boardwalk, or the live entertainment in Atlantic City.

We talked to insiders to get the scoop on the best places to visit in New Jersey.

Ocean City Boardwalk

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

“The Ocean City Boardwalk is a famous promenade that’s been a source of entertainment for more than 100 years,” says Diane Wieland, chairperson of Southern Shore Region DMO. The wooden walkway has amusement rides for all ages, mini golf, arcade games, souvenir and sweet shops, and iconic boardwalk eats — hot dogs, burgers, fries, pizza, and soft serve.

Situated at the tip of the Cape May peninsula, Cape May boasts sandy beaches, historic trolley rides, a striped lighthouse, and Victorian architecture. More than just a summer destination, the charming Jersey Shore town gets into the spirit for all the seasons — especially the holidays with festive decorations, tree lighting ceremonies, and a vendor village at Congress Hall .

Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

Hannah Beier/Getty Images

For summertime fun, look no further than Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks. “Families can spend the entire day on more than 100 rides, splashing around the two water parks right on the beach, and lounging in private cabanas,” says Jeffrey Vasser, executive director, New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism.

Wildwoods Boardwalk

Courtesy of Wildwoods New Jersey

In a state known for its seaside amusements , the Wildwoods Boardwalk stands out from the pack. Composed of more than 70,000 wooden planks, the 38-block oceanfront stretch draws crowds with everything from amusement piers featuring rides and games galore to water parks to classic eateries and shopping.

Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motel District

“Walking around Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motel District is like being transported to the 1950s,” says Vasser. Dotted along the two-mile stretch between Atlantic and Ocean Avenues sits the largest concentration of mid-century motels in the country. “It’s really neat to see all the neon signs and retro details.”

American Dream

Courtesy of American Dream

“ American Dream is, quite literally, an indoor vacation one-stop shop that’s open year-round,” raves Vasser. From the Nickelodeon Universe theme park and the DreamWorks Water Park to skiing at Big Snow and surf lessons at Skudin Surf to the hundreds of stores (​​it’s the second-largest shopping mall in the United States) and restaurants, it provides endless fun for the whole family.

Lambertville

Moelyn Photos/Getty Images

Founded in 1705, Lambertville brings history to life through its well-preserved federal townhouses, Victorian homes, antique shops, restored 19th-century train depot, and the James Wilson Marshall House . “The charming town also supplies family-owned wineries and photogenic vantage points such as Goat Hill Overlook,” adds Vasser.

Beneduce Vineyards

andykazie/Getty Images

"Most people don’t realize New Jersey is home to more than 50 wineries,” says Vasser. “One of my favorites, Beneduce Vineyards , has great wine and fun year-round events such as live music and food trucks on Saturdays.” Plus, it’s located less than 75 minutes from New York City and Philadelphia.

Grounds for Sculpture

Courtesy of Grounds for Sculpture

Located on the former site of Trenton Speedway, Grounds for Sculpture is a 42-acre sculpture park and museum. Visitors can spend the day ogling art and grabbing a bite at the restaurant. The Hamilton cultural institution also hosts special events such as after-dark light and sound experiences in partnership with Klip Collective and the upcoming Def Poetry Jam Reunion .

Atlantic City

Approximately two hours from the Big Apple, Atlantic City — the East Coast's answer to Las Vegas — dazzles visitors with its casinos, live entertainment, glitzy hotels, and big-name restaurants like Nobu . While Steel Pier offers games, entertainment, boardwalk fare, an observation wheel with sweeping views, and the only helicopter ride at the Jersey Shore.

Nestled along the banks of the Delaware River in Hunterdon County, Frenchtown is a vibrant community with plenty of Victorian architecture, art, and culture to keep travelers entertained year-round. Vasser suggests visiting over Labor Day weekend because that's when Frenchtown Riverfest takes place. “There are all kinds of street fair activities along the river,” he says.

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Joseph Hulik / FOAP/Getty Images

Located in the Cape May Court House section of Middle Township, the Cape May County Park & Zoo houses more than 550 different animals and is free to the public. There are also awesome playgrounds for kids of all ages just outside the entrance. "It's truly one of the best-kept secrets in the area," says Wieland.

Asbury Park

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Over the last decade, Asbury Park has become a creative hub and music mecca. There are so many venues to catch a show. Wieland recommends The Stone Pony , which is best known for launching the career of Bruce Springsteen. Asbury Lanes combines bowling, dining, and live entertainment. To admire eye-catching artwork, head to the boardwalk. The Wooden Walls Project collaborates with artists to turn blank walls into colorful photo ops.

Adventure Aquarium

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Adventure Aquarium protects more than 8,500 aquatic species, including penguins, turtles, stingrays, and the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast. It also gives visitors the chance to interact with hundreds of sea creatures at the touch tanks. “It’s a favorite for kids of all ages, especially if you’re looking for an indoor activity,” says Wieland.

Long Beach Island

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With 130 miles of Atlantic Ocean real estate, there’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in the Garden State . But the shores of Long Beach Island are particularly lovely. Besides its scenic Atlantic Ocean coastline, vacationers go for the water sports, charming towns like Barnegat Light, and laid-back lifestyle.

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13 Fun Things To Do At Night In New Jersey

• Last updated May 07, 2023
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category United States

New Jersey is a great destination for a fun and exciting night out. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a thrilling adventure, there’s something for everyone in the Garden State. From boardwalk strolls to pub crawls, here are 13 of the most fun things to do at night in New Jersey.

What You'll Learn

Take in a show at the starland ballroom, catch a concert at the stone pony, enjoy some fine dining at the frog and the peach, cruise the boardwalk in atlantic city, spend a night at the asbury lanes bowling alley, indulge in a brewery tour at cape may brewing company, take a stroll through liberty state park, catch a movie at the landmark loew's jersey theatre, visit the adventure aquarium in camden, catch a baseball game at yogi berra stadium, explore the grounds at the new jersey state botanical garden, take a ghost tour of historic cold spring village, spend a night at the wildwoods boardwalk arcades.

One of the best things to do at night in New Jersey is to take in a show at the Starland Ballroom. Located in Sayreville, this iconic venue has been showcasing some of the biggest names in music since 1998. From punk, metal, and hardcore bands to pop and hip-hop acts, Starland Ballroom has something for everyone.

The atmosphere at the Starland Ballroom is intense and electric. As soon as you walk in the door, you can feel the energy of the crowd. The club features a state-of-the-art sound system, making every show a great experience. Whether you’re there to rock out or just enjoy some great music, the Starland Ballroom will have something for you.

If you’re looking for a unique night out, the Starland Ballroom is the place to go. The club offers a variety of activities and events, so you can experience the best of live music. From the weekly “Karaoke Night” to the “Rock and Roll Bingo”, there’s something for everyone. On top of that, the Starland Ballroom hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as the annual “Halloween Bash”.

The Starland Ballroom is also a great place to meet new people. With its lively atmosphere, it’s easy to strike up conversations with other concertgoers. Many people come to the Starland Ballroom to have a good time and make new friends.

If you’re looking for a night out that’s full of energy and excitement, the Starland Ballroom is the perfect place. There’s no better way to experience live music than by taking in a show at this iconic venue. Whether you’re a fan of rock, metal, or pop, the Starland Ballroom has something for everyone.

If you’re planning a night out in New Jersey, then make sure to check out the Starland Ballroom. With its lively atmosphere and great music, it’s the perfect place to spend an evening. Whether you’re looking to rock out or just take in some live music, the Starland Ballroom has something for everyone.

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The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, New Jersey, is an iconic music venue with a rich history and a stellar lineup of live music events. This legendary venue has hosted some of the biggest names in rock music, from Bruce Springsteen to Bon Jovi, and continues to be a premier destination for live music lovers. Whether you're looking for an evening of classic rock, indie-pop, or hip-hop, The Stone Pony has something to offer everyone.

The Stone Pony is located in the heart of Asbury Park, a vibrant beachfront city known for its vibrant nightlife. The venue's atmosphere is lively and energetic, with an extensive bar and a packed dance floor. It's the perfect spot to catch a live concert, as the sound quality is impeccable and the acoustics are excellent. The venue also offers a variety of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as a full menu of food.

The Stone Pony has been a fixture in the New Jersey music scene since 1975, and the venue's commitment to music has earned it a place of honor among the state's best. The venue hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as their weekly "Summer Concert Series" and their annual "Winter Festival". During the summer, outdoor concerts are held on the venue's outdoor stage, which is surrounded by lush gardens and trees.

If you're looking for a unique night out in New Jersey, a visit to The Stone Pony is definitely worth your while. With its storied history, excellent sound quality, and amazing lineup of music, it's no wonder why The Stone Pony is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.

For those looking for a more intimate experience, The Stone Pony also offers private events. Whether you're looking for a corporate event, a birthday celebration, or a rehearsal dinner, the venue's experienced staff can help you plan the perfect evening.

For a truly memorable night, head to The Stone Pony and see a live concert. With its historic atmosphere and top-notch lineup of performers, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience. So, if you're looking for a night of great music and unforgettable memories, head to The Stone Pony and catch a show.

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The Frog and The Peach is a fine dining restaurant located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. This restaurant has been serving the area for over thirty years, and is the perfect spot for a night out. With a menu full of delicious food and an atmosphere that is both relaxed and sophisticated, it is the perfect place to enjoy a fun and memorable evening.

The menu at The Frog and The Peach is full of delicious dishes. From classic dishes such as steaks and seafood to more contemporary options like seared scallops with a white truffle risotto, there is something for everyone. The restaurant also features an extensive wine list, making it the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two.

When you visit The Frog and The Peach, you can enjoy a variety of live music. From jazz to classical, there is something for everyone. The restaurant also offers a variety of special events throughout the year, from wine tastings to live music events. This is a great way to experience the restaurant and its atmosphere in a unique way.

If you are looking for a great spot to enjoy a night out in New Jersey, The Frog and The Peach is the perfect choice. With delicious food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a variety of live music and events, it is a great spot to experience fine dining. Plus, the restaurant is conveniently located in New Brunswick, making it easy to get to.

When you visit The Frog and The Peach, you can be sure to have a memorable experience. The restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a romantic dinner for two or to celebrate a special occasion. With its sophisticated atmosphere, delicious menu, and variety of live music, it is the perfect destination for a night out.

The Frog and The Peach is a great spot for a night out in New Jersey. With its delicious food and relaxed atmosphere, it is the perfect spot for a date night or special occasion. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner for two or a night filled with live music, The Frog and The Peach is the perfect spot.

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Atlantic City Boardwalk is one of the iconic attractions in New Jersey, and it's a great place to experience all the fun things to do at night. From strolling along the wooden planks, to taking a ride on the iconic tram, the boardwalk offers a unique way to explore the city. Whether you're looking for a romantic night out or a fun-filled evening with friends, there's something for everyone to enjoy on the boardwalk.

The iconic rolling chairs are one of the most popular activities on the boardwalk. For a few dollars, you can take a ride on a classic wooden chair pushed by an experienced driver. The rolling chairs offer a unique view of the boardwalk, and it's a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Atlantic City at night.

For a romantic night out, there are plenty of restaurants and bars lining the boardwalk. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a casual drink, there's something to suit every budget and taste. Plus, the boardwalk offers a unique atmosphere that's perfect for a romantic evening.

If you're looking for a more active evening, there are many fun attractions to explore. From the iconic Steel Pier to the colorful arcades, there's something for everyone on the boardwalk. Plus, the boardwalk is home to a variety of carnival-style rides, including a Ferris wheel, tilt-a-whirl, and roller coaster.

If you're looking for a more leisurely evening, there are plenty of places to explore. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and admire the views of the ocean and the lights of the city. Or, take a break from the crowds and explore some of the quieter spots. The boardwalk is full of hidden gems, from quaint cafes to unique shops.

No matter what kind of evening you're looking for, a visit to the Atlantic City Boardwalk is sure to provide a memorable experience. From thrilling attractions to romantic dinners, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the boardwalk is a great way to explore the city and experience the best that New Jersey has to offer.

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If you’re looking for a unique and fun way to spend a night out in New Jersey, then Asbury Lanes is the place to be. Whether you’re looking for a night of bowling and drinks, or want to catch a live show, Asbury Lanes has something for everyone. While the bowling alley itself is equipped with 16 vintage lanes, the music venue is where the real fun begins.

Asbury Lanes hosts a variety of live music acts throughout the year, ranging from rock, punk, and hip-hop to folk, jazz, and electronica. Local and national acts alike have graced the stage at Asbury Lanes, with headliners like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Weezer, and The Hold Steady all having performed there. It’s a great place to experience live music in an intimate and unique setting.

Asbury Lanes also offers a full bar with craft beer, cocktails, and bar food. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, the bar features a variety of tasty snacks, including sliders, loaded fries, tacos, and more.

If you’re looking to add a bit of competition to the night, Asbury Lanes also offers a variety of bowling leagues. From novice to experienced bowlers, there’s something for everyone. The lanes are open from 5 pm to 11 pm, Monday through Thursday, and until 1 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Spending a night at the Asbury Lanes Bowling Alley is a great way to experience all of the fun and excitement that New Jersey has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a night of bowling and drinks, or are looking to catch a live show, Asbury Lanes is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends and family. With its unique atmosphere and variety of activities, Asbury Lanes is sure to provide an unforgettable night of fun.

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The nightlife in New Jersey is alive and well with plenty of activities to keep you busy. One of the best things to do while in the Garden State is to take a brewery tour at the Cape May Brewing Company. This award winning brewery offers a unique experience that is sure to make your night memorable.

Located in the heart of the historic city of Cape May, the brewery is nestled in the old Cold Spring Village. It was founded in 2011 by Chris and Ryan Krill and has since become a popular destination for both local and visiting beer lovers. The brewery offers a variety of craft beer styles, ranging from Belgian-style ales to IPAs, stouts, and more. While taking a tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the brewing process and taste some of their delicious beers.

The brewery offers two types of tours. The first is a guided tour that includes a beer tasting and a Q&A session with the brewers. This tour is perfect for those who want to learn more about the brewing process and the beers they’re tasting. The second tour is a self-guided tour, which allows you to explore the brewery at your own pace. You’ll be able to learn about the brewing process, taste some of the beers, and even purchase a growler or two to take home with you.

The brewery also offers a variety of events throughout the year. From beer pairing dinners to beer and cheese pairings, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, the brewery is home to a beer garden which is open during the summer months. This is a great spot to relax and enjoy a beer with friends.

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience, a brewery tour at Cape May Brewing Company is the way to go. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or just looking for something fun to do at night, this brewery tour is sure to make your evening an enjoyable one. With a variety of beer styles, knowledgeable brewers, and events throughout the year, you’re sure to have a great time at the Cape May Brewing Company.

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Liberty State Park in New Jersey is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park provides visitors with a variety of activities and attractions, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. For those looking for an exciting night out, Liberty State Park is the perfect destination.

The park offers a variety of nighttime activities to explore and enjoy. Take a romantic stroll along the boardwalk and admire the view of Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Or take a midnight bike ride and explore the park’s trails and paths. For a truly unique experience, consider taking a moonlit kayak tour of the Hudson River.

After a night of exploring the park, visitors can find plenty of nearby restaurants and pubs to enjoy. Take a seat at the Deck at LSP and enjoy delicious food, drinks, and live music. Or head to the Liberty House for a night of dancing. If you’d rather stay in the park, grab some snacks from the concession stand and enjoy a picnic under the stars.

No matter what you’re looking for, Liberty State Park is the perfect destination for a night of adventure in New Jersey. It’s a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the beauty of nature. As John Muir once said, “In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.”

If you’re looking for something to do with your family or friends, Liberty State Park is the perfect place. From its picturesque views of Manhattan to its variety of nighttime activities, the park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. You won’t regret taking a stroll through Liberty State Park on a night out in New Jersey.

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The Landmark Loew's Jersey Theatre is an iconic movie theatre located in Jersey City, New Jersey. Being the largest and most ornate movie palace ever built in New Jersey, the Landmark Loew's Jersey Theatre is a must-see destination for those looking for a unique night out.

The theatre has been hosting classic films, live performances, and special events since opening in 1929. With its Renaissance-inspired design, the theatre is a stunning destination for any night out. From its grand balcony seating to its ornate lobby, the Landmark Loew's Jersey Theatre is a must-see destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable night out.

The theatre hosts a variety of classic films and live performances throughout the year. The theatre has hosted everything from silent films to modern blockbusters. The theatre also hosts live musical performances, comedy shows, and more. With its unique atmosphere, the theatre is the perfect place to experience the best of classic cinema.

The Landmark Loew's Jersey Theatre also offers pre-show events. Before each movie, the theatre hosts a variety of events such as trivia nights, costume contests, and more. These events give movie-goers a chance to get to know each other and add to the overall experience.

The theatre also offers a variety of discounts and specials. Senior citizens, students, and military personnel can all receive special discounts. The theatre also offers discounts on tickets purchased in bulk.

The Landmark Loew's Jersey Theatre is a unique destination for any night out. From its grand balcony seating to its pre-show events, the theatre offers a unique experience for any movie-goer. Whether you're looking for a classic movie or a night out with friends, the Landmark Loew's Jersey Theatre is the perfect destination.

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The Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey is the perfect destination for a night of exploration and fun. Located on the Camden Waterfront, the Aquarium offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.

From the moment you enter the Aquarium, you are taken on a journey through the natural wonders of the deep sea. The Aquarium is home to some of the most spectacular aquatic creatures, including stingrays, sea turtles, sharks, sea lions and more. This is a great place to explore and learn about the ocean’s amazing creatures and habitats.

One of the highlights of the Adventure Aquarium is the Shark Realm. This exhibit features over 15 species of sharks, including the hammerhead, lemon and nurse sharks. Visitors can get up close and personal with these incredible creatures and observe their behavior in the largest shark exhibit in the country.

In addition to the Shark Realm, the Aquarium also features other amazing exhibits. The Turtle Island is home to a variety of turtles, including sea turtles, leatherback turtles, and green sea turtles. Visitors can also explore the Jellyfish Gallery, the Penguins’ Playground, and the Touch a Ray Bay.

The Adventure Aquarium is open year round and offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year. Visitors can take part in educational programs such as “Behind the Scenes Tours” and “Dive Into Learning”. These programs provide an exciting and interactive way to learn more about the Aquarium’s animals and habitats.

The Adventure Aquarium also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. From musical performances and holiday celebrations to movie nights and laser shows, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Adventure Aquarium is a great destination for a night of exploration and fun. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or a fun night out with friends, the Adventure Aquarium is the perfect place to go. With a variety of exhibits and activities, there is something for all ages and interests. So, come explore the wonders of the deep sea and discover the amazing creatures of the Adventure Aquarium.

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Yogi Berra Stadium in Little Falls, New Jersey is a great place to catch a night game during the summer. Located on the campus of Montclair State University, the stadium is home to the New Jersey Jackals, an independent professional baseball team. Watching a game at Yogi Berra Stadium is a unique and exciting experience that can provide a fun night out for people of all ages.

The stadium was built in 1998 and is named after the legendary New York Yankees catcher and Hall of Fame member, Yogi Berra. It has a cozy atmosphere, with a capacity of just over 5,000, making it the perfect place to catch a game. There is a large outfield berm, as well as a picnic area, which is great for families with kids. The stadium also features an array of food and drink options, including hot dogs, pizza, beer, and more.

The Jackals play in the Canadian-American Association of Professional Baseball, and the team's season runs from May to early September. The games are always entertaining, with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of action on the field. The Jackals also host a variety of special events throughout the season, such as fireworks nights, beer festivals, and more.

Before or after the game, you can take in the sights and sounds of Little Falls. The town is full of unique shops, restaurants, and bars. There's also a museum dedicated to Yogi Berra and his life and accomplishments.

Catching a night game at Yogi Berra Stadium is a great way to experience the best of New Jersey. The stadium is easily accessible from nearby towns and cities, and tickets are affordable. Whether you're a baseball fan or just looking for a fun night out, Yogi Berra Stadium is a great place to be. So take in the sights and sounds of this iconic stadium and enjoy a night of baseball in the Garden State.

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The New Jersey State Botanical Garden is the perfect place to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. Located in the heart of New Jersey, it is one of the most scenic spots in the state. The Garden offers a variety of activities for visitors, including walking trails, wildlife observation, and educational programs.

At night, the Garden takes on a magical quality. The Garden is illuminated by thousands of twinkling stars, giving it an ethereal feeling. From the trails, visitors can observe the night sky and spot constellations and planets. There is also a special telescope available for those who wish to have a closer look at the stars.

The Garden also offers a variety of nighttime events, such as astronomy lectures, stargazing parties, and even themed hikes. These events allow visitors to learn more about the stars and constellations in the night sky.

The New Jersey State Botanical Garden also offers a variety of educational programs for visitors. These programs include lectures on botany, bird watching, and even astronomy. Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the Garden and learn about the plant and animal life that make up the Garden.

For those looking for a romantic evening, the Garden also has a romantic garden walk. Visitors can stroll through the Garden and enjoy the beauty of nature while also enjoying the magic of the night.

In addition to the activities offered at the Garden, visitors can also take part in a variety of cultural activities. These include musical performances, art shows, and theater performances.

The Garden is also home to some of the best restaurants in the state. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines while dining outdoors or in the Garden's outdoor pavilion.

The New Jersey State Botanical Garden is a great place to experience the beauty and culture of New Jersey. From its trails and educational programs to its nighttime events and cultural activities, visitors will find something to enjoy at the Garden. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening or a chance to learn something new, the Garden is the perfect place to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature.

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Cold Spring Village is one of the most unique and interesting places to explore in New Jersey. Located in Cape May County, Cold Spring Village is a living history museum that features a variety of historic buildings and exhibits from the 1800s. A great way to experience Cold Spring Village is to take a guided ghost tour. This tour is the perfect activity for anyone looking for something to do in New Jersey at night.

The tour begins at the entrance of the village and winds its way through the streets and buildings. Guests will be given a brief history of the village and its history as they explore. As the tour progresses, stories of hauntings and other supernatural occurrences come to life. The guides on this tour are incredibly knowledgeable, and they provide interesting anecdotes and facts throughout the tour. At the end of the tour, visitors will have a much deeper understanding of the village and its history.

The tour is a great way to experience the village after dark. Guests will be able to explore the village in a unique way and experience the atmosphere of a bygone era. As the tour winds its way through the village, guides will provide stories, facts, and anecdotes about the village’s history and its ghostly inhabitants. Guests will be able to see the historic buildings and explore their history in a way that is not possible during the day.

The tour is suitable for all ages and is a great way to explore the village at night. It is also a great way for families to spend quality time together. The tour is available on certain nights throughout the year, so be sure to check the website for availability.

If you’re looking for something to do in New Jersey at night, taking a ghost tour of Historic Cold Spring Village is a great option. The tour is an educational and entertaining way to explore the village and learn about its history. You’ll be able to experience the village in a unique way and hear stories and anecdotes about its paranormal inhabitants. So don’t miss out on this unique tour and make sure to check the website for availability.

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Nighttime in New Jersey is an experience that's not to be missed. In particular, the Wildwoods Boardwalk Arcades offer a unique and exciting nightlife. From vintage pinball machines to modern video game consoles, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

When it comes to having a fun night out, the Wildwoods Boardwalk Arcades are the perfect destination. This boardwalk arcade is located in Wildwood, New Jersey, and is open all year round. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities for all ages, including classic pinball machines, interactive video games, and even a mini-golf course. With more than 50 different arcade games, there's something for everyone.

If you're looking for something a little more unique, there are also plenty of other attractions on the boardwalk. Visitors can experience virtual reality rides, laser tag, an indoor roller coaster, and even a mini-golf course. Plus, there are a variety of food and beverage options to enjoy while you play.

The Wildwoods Boardwalk Arcades are open late at night, so you can enjoy the fun any time of day. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pinball game or something more modern, there's something to keep everyone entertained. Plus, the boardwalk is home to a variety of other attractions, including live entertainment, restaurants, and shops.

If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, you can also take a walk along the boardwalk. Enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean and take in the fresh sea breeze. You can also visit the nearby beach and take in the sights and sounds of the shoreline.

No matter what you're looking for, the Wildwoods Boardwalk Arcades offer something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a night of fun and games or a more relaxed experience, there's something for everyone. So, come down and experience the Wildwoods Boardwalk Arcades for yourself!

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Frequently asked questions.

There are plenty of fun things to do at night in New Jersey! Some popular activities include going out to dinner, taking a stroll along the boardwalk, attending a live show or concert, visiting a casino, checking out the nightlife in a local city, and exploring one of the many parks and trails.

New Jersey is a great destination for a romantic night out! Couples can enjoy a beautiful sunset stroll along the beach, dine at a romantic restaurant, take a ferry ride across the Hudson River, or explore one of the many parks and trails for a romantic picnic.

If you're looking to have a night out with friends in New Jersey, there are plenty of great activities to choose from! You can check out a local comedy club, attend a sporting event, go bowling, visit a bar or lounge, experience a ghost tour, or go on a shopping spree.

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Local Highlights

5 Places to Visit For the Best New Jersey Nightlife

• The Common Team
• Posted on November 14, 2022
• Updated on July 3, 2023

From the 141-mile span of sand that makes up the world-famous Jersey Shore to the electrifying art galleries scattered around Jersey City, the Garden State offers visitors and residents an abundance of attributes to treasure.

And while New York City may be one of the top spots in the world for nightlife, its neighbor across the Hudson offers post-dusk thrills that are just as unique and diverse.

Whether you’ve recently started calling this palace home or will be spending a weekend exploring one of the many New Jersey events , we’re exploring the leading New Jersey nightlife attractions.

#1 Atlantic City

Mix seaside splendors and casinos galore and you have Atlantic City—the globally renowned resort city that sits on New Jersey’s southern shore. Whether you’re going out for drink specials on a Friday night, to listen to a live band, or to dinner with your best pals, Atlantic City may have everything you need.

The East Coast’s version of Las Vegas Sin City’s four-mile-long boardwalk operates as the nexus of this perpetually-buzzy enclave. Hotels, casinos, restaurants, clubs, and lounges surround it, giving visitors an appealing blend of natural wonders and luxe amenities, so every visit feels like a party.

You can gamble at one of the city’s 11 casinos, dine on first-rate fare, and heat up the dance floor—all in a single evening.

Best Spot for Cocktails: The Vue Rooftop Bar and Lounge

The VÜE Rooftop Bar and Lounge offers guests some of the best nightlife New Jersey has to offer with splendid panoramic views from its perch on the 23rd floor of The Claridge Hotel. With a happy hour that stretches from noon to 6 PM., Thursday night karaoke, and live entertainment on the weekends, this is a choice venue to kick off a fun, energetic night. 1

The Vue also offers an extensive cocktail list including:

• Banana and strawberry daiquiris
• Tequila cocktails

Best Place for Dinner: Capriccio

Swank and vibrant Capriccio is located in the center of the Resorts Casino and features a wide selection of Italian food, such as:

• Grilled octopus
• Prime pork chop
• Lobster ravioli
• Seafood zuppetta

Best Dancing Venue: Anthem Lounge

The Tropicana Atlantic City offers a small handful of dance clubs, but its posh and stylish Anthem Lounge ranks the highest. Designed to mirror the clubs found in Vegas and Miami, Anthem Lounge features all-night dancing that doesn’t stop until sunrise.

Just be sure to adhere to Anthem’s dress code—you’ll want to come dressed in your best outfit and dancing shoes.

Located a mere eight miles west of New York City, Newark is the largest city in the Garden Stateand, according to some, the liveliest. Thank the city’s profusion of fun nightclubs, excellent restaurants, performance venues, and rich cultural history for the compliment.

No matter the time of year you find yourself in Newark, you’re bound to have fun, whether you’re attending a live comedy show at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center or savoring the sounds of jazz at Clement’s Place.

But you don’t need to schedule your visit to Newark to coincide with one of the city’s events. Bar hopping around this bustling city, with its chic lounges and well-established breweries, is just as fun. Downtown, North Ironbound, and University Heights are your best bets for a good time.

Best Spot for Cocktails: Mompou Tapas Bar & Restaurant

Mompou Tapas Bar & Restaurant features prime outdoor seating, providing the perfect place to enjoy a warm evening in New Jersey. When you arrive, you’ll be met by:

• Craft beers on draft
• Handcrafted cocktails
• Second-to-none pitchers of sangria

That said, Mompou is easily one of Newark’s hippest spots to sip and mingle.

Best Place for Dinner: Blueprint Cafe

Blueprint Cafe is one of the city’s newer restaurants, but it’s already attained iconic acclaim. Thursday-night open mics, happy hours in the garden, and one-of-a-kind decor are just a few of the cafe’s most memorable aspects. 2

And its menu is just as amazing.

Here, you can chow down on an abundance of comfort foods, including:

• Nana Pancakes – Buttermilk banana pancakes topped with walnuts and a deluge of maple syrup
• Sweet Chick & A Sidekick – Fried honey-butter-tossed chicken thighs atop a golden waffle
• Chipotle Plantain Bake – Plantains mixed with ground beef, cheese, and chipotle

There are also a variety of vegan eats available, like its tofu scramble, Beyond sausage tacos, and vegan French toast.

Best Dancing Venue: QXTs Nightclub

If you’re looking for nightclubs in New Jersey, look no further than QXTs. From New Wave to punk rock, music reaches new decibels at QXTs Nightclub—a Newark favorite that attracts a lively crowd. The venue features three distinct dance floors with their own bars, including Area 51 and The Crypt, which is found underground.

Its resident DJs know how to keep the music bumping and the bartenders keep the drinks flowing, making it the place to party in Newark.

Hoboken has gone through several transformations since its inception in the 19th century, shifting from an axis of the industry to one of the hottest, most sought-after enclaves.

Nestled along the Hudson waterfront, it’s one of the busiest, most densely populated regions in the Garden State—and has the nightlife to match it.

It’s the birthplace of Sinatra, the raucous spot to be in on St. Patty’s Day, and the home of picturesque, decades-old nightlife establishments. From dive bars to gastropubs, the city has earned a reputation as New Jersey’s quintessential party town.

Best Spot for Cocktails: Wicked Wolf

Both creative and classic drinks reign at Wicked Wolf, a bar and restaurant that offers epic views of the water.

Opt for Friends with Benefits, Wicked Wolf’s jalapeno and cucumber spin on a traditional margarita or elevate your night with Sinatra’s Mule , made with Hendricks gin, lime juice, raspberry syrup, and ginger beer.

Best Place for Dinner: Halifax

Tuck in for fantastic, upscale cuisine at Halifax before trotting off to one of the Mile Square City’s booming (and beer-soaked) Irish pubs.

Located in the W Hotel, Halifax boasts menus for all hours of the day and features a delicious raw bar with:

• Black sea bass tartare
• Poached shrimp
• Bangs Island mussels
• Wagyu beef carpaccio

While the raw bar and seafood dishes are certainly show-stopping, the stellar views of Manhattan take center stage, making Halifax an optimal spot for a first (or fiftieth) date. 3

Best Dancing Venue: Madd Hatter

The line to get into Madd Hatter may be overwhelming at first glance, but it’s worth the wait. This trendy club pulls the United States of Tara at 10 p.m. when it switches from a sports bar to a nightclub.

A live DJ spins from the back while friends and singles hit the dance floor and crowds from NY and NJ dance their way into the doors. And don’t forget to check out the bar: This funky lounge is famous for its fishbowl daiquiris.

#4 Princeton

While it’s true that Princeton is better known as a college town than a city with next-level nightlife, and zoning laws restrict bars in this Mercer County city from staying open past 1 a.m., Princeton boasts its fair share of after-dark entertainment and boozy venues.

We did say it’s a college town, didn’t we?

Best Spot for Cocktails: The Alchemist & Barrister Restaurant and Pub

Before heading over to the Catch a Rising Star comedy club, stop in at The Alchemist & Barrister for an ice-cold beer or a specialty cocktail. We recommend Tea Time, which is crafted with spiced bourbon, black tea, and honey.

The pub is located in a restored historic building and live entertainment is often on the menu.

Best Place for Dinner: Elements

Get into an Ivy League frame of mind at Elements. The upscale restaurant has only nine tables for an exclusive and intimate vibe.

The chefs who helm this spot are serious about the farm-to-table approach and change their menu daily to reflect the freshest local fare available. Or, guests can splurge on the chef’s tasting menu. Past lineups have included rare (and delicious) combinations like caviar with turnips and lamb with lavender.

Best Dancing Venue: Ivy Inn

Darts, trivia night, pool, an awesome jukebox and patio, one of the busiest and most buoyant happy hours in town… Princeton’s Ivy Inn is known for many things, but come Friday and Saturday night, it turns into a lit, uber-fun dance party, complete with live bands and DJs.

#5 Jersey City

Ranked as one of the top ten most artistic cities by The Atlantic , New York’s “6th borough,” located right across the Hudson from Manhattan, flourishes with multicultural restaurants, critically-acclaimed entertainment, and a bunch of both casual and high-end restaurants, bars, and lounges. 4

While Jersey City doesn’t have the Spring Break energy of Hoboken and Atlantic City, in its place is a more mature (although no less fun) barhopping culture. If that suits your style, head to the historic district downtown.

Best Spot for Cocktails: Zeppelin Hall Beer Garden

Craft beer is a New Jersey specialty—and it has the breweries and pubs to prove it. Take Zeppelin Hall Beer Garden as an example.

The garden offers 144 imported and domestic beers on draft, alongside a selection of games that can be played inside its cavernous interior or its spacious outdoor beer garden, including

• Cards Against Humanity
• Unstable Unicorns

Happen to be in Jersey City in the fall? Don’t miss their Oktoberfest for beer, brats, pretzels, and live music in the garden.

Best Place for Dinner: Boulevard Drinks

Forget one of Jersey City’s fancier affairs and head to Boulevard Drinks for a chili and onion-topped New Jersey hot dog. This place, which got its start in 1937, is a veritable hole in the wall but that’s a large part of its charm. 5

Best Dancing Venue: The Village Underground

In addition to harmonies of blues, hip-hop, and folk that waft from its doors, you’ll also hear plenty of laughs. The Village Underground is one-part dance club, one-part comedy club—and it’s one of the best places in Jersey City for live entertainment.

Carve Out a New Jersey Life with Common

From happy hour on a Saturday night to live music and dinner in a seaside town, New Jersey’s got you covered. When it comes to making a home in New Jersey, it’s best to factor in the area’s nightlife amenities, whether you’re looking for a neighborhood fitted with a bevy of sophisticated craft cocktails or a community that keeps the party going all night long.

Whether you’re contemplating the idea of living in New Jersey or Jersey City, or you want to ease into a place packed with a high-end kitchen and all the necessary amenities, consider the advantages of securing a coliving apartment with a private room with Common .

Our Jersey City buildings, Journal Square’s Common at Le Leo and the West Side’s Common at The Agnes , provide exciting nightlife only minutes away, giving you the chance to experience all the fun (and comfort) New Jersey has to offer.

• Atlantic City Weekly. 5 things to know about the vue rooftop bar and lounge. https://atlanticcityweekly.com/food_and_drink/5-things-to-know-about-the-vue-rooftop-bar-and-lounge/article_15038cb0-2ebf-11ed-aeab-2f70629e95a5.html
• Forbes. 5 great places to eat if you’re visiting newark, new jersey. https://www.forbes.com/sites/adriennejordan/2019/01/28/5-great-places-to-eat-if-youre-visiting-newark-new-jersey/?sh=5ee701886b55
• Eater NY. 15 restaurants to seek out in hoboken. https://ny.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-food-hoboken-new-jersey-nj
• NJ.com. Jersey city #10 on ‘the atlantic’ list of most artistic U.S. cities. https://www.nj.com/hudson/2011/11/jersey_city_10_on_the_atlantic.html
• Eater NY. 24 restaurants highlighting jersey city’s rich cultural diversity. https://ny.eater.com/maps/best-jersey-city-restaurants

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• 7 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in New Jersey

Home to the Jersey Shore, the world’s oldest boardwalk, and the illustrious Princeton University, the state of New Jersey offers a dazzling range of attractions. From shimmering sand and surf to charming historic downtowns, visitors will find that the towns on this list blend natural beauty and urban charm in a truly breathtaking way. Whether you seek adventure on a whale-watching tour, a leisurely day of antique shopping, or an exciting night on the town, each of these New Jersey communities has something special to offer every traveler. From cozy coves with quiet shores to wide beaches with bustling boardwalks, here are seven New Jersey towns that will help you make the most of your 2024.

Believed to be the oldest seaside resort in the United States, the town of Cape May has attracted tourists with its beauty for centuries. The Cape May Historic District is one of the town’s best features, known for its high concentration of intricate Victorian structures. Centuries prior, it was Cape May’s natural beauty that brought so many here, and this beauty continues to entice travelers to this day. This is precisely why the town's population of fewer than 3,000 swells to upwards of 50,000 in the summertime.

This scenic town is located at the southern tip of New Jersey, where the Delaware Bay merges with the Atlantic, so the beaches here are next level. While shores like Cape May Beach attract beachgoers looking to sunbathe and swim, others flock to Sunset Beach for its unique features. In addition to gorgeous sunsets, the pebbly shores are famous for collecting "Cape May Diamonds,” which are actually clear quartz stones washed ashore from the Delaware River. At low tide, beachgoers can also see the World War I SS Atlantus shipwreck. And from May through December, some may even be lucky enough to spot a whale or two. But for a guaranteed sighting, it is best to book a thrilling sightseeing cruise with agencies like Cape May Whale Watcher.

Settled on the banks of the Delaware River, Frenchtown is perfect for those pining for a relaxing day of small-town bliss. Instead of beaches and whale watching, this charming little river town is more ideal for an easygoing day of cafés and strolls. The shopping and restaurant district is especially cute and eclectic, with USA Today voting the town as one of “America’s Top 10 Best Small Towns for Shopping.” The Frenchtown Bookshop is one highlight, a sweet little family-owned bookstore housed in a blue Victorian building.

Right across the road, vinyl collectors can hit up Blue Raven Records, and art lovers can check out the Rock Art Revival gallery. For a pick-me-up latte, the Early Bird Espresso & Mercantile coffee shop is also right next door, which is the perfect boost since Frenchtown still has so much to see. Strolls along the river are another must, and the nearby D&R Canal State Park grants visitors access to 60 miles of gorgeous riverfront. There are tons of beautiful walking paths, or you can even rent a bike at Cycle Corner of Frenchtown since plenty of the trails have flat and even terrain.

Lambertville

Less than a half-hour drive from Frenchtown, Lambertville is another cozy Delaware River town with an inviting small-town atmosphere. Known as “The Antiques Capital of New Jersey,” you could spend a whole weekend exploring the town for treasures. Attractions like the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market have served as a “gold mine” for antique and vintage collectibles since 1967. In the heart of town, other antique shops like The People’s Store and Bear Bone Vintage are housed in prominent historic buildings built in the mid-1800s. And if charming historic landmarks are your thing, the James Wilson Marshall House Museum (built in 1816) is currently open for the season. Even more popular, the historic Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn is an adorable place for waterfront dining or renting a room.

Spring Lake

For those looking to savor sunshine and sand on the Jersey Shore without the typical boardwalk crowds, the beautiful town of Spring Lake is the place to be. The town’s main beach boasts wide-open views of the Atlantic and smooth surfing waves. Visitors can hit up Bare Wires Surf Shop for gear rental or enjoy what the beach already has to offer, like its swim deck, picnic tables, and the “Oldest Penny Arcade in America.” With games dating back to the 1920s, the arcade is a true crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. Back outside, the beach’s 2-mile boardwalk makes for a gorgeous stroll, uncluttered with typical Jersey Shore carnival attractions, allowing visitors to appreciate unobstructed ocean views and mellower crowds.

Elsewhere in town, this tranquility extends to Spring Lake’s downtown. The flower-filled courtyard features topiaries shaped like dolphins, and the main street (Third Avenue) is home to adorable shops and cafés like Thunder Road Books and A Coastal Coffee House. Finally, right across from these attractions, no visit to Spring Lake would be complete without visiting the town’s 15-acre namesake lake, best viewed from the footbridge at sunset.

As the home of one of the most prestigious Ivy League schools in the country, Princeton is a thriving college town with a rich history and youthful energy. The college itself offers a delightful introduction to the town’s Collegiate Gothic-style architecture, with dramatic arches, towering gargoyles, and inspiring spires. Beyond the university, visitors can explore other historic attractions such as the Albert Einstein House, where the famous physicist lived for 22 years, and Princeton Battlefield State Park. As the site of a significant Revolutionary War battle, today the scenic fields and forests make for a lovely hike.

For another attraction blending history and nature, the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park features 19th-century bridges, serene waterways, and cobblestone spillways. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy a picturesque excursion to Lake Carnegie by heading to the Princeton Canoe & Kayak Rental dock. But if you prefer to stay in the central parts of town, Palmer Square is located across from the university and encapsulates the best of Princeton’s charms. Here, you can discover everything from historic accommodations like the 1756 Nassau Inn to nationally acclaimed ice cream parlors like The Bent Spoon.

Atlantic City

Around two hours south of Princeton, you will find yourself in a town known for its spring break atmosphere. Famous for its nightlife, beaches, and world-renowned boardwalk, Atlantic City is a beacon of excitement and childhood nostalgia, welcoming 27 million people every year. Many of these visitors come to try their luck at the town’s nine flashy casinos, but daytime is best enjoyed outdoors. Atlantic City Beach awaits with refreshing waves and plenty of room to spread out. However, the shore’s central attraction would have to be its prized landmark: the oldest and longest boardwalk in the world. Founded in 1854, the historic boardwalk stretches for a whopping four miles, lined with endless shops, businesses, restaurants, and amusement park rides. The scent of popcorn and sea air blends with the sounds of laughter for the ultimate Jersey Shore boardwalk experience. Whether seeking thrills at the Lucky Snake Arcade, sampling sugary treats at Funnel Cake House, or riding the famous Wheel, there is a reason Atlantic City’s visitors continue to come back year after year.

Ocean Grove

Finally, we have the cute and quaint resort town of Ocean Grove. With a similar vibe to Spring Lake, beachgoers with a passion for tranquil shores will appreciate the serenity of Ocean Grove Beach, contrasting with those who prefer the rowdier Atlantic City. Fodor’s voted it one of the “Top 15 Beaches in the World” for its soft sands and quiet atmosphere compared to other New Jersey beach towns. The rustic boardwalk makes for a peaceful stroll overlooking the Atlantic. Its simplicity keeps the beach below at a perfect volume for reading, building sandcastles with the family, or simply relaxing in the sun.

The beach is also conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Ocean Grove, where visitors can grab a sweet treat at places like Days Ice Cream or the Ocean Grove Bake Shoppe. As you explore, admire the Victorian architecture scattered throughout the town, or join a Historic Walking Tour offered on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from June through September. Additional 2024 events include the town’s Giant Craft Show on June 15th, the Bridgefest Concert on June 28th, and the Summer Stroll Fine Art show on July 20th.

Final Thoughts

When you envision a day trip or vacation in New Jersey, your mind may go to the busier beach towns like Atlantic City. And while these bustling resort towns are popular for a reason, the state has so much to offer beyond its amusement parks and crowded boardwalks. Whether combing the pebbly shores of Sunset Beach for "Cape May Diamonds” or exploring Princeton’s grand Gothic buildings, New Jersey may just surprise you with the unique ways it will take your breath away.

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40 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In New Jersey

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: April 19, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

New Jersey gets a bad rap around the US.

It’s been depicted in the media and movies in less than savory ways.

We can all conjure the image of the “fuhgeddaboudit” mentality and the Jersey Girl attitude.

But in truth, New Jersey is a beautiful place to visit.

So “fuhgeddabout” what you’ve seen in the movies and prepare for lots of natural beauty, many historical landmarks, action-packed adventures, and plenty of art and culture.

There are so many fun things to do in New Jersey, from white-sand beaches to thrilling adventures and art museums/exhibits to the Garden State’s nature-rich outdoor activities.

Whether you’re planning to visit New Jersey today, tomorrow, or this weekend, this comprehensive list of New Jersey attractions will have you hardpressed to narrow down the best tourist attractions for you and your family.

This list is compiled of plenty of cool free things to do as well as places of interest, hidden gems, and popular vacation spots .

Overall, New Jersey itself is one of the country’s hidden gems, with sightseeing and activities galore.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Six Flags Great Adventure/Hurricane Harbor

Pit Stock / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous to do while you’re in Jersey, you’ll want to spend a day at Six Flags Great Adventure .

With dozens of wild rides and attractions, a drive-through wild safari, games abound, and the best concessions you can dream of, Six Flags is a must see amusement park during your stay in New Jersey.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the summer months, you can add a stop to Hurricane Harbor , adjacent to Six Flags, for water rides and splashing for every appetite.

If the thrill of roller coasters and water slides are too much for you, Six Flags also has lots of wonderful shows, animal attractions, shopping, and eateries.

If you’re traveling with small children, Six Flags has a dedicated section called Bugs Bunny Land for the little ones.

If you’re unsure of what to do while visiting New Jersey, be sure to add a trip to Six Flags Great Adventure to your itinerary.

Address: 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson Township, NJ 08527, United States

2. Turtle Back Zoo

Gianpaolo_Photo / Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in New Jersey, especially if you’re visiting the Garden State with small children, is a trip to the Turtle Back Zoo .

If you’re looking for a zoo experience in the northernmost parts of Jersey, Essex County’s Turtle Back Zoo is a treat.

The Turtle Back Zoo thrives on the preservation of wildlife while enriching the experience of its visitors.

Named for a famous rock formation that resembled a turtle’s back, the zoo has much more to offer than its deceiving name.

Situated on a picturesque 15 acres at the foot of a mountain reservation, the Turtle Back Zoo boasts over 800 animals and more than 200 species of wildlife.

Some of this New Jersey zoo’s other attractions include a dinosaur playground, boating, mini-golf, face painting, pony rides, a butterfly tent, an aviary, and much more.

A day at Turtle Back Zoo, one of many best-loved New Jersey attractions, will be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

Address: 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052, United States

3. Atlantic City/The Boardwalk

f11photo / Shutterstock

Historically speaking, Atlantic City has been deemed a playground for adults.

With casinos, bars, and a wild nightlife, it’s no wonder.

Although you can certainly partake in all of these adult pastimes, Atlantic City also has many attractions suitable for children.

Atlantic City’s Steel Pier is one of many things to see when visiting Jersey.

Situated on the beautiful coast of the Atlantic Ocean and amidst many world-renowned hotels, casinos, and resorts, the Atlantic City Boardwalk delivers lots of stuff to do.

The Atlantic City Boardwalk has both exclusive and tourist shops, five-star restaurants and snack stands alike, rides and amusements for all ages, live entertainment, local culture, and hours of fun for all.

The cultural epicenter of the boardwalk is wrought with city art, a historical museum, and unique local specialties like saltwater taffy and homemade fudge by the pound.

Although Atlantic City still has all of the adult attractions it’s famed for, don’t count it out for family fun too; it’s one of the top things to do in New Jersey.

4. Liberty State Park

JaysonPhotography / Shutterstock

Another one of the best things to do in New Jersey is visiting Liberty State Park .

With views of the New York City skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty, all from the comfort of New Jersey soil, visiting the park makes for an inexpensive day out.

The over 1,200-acre park offers more than majestic views, though.

With panoramic views of the city’s skyline, you should pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with family and friends.

Be sure to pack some fun items to use on the wide expanse of lush green lawns.

A football, frisbee, music, or all of the above, will add to your experience at Liberty State Park.

Moreover, the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial is near the park too.

A short walk around the park will take you to the memorial that commemorates the more than 700 lives lost during the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11th.

This, among other points of interest, makes a trip to Liberty State Park in New Jersey, a must do.

Nothing can top a visit to this beautiful park!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address: 200 Morris Pesin Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305, United States

5. Ellis Island

Roman Babakin / Shutterstock

Don’t just settle for views of Ellis Island because you can tour the historic site too.

Ellis Island is a historical landmark that served as a port of entry to millions of immigrants.

With a short ferry ride from Liberty State Park in NJ, you can easily gain access to this sightseeing phenomenon, rich in history.

Tickets to tour Ellis Island are reasonably priced, and through this history-rich and educational tour, you’ll step back in time.

Immersing yourself in our nation’s history has never been easier than with a tour of Ellis Island.

You’ll have the humbling experience of “meeting” some of our ancestors who entered our country through the halls of Ellis Island.

You’ll also read the stories and tales of how the property was used by so many.

This immersive experience is one of many sightseeing New Jersey attractions you won’t want to miss.

6. Princeton University Art Museum

EQRoy / Shutterstock

The historic campus of Princeton University is a sight to see for so many reasons, but the University’s Art Museum is one of the best things to do in NJ.

This culture-rich museum on the New Jersey campus of Princeton University is wrought with exhibitions, curated collections, and daily presentations and shows.

Some of the current collections you can hope to see during your visit to the museum include “Women Artists and Abstractions,” “Blue Green Realms in Chinese Painting,” “Landscapes of the Mind,” and “Picasso Prints.”

Beyond these sophisticated collections and exhibitions, Princeton University Art Museum also frequently hosts artist talks, live art shows, special guest lectures, and self-guided family-friendly tours.

There is truly something for everyone at the Princeton University Art Museum.

The museum is not only a fun place to visit during your stay in New Jersey but an educational and enriching one too.

Address: Elm Dr, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States

7. Cape May Historic District

Gary C. Tognoni / Shutterstock

A visit to the Cape May Historic District is another of many fun things to do in NJ.

There are many fun things to do while you stroll the streets of the beachfront town.

Named on the National Register of Historic Places, the streets of Cape May in New Jersey are lined with 19th-century buildings some of which are now operable beds and breakfasts.

The Victorian Charm of these buildings is a sight to behold.

Besides strolling and basking in the charm of the town, you can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride or a trolley tour to take it all in.

Cape May has long been known as one of New Jersey’s best seaside towns.

But its history-rich landscape is just another facet of this charming seaside town.

Near to the historical sights are many wonderful restaurants and shops for additional fun to be had.

A drive “down the shore” is a must and Cape May’s Historic District is one of many scenic places in New Jersey you won’t want to miss.

Address: Cape May, NJ, United States

8. Adventure Aquarium

Lisa A. Ernst / Shutterstock

Adventure Aquarium is one of many tourist spots in New Jersey that the whole family will have fun visiting.

Situated on the scenic Camden riverside, the aquarium is one of many much-loved places to see in New Jersey.

The aquarium is home to more than 15,000 water animals including an expansive collection of sharks, penguins, hippos, and more.

Besides seeing all the wonderful animals the aquarium has to offer, there are also many interactive exhibits.

There are sea turtle and hippo encounters as well as a passable shark bridge and a kid zone perfect for the little ones.

Furthermore, the aquarium has a turtle cove and live feeding shows that are sure to wow your family.

Be sure to make time for a quick bite to eat at the aquarium’s marketplace, beer garden, or coffee shop.

Adventure Aquarium is one of many great tourist attractions to see during your visit to the Garden State.

Address: 1 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ 08103, United States

9. Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

Another of many fun New Jersey attractions, wrought with history is the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum (NAS).

NAS is located in a real World War II aviation hangar which adds to the experience of a visit to the museum.

Although the hangar is a sight to be seen in and of itself, Hangar #1 also houses WWII aircrafts and relics.

Iconic propeller aircraft, high-speed jet aircraft, helicopters, and engines are all on display at NAS.

The NAS is also home to many World War II-era artifacts from outside of the war.

The exhibit displays real 1940s treasures that are cool to see in person.

Whether a history buff or lover of fast things, a visit to the NAS today, tomorrow, or this weekend, is one of many outrageous places to visit in New Jersey.

Address: Cape May Airport, 500 Forrestal Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States

10. Howell Living History Farm

Howell Living History Farm

This pitstop on your tour of New Jersey is a cross between farm and museum.

If you’ve never been to a living history museum, here’s what you can expect: a real working farm reminiscent of the early 1900s.

You’ll get to experience what life on a working farm during that time period was like.

The farm is operated using antiquated farm equipment and methodologies.

Moreover, during your visit to the museum, you’ll learn about the operations and daily routines of a real-life rural farm at the turn of the century.

You might catch a glimpse of farmers dressed in authentic garb planting crops, raising fences, shearing sheep, or more.

A visit to the Howell Living History Farm is super fun and one of the top places to visit in New Jersey.

Address: 70 Woodens Ln, Lambertville, NJ 08530, United States

11. Morristown Game Vault

Rob Wynne / flickr

This NJ institution is a retro arcade with some of the best games from your childhood.

Of all the fun places to visit in New Jersey, you’ll want to make the Game Vault a stop on your itinerary.

With over 100 arcade games and pinball machines to choose from, you will undoubtedly recognize many of these nostalgic games.

If you’re wondering what to do on an unseasonable day, the arcade is always a fun choice.

Best of all, no quarters are necessary.

All of the games are free to play with an unlimited amount of games for a set period.

You simply purchase a wrist band for a set time and play to your heart’s content.

There are hours to be had playing retro games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Pinball.

Step back in time during your stay in New Jersey with an epic visit to the Morristown Game Vault .

Address: 22 South St, Morristown, NJ 07960, United States

12. Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

Adonis Page / Shutterstock

With so many places to go in the great Garden State, a trip to the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in New Jersey should be at the top of your list.

A newly instituted National Park, Paterson Great Falls are one of many activities that you should plan on your trip to NJ.

Open to the public for self-guided outdoor activities, the Falls are a must see for anyone passing through New Jersey.

With a downloadable app that guides you through the park and around the Falls, you’ll learn about the rich history of Paterson while observing all the beautiful scenery the park has to offer.

The Paterson Great Falls are a superb backdrop for a picnic lunch too.

The park offers free picnic benches for public use, but there are also lots of wonderful spots throughout the park to spread a blanket for a picnic lunch too.

The Paterson Great Falls are a top pick for free things to do in New Jersey.

Address: 72 McBride Ave, Paterson, NJ 07501, United States

13. Duke Farms

Malgosia S / Shutterstock

If you’re wondering what to do in New Jersey, wonder no more!

The Garden State, so nicknamed for its beauty in nature, has tons of free things to do, top of which is Duke Farms .

With over 1,000 acres of lush farm and woodland to explore, you can spend the whole day (or more) having outdoor fun at Duke Farms in New Jersey.

With guided trails to walk, jog, or bike you can spend your day, however, suits you.

Moreover, Duke Farms boasts some truly magnificent sights including a plantinum, an orchid range, a hay barn, a lake system, and more; you’ll never be at a loss for free things to do at Duke Farms.

You can also pack a lunch and plan a picnic or eat at Duke Farm’s delectable farm-to-table cafe.

Of New Jersey attractions, Duke Farms is a must do activity.

Address: 1112 Dukes Pkwy W, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844, United States

14. Beaches

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

The beaches of New Jersey are one of the state’s most popular destinations in the summer.

The beaches of the Jersey Shore are beautiful up and down the coastline of the Garden State.

No matter where in NJ you are visiting, you are sure to be a short drive from the white-sand beaches lining the Atlantic Ocean.

Many of the beach towns are bordered by old-timey boardwalks with attractions like arcades, rides, restaurants, and snack stands with New Jersey novelties like funnel cake and Italian Ice.

One of the best beaches with a boardwalk is the famed Seaside Heights.

If you prefer a more quiet, slower pace there are plenty of dry beach towns without boardwalks and lots of excitement too.

But no matter your beach speed, the fact remains that the beaches of the Jersey Shore are gorgeous, clean, and safe to swim.

One of the best, low-key beaches is Surf City on the 18-mile stretch of Long Beach Island.

Beware though, many of the state’s beaches do charge small admittance fees and parking can be cumbersome.

Check out these awesome beach activities in NJ.

15. Cape May County Park & Zoo

The Cape May County Park & Zoo is a non-profit organization that operates on the generosity of donations from visitors and patrons.

A long and scenic drive down the Garden State Parkway, to the very tip of the state, will deliver you straight to the proverbial lion’s den.

A well-kempt and interactive zoo, the Cape May County Park & Zoo spares no attraction.

With a bald eagle exhibit, an African Safari with zebras, giraffes, and more, an aviary, and many other attractions and encounters, the Cape May County Park & Zoo is both family-friendly and educational.

If you want to make your trip even more special, you can even book a private guided tour.

What’s more, with many picnic areas surrounding the zoo, an adorable gift shop, a concession stand, and playgrounds galore, the Cape May County Park & Zoo is sure to please.

It’s one of many fun things to do in New Jersey.

Address: 707 U.S. 9 North, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210, United States

16. Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Vilseskogen / flickr

If you’re looking for a novel place to visit today, this old iron and zinc mine in New Jersey is one of many fun places to visit.

While at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum you’ll be guided through underground tunnels, along which you’ll learn about the mine’s abundant history.

You’ll learn about the equipment used to mine zinc and iron, the working conditions the miners faced, and the mine’s geology.

Additionally, you’ll see artifacts from the mine’s working days dating back as far as the 1830s.

One of the museum’s best-loved exhibits is “The Rainbow Tunnel”; let’s just say it will truly illuminate your experience.

To prepare for your visit to the mine you’ll want to dress appropriately.

Keep in mind that the mine will be damp and cold, and you will undoubtedly do lots of walking, so dress comfortably.

Of the many wonderful places to go in New Jersey, Sterling Hill Mining Museum is highly recommended.

Address: 30 Plant St, Ogdensburg, NJ 07439, United States

17. Liberty Science Center

Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock

A trip to New Jersey wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Liberty Science Center (LSC).

With so many things to see in New Jersey, LSC is a wonderful attraction for families with children.

The LSC has a huge planetarium and many interactive exhibitions.

Of note, there’s a “Making Mammoths” exhibit, a Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood-themed exhibit, Rubik’s Cube exhibit, and even a wild-animals exhibit.

These are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg, though.

There are loads of family-friendly activities at LSC.

Additionally, there’s an epic gift shop and cafeteria for your lunching convenience.

If science is one of your points of interest, a visit to Liberty Science Center is one of many awesome places to visit in New Jersey.

Address: 222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07305, United States

18. Battleship New Jersey

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Anchored in the Delaware River, the Battleship New Jersey is a super unique activity to plan for this weekend.

If military history tickles your fancy, you won’t want to miss this site during your stay in New Jersey.

On your tour of the battleship, you’ll have an interactive experience wherein you explore the decks of the ship, climb ladders as you navigate, traverse tricky passageways, and immerse yourself in the lifestyle of a seaman.

Beyond the tour of the battleship, you’ll also learn about the vessel’s profuse history.

After many tours of duty, the Battleship New Jersey was finally decommissioned in 1991 and has been docked in the Delaware River since.

A trip to New Jersey would not be complete without visiting the Battleship New Jersey.

If you plan your visit for the late afternoon, afterward you can even check out the beautiful skyline of neighboring Philadelphia at night.

Address: 100 Clinton St, Camden, NJ 08103, United States

19. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

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If you’re planning to spend any time at the beach during your stay in New Jersey, plan to spend some time visiting Barnegat Lighthouse State Park .

Situated at the tip of Long Beach Island, where the Barnegat Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, this picturesque park is a beautiful place to explore, picnic, collect seashells, shoot photographs, and more.

There is a walking trail through the park, fishing is permitted, and there’s even a nature observation.

What’s more, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is home to Old Barney the Island’s famed lighthouse.

For a nominal fee, you can climb the 217 steps to the top of the lighthouse where you can take in the scenic views.

If you are wondering where to go on your visit to New Jersey this weekend, no matter the season, a visit to Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is one of many wonderful things to see in the Garden State.

Address: 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006, United States

20. Tuckerton Seaport

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The Tuckerton Seaport is a charming little village situated on Tuckerton Creek in quaint and historic Tuckerton, New Jersey.

A maritime village, rich in the history of Barnegat Bay, Tuckerton Seaport is one of many neat places to visit in New Jersey.

The seaport is home to a maritime museum with a decoy gallery and historic buildings.

Beyond enjoying the history of the maritime museum, there are many other sights and activities to participate in.

Beyond the sightseeing, Tuckerton Seaport has a boardwalk that connects you to boutiques, eateries, a wetlands nature trail, and a decoy carving workshop.

What’s more, artists and performers are gracing the boards daily.

The Tuckerton Seaport marries the best of nature with history and culture with fun.

The Tuckerton Seaport, a New Jersey hidden gem, should be added to your list of places to visit during your trip to the Garden State.

Address: 120 W Main St, Tuckerton, NJ 08087, United States

21. Grounds for Sculpture

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At Grounds for Sculpture , art and nature come together to make for a fulfilling New Jersey experience.

Situated among impeccably kept gardens and arboretum, over 300 artistic sculptures grace the nearly-45 acres of expansive land.

A visit to Grounds for Sculpture provides you the unique opportunity to appreciate the sophistication of art in the outdoor grit of nature.

In addition to the gardens and sculptures, Grounds for Sculpture is also home to a delectable restaurant called Rat’s which is warm and inviting, yet culinarily exquisite.

The museum’s affinity for the fostering of up-and-coming artists means that you not only experience the sculptures of famed artists but of emerging sculptors too.

Beyond the art on display at Grounds for Sculpture, the history and construction of the gardens and arboretum are astounding.

The natural landscape of the grounds perfectly juxtaposes the man-made hardscaping like pergolas, patios, and bridges.

Grounds for Sculpture is truly a sight to behold.

It’s one of many beautiful places to see in the great Garden State.

Address: 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619, United States

22. Newark Museum of Art

Newark Museum of Art

With art collections of all styles from around the world as well as plenty of American art, the Newark Museum of Art is a mecca of culture.

The state’s largest art museum, the Newark Museum of Art is one of the best places to go when visiting New Jersey.

The museum’s current galleries include collections of art from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Mediterranean.

As such, you can expect a culture-filled experience at the Newark Museum of Art.

Beyond the global-rich art on display at Newark Museum of Art in New Jersey, there are also science exhibitions, a decorative arts exhibit, and even a museum garden.

Beyond the amazing museum exhibits, there are often workshops, panels, films, performances, and creative-play experiences for families and children.

Newark Museum of Art is a highly recommended place to visit in New Jersey and near New York City .

Address: 49 Washington St, Newark, NJ 07102, United States

23. Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

If you plan to be in the southernmost part of New Jersey in the summer, worry about what to do no more.

Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks are a fun-filled and action-packed series of interconnected boardwalks in Wildwood Beach.

After a long day of frolicking in the Atlantic and basking in the sun, a visit to the Piers is in order.

Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks are packed with wild rides and attractions for everyone, including plenty of age-appropriate ones for smaller children.

The piers have tons of restaurants, snack stands, and games for all.

Morey’s is also home to two epic water parks also packed with fun attractions for all ages.

There is so much fun to be had on Morey’s Piers that you may even consider spending multiple days there while visiting New Jersey.

Address: 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260, United States

24. Garden State Discovery Museum

Garden State Discovery Museum

One of South Jersey’s greatest tourist attractions for small children, the Garden State Discovery Museum is one of many wonderful places to visit in New Jersey.

With dozens of interactive galleries, exhibitions, and activities for children ages infant through 10 years old, your children will have a blast at Garden State Discovery Museum.

Some favorite attractions include a Dinosaurium, mini-model pro ice skating rink, an interactive news and weather station, digger land, an interactive veterinarian clinic, a mock diner, an auto body shop, and so much more.

Each of these interactive exhibitions included pint-size, realistic props perfect for your little ones.

Additionally, there are many amenities available at Garden State Discovery Museum, including a nursing area, family restrooms, a coat room, a snack area, and a restaurant.

Garden State Discovery Museum is a great place to visit with children during your stay in New Jersey.

Address: 2040 Springdale Rd #100, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003, United States

25. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

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Another fun summer activity to do during your stay in New Jersey is to visit Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in beautiful Point Pleasant Beach.

Situated adjacent to the white sand beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, Jenk’s has it all: well-kept boards for strolls with a view, carnival-style games, an aquarium, eateries galore, and quite the adult nightlife.

Moreover, there are amusement rides suitable for all ages, a gaming arcade, a homemade sweets shop to die for, a magical funhouse, a ropes course, mini-golf, and boutiques for shopping to your heart’s content.

There is so much to do at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk that you could easily make a weekend trip of it.

What’s more, there are even hotel/motel accommodations available right on the boardwalk’s main strip.

Point Pleasant isn’t a beach town you want to miss during your stay in New Jersey.

Address: 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, United States

26. Thomas Edison National Historical Park

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Notably, Thomas Edison is one of America’s greatest inventors.

Hailing from Central New Jersey, Thomas Edison National Historical Park is lauded as the place “where modern America was invented.”

Home to Edison’s laboratory, the park houses the work and inventions of the great scientist.

Divided into three unique categories, the historical artifacts, the archives, and natural history, your family will delight in the antiquity of Edison’s relics.

With interactive experiments that you and your family can participate in, this hands-on park is one of the most fun places to visit in New Jersey.

Another amazing sight to see at the park’s grounds is the Glenmont Collections; this is the 29-room Victorian estate where Edison lived for most his lifetime.

The beauty and history of this estate are certainly worth the visit.

Some other fun antiquities you’ll enjoy seeing are prototypes of Edison’s phonographs, electrical lighting, motion picture cameras, and other electrical appliances.

The Thomas Edison National Historical Park is a walk of historical American innovation and worth a visit during your stay in New Jersey.

Address: 211 Main St, West Orange, NJ 07052, United States

27. Seaside Heights

Another of New Jersey’s beautiful, boardwalk-lined beaches in Seaside Heights.

With white-sand beaches by the mile, lifeguarded swimming, and umbrella/chair rentals available up and down the beach, a day at the shore has never been more convenient.

Add to that the excitement of the Seaside Boardwalk and a visit to Seaside Heights is a must see place to visit in New Jersey.

The boardwalk is jam-packed with adventure and fun for adults and children alike.

With amusements out the wazoo, boardwalk games for all ages with epic prizes, an arcade for the ages, and daily boardwalk entertainment, there’s always something to see and do in Seaside.

Furthermore, with a bevy of both fine and low-key restaurants, there are plenty of eateries to choose from.

And at night the club scene comes alive with free-flowing libations and both live and DJ music all night long.

The fun in Seaside Heights, New Jersey lasts from sunrise to well-past sun-down.

28. Allaire State Park

Monmouth County’s Allaire State Park is a beautiful setting for a day well-spent in nature.

Best known for its 19th-century iron-making relics and antique steam train, a hike through the park will bestow both history and beauty upon you.

The Manasquan River delightfully winds through the park whereupon you can canoe and fish.

The park is also home to over 200 varieties of flowers and plant life, the natural beauty of which will awe you.

There are many guided hiking trails where you can observe the awesomeness of birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Each of the hiking trails can be enjoyed on foot, bike, or even horseback.

Allaire State Park in New Jersey is handicap accessible, has restrooms, picnic tables, a visitor center, and even a museum.

Furthermore, their pet-friendly camping sites are available should you choose to make a night or weekend of your visit to Allaire State Park.

Address: 4265 Atlantic Ave, Wall Township, NJ 07727, United States

29. Storybook Land

Martin Lewison / flickr

This old-timey amusement park steeped in the themes of the fables and tales of our childhood is a bit of New Jersey nostalgia you won’t want to miss.

With attractions and rides themed after stories like “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Alice in Wonderland,” and the “Three Little Pigs,” the irresistible charm and wistfulness of this park make it a must see for anyone visiting New Jersey.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting New Jersey during the months leading up to Christmas, the park’s Santa Light Show is a real treat.

Gather around the town square and at 5 o’clock on the dot, Santa emerges from his workshop’s chimney to wish season’s greetings to all those gathered.

Then with the wave of a wand, he illuminates the entire park in spectacular Christmas lights and “real” snow begins to fall.

Add to this magical experience a cup of hot chocolate sold at most of Storybook Land ’s concession stands, and you’ve officially entered a winter wonderland.

But if you won’t be visiting New Jersey in the winter months, fret not.

The park has many, just as wonderful, attractions during the summer months too.

Address: 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234, United States

30. Jersey Shore BlueClaws

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Minor League Baseball in New Jersey is an institution and with teams and ball fields to choose from up and down the state, you truly can’t go wrong.

However, one of the best-loved Minor League teams in the great Garden State is the Jersey Shore BlueClaws .

Set central to the state, FirstEnergy Park, home to the BlueClaws, is a field like no other.

The first perk of visiting the ballpark is the reasonably priced entry tickets.

Upon entry, there are endless activities for adults and children beyond the simple enjoyment of watching the baseball game.

For the kids, you’ll find boardwalk games, a miniature golf course, and live entertainment from the team’s mascot Buster.

For the adults, there’s grade-A shopping, a private clubhouse, a tiki bar in the outfield, and much more.

Finally, on many summer nights, the ball game ends with a live fireworks show.

FirstEnergy Park, home to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, is a super night out for family and friends when visiting New Jersey.

Address: 2 Stadium Way, Lakewood, NJ 08701, United States

31. Rutgers Gardens

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If you’re looking for another outdoor activity, a visit to Rutgers Gardens will surely not disappoint.

The official botanical garden of the state university, Rutgers Gardens is open 365 days a year and best of all does not charge an admission fee.

A visit to Rutgers Gardens affords you the opportunity to basque in the glory of a real-live living museum loaded with a wide variety of plant life and vegetation.

Strolling through the botanical gardens of Rutgers Gardens is peaceful, serene, and downright beautiful.

You’ll see natural areas like small babbling brooks, luscious gardens, productive farms with a market, and seasonal events too.

Rutgers Gardens are a beautiful New Jersey sight to be seen all for the cost of nothing at all.

Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it, but don’t skip this stop on your NJ itinerary.

Address: 112 Log Cabin Rd, North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902, United States

32. Nickelodeon Universe – American Dream

This television network-themed indoor amusement park situated amidst the bustling American Dream Mall in New Jersey is jam-packed with fun and activities for all ages.

With thrill rides, family rides, and even rides for tots, and all indoors, there’s no wrong time to visit Nickelodeon Universe .

One of the park’s coolest features is an indoor lift and mountain for year-round skiing or snowboarding.

Other park attractions include an indoor water park, mirror mazes, blacklight mini-golf, a skating rink, an aquarium, and an official Legoland.

This place has it all in one central location.

Open year-round and rain or shine, New Jersey’s Nickelodeon Universe is a fun attraction to visit no matter when you’re in the Garden State.

Beyond the park’s amusements, Nickelodeon Universe is smack dab in the middle of the state’s largest shopping mall, American Dream.

So once you’ve had your share of amusements, plan to spend some time shopping at the hundreds of luxury and inclusive stores, kiosks, restaurants, and snack stands.

Address: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073, United States

33. Hoboken

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Just outside New York City , only a short train ride to the City, Hoboken is a mecca of New Jersey culture, dining, and nightlife.

During the day you’ll enjoy strolling through the park or along the Hudson River’s pier; in fact, Pier A Park is a wide-open green expanse perfect for meeting up with friends and throwing a frisbee.

Follow your time in the park with lunch and shopping in some of the city’s best eateries and boutiques.

By night, you can expect the streets of Hoboken to come alive with bustling restaurants of all cuisine, happy hours galore, live music busting the seams of each doorway you approach, and so much more.

Although in recent years, Hoboken has become a place where young families set roots to raise young children, by and far, Hoboken has a reputation for serving the whims of young adults.

34. Monmouth Park Race Track

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Monmouth Park Race Track , centrally located alongside New Jersey’s Garden State Parkway, is a super fun way to spend the day watching and betting on horse races.

Whether you prefer the sheer majesty of watching the races or the thrill of betting on the horses, you’re sure to have a grand time at the track.

Conveniently, the track is open seven days a week for horse betting and simulcasting.

Additionally, there’s a delectable sports bar and kitchen for snacks and libations.

And the track’s Blu Grotto Restaurant offers a fine dining menu for a more upscale experience if that’s what you’re into.

Moreover, there are tons of family activities, special events, and festivals that go on throughout the year.

Their family-fun days feature pony rides, face painting, a mini-golf course, and even a bounce house.

Finally, the park offers premier seating or picnic seating.

We love the picnic seating; you can pack coolers with snacks, lunch, and drinks, making a full day out of your trip to the Monmouth Park Race Track.

Address: 175 Oceanport Ave, Oceanport, NJ 07757, United States

35. Brooksbrae Brick Factory

Brooksbrae Brick Factory

Brooksbrae Brick Factory is a very cool sight to be seen in Monmouth County, New Jersey.

Hidden deep in the woods of the state’s Pine Barrens is the juxtaposition of urban art meets natural landscape: a “graffiti wonderland.”

Formerly, the Brooksbrae Brick Factory produced bricks daily by the thousands.

After the owner died in 1908, the brick factory was decommissioned and left to languish.

Later, the massive factory burnt to the ground leaving it irreparable and abandoned.

Cue the “graffiti wonderland.”

After years of abandonment, artists, hikers, dirt bikers, and ATV riders discovered the abandoned factory.

Those artists used the brick slabs as canvases for “street art,” rendering the discovery of the art both astonishing and delightful to passers-through.

Finding the Brick Factory is tricky and cell services aren’t great deep in the woods of New Jersey’s Pine Barrens, so it’s recommended that you use caution or a knowing guide when visiting Brooksbrae Brick Factory.

But, it is truly a sight to be seen!

Address: Pasadena, Woodmanse Road, Manchester Township, NJ 08759, United States

36. Jersey Shore Premium Outlets

Jersey Shore Premium Outlets

If you’re looking for a full day of premier shopping, the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets are a great central location for doing so.

With covered walkways leading to exclusive shopping, boutiques, jewelers, housewares, and more, these outlets provide a full day of retail therapy.

There are novelty kiosks, snack stands, and cafeteria-style eateries to fuel your shopping too.

Furthermore, convenient amenities like stroller rentals, family restrooms, and a children’s playground, make the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets a wonderful day-trip for shopping.

What’s more, the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets are located just a short drive from the beautiful beaches of Asbury Park.

So while you’re in the area, be sure to check out the shopping pavilions, eclectic restaurants and boutiques, and culture out the wazoo.

So with a visit to the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, you can easily achieve all of your shopping desires while enjoying leisurely strolling and delicious dining.

Be sure to visit the outlets during your next trip to New Jersey.

Address: 1 Premium Outlet Blvd, Tinton Falls, NJ 07753, United States

37. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

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The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is both picturesque and loads of outdoor, scenic fun!

This is a pit stop on your trip to New Jersey that you won’t want to miss.

Comprising nearly 70,000 acres along more than 40 miles of the Delaware River, and over 100 miles of hiking trails, the park has so many memorable and breathtaking views.

Around every corner, you’ll observe plentiful plant life, agricultural farms, and abundant wildlife.

A visit to New Jersey’s Delaware Water Gap is truly a breathtaking experience.

Beyond the natural splendor that you can explore on your own, there are other activities available as well.

In addition to exploring the park on your own, you can swim, paddle, boat, bike, fish, picnic, horseback ride, mountain climb, snowshoe, and so much more.

The adventures are limitless when visiting Delaware Water Gap.

You’ll never see it all in one visit; this is a place your family will love to visit for years to come.

Address: 1978 River Rd, Bushkill, PA 18324, United States

38. Asbury Park Boardwalk

The Asbury Park Boardwalk was, until recently, a dilapidated shore town of yore.

However, in recent years, the town has seen an influx of reinvigoration as far as infrastructure is concerned.

As such, it’s become a super hip destination for locals and tourists alike.

With trendy new restaurants and bars, niche music and art scene, and boutique shopping aplenty, Asbury Park Boardwalk is an epicenter for twenty-somethings on up.

Brunches, beverages, billiards, bars, beaches, board-walking, and so much more!

Bring your dog and your ear for music, because anything goes.

You can spend an entire day at the Boardwalk and still not have seen it all.

The art, culture, and sophistication are alive on the boards and in the streets of Asbury Park.

The people are full of life and are a true joy to encounter.

Be sure to add Asbury Park Boardwalk to your itinerary when visiting NJ.

Address: 1300 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, United States

39. Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market

Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market in New Jersey’s capital city is a flea market like no other.

Catering to the punk rock scene, with an all-are-welcome attitude, this flea market is a great one for some truly eclectic finds.

With more than 140 vendors you can hope to get your hands on really cool vintage clothing, classic cassettes and records, oddities, unique collectibles, original clothing and art, comic books and games, and handmade jewelry.

Beyond all the unique shopping finds you’ll encounter at Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market, there are also many other attractions.

Food trucks from all over the state will greet you with delectable dishes and treats.

Live local musicians are always rocking the market.

And themed and seasonal holiday events and bazaars are always on the calendar.

A trip to Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market is like nothing you’ll experience elsewhere.

We highly recommend you make it a pitstop on your visit to the great Garden State.

Address: 675 S Clinton Ave, Trenton, NJ 08611, United States

40. Surf & Sip Brew Trail

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Unlike common bar crawls, Long Beach Island’s Surf & Sip Brew Trail is an opportunity for enthusiasts of local culture and libations to tour the beautiful 18-mile long island.

On this self-guided tour, with a map that is stamped like a passport along the way, you’ll have the unique opportunity to visit local breweries and surf sites in the southern part of the island’s county.

Enthusiasts of surf and brews come together to curate a one-of-a-kind experience that can be accomplished in as few as one day or as many as it takes.

Once you’ve stamped every stop on your guided map, you can submit it to the Chamber of Commerce to redeem it for a free Surf & Sip beer koozie.

This is a truly unique experience that combines two very different loves: beer and surf!

Start Planning Your Trip To New Jersey

The great Garden State is often underrated, but don’t be mistaken, it’s one of the most beautiful states to visit in the Northeast.

Throughout the year, you can find so many attractions to make your trip to NJ a great one.

There are family attractions galore, getaway destinations for friends and couples, nature-rich sites to be seen, historical attractions by the hundreds, and so many other things to do and places to see.

There are natural, outdoor attractions, arts and culture, music and sophistication, historical landmarks and beaches by the mile, and shopping and dining options for all.

With so many amazing things to do in NJ, start your planning, pack your bags, and don’t wait another minute to visit the beautiful Garden State.

Happy travels.

50 BEST Things To Do in New Jersey (There's Something For Everyone!)

Explore the top 50 things to do in New Jersey for a perfect trip! From golden coastlines to vibrant cities, find family fun, history, and adventure.

New Jersey often gets a bad rap for how reality shows and movies portray it. But this state has miles of golden coastline and a rich, diverse history. Even legends like Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison proudly called this state "home."

New Jersey often gets overlooked by travelers who typically visit its neighboring states instead. But when you learn what the garden state offers, you’ll be surprised to discover that it has everything a traveler could want. From vibrant cities and quaint towns to seaside amusement piers and excellent restaurants – if New Jersey isn’t on your travel list, it should be.

Whether you’re spending just a weekend or a week in New Jersey, the experiences listed here will ensure you have plenty of fun and make lifelong memories.

1. Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks

Map It: 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260  | Phone: (609) 729-3700 |  Website   | Hours: Monday – Sunday 1:00 – 11:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Ocean Oasis $49.99, Raging Waters $51.99

Morey’s is the largest amusement pier in the world. It features over 100 rides and attractions and six restaurants. There are also two large beachfront waterparks attached to it. From kiddie to extreme thrill rides, there is something for every group here. It’s one of the best family-friendly spots in New Jersey.

Raging Waters or Ocean Oasis water park is the best place to be on a hot summer day. Adults can spend the day sipping frozen drinks in a private cabana at PigDog Beach while kids play in the shipwreck-themed pool.

Make sure to visit the boardwalk at night. It’s a truly magical sight with the rides lighting up the night sky. The amusement pier has all your carnival favorites – go-karts, tea cups, rollercoasters, a carousel, and more.

What you’ll need to know: It will cost you less to buy an unlimited ride band than to pay per ride.

2. Storybook Land

Map It: 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234  |  Phone: (609) 646-0103 |  Website   | Hours:  Wednesday – Monday – 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Children over 3 and adults $30.95

Storybook Land has operated for 50 years as a prime entertainment and educational venue in southern New Jersey. This 20-acre park has a whimsical storybook theme and features larger-than-life characters and displays. It’s a timeless place that adults enjoy as much as the kids.

There are enough rides and attractions to keep your family busy for an entire day. Work your way through the maze of card soldiers in Alice’s wonderland, and take a spin on the whirly bugs. After a relaxing ride on the J&J Railroad, you can grab lunch from a real train caboose at the Caboose Café.

Remember that Storybook Land is closed in January and February each year for renovations.

What you’ll need to know: Your one-price admission will give you unlimited access to all of the park’s attractions.  

Related Read: 45 BEST Things To Do in Atlantic City, NJ

3. Six Flags Great Adventure

Map It: 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson Township, NJ 08527  | Phone: (732) 928-2000 | Website  | Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. seven days a week | Admission Fee: Gate price $99.99, Online price $74.99

Like its name, this theme park is an adventure for the entire family. There are over 100 rides, dozens of entertaining shows, and themed areas like Movietown, Fantasy Forest, and the Boardwalk. With 24 coasters, the park boasts one of the largest roller coaster collections in the world.

If you’re a thrill seeker, you don’t want to miss the Zumanjaro: Drop of Doom! It’s the tallest drop tower in the world at 415 feet high. You’ll feel as if you’re free falling as you drop at 90 mph. This ride is not for the faint of heart.

During the summer season, Six Flag’s Hurricane Harbor opens next door. This water park features exhilarating slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and a section for younger kiddos. Hurricane Harbor requires separate admission from the amusement park, but I highly recommend doing both if you have the time.

What you’ll need to know: Save up to $25 by pre-purchasing your park tickets online.

4. Battleship New Jersey

Map It: 100 Clinton St., Camden, MI 08103  | Phone: (856) 966-1652 |  Website   | Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Self-guided tours $25, Guided tours $35, and Specialty tours $25 to $100.

If you want to experience part of New Jersey’s military history, plan a weekend outing to Battleship New Jersey. Climb aboard the world’s longest and fastest battleship. Weighing in at 45,000 tons, the vessel dominates the Delaware River.

After decades of tours, the battleship was decommissioned in 1991 and has been available to tour since its finally docking. Touring the vessel is an interactive experience that kids will even enjoy. You can climb ladders, navigate tricky passageways, and explore the ship’s decks. Make sure you snap a picture in front of the Battleship New Jersey to capture its magnificence.

What you’ll need to know: If you want to take a specialty tour, you must reserve your spot online prior to visiting.

5. Ricky Boscarino’s Luna Parc

Map It: 22 Degroat Rd., Sandyston, NJ 07827  | Phone: (973) 948-2160 |  Website   | Hours: Visits must be reserved |  Admission Fee: Cost given when spot is reserved.

Artist Ricky Boscarino created Luna Parc in 1989 as a place for people to explore their creativity. This charming house is assembled from recycled trash and treasures. Its multi-colored façade is welcoming and looks like something straight from a storybook.

This attraction is only open a few days a week, and you need to reserve an appointment before you go. You can enjoy hands-on art activities and even learn art techniques from Boscarino. The park features an art gallery and museum where many shows and workshops are held.

If you’re interested in learning from one of New Jersey’s best artists, make sure to reserve your visit ahead of time.

What you’ll need to know: Check the website for event hours before visiting.

Related Read: 15 Best Hiking Trails in New Jersey

6. Thomas Edison National Historic Park

Map It: 211 Main St., West Orange, NJ 07052  | Phone: (973) 736-0550 | Website  |  Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $15 and children 15 and under – free.

Thomas Edison’s home and two laboratory buildings have been fully preserved at the Thomas Edison National Historical Park. You can explore all three floors of the main laboratory, which includes his library, machine shops, music room, and more exhibits.

Within these buildings, Edison invented objects like the first batteries, primitive movie cameras, and even sound recorders. Tour guides will let you examine the labs and original objects Edison used up close. The tour also involves a film on his inventions, and a silent movie that Edison helped produce.

After touring the laboratory, you can walk through Edison’s impressive 29-room mansion. Home tours only take place on the weekends from April to December, and you must book ahead. Don’t miss this New Jersey staple!

What you’ll need to know: The laboratory is open year-round for tours, but the mansion is closed in January and February for refurbishment.

Related Read: 20 Free & Fun Things to Do in Edison, NJ

7. Imagine That! Museum

Map It: 4 Vreeland Rd., Florham Park, NJ 07932  | Phone: (973) 966-8000 | Website   | Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Admission Fee: Adults $6.99 and children 1 – 10 years old $ 21.99

Imagine That! is one of the best places to visit in New Jersey if you have young children. The museum has over 50 interactive exhibits to help young children explore the world around them. It’s a safe environment where kids can roam and let their imaginations run wild.

There is a diner that kids can pretend to cook in and a fire station with a mini fire truck to climb on! Other exhibits include an art room, dance studio, doctor’s office, princess castle, and a post office. Check out their special events page for character breakfast dates!

What you’ll need to know: Make sure to check the museum’s indoor admission ticket calendar for any delayed openings or early closings for private events.

8. The Newark Museum of Art

Map It: 49 Washington St., Newark, NJ 07102  | Phone: (973) 596-6550 | Website   | Hours: Thursday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Admission Fee: Adults $10 and children/ teachers/ students/ seniors 62+ $8

With art collections from all over the world, the Newark Museum of Art is a hub of culture. It’s New Jersey’s largest art museum and one of the best places in the state to visit. This year’s galleries include collections from Asia, Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Americas.

Beyond the displays, there are science exhibitions, a museum garden, and a creative play experience. The museum often holds special workshops, panels, and film screenings, so make sure to check out the event’s calendar when planning your visit!

What you’ll need to know: All guests must reserve tickets online as there are no on-site ticket sales.

9. Old Barracks Museum

Map It: 101 Barrack St., Trenton, NJ 08608  | Phone: (609) 396-1776 | Website   | Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 – 5:00 p.m. | Admission Fee: Adults $10 and students/ seniors 62+ $8

For more New Jersey history, the Old Barracks Museum takes visitors back to colonial times. It’s open year-round, and lets visitors experience the way of life back then. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love the Revolutionary War reenactments.

Tour the barracks and see where British soldiers were housed during the Revolutionary War. Some of the museum’s exhibits include the Battle of Trenton, World War I, and the Anti-Suffrage Movement.

What you’ll need to know: The museum is located in the New Jersey State Capitol Complex. Free parking is available in the Capitol Complex parking garage.

10. Caesars Atlantic City Casino

Map It: 2100 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401  |  Phone: (609) 348-4411 | Website  |  Hours: 24/7 | Admission Fee: Free

Best known for its high-end casinos, Atlantic City is one of the top resort areas in New Jersey. Caesars has the largest gaming area in the state, measuring 124,720 square feet. The venue has a massive theater at which big-named celebrities like Adele have residency.

The casino is situated right on the Atlantic City boardwalk and offers more than 3,000 slot machines. If you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, Caesars offers contemporary accommodations. It also has extensive leisure opportunities, with a spa, indoor shopping center, and a rooftop pool.

What you’ll need to know: Sign up for Caesars Rewards to earn rewards on every dollar spent in the casino, hotel, and restaurants.

Related Read: 25 Best Romantic Getaways in New Jersey

11. Cape May & Cape May Lighthouse

Map It: 215 Lighthouse Ave., Cape May, NJ 08204  |  Phone: (609) 224-6066 | Website   | Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. seven days a week | Admission Fee: Adults $12 and children 3 – 12 $8.00

Cape May is an iconic resort town at the southern tip of New Jersey. The town earned its reputation as a trendy, wealthy destination in the 18 th century as the aristocracy always visited it.

Situated on the Delaware Bay, Cape May’s beaches and Victorian-style homes attract many tourists. One of the town’s best features is the Cape May Lighthouse. More than 2.5 million visitors have climbed to the top since its opening in 1988.

The lighthouse is located in Cape May Point State Park and serves as a reminder of New Jersey’s maritime legacy. While visiting, you can peak into the Oil House, which contains the visitor center and a gift shop. There are also family-friendly programs like story time, and full moon climbs.

What you’ll need to know: Buy your tickets online so you don’t have to stand in line.

12. Liberty State Park

Map It: 200 Morris Pesin Dr., Jersey City, NJ 07305   | Phone: (201) 915-3403 | Website   |  Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. seven days a week | Admission Fee: Free

With the city’s skyline views, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island in the background, it’s easy to see why Liberty State Park is a place you should put on your travel list. This 36-acre park is perfect for a weekend adventure.

There are so many different places to explore within the park. One is the Historic Central Railroad of New Jersey terminal, which served millions of immigrants who came through Ellis Island. There is also the Hudson River Estuary, a natural area consisting of salt marshes.

Another one of the park’s popular attractions is the Empty Sky Memorial. These twin walls give a clear, direct view of Ground Zero. Each wall is the length of the former World Trade Center towers. 749 names of new Jersey victims are etched on the stainless-steel walls in remembrance.

What you’ll need to know: You can access Ellis Island and Liberty Science Center from Liberty State Park.

13. Wildwood Beach

Map It: Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260    | Phone: (609) 522-3825 | Website   |  Hours: 24/7 | Admission Fee: Free

Wildwood Beach has been named the “Best Beach in New Jersey” by USA Today. This five-mile stretch of white sand offers plenty of room for summer activities. You’ll see beach-goers surfing, boogie-boarding, and building sand castles.

There are even designated areas for dogs to enjoy the sun and water. The beach hosts special events like monster truck racing sand sculpting contests, and kite festivals throughout the season. Enjoy all of the activities, play in the calm waters, and work on your tan.

Don’t miss the Wildwood’s Boardwalk nearby! It offers 38 blocks of shops, restaurants, and over 100 amusement rides.

What you’ll need to know: Check the website’s event calendar for special events and concerts.

14. Insectropolis

Map It: 1761 US-9, Toms River, NJ 08755  | Phone: (732) 349 – 7090 | Website   | Hours: Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: $10, ages 2 and under – free

If you’ve never been to a bugseum, Insectropolis is a great first experience. It’s a fun and unique experience that intrigues visitors of all ages. You can view thousands of exotic insects from all over the world.

Kids can pretend their termites and climb through the mud tubes. You can also get up close to observe a busy bee hive and learn about why preserving bees is crucial. And there are daily touch presentations where you have the chance to touch insects like tarantulas, millipedes, and hissing cockroaches.

What you’ll need to know: During the school year, the bugseum’s hours change to weekends only.

15. Turtle Back Zoo

Map It: 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052    | Phone: (973) 731-5800 |  Website   | Hours: Friday - Monday – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Wednesday – Thursday – 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $17.00 and children 2 – 12 $14

Another fun spot for the whole family is Turtle Back Zoo. If you’re looking for a wildlife experience in northern New Jersey, this place is a treat. The zoo thrives on preserving wildlife, while educating and enriching its visitors’ experience.

Situated on 15 acres at the foot of a mountain, Turtle Back Zoo boasts nearly a thousand animals and 200 different species. The zoo’s other attractions include boating, mini golf, pony rides, and a dinosaur playground.

Turtle Back Zoo is one of Jersey’s best-loved attractions, and visitors of all ages will enjoy a day here.

What you’ll need to know: Visit the website for information on exhibit closures and ticketing for general admission.

16. Island Beach State Park

Map It: 2401 Central Ave., Seaside Park, NJ   | Phone: (732) 793-0506 | Website   | Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. seven days a week | Admission Fee: Monday – Friday $12.00 and weekends/ holidays - $20.00

Island Beach has the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Barnegat Bay on the other. It’s one of the quietest, most peaceful places in New Jersey. If you arrive in the early morning, you will find long stretches of shoreline that you can have all to yourself.

The park is divided into thirds. There are preserved natural areas, with trails and kayak and fishing access. There is also a recreational area and then the swimming beach. The swimming beach has lifeguards, two bathhouse pavilions, and concession stands.

On the Barnegat Bay side, there is a water entrance where hundreds of boats anchor in the shallow water during high season. It’s one giant floating party.

What you’ll need to know: Check the park’s website to stay up-to-date on ocean advisories and more.

17. Atlantic City Boardwalk and Beach

Map It: Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401    | Phone: (609) 93-8656 |  Website   | Hours: 24/7 |  Admission Fee: Free

Atlantic City has been called the adult’s playground, with its many casinos, bars, and thriving nightlife. It’s situated on the beautiful Atlantic Ocean coast and has many of New Jersey’s best resorts. Although Atlantic City has a lot of adult attractions, don’t count it out for family fun; it’s one of the top things to do in Jersey.

The boardwalk has exclusive and local shops, five-star restaurants and vendor booths. There are also rides, music venues, and tourist shops. Don’t forget to grab some of New Jersey’s famous saltwater taffy and handmade fudge while you’re there.

18. Ellis Island

Map It: Jersey City, NJ   | Phone: (212) 363-3200 | Website   |  Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Adults $24 and children $12

Don’t settle for views of Ellis Island when you can tour the historic site. The island is a historical landmark that served as an entry port for millions of immigrants. You can take a short ferry ride from Liberty State Park to access this striking piece of history.

Ellis Island features one of New York’s most majestic buildings. The building was meant to be a symbol of America’s grandiosity and was able to accommodate 5,000 people per day. It now houses the immigration museum, where all the names of the port’s travelers have been recorded.

What you’ll need to know: To get to Ellis Island, you need to purchase a ferry ticket though Statue Cruises online.

19. Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

Map It: Cape May Airport, 500 Forrestal Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204    | Phone: (609) 886-8787 | Website   | Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Adults $14 and children 3-12 $10

The NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum is located inside a former World War II hanger. It was used as a training facility in the 1940’s for dive bombers to practice. After the war, the building was used for charter flights until 1990 when it began falling into disrepair.

In 1997, a doctor and his wife bought the 92,000 square foot building for $1, and completely restored it into a museum. There are dozens of historic planes, helicopters, and WWII memorabilia. Check out all of the other 1940s artifacts, like the retro soda machines.

What you’ll need to know: The museum is closed on Saturday and Sunday from December to March each year.

20. Princeton University Art Museum

Map It: Elm Drive, Princeton, NJ 08544    | Phone: (609) 258-3788 |  Website   | Hours: Tuesday – Sunday – 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Free

Princeton’s historic campus is a sight to see. Founded in 1756, the university consists of 1,600 acres of beautiful grounds. One of the campus’s best features is the university’s art museum.

This culturally rich museum is full of curated collections, exhibits, and daily shows. Some of the current collections include “Landscapes of the Mind,” “Picasso Prints,” and “Women Artists and Abstractions.”

Beyond these sophisticated collections, the museum also hosts artist talks, special guest lectures, and live art shows. There is truly something for everyone here. Not only is the Princeton University Art Museum a fun place to visit during your stay in New Jersey, but an enriching one too.

What you’ll need to know: Check the website’s ongoing calendar for dates of live programs.

21. Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

Map It: 72 McBride Ave., Paterson, NJ 07501    | Phone: (973) 523-0370 |  Website   | Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Free

The breathtaking Paterson Great Falls waterfall looms at a whopping 77 feet high. It pours up to an impressive two billion gallons a day. Standing next to this 300-foot-wide wonder will make you feel tiny!

If you’re in a rush and don’t have much time to spend in the park, you can park on Maple Street, which is adjacent to the Falls. It’s the perfect spot to feel the water spray and to snap a selfie. If you have time to spare, there are many areas surrounding the waterfall to have a picnic.

If you want an insider’s view, reserve a ranger-led tour. Your children can become junior park rangers for the day. They will learn about the park’s history and receive a fun badge for participating. If you want to do a tour, be sure to book online at least two weeks ahead of your travel date.

What you’ll need to know: Check the park’s website for safety advisories before visiting.

22. Cape May County Park & Zoo

Map It: 707 US-9 North, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210    | Phone: (609) 465-5271 |  Website  | Hours:  10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Free

Take a long, scenic drive down the Garden State Parkway to the famous Cape May County Park & Zoo. This non-profit organization operates solely on the generosity of donations from visitors. It’s a well-kept and interactive zoo that spares no attraction.

You can take an African safari to see zebras and giraffes and check out the impressive bald eagle exhibit. There are many animal encounters where you can see smaller reptiles and insects up close and even hold them if you’re brave enough!

To make your visit even more memorable, you can book a private guided tour to see behind the scenes. You’ll learn how the animals are cared for and get to observe feedings. The zoo also has many picnic areas, concession stands, and playgrounds to enjoy.

What you’ll need to know: The park is free, but donations are accepted and help to take care of the zoo’s many animals.

23. Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Map It: 30 Plant St., Ogdensburg, NJ 07439   | Phone: (973) 209- 7212 |  Website   | Hours: Reservations for tours can be made between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $13 and children 4-12 - $10

If you’re looking for a novel place to visit in Jersey, the Sterling Hill Mine is a fun place to visit. A guide will take you through the old iron and zinc tunnels to learn about mining history.

You’ll learn about the equipment and techniques used to mine zinc and iron and hear about the harsh conditions that workers faced. The museum has also preserved artifacts from the mine’s operating days in the 1830s.

One of the mine’s most-loved exhibits is the “Rainbow Tunnel.” The illuminating rock and crystal walls are a great delight to view. Keep in mind that the mine is damp and cold, so dress comfortably and bring a jacket.

What you’ll need to know: Wear comfortable walking shoes to help you navigate walking through the mine.

24. Liberty Science Center

Map It: 222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07305   | Phone: (201) 200-1000 |  Website   |  Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $29.99 and children 2-12 $24.99

The Liberty Science Center, located in northern New Jersey, is the ultimate interactive museum for families. It’s home to many permanent exhibits and always features several traveling ones.

A visitor favorite is the “Skyscraper” on the first floor. You can dress up as a construction worker, and play around with a mini excavator and crane to build a skyscraper. There are two other floors to explore with exhibits on animals, ships, and experiments.

After exploring the museum’s exhibits, relax and watch a film about science, nature, or technology at the IMAX. The center is home to the world’s largest IMAX screen. It’s 88 feet long! This isn’t your typical children’s museum; even teens and adults enjoy the hands-on activities.

What you’ll need to know: Purchasing tickets online is recommended, as tickets may not be available on site.

25. The Adventure Aquarium

Map It: 1 Riverside Dr., Camden, NJ 08103   | Phone: (844) 474-3474 |  Website  | Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Adults $26.99 and children 2-12 $18.99

The Adventure Aquarium, located on the Delaware River, is a favorite summer activity for many in New Jersey. This two-million-gallon aquarium is home to 8,000 marine species. There is a massive collection of sharks, sting rays, turtles, and penguins.

The aquarium is one of the top aquatic teaching facilities in the country. If you have children who are aspiring marine biologists, the Adventure Aquarium is the place to check out. The aquarium also boasts the distinction of being the world’s only aquarium featuring hippos.

What you’ll need to know: The aquarium strongly encourages reservations up to 45 days pior to your planned visit.

26. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Map It: 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006   | Phone: (609) 494-2016 |  Website   | Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Free

If you’re planning to spend any time at the beach while in New Jersey, consider spending some time at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. The lighthouse, named Old Barney, is located on the tip of Long Beach Island, where the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay meet.

The picturesque beach is the perfect place to picnic, collect seashells, swim, and snap Instagram-worthy shots. You can climb the 217 steps to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy the scenic views.

If you’re wondering where to visit on your New Jersey trip, the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is a great place to visit, no matter the season.

What you’ll need to know: There is a $3 fee to climb the lighthouse.

27. Grounds for Sculpture

Map It: 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619   | Phone: (609) 586-0616 |  Website   | Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Friday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $20.00 and students 6-17 $10.00

Art and nature come together for a fulfilling experience at Grounds for Sculpture. This 45-acre park has over 300 artistic sculptures from local and international artists. You can spend a relaxing afternoon walking through the arboretum and impeccably kept gardens.

The Grounds for Sculpture organization fosters up-and-coming artists and often features events where you can meet aspiring sculptors. To create an enchanting atmosphere, the board also constantly adds hardscaping features to the grounds like bridges, patios, and pergolas.

In the evening, you can eat at Rat’s, a delectable restaurant located in the gardens. It has a romantic atmosphere and is warm and inviting. It’s perfect for a date night.

What you’ll need to know: Entry to the grounds is by advance timed ticket. Capacity is limited, so you must reserve your spot ahead of time.

28. Deep Cut Gardens

Map It: 152 Red Hill Rd., Middletown, NJ 07748   | Phone: (732) 842-4000 |  Website   | Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Free

Deep Cut Gardens features 54 acres of gardens and greenhouses. The park is one of New Jersey’s most family-friendly, historical, and idyllic places. It is the horticultural heart of the Monmouth County Parks System.

Most people aren’t aware that mobster Vito Genovese purchased the property in 1935 and designed it to remind him of Naples, his home country. He constructed a pseudo-Italian rock garden, cascading pools surrounded by weeping hemlocks, and a small-scale replica of Mount Vesuvius.

After a short walk from the garden’s entrance, you’ll encounter a large pond stocked with dozens of koi fish. There are many spots to sit in the shade and enjoy watching the fish swim. The garden is one of the loveliest spots to spend the day in.

What you’ll need to know: Check out the events calendar for some of the garden’s special activities.

29. Winding Creek Alpaca Farm

Map It: 1148 Somers Point Rd., Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234   | Phone: (609) 760-8566 |  Website   | Hours: Appointments only |  Admission Fee: Price given upon booking

If you want to meet alpacas up close, visit Winding Creek Alpaca Farm in Egg Harbor. The farm opened in 2013, and is now home to 22 huacaya alpacas, and a dozen mini donkeys. Their herd descends from some of the finest lineage in the country.

Owners Mike and Sheri von Fischer open their doors to their 22-acre farm to visitors. They enjoy educating the public and sharing their happy, friendly animals with others. You’ll learn about what it takes to raise and care for alpacas when you spend a day at Winding Creek.

What you’ll need to know: Visits to the farm are by appointment only.

30. Nickelodeon Universe – American Dream

Map It: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073  | Phone: (833) 263-7326 |  Website  | Hours: Monday - Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Non-peak days $49.99 and peak days $59.99 – 89.99

After two decades of construction, Nickelodeon Universe finally opened its doors in 2019. It’s the country’s largest indoor theme park. It’s impressive how many attractions the developers were able to fit in this 8.5-acre park.

American Dream has a fun atmosphere, with a glass ceiling, bright colors everywhere, and lots of noise. There are a total of 35 rides and attractions, which will keep the entire family busy for a day. You can also catch many of your favorite characters like the Ninja Turtles, Paw Patrol characters, and SpongeBob walking throughout the park.

From calm rides like Dora’s Sky Railway to the thrilling Skyline Scream, there is something for every age group to enjoy.

What you’ll need to know: You must walk through the American Dream Mall to get to the amusement park.

31. Hoboken Historical Museum

Map It: 1301 Hudson St., Hoboken, NJ 07030   | Phone: (201) 656-2240 |  Website   | Hours: Tuesdays – Sundays 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $5

Hoboken has a lot of charm, with its mix of the historical past and contemporary updates. The city’s rich history is preserved and celebrated at the Hoboken Historical Museum. Located in the former Bethlehem Steel Machine Shop, locals refer to it as the “shipyard.”

The museum opened in 1986. It has a dozen exhibits on the city’s history and frequently provides tours, lectures, and film screenings to educate the community. It also hosts a collection of artifacts and documents that reveal the town’s cultural heritage.

One of the coolest features is the self-guided walking tour. Pick up a map from the front desk, and follow the highlighted path to observe the museum’s best exhibits.

What you’ll need to know: On-street parking is hard to come by. Visit the museum’s website for parking guidelines.

32. The Chateau Grande Hotel (East Brunswick)

Map It: 670 Cranbury Rd., East Brunswick, NJ 08816  | Phone: (732) 724-4600 |  Website   | Hours: 24/7 |  Admission Fee: Free

The Chateau Grande Hotel is one of New Jersey’s few French-style country estates. It’s about a half-hour from Princeton and an hour from lower Manhattan. The hotel is set on 15 acres of lush and luxurious parkland.

None of the rooms are smaller than 300-square feet. The suites are spacious, and most feature a full kitchen, dining area, and verandas. The grounds and buildings are so picturesque that the Chateau has become a popular wedding venue.

If you’re looking for an elegant hotel in New Jersey, the Chateau Grande Hotel in East Brunswick is a top choice. You must book several months in advance to lock in the best nightly rates.

What you’ll need to know: There are three dining options at the hotel, and reservations are strongly recommended.

33. Molly Pitcher Inn

Map It: 88 Riverside Ave., Red Bank, NJ 07701   | Phone: (732) 747-2500 |   Website   | Hours: 24/7 |  Admission Fee: Free

Most people think of Jersey Shore when it comes to waterfront destinations in New Jersey. But Red Bank is one of the state’s best-kept secrets. The Red Bank Hotel’s Molly Pitcher Inn is a waterfront hotel located on the banks of the Navesink River.

It’s only 25 miles from the John F. Kennedy International Airport. It offers a marina for those who want to explore the river. And an outdoor pool for those who would rather stay put to relax. There are many activities to choose from as guests can schedule massages, horse riding lessons, and sailing lessons.

The hotel’s dining room is a popular Jersey restaurant, known for its excellent views and seafood cuisine. Try their bloody Mary oyster shooters and famous seafood pot pie.

What you’ll need to know: Book your room six months in advance for the best rate and accommodations.

34. The Ocean House in Spring Lake

Map It: 102 Sussex Ave., Spring Lake, NJ 07762  | Phone: (732) 449-9090 |  Website   | Hours: 24/7 |  Admission Fee: Free

If you’re looking for a place to stay in New Jersey, The Ocean House is one of the state’s nicest retreats. Built in 1876, the hotel is one of the largest remaining hotels in Spring Lake. It’s wrap around porch presents old world charm, while the inside is full of modern-day amenities.

From the porch’s rocking chairs, you can feel the breeze coming off the Atlantic Ocean. There are complimentary bicycles you can take to explore Spring Lake, and each morning of your stay you will be provided with a free, hot breakfast.

The Ocean House is centrally located between the historic village and beach. You can easily access the town’s local restaurants, and walk down to the beach for evening strolls. It’s the perfect place to unwind, relax, and recharge.

What you’ll need to know: A deposit is required to book your reservation, and cancellations must be made one week prior to your arrival.

35. Cellar 335 in Jersey City

Map It: 335 Newark Ave., Jersey City, NJ 07302   | Phone: (201) 222-1422 |  Website   | Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Free

Cellar 335 is a unique eatery, located in the basement of White Eagle Hall concert venue. It’s a modern Asian and tropical-themed restaurant. It’s an ideal place for dining with friends and family who like to share dishes.

Some of the restaurant’s top dishes include spicy cornbread, maple chipotle Korean-style wings, and drunken chicken noodles. There are also several appetizers that come served in tiny cast iron skillets.

The Cellar is also known for its specialty cocktails like Zombie Priest Punch, and Purple Tribe. It’s a fun, chill place to relax and unwind.

What you’ll need to know: Make a reservation as this hot spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

36. The Frog and the Peach

Map It: 29 Dennis St., New Brunswick, NJ 08901   | Phone: (732) 846-3216 |  Website   | Hours: Varies - Check Website |  Admission Fee: Free

The Frog and the Peach has been serving patrons in New Brunswick since 1983. The restaurant is located in an old industrial building, which was originally used as a printing press for a local newspaper.

World-renowned chef, Bruce Lefebvre, purchased the restaurant in 2012. He has stayed true to New Jersey’s authenticity, and uses a farm-to-table approach to highlight Jersey’s agricultural and fishing industries.

The Frog and the Peach has been named New Jersey’s Best “All Around” Restaurant, and one of “America’s Top Tables” by the Zagat Survey.

What you’ll need to know: Reserve your table in advance to ensure you get in.

37. Grape Expectations

Map It: 25 Kearney St., Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807  | Phone: (732) 764-9463 |  Website   | Hours:  By appointment only | Admission Fee: Varies

If you’ve ever wanted to make your own wine, you have the opportunity to do so at Grape Expectations in New Jersey. This winery has the most inviting atmosphere and provides a hands-on experience throughout the entire winemaking process.

You will get to do everything from crushing and pressing the grapes to bottling the wine. You even get to choose from select California, Italian, or South American grapes to make the wine taste exactly as you like.

Award-winning winemakers from all over the world will assist you during the process, and give insight on different methods and techniques.

What you’ll need to know: Call ahead of your trip to book your spot.

38. iPlay America

Map It: 110 Schanck Rd., Freehold, NJ 07728   | Phone: (732) 577-8200 |  Website   | Hours: Wednesday - Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Unlimited band $39.99

If you’re looking for an exciting place to spend an evening with the family, iPlay America is a top pick. It’s an indoor boardwalk arcade, with nearly four acres of games, rides, and attractions. There are over 250 of today’s best games to play!

You can also race your family members on go-karts and battle in the two-story laser tag arena. There’s also a 4-D movie theater that provides a multi-sensory experience.

iPlay America offers a variety of foods at the Game Time Grill, and a front row seat to all sport games in the Topgolf Swing Suite.

What you’ll need to know: It’s very crowded on the weekends, so plan accordingly to avoid peak times.

39. High Point State Park

Map It: 1480 NJ-23, Sussex, NJ 07461  | Phone: (973) 875-4800 |  Website   | Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Free

New Jersey is full of state parks to explore, but High Point State Park is the state’s highest elevation park. If you enjoy hiking, this is the best park to visit. Some of the hiking trails even loop back through New York.

Check out the blue dot trail, which will bring you past two lakes and amazing vistas. The Appalachian trail intersects this route, and will really get your blood pumping.

Other hiking trails include the Monument Trail Loop, High Point Summit, and White Cedar Swamp Trail.

What you’ll need to know: Some of the trails are meant for advanced hikers only. Pay attention to park signage.

40. Tuckerton Seaport Museum

Map It: 120 W Main St., Tuckerton, NJ 08087   | Phone: (609) 296-8868 |  Website  | Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: Ages 2+ $12.50

Tuckerton Seaport has evolved into a maritime village. The seaport includes 17 historic buildings connected by a boardwalk over 40 acres. The museum is located along historic Tuckerton Creek.

There is so much to do and see at the museum. A forest surrounds the museum and features nature trails through the wetlands. Exhibits include two houseboats, a decoy gallery, a boat building workshop, and more.

Bring the entire family and spend the day exploring and meeting people who live, work, and play along the Barnegat Bay.

What you’ll need to know: With so many things to do and see, planning your day to Seaport ahead of time will help you make the most of your time.

41. Lakota Wolf Preserve

Map It: 89 Mt. Pleasant Rd., Columbia, NJ 07832   | Phone: (908) 496-9244 |  Website   | Hours: 10:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. tour times |  Admission Fee: Adults $15 and children 11 and under $7

The Lakota Wolf Preserve is home to wolves, bobcats, and foxes. You must make a reservation to attend one of the daily wolf watches. By visiting the preserve, you get the once in a lifetime chance to experience packs of Timber and Arctic wolves.

When you arrive, you will be taken into the observation area in the center of four packs of wolves. Guides will give talks on how to raise and care for wolves. You will also learn about the social structure of wolf packs, and how they interact with humans.

It’s a magical experience that you can only have in a few places in the entire country.

What you’ll need to know: A reservation must be made to attend a wolf watch.

42. Diggerland USA

Map It: 100 Pinedge Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091   | Phone: (856) 768-1110 |  Website   | Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: $45.95

Diggerland USA is the ultimate construction-themed paradise. The amusement park spans 21-acres, and is the only theme park of its kind in the country. Kids get the opportunity to operate bulldozers, backhoes, and tractors.

The “Mini Dig” teaches kids how to use an excavator to unearth buried treasure. There are also obstacle courses, extreme bowling, an arcade, and bumper cars.

After working up a sweat, you can cool off at Diggerland’s new waterpark. Visitors can swim and slide across two acres of construction-themed splash pads and slides.

What you’ll need to know: There are height restrictions on many attractions. Check guidelines to help plan your visit.

43. Lucy the Elephant

Map It: 9200 Atlantic Ave., Margate City, NJ 08402  | Phone: (609) 823-6473 |  Website   | Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Friday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $8.50 and children 3-12 $4.00

The only place in the world where you can see a 65-foot-high wooden elephant is in Margate, New Jersey. Lucy the Elephant is a National Historical Monument and was built to attract homeowners to the area in the 1880s.

Lucy is a fully functional, six-story building and is 134 years old. She’s been used as a real estate office, a hotel, a summer home, and even a tavern. Now, it’s a popular tourist spot, where visitors can tour the inside.

For a small admission fee, tourists can enter the elephant by climbing the spiral staircase next to her legs. At the top, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

What you’ll need to know: Arrive early before opening time to avoid long lines and crowds.

44. Museum of American Glass

Map It: 1501 Glasstown Rd., Millville, NJ 08332   | Phone: (800) 998-4552 |  Website   | Hours: Thursday – Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $12.00 and students $7

Southern New Jersey is referred to as the “Cradle of American Glass.” Glass factories have been operating here for over 200 years because the soil has a lot of silica, which is melted to make glass.

The Wheaton family, owners of Wheaton Glass Industries, opened the Museum of American Glass in the 1960s. The museum is now the largest glass museum in the world, with over 6,500 items on display.

You can view the world’s largest glass bottle, which stands eight inches tall, and holds 188 gallons. Another famous piece in the collection is a child’s coffin made entirely of glass. It’s one of two glass coffins in the world that are unoccupied.

What you’ll need to know: Check the events calendar for glassblowing and artist demonstrations.

45. The Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market

Map It: 81 Hamilton Ave., Trenton, NJ 08611   | Phone: N/A |  Website   | Hours: See EVENTS page on their website for announced dates |  Admission Fee: Free

The Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market is only held three times a year, and has become popular with vintage enthusiasts everywhere. It’s held in the historic Roebling Wire Works building, and is kid and dog friendly.

The flea market now has over 300 high-quality vendors, who make unique and handmade products. It’s a fun filled day with a dozen food trucks, special performances, and sometimes even celebrities make an appearance.

If you’re in New Jersey when the flea market takes place, you don’t want to miss it. The Huffington Post named it as the best flea market in America.

What you’ll need to know: Flea market dates will be announced several months ahead of time on their website.

46. Land of Make Believe and Pirate’s Cove

Map It: 354 Great Meadows Rd. – Rt. 611, Hope, NJ 07844   | Phone: (908) 459-9000 |  Website  | Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. seven days a week |  Admission Fee: $32.83

Everyone feels like a kid again when they visit the Land of Make Believe in Hope Township. Formerly a dairy farm, the land was converted into an amusement park in 1954. There are over 30 acres of kid-friendly rides.

In addition to the rides, you can visit Santa’s Barn year-round to see what Santa and his reindeer are up to. After that, you can swing by Old MacDonald’s farm. It’s a petting zoo with dozens of farm animals to touch and take pictures with.

If you visit during the warm weather months, you can also get admission to Pirate’s Cove waterpark.

What you’ll need to know: There are height restrictions on some of the rides and attractions.

47. Yankee Doodle Tap Room

Map It: 10 Palmer Square East, Princeton, NJ 08542   | Phone: (609) 688-2600 |  Website   | Hours: Varies - Check website |  Admission Fee: Free

The Yankee Doodle Tap Room is located at the Nassau Inn. Locals and tourists have enjoyed the atmosphere, food, and drinks for over 75 years. Additionally, the Tap Room is home to Norman Rockwell’s oldest and largest mural.

If you have the chance to visit, order the award-winning Princetonian Burger. There are 22 beers on tap to choose from! Check out the photos on the walls to see some of Princeton’s most distinguished alums.

The tap room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends. And if you travel during any major holidays, check out the website for special holiday buffets.

What you’ll need to know: Advance reservations are recommended to get a seat.

48. The Spy House

Map It: 719 Port Monmouth Rd., Port Monmouth, NJ 07758  | Phone: (732) 787-3033 |  Website   | Hours: Sunday 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Free

The Spy House in Middletown is the most haunted house in America. Historians, psychics, and mediums have said the building’s energy is off the charts. No one has been able to tolerate staying a night here.

Built in 1648, the Spy House was a tavern that British troops frequently visited. Soldiers would drink too much and tell the innkeeper, Thomas Seabrook, all of their war plans. Afterwards, Seabrook would tell all of the secrets he had learned to the continental army.

Visitors have reported strange noises, unexplained sightings, and power surges. The Spy House is a fun and creepy spot to visit if you’re brave enough!

What you’ll need to know : This attraction may not be suitable for children under the age of 16.

49. Greenwood Gardens

Map It: 274 Old Short Hills Rd., Short Hills, NJ 07078  | Phone: (973) 258-4026 |  Website   | Hours: Friday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Adults $15 and children 3-12 $5

Greenwood Gardens is a 28-acre landscape steeped in history, horticulture, and family. From the magnificent summerhouse to the croquet lawn, you can feel how this property has been loved for decades.

Greenwood is a magical playground of spaces. It first belonged to self-made millionaire Joseph Day, who sought a retreat from the pace of New York. He had a 28-room Italianate villa built, along with a formal garden.

You can walk through the garden’s vistas, pavilions, and hidden spaces constructed by architect William Whetten Renwick. The most interesting structure is the two-story teahouse that looks like something from a fairy tale. It features cobble-stone floors, and its walls are full of Rockwood seashells.

What you’ll need to know: Arriving to the garden at opening time will give you enough time to see all of the garden’s features.

50. Whippany Railway Museum

Map It: 1 Railroad Plaza, Whippany, NJ 07981   | Phone: (973) 887-8177 |  Website   | Hours: Sunday 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. |  Admission Fee: Free

The Whippany Railroad Museum has preserved New Jersey’s railroad history. There are different pieces of railroad equipment throughout the museum’s grounds. They are on display for visitors to see and appreciate.

Inside the museum, there is a model train that children can interact with. And there are hundreds of railroad memorabilia, like drawings, photographs, models, and more. Special excursion train rides take place throughout the year.

What you’ll need to know: Tickets for train rides are available for pre-purchase online.

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Thinking about calling the Midwest home? You're in for a treat! This heartland is chock-full of hidden gems, each offering its unique blend of charm, community, and comfort. From bustling cities with all the modern amenities to quiet towns where everyone knows your name, there's a perfect spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Georgia for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live Near Orlando for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Long Island Living Guide: Top Spots for Everyone's Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable Places in Washington State for Everyone

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New Jersey Nightlife • A Complete Guide

Welcome to New Jersey’s #1 nightlife guide.

On this page, you’ll discover the vibrant and varied nightlife scene in New Jersey. You’ll find the perfect venue for you and your preferred night out. Whether you want to go all-out clubbing or if you’d like a more laid back dinner and drinks with a view, we’ve got your covered.

New Jersey is popular for its diverse communities, and the drinking establishments have a unique vogue. Here the nightlife is of its kind, and if you are at the place, you should never miss this night allurement of its kind. The places of New Jersey have their charms, and this can add to the extra excitement. New Jersey has the haven of interesting bars and clubs, and they will offer you the best of things to enjoy and get excited about in the most nocturnal times. New Jersey has innovative clubs and bars to help represent nightlife most exotically.

Best New Jersey Nightclubs and Bars

• Firehouse Tavern  

Here you have the Dive bars, and these are a must place to visit with the amazing things to offer. At the time searching for the dive bars, Wildwood has the best of possibilities to offer. The Firehouse Tavern is on top of the list with all the specialties in the making feel so especially entertained in the city’s heart. At the tavern, you have the qualitative fun elements waiting to make you happy all along. It is the right place with the friendly bars along with the serving of delectable food and drink.

• Mandala  

If you are looking for fun in the Princeton area of New Jersey, you must visit Mandala full of expectations. It is at the Hyatt Regency. Here you find the best of New Jersey nightlife events. You can watch for or do your best by participating in the events and getting the best of fun in the process. It belongs to the chain of the comedy clubs scattered in all parts of the USA and the places to snug in enough to chill out best after the hectic day.

• Krug’s Tavern  

The tavern is located in Newark , and this is one more must to visit place, and it is the best stage where you would like to enjoy the perfect New Jersey nightlife events. You will know the place for the big burgers and the juicy meats. The place is just like an outlet to the world of entertainment, and you are sure to feel so bewitched. If you intend to catch the best game at the Red Bull Stadium in Harrison, you must stop at Krug’s Tavern for the beer and the burger at an advantage.

• Carney’s  

If you are looking for a preferable weekend gateway, Cape May would be the perfect choice for you in this case. At Carney’s, you have the best things to feel good for with nighttime dancing and music options. You are served with a spectacular choice of drinks at the place, and it is one of the most amazing places to be at and feel great when it is night. In addition, you can sit at the table and enjoy some great cuisines. It is the bar cum restaurant, and the place has been there for the last five decades, and it is easy to earn the reputation for all foods, drinks, and the destined fun in New Jersey.

List of hottest sports bar cum dance club of NJ

• Maggie’s underground 

It is a sports bar by day and the hottest dance club at night. If your preferred choice is versatility, then this is the most versatile place for you. Maggie’s underground offers three venues in one building: a tiki bar, sports bar, and a nightclub. It is a renowned nightclub in NJ for its attractive lighting and high-quality music systems. 

This place not only offers a warm atmosphere but also serves delicious food to its customers. They offer a wide variety of food, ensuring that you can’t leave this place with an empty stomach. Once you visit this place, you will gain some amazing memories from it. 

• Headliner Nightclub

This is one of the best dance nightclubs in New Jersey. This place is an excellent option for those who are looking for a perfect day out along with a fun-filled night away. Here the Day club and Oasis pool will give you the feeling of pool parties in Las Vegas and Miami. Spend the day in the pool in your swimsuit, enjoy drinking your favorite cocktail, and listen to the tunes of dance numbers at night. 

The place is known for its peppy dance numbers and for serving the best food on the NJ shore. You can enjoy eating pizzas, sandwiches, tacos, wings, and many more, along with a different variety of drinks and fruit juice. You can spend an entire day in this nightclub, then why go anywhere else? 

• The pool after dark

Wear your party dress, put on your dancing shoes, but don’t forget to take your swimsuit because the pool after dark is one of the best dance clubs in NJ. Once you explore its gambling floor, now it’s time to enter the coolest club of the city. With the best DJ music and an indoor pool, you can enjoy the best time here with your pals. Some famous DJs like Pauly D and Nick Cannon can interact with you while you are partying. The best part of this dance club is that it features an indoor pool where you can enjoy swimming during the party. 

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your friends and head out for this amazing place to grab some memories. 

Whether you prefer the jazzy nightlife of New Jersey or a star stuck party, New Jersey has everything to make your nights alluring. The place is also known for its seaside casinos, and the best part is that most of the casinos have dance clubs. 

Now here in this section, you will learn about the casinos cum dance clubs of New Jersey. Let’s have a look at the list below –

Unusual Night Life Attractions Of New Jersey

• Paranormal Museum

One of the major attractions of New Jersey is the Paranormal Museum. It is situated near the Asbury Park Boardwalkwhich is arguably one of the intimidating places of the city. Earlier, the museum used to keep thrilling items in it. However, in the last decade, museum authorities are filling the place with more exotic items. If you visit the museum, you will surely see paranormal books, supernatural equipment, etc. One of the best aspects of this museum is that it stays open in the evening too. This is the reason for which you can readily visit the place after sunset.

• Grounds Of Sculpture

The Ground of Sculpture is another unusual attraction of New Jersey. It is one of the largest parks of the city that is decorated with bizarre sculptures. Indeed, visiting this place in the morning will give you an exciting experience. However, visiting this place at night will surely take your breathe away. In addition, the park stays close on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Thus, you can surely visit the place on weekends. You should also know that Grounds of Sculpture stays open from 10 am to 9 pm. So, you can easily visit the place in the evening with your friends. Furthermore, due to the recommendable scenic beauty, tourists love visiting this spot.

• Fluorescent Rock Of Sterling Hill Mine

Do you love glow-in-the-dark objects? If yes! This is the place that you should not miss. The Fluorescent Roc of Sterling Hill Mine is one of the famous tourist spots of New Jersey. You can readily notice the glow from the depth of this zinc mine. Earlier, the place was not properly furnished, so many tourists used to avoid the mines. However, in recent decades, various organizations worked on this place to decorate it. In addition, due to the flexible timing, you can readily visit the place in the evening. You can also visit the place with your loved ones as it is very much attractive and intimidating. 

• The Deserted Village Of Ghost Town

The Deserted Village of Ghost Town is one of the most underrated places in New Jersey. The village is there in the city since the 18 th century. Earlier, many residents in that village, including mill town community, religious community, etc. However, in recent days, you will not see any localities in that area. This is the reason for which many tourists visit the spot for camping. Although, after the pandemic, the government has imposed several safety rules to remain close at the necessary interval. Thus, you need to take detailed information about the deserted village before traveling. 

• Central Rail Road

Another exciting place in New Jersey is the Central Rail Road Terminal. It is a hidden abandoned station of the city situated near the Hudson River, which nature has taken over. Due to this reason, the station has unique and extraordinary scenic beauty. If you visit this place in the morning, you will surely see more items; however, visiting the station at night will give you a whole different experience. You must also know that the terminal building got transformed into a museum in recent days, which has automatically increased the flow of traffic. In addition, you should take detailed information on the place before visiting to avoid inconvenience.

Unique and Famous Restaurants of New Jersey

• Rat’s Restaurant

If you are a foodaholic, New Jersey can excite you with various restaurants and unique foods. From the famous restaurants of the city, Rat’s Restaurant is one of the most recommendable places. One of the major reasons for which people love visiting the restaurant is the scenic beauty. It has greenery and a waterfall in the background, which makes the place more exciting. Besides the decoration, you can get various refreshing drinks and mouth-watering food in Rat’s restaurant. Hence, these are the basic reasons for which you must visit the place for your experience.

• Holsten’s Brookdale Confectionery

Another exciting restaurant in New Jersey is Holsten’s Brookdale Confectionery. It is one of the city’s restaurants that is decorated in a traditional and intimidating way for which you can get a very soothing ambiance. Few recommendable items of the place are ice cream, candy, etc. In addition, you need to take detailed information on the timing so that you do not find any inconvenient situation after visiting it. Furthermore, due to the quality of food and decoration, the residents of New Jersey love to visit the place. In addition, it also has a friendly and social atmosphere.

• White Mana Diner

One of the most unusual and unique places in New Jersey is the White Mana Diner. It is from the most attractive burger joints of the city. Thus, if you love burgers, you can readily visit the place to get exciting and unique burgers of the world. Furthermore, the shop is there in the city for almost a century. Thus, you can perceive the fact that the people of New Jersey love this place. In addition, as the government has imposed several safety rules, you should take detailed information on the place before visiting. Furthermore, due to the food quality and behavior of the staff, you can visit this place.

• The River Hot Dog Man

One of the most famous restaurants in the city is the River Hot Dog Man. You must know that the city is known for its greenery and lush natural beauty. Thus, you can visit this place as you will get a fantastic view of New Jersey from this place. In addition, besides the scenic beauty, you can get various mouth-watering hot dogs in this food joint. Earlier, the place was situated beside a river. However, in recent days you can see that the restaurant is over a floating bridge which automatically makes it more crowd engaging. Furthermore, these are the reasons for which you should visit this place. 

To Conclude With

By browsing this article, you can readily perceive that besides the day life New Jersey has an exciting nightlife. This is because the residents of this place are very much enthusiastic about partying and roaming around the city at night. Hence, if you plan to visit New Jersey, you will not feel bored at any hour of the day. You can go to pubs, nightclubs, etc. You can also visit various unusual places at night to maximize your trip. In addition, due to the pandemic, you need to gather proper information on the place before visiting.

Video To Watch To Discover

Does New Jersey have nightlife?

From bars to dancing clubs,  the state of New Jersey has everything you would need for a pleasant and an exciting nightlife .

How old do you have to be to get into a club in Jersey?

Staying in bars, night clubs and similar places is allowed only for persons, who have reached  18 years of age .

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14 Most Romantic Getaways in New Jersey

From Atlantic beaches to lakeside lodges, find an idyllic Garden State couples retreat.

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Stroll hand in hand along Cape May for breathtakingly romantic views.

Mountains, lakes and a scenic shoreline along the ocean – you could be talking about California, but all of these dreamy vistas are available to enjoy in New Jersey alongside someone you love. Many know the state for its Jersey Shore beaches , but you can also explore the countryside, the cities situated just a stone's throw from Manhattan and even a stretch of the Appalachian Mountains. The Garden State, as New Jersey is romantically nicknamed, contains multitudes – many of which make ideal intimate retreats for couples seeking a sanctuary outside of the usual routine.

Pairing the obvious with the unexpected, New Jersey boasts the casinos and resorts of Atlantic City as much as a bed-and-breakfast in a town with few residents but lots of lavender. Nature is in abundance, with verdant trails to discover – fingers intertwined. History-loving couples will be dazzled by restored castle-like mansions surrounded by lush gardens. There are inns and boutique hotels aplenty, but also more modern offerings in the multicultural Jersey City.

Despite being a small state, New Jersey is an inviting place for all couples. Read on to find the most romantic getaways in New Jersey.

Romantic Getaways in New Jersey

Asbury park, lambertville, jersey city, skylands manor, long beach island, atlantic city, long branch, pendry natirar.

Love is music to the ears in the small coastal city of Asbury Park, known for a thriving live music scene that survives today at venues like the historic Stone Pony or New Orleans-inspired R Bar. Couples of all ages and orientations are welcome, and diversions can be found to satisfy any whim in Asbury Park and surrounding resort towns such as charming Ocean Grove. Spend a quiet beach day down the boardwalk, or make your way through an iconic retro arcade. You can always end the night cozied up with an elaborate cocktail under the romantic lighting of the speakeasy-style Laylow. Pascal & Sabine, meanwhile, serves rich French cuisine sure to make your mouth water – don't miss the milk chocolate pot de creme.

Where to stay: For lodging, Asbury Ocean Club Hotel towers over Ocean Avenue and offers couples a resort-style retreat. Also consider the tucked-away St. Laurent (formerly the Tides Hotel), a boutique and historic property that has served local LGBTQ communities for more than a decade.

The seaside Victoriana of Cape May oozes romance, but this historic resort town – ideal for a weekend getaway from New York City – is far from sleepy. Cape May maintains a busy events schedule year-round that welcomes artists like trumpeter Wynton Marsalis to its annual Exit Zero Jazz Festival or the band Dire Straits Legacy to its oceanfront Convention Hall.

Book an idyllic farm-to-table dining experience at Beach Plum Farm and follow it up with a toast at Willow Creek Winery & Farm, whose Fire Pit Fridays feature live entertainment. You can also pass the time hiking to the Cape May Lighthouse, laying by the pool or watching the sun set at the beach. Cape May excels at date nights, from the moodily lit piano bar of The Ebbitt Room at the historic Virginia Hotel to the shops and treats along Washington Street Mall, where you can walk hand in hand – leaving one hand free for a Peace Pie gourmet ice cream sandwich.

Where to stay: There are accommodations aplenty in Cape May , but the Southern Mansion, originally built in 1860, is a lavish bed-and-breakfast surrounded by lush gardens – perfect for spoiling yourselves. Recent visitors say the small hotel's Victorian charm creates a warm atmosphere, though some advise you may not find modern amenities like elevators or minifridges. Meanwhile, enjoy beach and seasonal pool access alongside complimentary tours and activities with a stay at Congress Hall , considered the first seaside resort in the nation. Couples can start the day with delectable brunch at the on-site Blue Pig Tavern and end it soaking in one of the hotel's claw-foot tubs. And, of course, no visit to Cape May is complete without a nightcap at Congress Hall's iconic Brown Room.

Come to Princeton – one of the best places to visit in New Jersey – when its ivy-draped schools are in session. This college town is romantic year-round, but you'll want to stick even closer to your significant other with a slight chill in the air. Autumn is the ideal time to paddle along the Delaware & Raritan Canal, gliding under the colorful fall foliage , after your stroll through the Princeton University campus at the heart of the city. Just 10 miles away in Hamilton sits Grounds for Sculpture, a wistful sculpture park with hundreds of installations set on more than 40 acres. In the spring, peacocks roam under the cherry blossoms. Make reservations at the on-site Rat's Restaurant, named for a children's book character, or preorder a picnic to enjoy on the grounds.

Where to stay: You'll find more mentions of peacocks back in Princeton at The Peacock Inn, a luxury boutique hotel with 16 rooms and a lovely afternoon tea service. If you want to be in the center of it all, you can't be more central than the Nassau Inn in the heart of Palmer Square. Host to the annual holiday tree lighting, this square is burgeoning with shops and artisanal ice cream; impressive eateries such as Mediterra Restaurant & Taverna, which offers a tapas menu for happy hour, also sit close. Check out Agricola Eatery for a top-notch meal – recent diners applaud the restaurant's use of fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farms.

Courtesy of Mountain Creek Resort

You don't have to leave the Garden State to live the lake life. Vernon, a town in Sussex County, welcomes couples looking for a lakeside getaway to ski lodges like Mountain Creek. Open in all four seasons, this resort offers wintertime skiing and snow tubing, while summer ushers in a chance to splash by the pool or water park, as well as a zip line course for bird's-eye views.

If you don't want to share your space with families at the resort, consider a cozy cottage or cabin Airbnb rental in the Vernon Valley or along the Highland Lakes. You can also book a stay at the Crystal Springs Resort's Minerals Hotel , nestled in the alpine Appalachian Valley and outfitted with a sports club, spa and nine-hole golf course. If you're looking to bond with your significant other over a new shared experience, Crystal Springs Resort offers guests a range of activity options from ax throwing and painting to goat yoga and archery.

Challenge your partner to a hike on the Stairway to Heaven trail, which rewards some climbing with divine views over New Jersey. Or choose a more sedate stroll at the Pochuck Boardwalk, a section of the Appalachian Trail. Afterward, tame your appetite at The George Inn, a 19th-century establishment with an extensive menu and a tap room.

Antiquing aficionados will want to book a long weekend in Lambertville. Myriad purveyors of old and interesting items have set up shop in this small Hunterdon County town, alongside inviting coffee shops and quaint residential streets. Don't miss Owowcow Creamery, tucked on Union Street, with scoops made from scratch using local and seasonal ingredients. If you want to make a quick trip over the state line, New Hope, Pennsylvania, is just a half-mile across the pedestrian-friendly bridge over the Delaware River. One of the most romantic escapes in Pennsylvania , this small town – equally overflowing with vintage clothiers, eclectic shops and eateries – will complement your Lambertville getaway perfectly.

Where to stay: The Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn is routinely referenced as a romantic destination, given the fine dining it offers on the Delaware River, complete with a wine cellar and herb garden. You can sample some cabernet and wind down at one of the 46 rooms here, which visiting couples say makes for a wonderful weekend getaway – or book a stay at one of the suites at the Bridge Street Guest House.

Start your romantic getaway in Jersey City with a spa day at the trendy SoJo Spa Club in Edgewater (about 10 miles north). This Korean-inspired spa is open in all weather for treatments; its facilities include a pool and therapeutic baths with stunning views of the New York City skyline. In good weather, book a cruise that grants access to Ellis Island and Liberty Island, where you'll find the Statue of Liberty. Once back on land, take a sunset stroll from the Harborside plaza to the Colgate Clock. Head to dinner in the waterfront Paulus Hook neighborhood, rife with intimate restaurants: The rustic-chic Satis Bistro, for example, will elevate your date night with modern European fare such as charcuterie.

For an even better nighttime view of the city lights, check out the rooftop bar and lounge at Hyatt House Jersey City – or the Vu Restaurant and Lounge at Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson , which affords a glimpse of Lady Liberty.

Where to stay: Many hotel chains have a presence in Jersey City, but Hyatt's river vistas are difficult to surpass. Vacationers staying at the Hyatt Regency praise its convenient location, with a PATH train into New York directly in front of the hotel, and the views that make some guests opt never to shut their curtains at night.

You don't have to choose between staying in a state park or a castle – and you don't have to leave New Jersey to do it. Skylands Manor was designed and built in the 1920s by American architect John Russell Pope, whose credits also include the National Archives and National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C . Though now a century old, the castle-style manor was intentionally built to look weathered and ancient, and all of the stone used was quarried on the estate. Today Skylands Manor sits on the grounds of the New Jersey State Botanical Garden in Ringwood, providing 100 acres of beauty you can explore on a self-guided tour.

A stay at The Castle at Skylands Manor hotel will make you and your loved one feel like royalty. Unsurprisingly, this site is a top wedding venue, able to host up to 600 guests in its formal gardens. The Castle at Skylands Manor offers 21 suites, but be sure to book a stay far in advance if you want to beat out lovebirds looking to tie the knot. Couples who have recently stayed here checked a castle stay off their list, but they caution that the property is privately maintained and occasionally experiences maintenance issues. Guests with mobility issues should know they will need to navigate stairs to stay at the manor.

Address: 5 Morris Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456

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The drive out to Long Beach Island – more commonly called LBI – will bring the peace of mind that accompanies leaving behind the bustle of the mainland and crossing the Manahawkin Bay. The 18-mile stretch of barrier island offers seasonal amusements and bayfront hotels in six tiny shore towns with fitting names like Ship Bottom, Surf City and Beach Haven. LBI's white sand beaches aren't free – each municipality requires its own beach badge – but they are pristine.

You can easily spend your day sunbathing or cycling together to either of the wilderness areas that bookend the island. In the north you have the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, while at the southern tip you'll find part of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, with views of Atlantic City. Be sure to also check LBI's local schedule to see if any annual festivals (ranging from celebrations of wine to chowder) coincide with your visit.

While you're in LBI, The Chicken or the Egg merits a visit to Beach Haven for a Buffalo chicken omelet or other fowl-related fare.

Where to stay: Consider booking a dinner – or a stay – at The Gables. This property looks like a seaside cottage set amid a garden teeming with flowers. Candlelit three-course dining, five gorgeously appointed rooms and honeymoon packages make The Gables an epicenter of romance on the island.

Amid the casino lights you might associate with Atlantic City , you'll also find this city to be a waterfront escape near top-rated restaurants and attractions. Even if you have no interest in gambling, couples come to AC to enjoy celebrity-headlining comedy shows and concerts alongside dining that ranges from the kitchen of an Iron Chef (Angeline by Michael Symon) to a landmark restaurant first opened as a private club in 1912 (the Knife & Fork Inn).

Of course if you do fancy the slots, there are more casino options than you'll be able to sample in one visit. And, as an iconic boardwalk destination above all, Atlantic City claims one of the oldest and longest boardwalks in the world with nearly 4 miles of boards, the first section of which originally dates from 1870. After spending an afternoon on the free beaches of AC, go win your sweetie a stuffed animal at one of the arcades.

Where to stay: A hotel within a hotel, The Water Club at Borgata is a couple-friendly oasis with 43 stories, five heated pools and a two-story spa, all conveniently connected to the amenities of the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa next door. Recent visitors rave that the property is clean and quiet despite being centrally located, though it does lack the ocean access typical of many other Atlantic City accommodation options.

Offering a wooded refuge along the Delaware River, Frenchtown is a darling destination for couples looking to commune with nature and the arts. The Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park starts here, and walkers or cyclists can pedal along the river all the way to the state's capital in Trenton. The Lovin' Oven will serve you a satisfying brunch that can either give you the energy to hit the D&R trail or reward you for your journey; the towpath sits adjacent to the restaurant. Fans of the Lovin' Oven appreciate its funky atmosphere and flavorful food. Just down the road from the eatery is ArtYard, a contemporary art center and exhibition space.

To really soak up the flavor of Frenchtown, plan a visit around one of the town's unique festivals, such as the celebrations for Bastille Day (July 14) or the Riverfest street fair held in September.

Where to stay: The place to book in town is the historic National Hotel, originally a stagecoach stop and now a restaurant, hotel and tavern with frequent live entertainment.

Within Warren County's Knowlton Township – right on the border with Pennsylvania in North Jersey – you'll find the community of Columbia. Since its population is less than 200 people, you will be guaranteed privacy on a weekend getaway to the East Coast countryside.

Where to stay: At The RoseMary Inn, a bed-and-breakfast situated on 17 acres, the first meal of the day is considered an event, with a multicourse breakfast menu that uses fresh and local ingredients. Many recent guests agree that the inn – especially with its breakfast offerings – is a hidden gem. Sip your coffee on the porch overlooking the pond and plan a slow-paced day. Maybe you'll opt to visit the Orchard View Lavender Farm in Port Murray, about 20 miles south, whose weekend events may include dinner in the lavender fields or soothing evening yoga sessions.

Less than 10 miles from Columbia in the nearby town of Hope, The Inn at Millrace Pond is another well-reviewed lodging option. With 17 rooms – some pet-friendly and with whirlpool tubs – this fully remodeled inn was originally built as a stone gristmill in 1769.

Courtesy of Montclair Center BID

Situated about 20 miles from Manhattan is the eclectic New Jersey suburb of Montclair, which boasts plenty of things for couples to do. Browse the Montclair Art Museum, which has a focus on Native American and American art, then stop by the Van Vleck House & Gardens to enjoy a green oasis amid this urban suburb. Kip's Castle Park, a 9,000-square-foot mansion that resembles a Norman castle, features a scenic overlook and great bird-watching. Downtown Montclair is alive with shops and restaurants, which span cuisine from Brazil to Israel. If your sweetheart has a sweet tooth, Montclair is an excellent place to find French macarons, with a variety of bakeries peddling such fine confections among other baked goods.

Where to stay: Book a stay at the hip and modern MC Hotel, described as "part gallery, part gathering space," or splurge on a king-size suite at The George , a boutique hotel with individually designed rooms styled in part by celebrity creative director Bobbi Brown. Guests at The George revel in its ambiance, enjoying details such as the wine hour or fluffy robes – and the hotel is dog-friendly, in case your furry friend plans to tag along on your romantic escape.

Back on the Jersey Shore, enjoy a table for two set along the Atlantic Ocean. Date night doesn't just hit one note in Long Branch, a Monmouth County beach destination that's been growing over the past decade. Pier Village is a shopping and dining mecca along the boardwalk, where you'll find eateries such as the oceanfront Sirena Ristorante or Avenue, both with crackling fireplaces and cocktail menus. Perhaps you'll opt for a glass of red wine paired with a delicious cut of meat at The Butcher's Block, or you can be served a plate of poutine and craft beer brewed on-site at The Whitechapel Projects. This gathering space brings together food, drinks, art and community with occasional live music and collaborations with local vendors.

Where to stay: Book a stay at Bungalow Hotel, a small art-focused boutique accommodation at the entrance to Pier Village with in-room fireplaces and a cocktail bar. Bungalow guests can use the amenities of its sister property, Wave Resort, an oceanfront hotel and spa that is another great lodging choice.

In the Somerset County borough of Peapack-Gladstone, an elegant estate welcomes you. Its name, Natirar, is an anagram for Raritan – this Tudor-style, Gilded Age mansion sits about 10 miles from the Raritan River. Natirar was formerly owned by King Hassan II of Morocco, though he only visited it a few times. In 2023, the 400-acre property and working farm joined the Pendry hotel chain to become the Pendry Natirar , a full-service resort with a spa, tennis courts, pool, horseback riding trails and more.

Visit Pendry Natirar for its lauded culinary odyssey called Ninety Acres, which includes farm-to-table fare and signature cocktails unlike anything you've had before. Diners say the experience begins when you head up the winding driveway, and that it might be pricey but it's worth the splurge. If you're looking to re-create this special dining experience after your romantic getaway, consider signing up for a culinary arts class for you and your better half at the Ninety Acres Cooking School.

Address: 2 Main St., Peapack and Gladstone, NJ 07977

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Resorts in New Jersey
• The Most Romantic Getaways in New York State
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

Tags: Travel , Couples Vacations , New Jersey Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey

Explore the many wonders of the garden state, from scenic biking trails to unique hiking spots to luxurious glamping sites..

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Ready to make the most of the Garden State’s great outdoors? We’ve got guides to unique hiking spots, the best biking trails, glamping destinations, wild and scenic rivers, a magical hidden gem nestled in South Mountain Reservation, and more. Happy exploring!

South mountain reservation fairy trail: a magical place to visit, the enchanting half-mile trail, dotted with dozens of tiny homes made from items found outside, sparks a reverence for nature among visitors of all ages. read more, hike and hang these scenic nj spots have it all, hit the trails—then slow down, take a stroll and stop to smell the roses. read more.

Buy our April 2024 issue here . Cover photo: Bryan Anselm

NJ’s Best Biking Trails: A Passionate Cyclist Shares His Secrets

Forget the turnpike biking is the best way to explore new jersey. read more, where to go glamping in nj: sleep under the stars in style, spending the night in the woods never looked so luxurious. amenities include beds, personal lawns, wi-fi and even hip design elements. read more, how to enjoy nj’s wild and scenic rivers, protected by congress, these three rivers offer “rare beauty”—and exceptional boating, birding, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, tubing and camping. read more, fun things to do outside in nj this spring, enjoy the beauty and fun of nj’s outdoors. read more.

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Best small towns for a weekend retreat in New Jersey

Not ready for a weeks' vacation, but need to get away?

According to World Atlas new list The Best Small Towns In New Jersey For A Weekend Retreat there are 8 places that you can visit that include two from the Jersey Shore offering a weekend away from home with no stress.

Each town on the list has good accommodations, great vibes, hospitality of the locals, historical appeal, and stunning natural scenery that boast enjoyment and relaxation to everyone.

Two small towns on the Jersey Shore that made the list.

Spring Lake and Bay Head made the list. Here's what World Atlas said about each town:

"Spring Lake is a beautiful charming beach town situated on the Jersey Shore and is known for its stunning beaches, Victorian architecture, and vibrant downtown area. Spring Lake was a popular resort town in the late 19th century and is now home to the historic Spring Lake Hotel. What sets Spring Lake apart is its pristine beaches, where you can enjoy the cool sea breeze, take a breather and scenic views."

"Bay Head is a picture-perfect town, because of its serenity and breathtaking views, and its family-friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for a weekend getaway. It is home to the famed Bay Head Beach, so visitors to this town are in for a treat. If you are interested in Yoga and wellness, Bay Head Beach Yoga and Integrative Healing and Wellness are fantastic locales to check out. You may also like to shop for needlework accessories at Bay Head Needlepoint. Apart from the stunning beaches and historical places, Bay Head also boasts great accommodation. Grenville Hotel and Restaurant is an excellent option."

Best small towns in New Jersey for a weekend retreat

• Spring Lake

Rolling Stones, film fest, fishing, jazz & more: North Jersey things to do May 23-26

What will you be doing this holiday weekend in North Jersey?

If you want some music, you can see the Rolling Stones at MetLife Stadium, or you can hang out next door at American Dream and check out a Stones cover band. If classic rock isn't your thing, the AAPI Jazz Collective at Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills is an option.

Cinephiles should head to Rutherford for its inaugural film festival at the Williams Center. Those who prefer their drama up close and personal can enjoy a murder mystery dinner theater in Millburn.

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For some family fun, there's a fishing derby for kids in Caldwell, Jackals baseball in Paterson, the Xinyang Maojian Tea Cultural Fair at American Dream, and a volunteer opportunity to help remove invasive plants at the Tenafly Nature Center.

And of course, it's Memorial Day weekend, so be sure to have a look at our big list of parades and ceremonies happening throughout North Jersey.

Will it be a rainy weekend?

According to the National Weather Service:

• Thursday : Showers and thunderstorms are likely in the late afternoon and early evening. Then it will be mostly cloudy in the mid-60s overnight, with a 60 percent chance of precipitation.
• Friday : Mostly cloudy, with a slight chance of showers in the morning then gradually becoming sunny, with a high in the mid-80s. Friday night will be mostly clear, with a low around 65.
• Saturday : Partly sunny with a chance of showers after 2 p.m. and a high around 80 and a low in the mid-60s.
• Sunday: Partly sunny, with a high near 83 with a slight chance of showers after 8 p.m. Mostly cloudy overnight with a low around 63.
• Memorial Day: Mostly cloudy with a high in the mid-70s, it may rain on our parades with a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Rolling Stones at MetLife Stadium, and the Tour Next Door

The Rolling Stones tour will stop in North Jersey for shows on Thursday and Sunday. Fans can expect to experience Mick, Keith and Ronnie play hits like “Start Me Up,” “Gimme Shelter,” “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” and “Satisfaction” and more, as well as deep cuts and music from their new album, "Hackney Diamonds," which is their first studio set of new material since 2005's "A Bigger Bang." Since then, the Stones continued to sell out concerts and released 2016's Grammy-winning "Blue & Lonesome," which featured versions of many of the blues tracks that helped shape their sound. Last year, they played to European audiences totaling nearly a quarter of a million on the anniversary Sixty tour. The Rolling Stones have sold over 250 million albums worldwide.

Can't make it to the show or want something fun to do before the concert? Head over to American Dream for "The Tour Next Door" celebrating the Stones with photo ops, cardboard cutouts, exclusive dining specials and a live performance from a cover band, 2 to 4 p.m. each day at the Dream Stage (Court A, Level 1).

Go: The Rolling Stones, Thursday and Sunday, MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford. Parking lots open at 3 p.m., gates open at 6, showtime is 8. Tickets are $125 to $600 plus fees. Parking is $40 to $160 per vehicle. metlifestadium.com .

Rutherford Film Festival makes its debut

The first annual Rutherford Film Festival at the artist-run Williams Center in Rutherford is a the three-day event - Thursday, Friday and Saturday - with more than 50 hours of indie film screenings. There will also be lectures, parties and celebrations of the beauty and versatility of cinema. Three screens, including the 101-year-old Rivoli Theater, will be dedicated to up-and-coming filmmakers from across the Tri-State area. Awards and prizes will include Best Feature, Best Short, Best Documentary, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Sound Design, Best Music and Score and the William Carlos Williams Screenplay Award.

Go: Rutherford Film Festival at the Williams Center, 15 Sylvan St., Rutherford. Thursday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to midnight; Friday, 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. $21.82 one-day pass; $53.03 three-day pass. information , schedule , tickets .

Essex County fishing derbies

The next in a series of free fishing derbies in the Essex County Parks System will be held on Thursday at Grover Cleveland Park Pond in Caldwell/Essex Fells. Each derby is open to children ages 15 and younger. All children must be accompanied by an adult and bring their own fishing pole, bait, bucket and chair. Prizes in various age categories for catching the first and most fish will be awarded at the conclusion of each derby. The remaining derbies will be in at Weequahick Park Lake in Newark on May 28, Verona Park Boathouse on May 29, South Mountain Recreation Complex on May 30 and Branch Brook Park Prudential Concert Grove in Newark on June 1.

Go: Essex County Fishing Derby at Grover Cleveland Park Pond, Brookside Avenue and Runnymede Road, Thursday. For each derby except June 1, onsite registration begins at 5 p.m., the derby begins at 6 and awards will be presented at 7:15. On June 1, registration begins at 8 p.m., the derby begins at 9 and awards are at 10. Call 973-268-3500 for information. In case of inclement weather, cancellations will be posted on essexcountynj.org . Cancelled derbies will not be rescheduled.

Music and Dance in the Garden

The AAPI Jazz Collective will perform on Friday as part of the Music and Dance in the Garden series at Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills. The series is composed of outdoor concerts featuring jazz and classical music, as well as a dance performance, in a historic garden setting. Led by Peter Lin on trombone and featuring vocalist Tammy Huynh, the musicians in the AAPI Jazz Collective specialize in performing a classic repertoire from Asian cultures reimagined within a jazz concert. In case of rain, the concert will be postponed to Saturday.

The remaining performers in the series include the Vanessa Perea Quintet on July 19 (rain date July 20), with Robert Edwards on trombone; a dance performance featuring Lori Bellilove & The Isadora Duncan Dance Company on Sept. 6 (rain date Sept. 7) on the Main Lawn, with free-flowing costumes, bare feet and loose hair to pay homage to the troupe’s free spirit namesake who is credited with inventing Modern Dance; and Lyrica Chamber Music’s Twelfth Night Ensemble on Sept. 20 (rain date Sept. 21), with a program of baroque music. The series is sponsored by Stone Mountain Properties.

Go: The AAPI Jazz Collective, part of Music and Dance in the Garden, Friday at Greenwood Gardens, 274 Old Short Hills Road, Short Hills. For each performance, the gates will open at 5:30 p.m., when visitors are invited to stroll through the garden (except Sept. 6) before the 6:30 showtime. Complimentary wine and cheese will be served starting at 6 on the West Terrace. Tickets must be purchased in advance at greenwoodgardens.org .

NJ Jackals celebrate Italian heritage, promote safety in Paterson

The Jackals are home again in Paterson this weekend with a three-game series against the Sussex County Miners. Friday is Italian Heritage Night, including a WiseGuys jersey auction. Saturday is Paterson Anti-Violence Night, sponsored by the Paterson Police Community Affairs Division and dedicated to promoting a safe summer in the city. There will also be a foam finger giveaway for kids ages 14 and under. Family Day is on Sunday, with discounted tickets for children ages 12 and under, and adults ages 55 and over.

Go: New Jersey Jackals at Hinchliffe Stadium, 1 Jasper St., Paterson. 6:35 p.m. on Friday, 6:05 p.m. on Saturday, 4:35 p.m. on Sunday. Doors open an hour prior to the game. $5 to $25. jackals.com , 973-746-7434, [email protected].

Xinyang Maojian Tea Cultural Fair

Explore Xinyang’s tea culture on Saturday at American Dream. From its origins to the present day, immerse yourself in the art of tea-making with tastings of the King of Teas. This sensory experience also features cultural performances.

Go: Xinyang Maojian Tea Cultural Fair, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday at American Dream (The Avenue, Level 1), East Rutherford. americandream.com .

Murder mystery dinner theater in Millburn

The Paper Mill Playhouse presents "Murder in Tinseltown" on Saturday at the F.M. Kirby Carriage House. Hollywood’s hottest producer, Cecil M. DeBill, has invited anyone who is anyone to his birthday party — including you! Unfortunately, tragedy has befallen this celebration. A few minutes before the party started, Cecil went into his office to answer a phone call and never returned. Two of the party’s attendees, Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, began to search for him when they discovered him lying on the floor of his study… dead! With the assistance of Gertie (an all-too-eager hat check girl) and Cecil’s wife (a socialite who may be after more than justice), can Humphrey Bogart ferret out the guilty party? In Hollywood, everyone has a motive.

This immersive evening includes six speaking roles distributed to audience members. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in a period piece, costumes or hats, or bring props from home. Warning: Flashing lights and gunshot sounds may be used in this production.

Go: "Murder in Tinseltown" at the F.M. Kirby Carriage House, 7 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Seating begins at 6:15. $40 ticket charge, $60 three-course prix-fixe meal to be paid for in person on the night of the event. Beverages, tax and gratuity are not included in the prix-fixe total. papermill.org , 973-376-4343.

Be a forest defender at Tenafly Nature Center

The TNC Preserve is under invasion and your help is needed. Non-native plants have been encroaching into the forest, causing harm to native plants and reducing the preserve's biodiversity. Unchecked, these invasive species can toxify the soil and shade out native plants.

Help remove these pesky plants twice a month with the Forest Defenders. Learn to identify different invasive species and work with TNC's land manager to implement various removal techniques. The next session will be 10 a.m. to noon Sunday.

Forest Defenders is free and open to adults, teenagers and families. Kids ages 15 and under must be accompanied by a guardian. Hours spent are eligible for school volunteer requirements. Projects will be held entirely outdoors, so dress appropriately. In case of inclement weather, the project will be postponed. Space is limited and advance registration is required.

Go: Forest Defenders at the Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly. 10 a.m. to noon Sunday. Free, with advance registration. tenaflynaturecenter.org , 201-568-6093.

Have an event coming up? Tell us about it. Write to Daniel Galioto at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Rolling Stones, film fest, fishing, jazz & more: North Jersey things to do May 23-26