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21 Drivable Vacations From NJ (2023 Updated Guide)

While our signature shores offer plenty of getaways in the form of beachfront Airbnbs , there are some incredibly scenic drivable vacations from NJ just across state lines. With the Garden State in your rearview, there are so many places to explore, many of which are only a short car ride away. Every hotspot on this list is within four hours (driving distance) from New Jersey, leaving no excuse to put off your long-awaited vacation any further. 

The Lodge at Woodloch – The Poconos, PA

Rejuvenation and stress relief are the pillars that keep this tranquil estate hosting thousands of people year after year. Fresh therapy pools that overlook the densely covered Poconos forests help alleviate anxiety. Tense shoulders are said to be no match for this quaint lodge deep in the mountains. 

The Lodge at Woodloch exterior l Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Woodloch

This quiet hotel offers lavish accommodations for pampering the body and mind. A self-proclaimed ‘sanctuary of senses,’ the spa boasts 27 different treatment rooms to help heal everything that’s ailing you. With many massage pools throughout the property, finding your inner peace should be no sweat. And for the more active vacationer, more than 35 exercise classes can be accessed after booking. Reclaim the idea of isolation and find serenity in the distant Poconos Mountains.

The River House at Odette’s – New Hope, PA

Eastern Pennsylvania, specifically the city of New Hope, has an incredibly storied past. The town has developed over the centuries from being a quaint stopover to a tourism hotspot. Luring in artists and artisans along the Delaware River for decades is The River House at Odette’s . Originally built in 1794 as New Hope’s first hotel, former screen star Odette Myrtil Logan bought the property in 1961 and reinvigorated it with a French makeover. 

Interweaving her taste for fine dining and culture led to stellar renovations all along the property, including the addition of a vintage piano bar and aptly named Odette’s Restaurant. Flairs of old Hollywood glamour come through the ornately decorated halls and vibrant wall art. A calm refuge in a newly bustling area, guests should expect this getaway to be a scenic excursion.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by River House At Odette’s (@riverhouseatodettes)

The Maker Hotel – Hudson, NY

The Maker Hotel is a refined destination created by the founders of global beauty Fresh, Alina Roytberg and Lev Glazman, as well as industry expert Damien Janowicz. Located at the epicenter of downtown Hudson, this bespoke stay is curated to appeal to locals and seasoned travelers alike – featuring work from craftsmen and artists spanning the centuries amongst a mix of history both recent and past.

Photo courtesy of The Maker Hotel

The Sagamore Resort – Bolton Landing, NY 

The Sagamore Resort on Lake George is an incredibly stunning vacation spot for those who love lake houses and luxury. The 70-acre private island considers itself the ideal resort for the whole family, offering a fairly large list of activities ranging from 18-hole golf to a fully fleshed-out rec area. Making the most of its breathtaking location, the hotel embraces its Adirondack environment and offers hiking trails for the outdoorsy traveler.

The lobby at The Sagamore l Photo courtesy of The Sagamore

Similarly, tours on Lake George allow for an enjoyable dinner cruise in the resort’s famous riverboat. A slew of other award-winning dining options, including authentic Italian cuisine at on-site restaurant La Bella Vista, is also available on the small island. A staple of tourism and hospitality in the area for well over a century, The Sagamore has solidified itself as a lakeside resort like no other.

Eastwind Hotel – Windham, NY

Just up the street from the humble small town of Windham, New York is the Catskills journey you’ve been waiting for. At Eastwind , they cater to any traveler looking for a nature-filled experience. Relax and reconnect with a bounty of trees as your backdrop. Upstate New York, and its seemingly endless miles of green mountains, always provides a picturesque view all year long. 

Lushna Suite Exterior l Photo courtesy of Eastwind, Taken by Lawrence Braun

Eastwind boasts A-frame cabin accommodations in addition to their Lushna Suites for a fanciful stay. One of which includes Writer’s Nook for the artistic adventurer. The Scandanavian stylings fit perfectly with the ski and sled atmosphere of the area, making the hotel a great getaway in the wintertime. 

Sagamore Pendry – Baltimore, MD

Boasting a flawless experience, beginning with complimentary welcome cocktails, guests should expect an extravagant journey throughout their stay at the Sagamore Pendry. A repurposed warehouse and historical pier that has undergone $60 million in upscale renovations, this hotel is an aesthetic marvel inside and out. The polished venue sits on the waterfront of the thriving Fell’s Point community, which makes enjoying sunset views on the water all but inevitable. 

Grandiose chandeliers, shining leather couches, and exclusive views of the harbor make this spacious property one of the best in Baltimore. The rich coziness of the dark wood walls creates a classic and sophisticated space to unwind. Additionally, the accent walls beautifully reflect the light coming off the water, lighting up rooms with a nautical ambiance. Because the property stabs right into the bustling harbor, guests can appreciate a panoramic view from the enormous pool situated on the pier’s edge. 

If the building looks familiar to you, the exterior was used as the set of the fictional Maryland School for the Arts for the films “Step Up” and “Step Up 2: The Streets.” 

Blantyre – Lenox, MA

This five-star resort deep in the Berkshire mountains offers rolling hills and a dense forest of trees for anyone looking to retreat into nature. Two massive castle-like buildings are distanced across the grounds and make up the magic of Blantyre. Each offers a unique experience for patrons: the opulent Manor House is covered in stained glass and classical portraits while the Carriage House offers a unique charm. Finally, the secluded Cottages serve as an ideal alternative to the castles and offer a more private vacation.  

Blantyre resort exterior l Photo courtesy of Blantyre

The spa on the property offers a slew of deep tissue massages and customizable treatments. Wellness is a major priority to Blantyre, which is why they offer daily therapeutic sessions of yoga and meditation. Michelin-star Chef Daniel Boulud helms the Café Boulud, serving tasty twists on French classics. It’s also said to be the perfect destination to experience the fall foliage around Massachusetts. 

Inn at Perry Cabin – St. Michaels, MD

Ranging in style from colonial to contemporary, the New England aesthetic is loud and proud all across this property. Largely nautical in theme and activities, sailing is offered for group excursions and romantic getaways — you can even get certified. The beautiful shore is a premier getaway spot for everyone and anyone looking for an aesthetically pleasing venue. Similarly, the plethora of wellness programs the facility offers rejuvenates and relaxes guests to the fullest extent. 

With features like tennis courts, golfing, and croquet, Inn’s country club vibe gives a sense of extravagance not often felt while vacationing. From their greenhouses to their golf course, Inn at Perry Cabins is a paradisal retreat from the monotony of daily living.   

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by @innatperrycabin

Lokal Hotel – Philadelphia, PA

In terms of driveable vacations from NJ, it doesn’t get any more “local” than Lokal Hotel . This company prides itself on being a unique lodging experience in that its renovated buildings aren’t your typical metropolitan towers. Smack dab in the middle of up-and-coming Philly neighborhoods like Fishtown and Old City, Lokal Hotel was born from historic buildings that were upgraded with modern apartment furnishings. Specifically, the beautifully renovated Fishtown location dubs itself an apartment hotel because it bears more resemblance to a homey loft than a visitor’s sojourn.

Lokal Fishtown location l Photo courtesy of Lokal Hotel

Lokal Hotel’s innovative policies mean that guests won’t encounter a front desk upon arrival. Nor will they find an on-site staff. Rather, through a series of smartphone apps and codes, the hotel is able to streamline communication with visitors. More futuristic and efficient than impersonal, the iPads each room comes with help connect guests with local eateries and hotspots. 

If you’re looking to stay within NJ borders, Lokal also hosts two South Jersey locations.

Wheatleigh Hotel – Lenox, MA

A design wonder, this stunning mega-mansion is modeled after the founder’s ancestral Italian home. The estate has a collection of antiques and museum-quality art, curating each room to be especially unique. Concrete columns transport visitors back to ancient times. Finally, their famous outdoor heated pool is sure to keep guests satisfied for hours on end.

Further, Wheatleigh Hotel’s signature restaurant holds just eight tables, offering an intimate setting for a farm-to-table meal. Other places to note on the property are the extensive wine cellar and newly added ax-throwing recreational area. Prioritizing privacy is a staple of the hotel, making it the perfect escape for any New Jerseyan.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Wheatleigh (@wheatleighhotel)

Twin Farms – Barnard, VT

Perhaps the furthest excursion on this list can be found in Vermont, but Twin Farms is very much worth the journey. Famed novelist Sinclair Lewis founded the estate as a hub for the great thinkers of the mid-20th century after his fiancé encouraged him to buy the land for its crisp air and sweeping lawns. Since then, the 300-acre property encompassing lovely cottages, ski hills, and lakes has grown in popularity and available amenities. The drive is long, but Twin Farms is perhaps one of the best weekend getaways from NJ.

Twin Farms Estate and Lake l Photo courtesy of Twin Farms

Camouflaged in a sea of green trees are more than 20 distinct cottages with methodically designed interiors. Rustic barns, sprawling orchards, and bending hiking trails lure city folk to the location year after year. Dine on farm-to-table cuisine that changes seasonally, like fresh squash grown in the fall. 

Mayflower Inn and Spa – Washington, CT

A boutique option for the weary journeyer, the Mayflower Inn and Spa offers that wholesome New England elegance with a unique style similar to that of director Wes Anderson . Eclectic wallpapers seemingly plucked from storybooks transform the interior of the inn into a distinct and colorful world. Handcrafted vases, hanging plants, and columns of classic books only add to the whimsical aesthetic the inn has to offer.

Join acclaimed potter Charlie Dumais, co-founder of Dumais Made, in personalized ceramic sessions that are dually educational and fun. Explore the charming gardens spread throughout the estate. Brimming with an ever-changing rotation of seasonal vegetables, the on-site chefs at the Mayflower Inn and Spa work their wonders to create new menus monthly with locally sourced ingredients. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mayflower Inn, Auberge Resorts (@mayflowerauberge)

Shou Sugi Ban House – Water Mill, NY

Shou Sugi Ban House in The Hamptons embodies holistic and wellness practices from Japan. Owned and operated by an all-female team, the house pledges to be a safe place for self-care and recovery. Taking a step away from the pressures of everyday life, helping guests to slow down and find their inner peace is the goal of Shou Sugi Ban House. Its intentional balance of private and public spaces, along with its minimalist design, adds to the culturally rich venue that ends up feeling like an appendage of Japan. 

Guest suite Shou Sugi Ban House l Photo courtesy of Shou Sugi Ban House

A wellness menu containing shamanic healing, crystal realignment sessions, vibroacoustic therapy, and 20 other immersive classes are available. Be as active and engaged as you’re comfortable with, but don’t take off without trying something new.    

Gurney’s Resort – Montauk, NY

Residents of New Jersey may already be well acquainted with the beach, but Montauk’s premier resort reinvigorates a person’s passion for the ocean. A beachfront property that bleeds into a beautiful seashore, the resort’s 2,000-foot private beach makes it unbeatable. 

Their exclusive Beach Club offers several memorable perks. Drift off to sleep amidst the sound of crashing ocean waves in a rentable bungalow. Guests can request flowing bubbly and a king-size daybed just a few feet from the water’s edge. Additionally, you can also step away from this slice of paradise and drive through Montauk’s giant mansions.  

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Gurney’s Resorts (@gurneysresorts)

 Ocean House – Westerly, RI

Ocean House offers up New England’s one-of-a-kind luxury in spades. Another oceanfront property, access to the beach is just a few hundred feet from the massive estate. The 150,000-square-foot building (built right after the Civil War) was torn down in 2003. A sturdier replica of the original building, built with more modern furnishings, became the Ocean House we know today. 

Ocean House exterior at sunset l Photo courtesy of Ocean House

Rated one of the top 10 resorts in the American Northeast by Travel + Leisure, Ocean House continues to expand its prowess on the shores of Rhode Island. With a variety of fun activities, like a wine tasting seminar taught by a certified sommelier and daily yacht rentals, guests can create an unforgettable experience all across the resort. Ocean House just recently announced the opening of a charming outdoor restaurant on the property’s North Lawn. They’ve set up intimate greenhouses for small groups to dine in, surrounded by a garden of lemon and lime trees. Guests can expect to enjoy the delicious selection of tea and whiskey the property prides itself in serving. 

Castle Hill Inn – Newport, RI

Newport, Rhode Island is a seaside city that offers plenty of history, culture, and megamansions to gawk over. It was even the chosen place of recluse for past presidents, the “Summer White House,” for Eisenhower and Kennedy. 

Castle Hill Inn is among the many Gilded Age-born mansions the state prizes. Its storied past has hosted Hollywood royalty like Grace Kelly and famous novelist Thornton Wilder. The inn pays homage to both by naming a cove and guest suite after them, respectively. Towering over the beautiful Narragansett Bay, a popular marina that hosts many of the community’s coveted yacht races is Castle Hill Lighthouse. Standing at 34 feet tall, the tourable structure has been guiding visitors to Newport since 1890. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Castle Hill Inn (@castlehillinn)

Mohonk Mountain House – New Paltz, NY

What looks like a fairytale in the real world, Mohonk Mountain House is a castle that gives Sleeping Beauty’s a run for its money. Looming over the noiseless and spacious Hudson Valley, this hidden gem in New Paltz is a sight to behold. Glowing bonfires and starry skies light up nights, as the large forest is a refreshing respite from the populated suburbs. 

Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz l Photo courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

Mohonk Mountain House is a place overflowing with enticing entertainment, including an illusionist that performs nightly and plenty of live music. Ice skating in the wintertime makes for snowy fun in their open-air pavilion. Lake Mohonk is prime for fishing, jet ski rentals, sailing, or lounging around. Finally, meals from the resort’s farm-to-table kitchen are bound to make you want another bite even after you’re full. 

Glenmere Mansion – Chester, NY

A luxurious estate with quaint courtyards and sunkissed walls, it isn’t hard to see why Glenmere Mansion made this list of drivable vacations from NJ. Voted the “Most Romantic Hideaway in the World in 2011” by Travel + Leisure, this is the ideal couple’s retreat. Duos can expect a vast selection of spa treatments, some of which utilize techniques from traditions around the world. It even has a private helipad for those who wish to travel by air, a testament to the typical crowd Glenmere Mansion caters to. 

The property’s architecture and exquisite styling, reminiscent of a Tuscan villa, are truly breathtaking. An idyllic getaway for a couple, guests have several winning suites to choose from. The lavish estate is complemented by its extensive gardens, originally designed by the nation’s first female landscape architect, Beatrix Farrand.  

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Glenmere Mansion ⚜️ (@glenmeremansion)

Whiteface Lodge – Lake Placid, NY

Lake Placid,  a two-time former host of the Winter Olympic Games, is a bustling area that thrives in the snow season. The most classic cabin trip on this list, Whiteface Lodge is centered on a mountainous area near the edge of Adirondack Park. A great spot for wintertime skiing, sledding, snowboarding, and so much more, the hills of Lake Placid are yours to traverse at Whiteface Lodge.     

Antler chandeliers and authentic wooden walls only add to the rustic charm offered by the selection of lodges. Timber cabins with fully renovated interiors and complete kitchens are available for entire families or just couples looking to take a trip. Children are sure to find plenty to do too, as the resort comes with a movie theater and bowling alley. 

Presidential Suite Great Room at Whiteface Lodge l Photo courtesy of Whiteface Lodge

Mirbeau Inn & Spa – Skaneateles, NY

This Skaneateles hideaway is the refreshing spa trip your sore muscles have been aching for. Interestingly, the French architecture and aesthetics were inspired by the work of artist Claude Monet. The estate’s warm tones, stunning ponds, and gardens were meant to mirror Monet’s own home in Giverny, just outside of Paris.  

Bliss and tranquility thrive at this chateau, with well-separated cottages available for those looking for a more secluded vacation. At the heart of this 14,000-square-foot facility is the famous Mirbeau Spa. 18 treatment rooms, heated floors, saunas galore, and even a nail care center will keep guests preoccupied all visit long. The Finger Lakes region of Skaneateles is home to down-to-earth towns that are liberating to explore. Antique shops, mom-and-pop stores, and so many other small-town charms can be found just a short walking distance away from the property. You can find horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, and archery classes at or around Mirbeau Inn. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles (@mirbeauinnspa)

Hotel Hive – Washington, DC 

Having gone to college in Washington D.C., I know firsthand how expensive tourism in the capital can be. While many Smithsonian museums are free, some of the best experiences across the capital tend to drain bank accounts. Fortunately, micro hotels like the Hotel Hive exist for affordability and convenience. While the rooms might be half the size of typical accommodations, they don’t feel like a tight squeeze. Bunk beds are even offered in some rooms, maximizing the use of space.

With a lively rooftop bar, Hotel Hive offers a great view overlooking the D.C. skyline. It’s connected to a trendy D.C. pizza shop called &pizza. Nothing is better after a night out than a freshly baked garlic pizza covered in tater tots.

Which of these drivable vacations from NJ are you headed to first? Let us know in the comments below. 

About the author/s.

Jonny Kandell

Just a 23 year old New Jersey native who loves to write! I just came back from living in Washington D.C. for college, so I'm really excited to see where post-grad life takes me.

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You should title this 21 drivable vacations for the wealthy.

This does really need to be in a publication for the super rich, not the average New Jerseyan.

This is a list of luxury hotels not vacation destinations.

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7 Drivable Vacations from New Jersey

New Jersey is a majestic state filled with over 130 miles of Atlantic coastline, beautiful beaches, historic towns, and breathtaking natural beauty.  

There’s a little something for everyone in the Garden State, whether you’ve lived there since birth or are visiting for a short time.  

Searching for places to visit in or near New Jersey? We’ve done the legwork for you and rounded up seven-weekend road trips from New Jersey that anyone can enjoy for people of all ages, covering some of the most sought-after family vacation spots on the east coast .  

So buckle up, grab some snacks, and head out on your next New Jersey road trip adventure !  

Note : We’ve chosen Jersey City as a reference point for drive times, so don’t forget to plug in your own starting point for accuracy.   

7 Day Trips From New Jersey 

Asbury park, nj  .

Distance from Jersey City: 53.4 miles ~ via Garden State Parkway (1 hour)   

Asbury Park is one of Jersey’s most beloved beach towns, offering some of the best shorelines in the state. Plenty of events and activities year-round make it a popular destination for families. You can easily spend the day or choose to make it a weekend stay just an hour away.  

In addition to its surf and sand, Asbury Park also features a Boardwalk full of mouthwatering food, unique shopping experiences, and the historic Paramount Theater and Convention Hall. Downtown Asbury Park also hosts events ranging from parades and fireworks to the annual world-famous NJ Zombie Walk. 

If you’re spending the night, consider checking into The Asbury Hotel, a restored Victorian-age hotel with tons of one-of-a-kind charm. There are many other great choices as well, including the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel and Mikell’s Big House. To round out your trip, grab a bite at Jimmy’s Italian Restaurant before taking in a classic broadway show by The Premier Theater Company.  

Asbury Park Beach Fees : $6 per person Monday through Friday, $9 per person on Weekends and Holidays (Kids 12 and under are FREE)  

Delaware Water Gap, PA   

Distance from Jersey City: 71.3 miles ~ via I-80 W (1 hour/18 minutes)  

If you’re interested in spending the day out in nature , the Delaware Water Gap in the Pocono Mountains is one of the best places to visit near New Jersey. A paradise for nature lovers and tourists alike, The Gap offers picturesque camping spots, miles of hiking trails, and more.  

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers sweeping views of the mountain ridges and endless birding and wildlife-watching opportunities for hikers. You can also bike along McDade Recreational Trail, which is particularly beautiful each autumn. During the colder months, be sure to explore the many winter activities available at Shawnee Mountain Ski Area.  

Did you know that you can see two separate waterfalls during your visit? The Delaware Water Gap Natural Recreation Area is home to both the tallest and second-tallest waterfalls in Pennsylvania! Capture the breathtaking views of Raymondskill and Dingmans Falls, sights you’ll remember for years to come.  

Pro Tip : Take the boardwalk trail that leads to the base of Dingmans Falls for a perfect photo opportunity.   

Long Beach Island, NJ 

Distance from Jersey City: 96.5 miles ~ via Garden State Parkway (1 hour/36 minutes)  

The beautiful thing about Long Beach Island – aside from its pristine white beaches – is the easy travel distance. You can easily access the island by boat or car from Atlantic City, New York, or Philadelphia. The island itself is a treasure trove of diverse cultural events, historic landmarks, fabulous food, and more.  

Families with children will enjoy visiting “Old Barney” at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park , located on the island’s northernmost point. Sunset Park also offers many family-friendly activities throughout the year, and everyone will love some fun in the sun at Fantasy Island Amusement Park.  

The island’s southern end has attractions for every interest, including Thundering Surf Water Park & Adventure Golf in Beach Haven. Ship Bottom acts as the Gateway to the island and offers a famous beach, many restaurants, and seasonal recreational activities.  

The Wildwoods, NJ  

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Distance from Jersey City: 152 miles ~ via Garden State Parkway (2 hours/26 minutes)  

If you’re looking for ideas for summer New Jersey road trips, The Wildwoods is a must. The Wildwoods offers family-friendly beaches, an action-packed Boardwalk, diverse entertainment, and countless historical and cultural opportunities.  

The Wildwoods’ five miles of beaches feature powder-fine sand and endless summertime fun with plenty of activities for people of all ages. Dogs are also allowed, and there are even dog beaches for your best friend to splash around in! There are also three amazing beachfront waterparks where the whole family can cool down.  

The Wildwood’s 38 blocks of Boardwalk is also a sight to behold, with countless shopping opportunities, eateries, entertainment, amusement rides, and attractions. So whether you’re visiting during daytime or evening hours, the Boardwalk is always “on.”  

Pro Tip : Did you know that The Wildwoods has been named The Event Capital of the East Coast? Many events are free to the public, so be sure to check the calendar and plan accordingly!   

Greenwich, CT 

Distance from Jersey City ~ via I-95 N  (1 hour/1 minute)  

Greenwich has long been named one of the best weekend getaways from New Jersey, and for a good reason. Just an hour away from Jersey City and a short train ride from NYC, it’s an ideal escape from life’s everyday hustle and bustle.  

You can find the charming coastal town of Greenwich on Long Island Sound. It’s filled with many exciting things to see and do, like shopping at the many stories or visiting the art galleries in Downtown Greenwich. Science and art enthusiasts will love touring The Bruce Museum , and history lovers will love seeing the Greenwich Mansion and Putnam Cottage.  

There are also many opportunities to explore the outdoors in Greenwich. Walk the peaceful trails in Greenwich Point Park, where you can also admire the gorgeous NYC skyline. Take in a game of polo at the Greenwich Polo Club during the summer, or spend a day at the fascinating Montgomery Pinetum and Pomerance Park, the birthplace of the Boy Scouts!  

Pro Tip : If you love art, schedule your weekend road trip from NJ to Greenwich in May. This is when the annual Art-to-the-Avenue Festival takes place, and it’s quite a sight to behold!   

Baltimore, MD  

Distance from Jersey City: 184 miles ~ via NJ Tpke S and I-95 S (3 hours/3 minutes)  

Baltimore is also another excellent option to add to your list of New Jersey road trips. It’s full of family-friendly destinations and activities, and you can easily spend a few days or a long weekend exploring all these fascinating city offers.  

Families with younger children will love visiting the Maryland Science Center in Downtown Baltimore . The center’s three floors feature many kid-friendly displays and exhibits, and it also has a planetarium, observatory, and IMAX theater! The Port Discovery Children’s Museum is also a fun-filled adventure and is ranked as one of America’s top five children’s museums.  

One can only find many one-of-a-kind destinations in Baltimore, such as the National Aquarium , the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum, and more. If you can stay the night, check out the 1840s Carrollton In, which is conveniently located near Little Italy and Inner Harbor.  

Philadelphia, PA 

Distance from Jersey City ~ via I-95 S  (1 hour/29 minutes)  

Philadelphia is one of the most richly historic cities in the United States, with countless fascinating attractions for all ages and interests. One of the best things about visiting Philadelphia is that there is no “wrong time” to do it. So whether you’re planning a weekend road trip from NJ in September or January, there are many things to see and do. 

Must-see Philadelphia sights include visiting the famous Liberty Bell at the Liberty Bell Center, touring the historical Independence Hall where the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, and running up the 72 “Rocky Steps” at the eastern entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art . Pro Tip : Don’t forget to take a selfie with Rocky’s statue at the base of the steps!   

History buffs of all ages need to schedule a half day to explore the museums along Philadelphia’s Museum Mile before digging into an authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak at one of the city’s finest eateries. Try Pat’s King of Steaks, Jim’s on South Street, or visit a local favorite like Dalessandro’s. You can easily spend weeks exploring Philadelphia, and it’s worth visiting more than once.  

Final Tips on Visiting Places In and Near New Jersey  

• Let the attendant fuel up if you’re traveling in New Jersey and need to gas up. It’s actually illegal to pump your own gas in The Garden State.  
• As of December 11, 2022, New Jersey is moving to cashless tolls. The New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway are two of the busiest toll roads in the United States, so expect to pay if you’re traveling those routes.  
• Although many of the attractions listed in our chosen locations are free to the public, we suggest budgeting for museum and park entry fees and any other specific events you’d like to attend while visiting your destination.  
• The beaches at popular tourist destinations in New Jersey and surrounding states can often get crowded during the summer. Plan on arriving early if you’re headed to a beach with a boardwalk.  
• Pack the proper footwear for the weather. Bring a warm and sturdy pair of snow boots if you’re traveling during winter. Comfortable sneakers are also a must during summer, especially if you plan on hiking or walking most of the day.  
• Never forget a road trip essential again with our downloadable family road trip checklist.  

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10 Best Drivable Vacations from New Jersey (Updated 2023)

Many must-visit destinations are just a few hours’ drive from New Jersey, making the Garden State a great place to begin any road trip.

With so many options nearby, you can easily plan a quick weekend getaway or an extended vacation in a charming coastal town, bustling city, or serene natural wonder.

The ten best drivable vacations from New Jersey include:

• Boston, Massachusetts
• Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
• The Hamptons, New York
• Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
• Mystic, Connecticut
• The Poconos, Pennsylvania
• Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
• Saratoga Springs, New York
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Washington, D.C.

This article highlights the top 10 drivable vacations from New Jersey, including how far each location is, the best season to visit, and what to expect from each unique destination.

• 1. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts, is an easy 5-6 hour drive, 283 miles (455 km) northeast of New Jersey. 

The city offers a great mix of history, culture, sports, shopping, and nightlife – it’s truly a destination that caters to everyone, whether you’re a solo traveler or a family looking for kid-friendly activities.

Boston does have cold, snowy winters, but it can be enjoyed all year round. The absolute best time of year is from May to October when the weather is warm and there are many outdoor events to experience. 

Some of the most famous Boston highlights include:

• The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path connecting 16 historical sites, such as the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.
• Fenway Park, the iconic home of Boston’s Major League Baseball Team, the Red Sox, where you can catch a game or take a guided tour of the stadium.
• Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, perfect for picnicking, relaxing, or participating in free activities like concerts and theater performances.
• The New England Aquarium, home to over a thousand marine animals, including sea lions, penguins, giant octopuses, and thousands of saltwater and freshwater fish.
• Iconic neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the North End, each offering distinctive shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
• 2. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Gettysburg is a historic town in Pennsylvania known for a pivotal Civil War battle in 1863, where the Union victory halted Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s invasion of the North. 

From New Jersey, Gettysburg is just a 2-3 hour drive away, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. 

To make the most of your visit, consider going during the spring or fall months when the weather is generally pleasant, and the foliage is breathtaking.

One of the primary attractions in Gettysburg is the Gettysburg National Military Park, which preserves the battle site and includes various monuments, memorials, and exhibits. 

Take a ranger-guided or self-guided auto tour to learn more about the significant events that occurred there.

Beyond the park, you’ll find other interesting sites, such as the Eisenhower National Historic Site (the former home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower), the Gettysburg Museum of History, and the Jennie Wade House. 

• 3. The Hamptons, New York

The Hamptons is a popular vacation destination for those in search of upscale beach vibes and a relaxed atmosphere. 

Nestled on the eastern end of Long Island, it’s only about 200 miles from New Jersey, making it a quick getaway any time of year. That said, traffic can be heavy during peak season, so be prepared for some delays.

Consider visiting in the late spring, summer, or early fall to soak in the sun and take full advantage of the beautiful beaches. 

The Hamptons are known for stunning beaches, with favorites like East Hampton, Amagansett, and Montauk. Each beach boasts its unique charm, whether it’s a laid-back, surfer vibe or a quiet, pristine paradise.

The Hamptons are also home to picturesque vineyards and wineries. Plan to sample local flavors and enjoy a leisurely afternoon among the beautiful rolling landscapes.

If beaches and wine aren’t your thing, spend an afternoon (or two) wandering through the luxury shops that dot the area, whether you’re just window shopping or looking to splurge.

• 4. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard is a picturesque island off the coast of Massachusetts, about 350 miles (560 km) from New Jersey. 

It takes about 5.5 hours to reach one of the Vineyard ferry terminals, which depart from multiple locations along Cape Cod as well as from New Bedford, Massachusetts, and Kingston, Rhode Island.

The ferry only takes about 40 mins, but depending on traffic conditions or season, planning your route to Martha’s Vineyard may take just as much time as getting there. 

Don’t worry, though – it’s worth it once you arrive.

Ideal times to visit Martha’s Vineyard are late spring, summer, and early fall. The summer months are the most popular, but if you prefer a quieter time of year, consider visiting in May or September. 

The island is famous for its stunning beaches, seaside walks, and swimming spots along the Atlantic Ocean. However, be sure to explore the charming towns, historical monuments, cozy cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops that showcase the area’s particular character. 

• 5. Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic, Connecticut, is a charming New England town brimming with maritime history. 

Located just 200 miles (322 km) northeast of New Jersey, Mystic is a lovely vacation destination any time of year, although fall foliage and comfortable summer temperatures make those seasons particularly enjoyable.

Spend an afternoon at Mystic Seaport Museum, immersing yourself in the seafaring culture that shaped the region for hundreds of years. This maritime museum offers a glimpse of America’s nautical history through well-curated exhibits and preserved historic vessels. 

The Mystic Aquarium, home to thousands of marine animals, including beluga whales, sea lions, and penguins, is always worth a visit – just make sure you buy your tickets in advance as they tend to sell out quickly. 

Visitors to Mystic also enjoy strolling through the city’s historic downtown, where shops, galleries, and eateries are housed in beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. 

• 6. The Poconos, Pennsylvania

The Poconos is a beautiful natural retreat just 150 miles (241 km) from New Jersey.

Nestled in eastern Pennsylvania, the Poconos Mountain Region is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts of any age at any time of year.

A visit to the Poconos often includes activities such as hiking, water sports, and skiing. 

Numerous trails, ranging from easy strolls to intense hikes, are available for exploring the region’s lush forests and stunning waterfalls.

If water sports interest you, consider rafting, kayaking, or canoeing down the Delaware River or enjoying a refreshing day at one of the many lakes in the area.

In the winter, the Pocono Mountains offer a variety of ski resorts where you can ski, snowboard, sled, or snow tubing.

While the Poconos is known for its beautiful nature and outside activities, the towns in the area also offer an impressive selection of shops, restaurants, and bars serving up locally-sourced food and beverages. 

• 7. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is a popular summer vacation spot on the Atlantic Ocean, just over 3 hours south of New Jersey. 

Summer is the best time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of sunshine, but traffic can be heavy at that time of year, so it’s best to plan your route accordingly.

Once you’ve arrived in Rehoboth, take a walk along the bustling beach boardwalk filled with several shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including the famous Funland amusement park.

The beach itself is an obvious highlight, with soft sand, beautiful blue waters, and plenty of space to relax in the sun.

One of the biggest perks of visiting Rehoboth Beach is tax-free shopping, and the area delivers plenty of outlet malls, boutiques, and local shops with something for everyone.

• 8. Saratoga Springs, New York

Saratoga Springs is a charming city in Upstate New York known for horse racing and relaxing spas. 

Just 250 miles (400 km) north of New Jersey, the drive to Saratoga Springs usually takes around 4 hours, but prepare for potential traffic as you pass New York City, especially during rush hour.

(Also, consider making a pitstop in Albany for a quick tour of New York’s state capital – a beautifully preserved historic town worth checking out.)  

The best times to visit Saratoga Springs are during the summer when the thoroughbred racing season takes place, and the city is full of activities.

One of the main attractions in the city is the Saratoga Race Course, attracting thousands of visitors during its summer meet. 

Another popular draw is the historic mineral springs throughout the city of Saratoga. 

There are currently 21 public springs, each with differing mineral compositions, tastes, and supposed therapeutic properties. Many of the spas in the area offer rejuvenating treatments, pools, and skincare products that utilize the mineral-rich water.

Lastly, don’t forget to explore the vibrant downtown area, where you can stroll along Broadway and visit charming boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.

• 9. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Six hours south of New Jersey sits Virginia Beach, where history and the Atlantic Ocean meet. 

Virginia Beach is best during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when you can fully enjoy the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and the seemingly endless miles of sand and sun. 

A visit to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a must-see, with its extensive display of marine life and engaging exhibits. 

Make sure to explore First Landing State Park, a historical and natural gem on Cape Henry. 

The park offers scenic hiking and biking trails and the chance to learn about the first English colonists who landed there in 1607.

• 10. Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is the historic capital of the United States, located less than 400 miles (643 km) from New Jersey.

The drive takes about 4 hours in regular traffic, and spring and fall are the best times of year to experience the city. 

In the spring, you can enjoy the city’s beautiful cherry blossoms and mild weather, while in the fall, the weather is still warm enough to take in the sites.

One of the most famous attractions in D.C. is the National Mall, an expansive park housing monumental landmarks like the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol.  

Flip a coin and spend a day at any of the Smithsonian Museums, where you’ll learn about art, science, history, and culture.

Then wander through historic neighborhoods such as Georgetown, where you’ll find charming cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and exquisite dining options. 

Table of Contents

Eric has been a travel addict since he finished college and a writer since he could hold a pen.

A native of Florida, he loves traveling and visiting unique places all over the world and has an ever-growing collection of travel tips and experiences.

Eric is a digital nomad, a fan of slow travel. He has been traveling for the last 7 years, and has visited over 40 countries.

Lifestyle Jessica

New England Travel , New Jersey , New Jersey Places , New York City Travel , New York State Travel , New York Travel , Pennsylvania Travel , Travel · May 3, 2022

20 Day Trip Ideas From New Jersey (Less Than A 1-3 Hour Drive)

While New Jersey has so much to offer, sometimes it’s nice to get out of state and visit somewhere new. New Jersey’s neighboring states offer a wide variety of day trip options, especially during the warmer months! In this article, you can learn about 20-day trip ideas from New Jersey . Some of the day trips in this post are closer to North Jersey, while some are more convenient for those in South Jersey. Depending on where you reside in New Jersey, some of these options are even less than an hour’s drive! If you are also looking for more spots in New Jersey to explore, then read my article on 50+ Instagrammable spots in NJ . Also, check out my article 15-day trip ideas in New Jersey for more suggestions on what to do locally!

IN NEW YORK

1. coney island, brooklyn, ny.

NYC and its surrounding areas can’t go unmentioned in this article. You can visit Coney Island in Brooklyn for the day and enjoy the amusements, boardwalk, beach, and more fun! Check out the calendar for the Luna Amusement Park here to see their operating hours. Visitors can easily spend an entire day at Coney Island between the amusement park and the beach. You can extend the day by grabbing dinner at a local restaurant. One of my favorite NYC restaurants is Olio e Piú in Greenwich Village! Their ricotta toast and handmade pasta dishes are out of this world! A casual favorite spot of mine is Tacombi, which has multiple locations throughout the city and serves up mouth-watering Mexican dishes!

2. Untermyer Park & Gardens, Yonkers, NY

Untermyer Park & Gardens is a historic garden with European influence located in Yonkers, NY. I visited last year and absolutely adore the beauty of this place. Visitors can spend a few hours walking around and taking photos here, and then enjoy a local eatery for dinner! I enjoyed a delicious meal at Cocina Chente in the Bronx after visiting the gardens. Untermyer Park & Gardens is also on my list of 12 Instagrammable photo spots in NYC !

3. New York Botanical Garden

The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is a breath-of-fresh-air spot in the city to admire nature’s beauty. Tickets are required to enter the garden and can be purchased here . The Garden is open from 10 am to 6 pm Tuesday through Sunday and is only open on Mondays when there is a federal holiday. Spend a few hours here and grab a bite to eat on the premises or at a local restaurant. You can also check out the Bronx Zoo nearby and have a fun New York day!

4. Woodstock, NY

Woodstock, New York is only about an hour and a half drive from Bergen County and is a cute town to walk around. I visited about two years ago and made a whole day of it. Grab a bite to eat in the town of Woodstock and hike the nearby Overlook Mountain. Check out my vlog below to see how we spent the day here!

5. Mount Beacon Park, NY

If you are into the outdoors and hiking, then visiting Mount Beacon Park in New York is a great day trip for you! Mount Beacon Park is roughly an hour’s drive from North Jersey, 1.5-2+ hours from Central Jersey, and 2.5-3+ hours from South Jersey. Start the day trip with an incredible lunch at Hudson Taco in Newburgh, and then cross the Hudson River to Mount Beacon Park.

We hiked to the Mount Beacon Fire Tower when we visited, and found the hike to be moderate, with some moderate ascents. The views are stunning, especially during the summer and fall months! Add more to this day trip by making a pitstop in the nearby downtowns of Cold Spring and/or Beacon. Check out my vlogs below to see how I spent two different days in this area.

6. The Town of Cold Spring & Breakneck Ridge Trailhead, NY

Cold Spring is a quaint New York downtown with history, shops, local eateries, and scenic views. I recommend grabbing brunch or lunch at Hudson Hil’s Cafe, which is a casual sit-down restaurant nestled in the heart of Cold Spring. Cold Spring is roughly an hour’s drive from Bergen County and two hours from Monmouth County, and is a worthwhile day trip!

If you are into hiking and like a challenge, I recommend checking out Breakneck Ridge Trail at the Hudson Highlands State Park while here. We trekked the long loop, and found this hike to be pretty challenging with the rock scrambles, but overall enjoyable! The views are stunning throughout the majority of this trail, making this a memorable trek! Check out my vlog below to see how I spent the day here!

7. Bear Mountain, NY

Bear Mountain is a popular New York hiking spot located about a 0.5 to 2-hour drive from those who reside in the top half of New Jersey. This is another great outdoorsy day trip for those who admire a scenic hike. There may be a fee to enter – check out more info here .

8. Harriman State Park, NY

Harriman State Park is very close to Bear Mountain and offers a wide array of hiking trails and scenic woodlands for all levels! One of the best trails to hike at Harriman State Park is the Reeves Brook Loop Trail . This moderately challenging loop offers multiple scenic vistas and has plenty of streams winding throughout the trail. The Reeves Brook Loop Trail is roughly four miles and typically takes around 2+ hours to complete.

Parking and public restrooms are available at the Reeves Meadow Visitor Center, which is where the hike begins. When doing this loop trail in the counterclockwise direction (starting on white trail markers), hikers must climb a moderately challenging and steep rock scramble to get to the main vista. It is advised that beginners or families with young children start this hike clockwise (on red trail markers). Visitors who begin the hike clockwise can follow the red trail markers to the blue trail markers and enjoy stunning vistas from the top of the mountain. Hikers who follow this route can then turn around to get back to the parking lot the same way they came, avoiding the steep rock scramble. As a somewhat experienced hiker, I personally loved the rock scramble here and found it to be a fun trek, but please use your own discretion to decide which route is best suited for you! Read more about the other trails at Harriman State Park here.

9. Storm King Art Center, NY

The Storm King Art Center is a unique spot to visit in the summer. Visitors can explore the property and check out uniquely crafted sculptures and large art displays. The Storm King Art Center is closed on Tuesdays and operates Wednesday through Monday from 10 am to 5:30 pm. Tickets must be purchased prior to arrival and more info can be found here.

10. Teatown Lake Reservation, NY

Teatown Lake Reservation in Westchester County, NY is a 1,000-acre nature preserve and education center. The Reservation is roughly a 40-minute to 2-hour drive from the top half of New Jersey depending on where you reside. Hiking trails are open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk , and parking costs $5.

11. Walkway Over the Hudson Bridge & Poughkeepsie, NY

Visiting the Walkway Over The Hudson Park is a great day trip in New York State. This walking bridge is located roughly a 1+ hour drive from North Jersey and a 2+ hour drive from most of Central Jersey. While this may be a bit far from South Jersey, if you get an early enough start to the day, I think this can still be a worthwhile trip!

The scenic walkway connects from Highland, NY to Poughkeepsie, crossing over the Hudson River. Visitors can walk across the bridge and check out the town of Poughkeepsie and Marist College. Marist College has a beautiful campus, and is worth checking out while in the area! Finish off the day by grabbing a delicious dinner at Hudson Taco on the way back down to Jersey. Hudson Taco is a riverfront restaurant located in the heart of Newburgh. This charming, hip restaurant is a must-visit whenever I am up in this area of New York!

IN CONNECTICUT

12. new haven, ct.

New Haven, Connecticut is a great day trip from Northeast Jersey as it is about a two-hour drive from Bergen County. I visited nearly two years ago and enjoyed visiting the area. While in New Haven, visitors can grab Frank Pepe’s famous pizza and walk around the local neighborhoods and parks. Visitors can also explore the beautiful and historic Yale University campus. Check out my vlog below to see how I spent a fun day in New Haven!

13. Mianus River Park, CT

Mianus River Park , on the Greenwich/Stamford border in Connecticut, is a nature reserve with trails, a 2-mile-long river, scenic forestland, and more nature-esque beauty. If you are looking for an outdoorsy escape, then this is a nice day trip option from Northern New Jersey. This park is roughly a 1-2 hour drive from North and Central Jersey, depending on where you are located.

IN PENNSYLVANIA

14. philadelphia, pa.

A day trip from Jersey to Philly is a classic but goodie! Explore the city streets and check out the Museum of Art, the Philadelphia Zoo, Independence Hall, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, and so much more! Enjoy a delicious cheesesteak from Cleaver’s, or one of Philly’s local spots, and have yourself a day!

15. Longwood Gardens, PA

Longwood Gardens is located directly outside of the main city of Philadelphia in Kennett Square, PA. Tickets are required for timed entry to the gardens and can be purchased here. Give yourself at least a few hours to explore the property and take in the beauty of these stunning botanical gardens! A visit to Longwood Gardens can also be combined with a trip to Philadelphia as they are so close.

16. Delaware Water Gap, PA

The Delaware Water Gap lies between New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The Delaware Water Gap includes 40 miles of the Delaware River, 100+ miles of hiking trails, and even a few beaches. Visitors can go rafting, canoeing, kayaking , tubing, hiking, and more here. I recommend grabbing a sweet treat at the Village and Farmer Bakery while you’re in the area.

17. Allentown, PA

Allentown is an eastern Pennsylvania town not too far from the Garden State! If you are into museums, you can check out the Allentown Art Museum, the Mack Trucks Historical Museum, the America on Wheels Museum, and more. Dorney Park is also right around the corner if you are interested in a summer waterpark and amusement adventure! There are numerous parks in the Allentown area worth checking out such as the Allentown Rose Gardens, which include walking paths, pavilions, and a scenic garden. The charming downtown of Bethlehem, PA is also about a 15-minute drive from Allentown, and it definitely worth checking out if you are into local shopping and eateries!

18. Jenkins Arboretum and Morris Arboretum, PA

There are quite a few arboretums and nature reserves in Pennsylvania not too far from New Jersey. The Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens is roughly a 20-30 minute drive outside of the City of Philadelphia. This Arboretum, located in the town of Devon, is free to enter and offers 48 acres of beautiful gardens and woodlands. Visitors can also enjoy 1.2 miles of walking trails here.

Roughly a 25-minute drive from The Jenkins Arboretum is the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. Entry to the Morris Arboretum is $20 per non-member adult and tickets can be reserved here .

19. Valley Forge National Historic Park, PA

Less than a 10-minute drive west of the Jenkins Arboretum lies Valley Forge National Historic Park. With a history dating back to the late 1700s, Valley Forge is a great spot for those who love nature but also a historic back story. Enjoy many miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, multi-use trails, biking trails, and more! Learn more about Valley Forge here .

20. New Hope, PA

The charming town of New Hope in Bucks County, PA is a popular downtown to stroll on a warm, sunny day. (or really any time of the year)! Go back in time and take in the beauty of the scenic town alongside the Delaware River. Enjoy shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Visitors can also walk across the New Hope-Lambertville Bridge to Lambertville, NJ for additional shopping and dining options. A popular local attraction in this area is Peddler’s Village. Peddler’s Village is about an eight-minute drive from downtown New Hope and is home to numerous restaurants and shops.

Comment down below if you plan to take a trip to any of these places!

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• Destinations

25 Best Weekend Getaways From New Jersey

Last Updated By VI on April 17, 2024 in Weekend Getaways

The Wildwoods

Asbury park, atlantic city.

• Complete List & Map

Where to travel next: New England Getaways , Wisconsin , Kentucky , Illinois , NJ

Ideas by Occasion: Relax at a spa , Girls weekend , Birthday , Family , Honeymoon Weekend , All-Inclusive

Ideas in New England: Vermont , Massachusetts , New Jersey , Maryland , New Hampshire , Delaware

Weekend Inspiration: NC Getaways , Small Town Getaways , From Toronto , Oklahoma , From Jackson , From Louisville , For Couples

The Atlantic Highlands

West Coast Vacations: Oregon , From Seattle , Washington

Weekend Trips: Southwest Weekend Getaways , Arkansas , Idaho , Montana

Bernardsville

Gorgeous public parks throughout the borough include lovely Michael J. Nervine Memorial Park, which overlooks the banks of picturesque Borough Pond, and Cross Estate Gardens, overseen in conjunction with the National Park Service. The lovely Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, overseen by the New Jersey Audubon Society, offers nature trails showcasing more than 200 native area species. Fine dining destinations abound, including European-influenced favorites like Bernard's Inn and Osteria Morini. Map

The South USA Vacations: Mississippi , Georgia , Alabama , Florida , From New Orleans , Louisiana

More romantic getaways in New Jersey

Chester Borough

Texas vacations: From Houston , For Couples , Weekend Getaways in Texas , Texas Hill Country , Family Getaways

Collingswood

More ideas: From DC , Virginia , West Virginia , Maryland , Tennessee , Vermont , Delaware

Hammonton is commonly referred to as the "Blueberry Capital of the World," hosting the annual Red, White, and Blueberry Festival each June, which brings live music performances, pie-eating contests, and family-friendly carnival rides to the city's downtown district. The charming Atlantic County town, which was a finalist for 2013's Great American Main Street award, is home to a plethora of delightful art galleries, boutiques, theatres, restaurants, and bars throughout its picturesque downtown district. The Hammonton Art District is home to hip galleries and venues like the Hammonton Arts Center, while the century-old Eagle Theater showcases acclaimed live theatrical performances. Visitors can also sample wines at several award-winning wineries, including Plagido's Winery, DiMatteo Vineyards, and the Tomasello Winery. Map

Keyport is a delightful borough in Monmouth County , nicknamed as the "Pearl of the Bayshore" for its gorgeous waterfront stretches. The city, which is located across Raritan Bay from Long Island, offers more than 200 eclectic shops and restaurants within its lovely downtown districts, ranging from antique stores and home goods shops to Lowcountry and Gulf Coast-style gourmet dining destinations. Visitors can stroll along the city's delightful waterfront at Keyport Waterfront Park or Keyport Harbor, which offer unparalleled sunset views. Fishing and boating opportunities are offered at more low-key area waterfront sites, including Union Beach Pier and Lake Matawan. Each year, the city hosts the annual Keyport GardenWalk, which has been named as the Asbury Park region's best annual outdoor event for more than half a decade running. Map

Lambertville

Lambertville is a gorgeous town in New Jersey's Hunterdon County, located along the banks of the scenic Delaware River. The charming town has been named as the "Antiques Capital of New Jersey," home to lively marketplaces like the Golden Nugget Antiques Market, which is open three days a week and offers indoor and outdoor vendor spaces. The People's Store offers three floors of antique dealers, while the city's Bridge, Main, and Union Street districts highlight a plethora of vintage shops and boutiques. Visitors can explore historic attractions like the 1816 James Wilson Marshall House Museum , which serves as the headquarters of the Historical Society of Lambertville. Unique dining experiences are offered at the 19th-century Lambertville Station, which has been converted into a waterfront restaurant and inn today. Map

New York City

World-renowned museums abound, including Manhattan's Metropolitan Museum of Art and Whitney Museum of American Art. History buffs can explore the preserved attractions of Battery Park or pay their respects to the victims of the September 11 terrorist attack at several attractions connected to the former World Trade Center towers site. All five boroughs showcase some of the world's best cuisine options, including restaurants operated by celebrity chefs in elite neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and SoHo.

Newport, Rhode Island

The gorgeous resort area is home to stunningly-preserved Gilded Age mansions along its majestic Bellevue Avenue, many of which are open to the public today as living history museums. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the 1895 Breakers, designed after historic Renaissance-era palaces in Europe as a residence for the famed Vanderbilt family. Fort Adams State Park offers a plethora of outdoor recreational experiences, including a popular summer concert series, while Easton Beach is home to an historic carousel and gorgeous white sand beachfront stretches.

Opportunities for outdoor recreation abound, including chances for swimming, surfing, boating, fishing, and kayaking throughout the warmer months. Each Tuesday evening, the family-friendly Family Beach Olympics event offers sandcastle contests, relay games, and tug-of-war battles for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Ocean Grove

Visitors can explore the community's gorgeous preserved Victorian-era architecture or stroll along its gorgeous beachfront stretches, which are lined with gourmet restaurants and lively boutiques and shops. Each year, the city hosts one of the nation's largest annual Christian retreat summer camps, along with the two-day Bridgefest contemporary Christian music festival. Map

Philadelphia

The famed Philadelphia Zoo, home to more than 1,300 animal species, is a top spot for families traveling to the city. Throughout the summer months, the city's Spruce Street Harbor Park transforms into an urban beachfront, offering food vendors and giant games. During the winter, BlueCross River Rink offers waterfront ice skating and a beer garden.

Point Pleasant Beach

Marine life exhibits are on display at Jenkinson's Aquarium, while comedy performers take to the stage nightly at Uncle Vinnie's Comedy Club. Nearby, Manasquan Beach offers opportunities for swimming and fishing, while the Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area offers chances for frolicking with four-legged friends off-leash. Map

More ideas: New Brunswick

The Skylands

The lively district is one of New Jersey's top family-friendly destinations, home to delightful attractions like the Space Farms Zoo and Museum, the seasonal Tomahawk Lake Waterpark, the Old West-themed Wild West City theme park, and the Land of Make Believe family amusement park. Visitors can enjoy opportunities for year-round sporting adventures at Bridgewater Sports Arena, learn about the area's railroading history at the Whippany Railway Museum, or view preserved collections of indigenous and pioneer arts at the Morris Museum. Lovely Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, located on the New Jersey-Pennsylvania border, is home to over 100 miles of hiking trails and three seasonal beaches. Annual special events held throughout the region include the New Jersey State Fair, held each year in Sussex in August. Map

Stone Harbor

It has been ranked as one of America's most affluent communities by Forbes, home to stunning mansions and elegant upscale retail districts. Visitors can enjoy year-round opportunities for watersports along the city's coastline, including chances for fishing, jet skiing, and chartered pleasure boat cruises. Annual special events include the Wings n' Water Festival, hosted by the Wetlands Institute, which showcases folk music performances, art vendors, and delicious cuisine offerings. Map

Whitesbog Village

Today, the village is open to the public as a living history site and nature preserve, protecting more than 3,000 acres of pine forest, blueberry fields, cranberry bogs, and historic buildings. Guided tours of the village explore attractions like the Whitesbog General Store, the New Jersey Agriculture Experimental Cranberry Substation, and the Whitesbog Agricultural Museum. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails throughout the village's gorgeous terrain are open to the public throughout the year. Map

• 1. The Wildwoods
• 2. Annapolis
• 3. Asbury Park
• 4. Atlantic City
• 5. The Atlantic Highlands
• 6. Baltimore
• 7. Bernardsville
• 9. Cape May
• 10. Chester Borough
• 11. Collingswood
• 12. Hammonton
• 13. Keyport
• 14. Lambertville
• 15. New York City
• 16. Newport, Rhode Island
• 17. Ocean City
• 18. Ocean Grove
• 19. Philadelphia
• 20. Point Pleasant Beach
• 21. Princeton
• 22. The Skylands
• 23. Stone Harbor
• 24. Whitesbog Village

New Jersey visitors can easily day trip to famed resort destinations like Ocean City and the Skylands or get away for the weekend to nearby East Coast urban areas like New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Boston. Quaint waterfront towns like Annapolis offer some of the Chesapeake Bay 's best dining destinations, while college towns like Princeton are home to world-renowned museums and theaters.

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25 Best Columbus Day Weekend Getaways

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22 East Coast Destinations for a Road Trip

A summer road trip is always a good idea, and there are so many options to choose from on the East Coast. There are plenty of great destinations within driving distance of Hudson County, with choices for everyone from animal lovers, history buffs , wine aficionados, sports fans, and more. All that’s needed after HG’s recommendations are an excellent road trip playlist and the driver’s choice of road trip snacks. Read on for your guide to East Coast destinations that are ideal for a summer road trip, ordered by state from North to South.

Maine is chock full of things to do and places to explore. It makes sense that the farther North you travel, the more beautiful sweeping landscapes there are to discover.

Portland | 5-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

Portland is Maine’s biggest city by population and offers plenty of art, history, and food to experience. We recommend kicking off a Portland tour in Old Port, full of beautiful historic buildings and cobblestone streets, perfect for a stroll and a meal at one of its many restaurants. And speaking of restaurants, you simply cannot cross the state lines of Maine without ordering a lobster roll to devour on the coast. Andy’s Old Port Pub, located at 94 Commercial Street, is arguably the best one in town.

If you’re looking for something to wash that lobster roll down with, head over to Allagash Brewery, a great local spot with plenty of outdoor space to enjoy a flight. If you’re worried about Fido, don’t be — it’s dog-friendly ! Wrap up your time in Portland with a little art and history at the Portland Museum of Art, located at 7 Congress Street. This museum is the largest and oldest public art institution in the entire state so whether you’re into art or just plan on wandering aimlessly around, it’s a can’t-miss destination.

Read More: 16 New Jersey Towns for a Fun Summer Day Trip

Bar Harbor + Acadia National Park | 8-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Acadia National Park (@acadianps)

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are two Maine destinations that often go hand-in-hand. If you’re looking for a day full of hiking, Cadillac Mountain’s trails are second to none, with sweeping views of the Maine coastline. However, if you’re more of the laid-back active type, Jordan Pond is for you. The old carriage roads you’ll encounter are beyond charming and *pro tip* — the popovers at Jordan Pond House Restaurant, located at 2928 Park Loop Road, are out of this world. It is definitely worth the stop for these crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, pastries with a side of tea and jam.

Maine is known for killer lobster rolls and, you guessed it, beer. Stop at another Maine brewery, Atlantic Brewing Co., located at 15 Knox Road, for a pint. There you can take a tour of the brewery and then taste the classic beers. For those who prefer vino over beer, Bar Harbor Cellars Winery, located at 854 ME-3 is the place to go. This spot offers wine tasting experiences and be sure to pick up a bottle of your favorite on the way out.

Kennebunkport | 4-hour, 45-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

Unlike other Maine beach towns with rock-filled coasts, Kennebunkport offers long, smooth beaches to relax on and soak up the sun. Not only is this town pretty as a postcard, but it also contains the famous compound of President Bush. Walk along the coast and take a peek from afar at the gorgeous development.

Kennebunkport is also home to many artists and galleries that show pieces of art you’ll definitely want to take home as a keepsake. Explore Homeport Pottery and Artisans Gallery, located at 131 Beachwood Avenue, Northlight Gallery located at 33 Ocean Avenue, and more. Make sure your camera is ready as you stroll around because this Maine town will not disappoint.

New Hampshire

The next East Coast destination is New Hampshire. Though much smaller in size than Maine, New Hampshire is bursting with a variety of landscapes to choose from. If you’re looking to get outdoors and stay active, New Hampshire is your state.

Concord + Manchester | 4-hour, 20-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Concord is a charming little town that just so happens to be the capital of New Hampshire and Manchester is the largest city in the state, but the two are so close to one another that the combination offers a perfect blend of the small-town and big-city vibe for a weekend getaway. Concord is often associated with orchards and farms galore so if you visit, Carter Hill Orchard, located at 73 Carter Hill Road; Dimond Hill Farm, located at 314 Hopkinton Road; and Apple Hill Farm, located at 580 Mountain Road, are few of our favorites. Of course, if we’re talking about apple cider, we wouldn’t dare leave out the hard libations. Concord is home to the Concord Craft Brewing Company, located at 117 Storrs Street, and Litherman’s Limited Brewery, located at 126 Hall Street Suite B.

Manchester brings more of the city vibe to balance out Concord’s small-town feel. If you’re feeling artsy, stop by the Currier Museum of Art, located at 150 Ash Street. Wash down your day of culture at Manchester’s 2nd Bridge Brewing Company located at 642 Hilliard Street or Labyrinth Brewing Company located at 148 Forest Street before heading home.

Lake Winnipesaukee | 5-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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This famous NH lake is the sixth-largest in the country. The lake’s beaches are perfect for relaxing in the sun or for the more active, swimming and sailing are a few of the water sports you can take advantage of on Lake Winnipesaukee in the summer.

White Mountain National Forest | 6-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Arguably one of the most popular destinations in all of NH, White Mountain National Forest is home to endless hiking trails , wild species, and views galore. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, it is worth the few hours of driving. Be sure to bring your camera and stop at the ranger station before beginning an excursion because they will fill you in on all of the things to keep an eye out for on your trek.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a state that everyone yearns to visit in the summer. With every type of scenery from picturesque islands — think Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket — boasting sailboats and beautiful hydrangea bushes to a city with an old, cobblestone street vibe, you can do and see it all in MA, and you may even consider taking more than just one weekend to do so.

Boston | 3-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

Visitors would be remiss to visit Massachusetts without at least passing through the bustling city of Boston . Boston is a city with old-time charm and a lot of history. As you walk through the town you encounter cobblestone streets, old buildings, and the waterfront of the harbor. Be sure not to miss iconic stops like Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox located at 4 Jersey Street; Quincy Market, located 206 South Market Street in the Faneuil Hall Marketplace; and Boston Public Garden located at 4 Charles Street for gorgeous park views.

For a little retail therapy, Newbury Street is bursting with designer shops and quaint brownstones that will have you strolling for hours, not to mention, great brunch spots can be stumbled upon as well. For the history buffs out there, pick up a map of the Freedom Trail for a self-guided history lesson. And speaking of history, Castle Island is an amazing landmark off the coast of South Boston.

Before leaving this incredible city, be sure to check out more incredible New England breweries based in Boston. Of course, the well-known Samuel Adams Boston Brewery, located at 30 Germania Street, is a must-see. If you’re in the mood for incredible craft beers and deliciously fluffy pretzels made from the actual hops of the beer, then Harpoon Brewery located at 306 Northern Avenue is the brewery for you. And finally, if you’re more of a cider-lover, Downeast Cider House, located at 256 Marginal Street #32, is a refreshingly tasty stop to conclude a day of Boston adventure.

Cape Cod | 4-hour, 15-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Known for the beach, this seaside town is the perfect place for fun in the sun. The Cape Cod National Seashore boasts over 40,000 acres of protected shorelines for you to enjoy so lather up on sunscreen, pack up your cooler, and hit the beach.

Martha’s Vineyard | 5-hour, 20-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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While Martha’s Vineyard does offer day trips from Boston, we recommend spending more than just an afternoon for a visit. Grab your camera for snapshots of sights like the Edgartown Lighthouse, located at 121 North Water Street, the Flying Horses Carousel located at 33 Lake Avenue, and even the furry creatures over at the Island Alpaca Company of Martha’s Vineyard, located at 1 Head of the Pond Road, Oak Bluffs. Seafood lovers can dine out on the water at a local favorite like Garde East, located at 52 Beach Road; Lucky Hank’s, located at 218 Upper Main Street; and The Seafood Shanty located at 31 Dock Street.

Nantucket | 6-hour, 30 minute trip from Hoboken + Jersey City

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A ferry ride to this picturesque island makes for a scenic end to the drive. This town is full of talented artists so visit one of its museums like the Whaling Museum at 13 Broad Street.

Of course, since Nantucket is an island, there are beaches galore. Hit the Madaket Beach, Surfside Beach, or Siasconset Beach and stare in awe at the many lighthouses Nantucket has to offer, namely the Brant Point and the Great Point Lighthouses. Conclude your day of beaching it with a cold one at Cisco Brewers at 5 Bartlett Farm Road. Sightsee, beach, beer, repeat.

Rhode Island

Newport | 3-hour, 15-minute drive from hoboken + jersey city.

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Possibly best known for its timeless mansions, the Cliff Walk is a must-see upon entering Newport. Beautiful estates like the Breakers at 44 Ochre Point Avenue; Rosecliff at 584 Bellevue Avenue; The Elms at 367 Bellevue Avenue and more are available for walking tours . You can purchase tickets for one or multiple estates at the Breakers upon arrival and you can walk or drive amongst each one. Along the Cliff Walk, you will also pass the beautiful Salve Regina University.

New York (Upstate)

Yes, we’re a hop, skip, and a jump away from NYC but New York is a massive state and when you enter upstate NY, it’s like a whole new world from the concrete jungle we know and love. Full of quaint small towns with boutiques and beautiful scenery, Upstate NY is not a destination to be missed.

New Paltz | 1-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

New Paltz is a HG  favorite, all starting with the quaint Watergrasshill Bed and Breakfast at 105 Phillies Bridge Road. This B&B, named after an old Irish town, is the perfect place to stay for either a romantic getaway or a fun weekend with pals. While in town, you might consider buying a day pass to hike the Mohonk Preserve trails, all leading up to one breathtaking peak. After a fun-filled day of hiking, visit the famous Angry Orchard Cider House, located at 2241 Albany Post Road in Walden, NY for crisp ciders, tons of outdoor seating space, and food trucks galore. Also, the cider donuts made on-site are unreal.

A trip to New Paltz is not complete without walking the famous Huguenot Street. You can stop for cocktails at Huckleberry, located at 21 Church Street, dine outside, do a little antique shopping, and grab a scoop at Huguenot Creamery at 78 Main Street to end the night.

Saratoga Springs | 3-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Saratoga is most notably known for the Saratoga Race Course, located at 267 Union Avenue. Even if a race isn’t happening during a visit, it’s worth making the trip to walk around the massive grounds. During the summer, the Saratoga Farmer’s Market is in full swing, making for the perfect summer activity. And of course, the sweeping hills of New York contain many well-known wineries and Saratoga is no exception. If you’re feeling in the mood for a glass of vino, wrap your trip up at The Saratoga Winery located at 462 Route 29.

Connecticut

Connecticut is a popular destination as part of the tri-state area because it’s a quick trip from Hudson County and offers a variety of landscapes, things to do, and towns to visit.

New Haven | 1-hour, 45-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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This Connecticut city plays host to the prestigious Yale University, a gorgeous campus to stroll around on. And with the campus comes the Yale University Art Gallery at 1111 Chapel Street to add a touch of culture to your trip. New Haven is bursting with parks and greens to take advantage of in the summer (or fall for the best photo opportunities) and nestled amongst them is the breathtaking Five Mile Point Lighthouse, located at 2 Lighthouse Road, a must-see in town. End the day with a meal at one of New Haven’s finest restaurants. For farm-to-table fare, try ZINC at 964 Chapel Street, for an Italian meal at a wine bar, Skappo at 59 Crown Street; or for an upscale French dinner, Union League Cafe is the way to go at 1032 Chapel Street.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is known for its popular cities of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh , which contain a ton of historical value and things to do. However, PA is quite a large state so where you end up visiting may depend on how far you’re willing to travel.

Philadelphia | 1-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Philadelphia is one of the first spots to come to mind when we think of Pennsylvania, and the list of things to do in this city does not disappoint. Philadelphia certainly has no shortage of sports teams to route on from football to hockey to baseball and more. If you enjoy living on the edge, Eastern State Penitentiary at 2124 Fairmount Avenue is a popular tourist attraction, standing hauntingly empty where there once used to be a prison.

And for the Rocky fans out there, the Philadelphia Museum of Art at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway plays host to yes, art, but more importantly, the famous steps that debuted in the Rocky films. Whether you’re going for a run-up and down them or actually using them to spend the day in the museum, they are an iconic Philly sight. For lunch or dinner plans, pay a visit to the Reading Terminal Market at 1136 Arch Street, which features over 80 food vendors.

Pittsburgh | 5-hour, 45-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Pittsburgh simply doesn’t get enough credit for living in the limelight of Philadelphia as “the other major city in PA” but this city has a lot to offer. From sports like football and hockey to the famous Pittsburgh Zoo at 7370 Baker Street, there is truly something for everyone. Pittsburgh is also known for its second-to-none food scene. Enjoy dining outdoors at fantastic spots like Noodlehead at 242 South Highland Avenue, Point Brugge Cafe at 401 Hastings Street, and so many more.

Delaware is a tiny state but again, one that is full of culture. Enter Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach — two of Delaware’s most-known cities that are both just a few hours away from Hudson County.

Rehoboth Beach | 3-hour, 30-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean side of the Delmarva Peninsula, Rehoboth Beach provides both fun in the sun (including a boardwalk) as well as city amenities, such as a movie theatre, restaurants, and shopping. Surrounding towns like Lewes and Dewey Beach are also fun to check out. If you’re looking to do some hiking, walking, or biking, head to Cape Henlopen State Park located at 15099 Cape Henlopen Drive in Lewes. For the shopping enthusiasts, there are three Tanger outlet locations located on Coastal Highway in Rehoboth with every store you can imagine. For coffee and breakfast fare, stop by Rise Up Coffee at 502 Rehoboth Avenue or The Point Coffee Shop + Bakery at 37140 Rehoboth Avenue Ext. When it’s time for dinner, head to Crabby Dick’s at 18831 Coastal Highway (we recommend the crab cakes and corn balls), Stop N Go Taco at 37229 Rehoboth Avenue, or Saketumi at 18814 Coastal Highway.

Wilmington | 2-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Wilmington is a city that has never-ending sites to see. For starters, the Nemours Estate at 1600 Rockland Road will transport you to France and make you feel as if you’re standing in the Chateau de Versailles garden. Exercise the cultural part of your brain by visiting the Hagley Museum and Library at 200 Hagley Creek Road, the Delaware Children’s Museum at 550 Justison Street, or the Delaware Art Museum at 2301 Kentmere Parkway. For those who are more active and looking to be outside, explore the Wilmington Riverwalk at 0 North Market Street, Bellevue State Park at 800 Carr Road, or the Brandywine Park and Zoo at 1001 North Park Drive.

Maryland is a very well-known destination for us New Jerseyans. Known not only for its city of Baltimore, home of the Orioles for all you baseball fans or the Ravens for the football fans out there, but Maryland is also full of beaches, which you may not have known before reading this article.

Baltimore | 3-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Baltimore is another city that is full of history and the fact that it’s located right on a harbor is even better. Fort McHenry and Fell’s Point are two locales that offer up historical tidbits around every corner. Baltimore is also known for the National Aquarium at 501 East Pratt Street, which is considered to be one of the best in the world. Conclude your trip to this Maryland town with an outdoor dining reservation at one of the harbor’s favorite restaurants such as McCormick + Schmick’s Seafood + Steaks at 711 Eastern Avenue or Phillips Seafood at 601 East Pratt Street.

Ocean City | 4-hour drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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The Ocean City beach and boardwalk are by far the biggest draw of this Maryland town. Enjoy a beautiful day on the beach riding the waves and end it on the boardwalk where you can eat, play, and stroll. Don’t even think about leaving this beach town without hitting up Thrasher’s Fries on the boardwalk, finished off with an ice cream cone at one of the many creamery destinations. Later on, hit up the Seacrets Distilling Company at 111 49th Street for hand-crafted spirits that will certainly lift yours.

Washington D.C. | 3-hour, 40-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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Of course, D.C. is not a state of its own but it is a territory that is quite well-known because, well, it’s the capital of our country . With that comes endless opportunities to brush up on history and politics.

Pretty self-explanatory, this destination is technically not a state but contains just as much to do as anywhere else on this list. Obviously, if you’re in our nation’s capital and have yet to see these sights, stopping by the White House, The Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and National WWII Memorial are a must. D.C. also plays host to museums of all types. The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History at 10th Street and Constitution Avenue holds the world’s most extensive collection of natural history specimens, the United States Holocaust Museum at 100 Raoul Wallenberg Plaza SW is a living memorial to the Holocaust. While these are just our recommendations, you could walk around this city all day and never run out of things to do or see.

See More: A Day Trip to Cold Spring, NY: A Hudson River Village

Virginia is the most southern state we’ll be taking you to in this guide and there are plenty of destinations to make the trek worth it. VA is home to a variety of city types but we feel that Williamsburg has it all — history, culture, family fun, and more.

Williamsburg | 5-hour, 50-minute drive from Hoboken + Jersey City

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The last stop on the East Coast destination tour, but certainly not the least. While Williamsburg is great for all ages if you have younger kids you really can’t go wrong here. This town is an extremely interactive way to engage your little ones in the rich history of our country. If you don’t already know, Williamsburg served as the capital of the Colony and Commonwealth of Virginia from 1699 to 1780 and acted as the center of political events leading to the American Revolution. That being said, Colonial Williamsburg is a must-see during your trip. You will be transported back in time through “townspeople” willing to tell their stories and include you in interactive experiences that tell a tale of Williamsburg long ago. If you want to stay away from a day full of history, Busch Gardens makes for a great, fun-filled day of amusement for the whole family.

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Alexa Martin

More stories, meet the jersey city resident behind the friends of ferris triangle park organization, 131 events in hoboken + jersey city this weekend | april 25-28, 2024, hoboken high school students are hosting a prom for local senior citizens, cinco de mayo 2024 events happening in new jersey, festivals, carnivals, + state fairs in new jersey this spring and summer, 5 new hoboken + jersey city real estate listings | april 2024.

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10 exciting family getaways a short drive from NJ

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It’s that time of year when everyone is mentally ready for a vacation. But flying anywhere right now will cost you more than your destination.

Yes, gas prices in the Garden State are increasing every day, but if you stay as local as you can to New Jersey, driving to your vacation spot is way more cost-efficient.

It’s easy to stay in New Jersey for the summer. The Jersey Shore is the go-to place in the tri-state after all.

Asbury Park was recently named one of the best 25 beaches in the United States by TravelAndLeisure.com

Long Beach Island is the way to go in my opinion.

Ocean City, NJ is a great beach town to bring the kids.

Wildwood is a popular spot but has a massive boardwalk and the beaches are free.

Speaking of free beaches, if you’re childless and still want the entertainment life after hours, you don’t need to pay to step foot on the Atlantic City beach.

You can visit the usual Point Pleasant Beach and Seaside Heights. I was going to call those beaches “overpopulated” but that’s the entire shoreline.

People actually travel from out of state just to spend their summers at the shore. Whether they own a house or rent one for a few weeks, it’s something locals have to get used to.

Visiting the Jersey Shore can be a day trip. Why not pack up the car and go on a small road trip that is far enough from home that you get that vacation feeling, but close enough to drive to and won’t break your bank account.

Here are 10 family getaways that are drivable from New Jersey:

1. Legoland

One Legoland Blvd, Goshen, NY

An amusement park for all Lego lovers.

2. Rocking Horse Ranch Resort

600 US-44, Highland, NY

An all-inclusive family resort with activities including horseback riding, banana boat rides, kayaking, paddle boats, water slides, mini-golf, and more.

3. The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark

555 Resorts World Dr, Monticello, NY

The great thing about indoor waterparks is that you don’t have to worry about inclement weather ruining your vacation. The Kartrite also offers an arcade and 6 miles of hiking trails.

4. Kalahari Resorts Poconos

250 Kalahari Blvd, Pocono Manor, PA

Another indoor waterpark that also offers an arcade, escape rooms, virtual reality experience, and a spa.

5. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park - Pocono Mountains

1 Great Wolf Dr, Scotrun, PA

Great Wolf Lodge isn’t just an indoor waterpark. It offers a MagiQuest experience where your child (or you can play yourself) chooses a special magic wand and goes on a magical quest.

There’s also a “Ten Paw Alley” that is a smaller version of bowling, an arcade, and a Build-A-Bear workshop.

6. Hersheypark

100 Hersheypark Dr, Hershey, PA

It’s home to Hershey’s chocolate and it basically smells like it 24/7. The theme park has rides for all ages, Hershey's Chocolate World takes you on a tour of how the chocolate is made, you can create your own candy bar, and take a tour on a trolley ride through the town of Hershey.

7. Camelback Resort

193 Resort Dr, Tannersville, PA

Camelback offers an all-year-round indoor waterpark, but also an outdoor one, Camelbeach, which is open seasonally. They also have laser tag, rock climbing, escape rooms, an arcade, and more.

8. Woodloch Resort

731 Welcome Lake Rd, Hawley, PA

If you’re into the outdoors, this is the place for your family. Woodloch offers bumpers cars, junior go-carts, splash pools, playgrounds, a petting zoo and pony rides, and more. And for the adults, the highlights are a golf course and spa.

9. Six Flags New England

1623 Main St, Agawam, MA

If you’ve been to Six Flags Great Adventures in Jackson, NJ, visiting Six Flags New England is a completely new experience. Although the theme is similar, most of the attractions are not.

10. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg is a historic town where you can learn all about American history.

When you’re ready for some thrills, you can visit Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

But if you do prefer to stay in New Jersey and take advantage of the Jersey Shore, here are the guidelines when it comes to beach tags.

NJ beach tags guide for summer 2022

Is your family into county fairs? New Jersey has plenty of them.

NJ county fairs make a comeback: Check out the schedule for 2022

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5's Morning Show Producer Kristen. Any opinions expressed are her own. Questions, corrections, or comments? Send Producer Kristen an email at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram .

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Wondering where to go on a road trip from New Jersey? New Jersey is perfectly situated within a day's drive of incredible locations on the East Coast , which means whether you want to explore big cities, small towns, vast mountains, or picturesque beaches, there's no shortage of quality drivable vacations from NJ.  

Drivable Vacations from NJ: What to Know

You need two things to make a great road trip. First, you need an exciting destination that's within driving distance. Second—and just as important—the drive itself has to be enjoyable. 

A road trip is as much about the journey as the destination, so it's important to plan a route with engaging scenery and some fun stops along the way. 

Some of the best road trips include an overnight stay somewhere to break up the drive. With that in mind, these are some of the best road trip ideas from NJ:

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

A mountainous region that spans 2,400 square miles in Northeast Pennsylvania, the Poconos are a prime road trip destination from New Jersey because they're just minutes away across the state line. The wooded peaks and valleys of this region are dotted with picturesque small towns and crisscrossed by hiking trails and scenic drives. 

Old Mine Road, a 250-year-old route that stretches 104 miles through Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a great place to start. This route offers rugged scenery, numerous overlooks, and historic sites along the PA/NJ border. Hop off to explore the charming town of Stroudsburg, PA.

It's also possible to drive to the summit of Camelback Mountain in Big Pocono State Park and take in the panoramic view. The nearby Camelback Mountain Adventures is Pennsylvania's largest adventure park, offering ziplines, rock climbing walls, and aerial adventure courses. 

Niagara Falls, New York

About a seven hour drive from northern New Jersey, Niagara Falls is a spectacular natural wonder that straddles the border between New York and Ontario, Canada. Between 8 and 10 million people visit the falls every year, and driving there is one of the best road trips from NJ. 

Along the way, you can experience some charming Upstate New York towns, stop for a meal or spend the night in Syracuse or Rochester, and maybe take a little detour to check out the wine country in the Finger Lakes region. Visiting Niagara Falls from New Jersey can be a great long weekend. 

Once you reach Niagara Falls, you have a lot of exciting options on either side of the border. Get up close with the mighty falls aboard the Maid of the Mist or experience a real adrenaline rush on a Niagara Falls jet boat tour. History buffs will also get a kick out of visiting Old Fort Niagara. 

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach is one of the best vacation spots on the East Coast and a very drivable vacation from NJ. The trip takes about four to six hours, depending on what part of the Garden State you call home. Along the way, you get to experience a beautiful coastal drive through parts of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. 

Perfect for a family beach getaway, Virginia Beach has three miles of oceanfront boardwalk bordering a beautiful strip of sand. You can also experience some fascinating sea life at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, and see the spot where the Jamestown colonists arrived from England in 1607 at First Landing State Park. 

The swimming season at Virginia Beach is generally considered to be May through September. This is a great summer road trip, but you can also beat the crowds—and still enjoy comfortable water temperatures—by visiting slightly before Memorial Day or after Labor Day. 

Green Mountains, Vermont

Vermont is the ultimate romantic getaway on the East Coast, and the Green Mountains stretch the entire length of the state from Massachusetts to Quebec. It's a rugged, beautiful landscape of rolling peaks and valleys, all within a six- or eight-hour drive of New Jersey. 

New England's fall foliage is legendary, so Vermont makes for a particularly great fall road trip. It's a pretty perfect winter destination too, especially if skiing some of the best slopes in the Northeast is appealing to you. Killington and Stowe each offer extraordinary skiing in the Green Mountains. 

Other highlights of a Vermont road trip include a scenic drive on the Route 100 Byway, a few stops at some of the state's 100 19th-century covered wooden bridges, and a craft beer tour in the birthplace of New England IPA. Stop for lunch in Montpelier, a charming little city that happens to be America's smallest state capital. 

Ultimate New Jersey Road Trip

Can you experience a great road trip without ever leaving New Jersey? Absolutely you can. From the beaches to the mountains, and from the Palisades to the Pine Barrens, New Jersey offers plenty of options for road trippers. A getaway in your home state should never be off the table. 

For starters, New Jersey has some great beach getaways. You can drive the coast from Long Branch to Cape May in under two hours, but this is a road trip best spread out over multiple days. Catch a concert in Asbury Park, check out the Barnegat Lighthouse on Long Beach Island, and walk the boardwalk in Atlantic City. 

Looking for something a little more wild and woolly? The Western Highlands Scenic Byway and Warren Heritage Scenic Byway traverse a combined 42 miles of the rugged northwestern part of the state, including Highlands State Park, Waywayanda Lake, and access to New Jersey's 71-mile section of the Appalachian Trail.

Plan the Best Road Trip from NJ

One thing you'll always need when you're on an epic road trip from New Jersey is a place to rest your head at night. Luckily, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts offers 8,900+ hotels worldwide, so there's pretty much always one within a day's drive of wherever you may be. 

Download the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts app today to streamline the planning of your next adventure with faster booking, mobile check-in and checkout, and seamless Wyndham Rewards account access.

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Find your stops, book your stays, hit the road. It’s the easiest way to book and go on the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts app.

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19 Best Scenic Drives in New Jersey

New Jersey's coastline, often referred to as the Jersey Shore, is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalks, and summer resort towns, and there are so many amazing scenic drives to take in all these sightseeing opportunities and so much more. It's easy to see why millions of people visit here each year!

New Jersey's awash with exquisite and exciting landscapes, with super stop offs to surprise and delight. From country roads to cityscapes, spooky drives to sandy shores, you can be sure of something for everyone as you explore spectacular New Jersey.

Whatever road trip you have in mind we have a scenic route for you. Keep reading to see all about the best scenic drives in New Jersey and the best things to see along the way.

1. Pulaski Skyway

10 minutes (5 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: More of a cityscape than a scenic view compared to the other journeys, The Pulaski Skyway provides elevated views across the city skyline and the Passaic and Hackensack Rivers.

It can be an interesting and unique way to best see the industrial landscapes on this renowned road.

Packed with historical significance, it was one of the first major highway projects in the United States. Constructed in the early 20th century, traveling on the Pulaski Skyway allows you to experience a piece of transportation history.

How to get there: Super short passage heading northeast on US-1/US-9 towards New Jersey and over the Hackensack River.

Scenic stops/overlooks: Designed for commuting, it doesn't offer specific areas for stopping or sightseeing, so you won't be able to stop along this short journey.

However, you can enjoy views of the surrounding urban landscape from the higher vantage point as you head over (great for your car passengers particularly), and parks and viewpoints close to the Pulaski Skyway.

Our highlights: The bridge itself is often considered as a local's secret, with the domineering steel cantilever bridge an iconic site in the area and piece of treasured architecture.

Skyway Golf Course is sure to be one of the most picturesque around. As you tee off you can enjoy views of Pulaski Skyway throughout this golf course with Pulaski Skyway in the distance.

Leonard Gordon Park, also known as Mosquito Park, is a public park at the end of the route, teeming with walking paths and playgrounds, and ideal for the whole family.

Fancy seeing the views from the water? Then you can take a trip along the Hackensack River by kayak or canoe, paddling along its scenic waters with the impressive Pulaski Pathway in the distance.

Close to the end of this Pulaski Skyway, Lincoln Park overlooks the Skyway and is teeming with outdoor recreation, baseball, basketball and track, as well as plenty of space for leisurely strolls with impressive views.

Where to stay: Around 20 minutes from the end of the Pulaski Skyway, you arrive at the Jersey City waterfront, with plenty of accommodation options, including Hyatt Regency Jersey City .

This hotel offers great waterfront and Manhattan skyline views, or check out the quirky bee farm on this hotel's rooftop deck.

Book a table at Vu Restaurant on-site for delicious contemporary American cuisine, with views of the Hudson River and Statue of Liberty.

Bonus: Pulaski Skyway features in the renowned ‘The Sopranos', seen in background shots when Tony Soprano is driving, and also ‘Analyze That' starring Robert De Niro.

Our travel tips: To travel over the Pulaski Skyway is free, with no tolls in place.

It can get busy during peak times, so heading over early in the morning will see less congestion, plus gives you a good start to the day for exploring New Jersey.

Plenty of the scenic parks and grounds are free if you fancy stopping and admiring the Pulaski Skyway from afar once you reach New Jersey, but if you want to play a round of golf at the Skyway Golf Course, then plan ahead and you can make savings.

2. Clinton Road

15 minutes (10 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: Possibly the creepiest route to take, Clinton Road is known for its numerous legends and ghost stories, which have contributed to its reputation as one of the most haunted roads in the United States.

Tales of paranormal activity, including sightings of strange creatures and mysterious occurrences. These legends have made Clinton Road a popular destination for paranormal enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.

Despite its haunted reputation, Clinton Road is known for its scenic beauty. It passes through heavily wooded areas, streams and rivers, with picturesque views along the way.

How to get there: This straightforward journey starts at Newfoundland, heading north on Clinton Road towards Paterson Hamburg Turnpike, reaching Hewitt after around 15 minutes.

Scenic stops/overlooks:

• Terrace Pond - Found near the northern end of Clinton Road, Terrace Pond offers a tranquil setting with a picturesque pond surrounded by lush forests and rocky terrain. It's a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
• Clinton Reservoir - This reservoir provides a lovely backdrop with calm waters and tree-lined shores. You can find a pull-off area along the road where you can stop and take in the scenic views.
• Clinton Road Woodlands – Stretches of scenic wooded area are throughout this short drive – particularly pretty in fall. However, the road itself is known for its narrow and winding nature, so it's important to keep an eye on other vehicles while enjoying the scenery.

Our highlights: The Clinton Furnace is a historic iron furnace near the Southern end of Clinton Road. Built in the 19th century, it was used to produce iron during the Industrial Revolution. Today, the ruins of the furnace are a reminder of the area's industrial past.

Explore the Abram S. Hewitt State Forest, which is named after the town's namesake. This forest offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, and you can even camp overnight. Several popular trails include Bearfort Ridge and the Appalachian Trail section.

A short journey from Hewitt, past Upper Greenwood Lake leads you to Wawayanda State Park, is a scenic site worth exploring. Here you can enjoy miles of hiking trails, and beautiful natural landscapes.

Bonus: The road's haunted reputation has led to it being featured in books, documentaries, and even inspired a horror movie titled ‘Clinton Road'.

Our travel tips: As a public road it is accessible to drivers without the need for toll payment. Weekdays and outside of peak summer are generally quieter times to travel this route, and during the daytime, you can see all the surrounding scenery.

However, if the road's haunted reputation adds to the excitement for you, traveling during dusk or nighttime might enhance the experience!

3. Palisades Scenic Byway

What makes this scenic drive special: The Palisades Scenic Byway runs parallel to the Hudson River, providing breathtaking views of the river and the iconic Palisades cliffs.

The Palisades Scenic Byway is also packed with recreational opportunities, where along with a pretty drive, you can stop off to hike, bike, jet-ski and boat along the Hudson River.

How to get there: From Fort Lee, head north along Palisades Interstate Parkway where you will shortly arrive at Palisades - although not before a stop or two to check out the incredible lookouts along the way!

• Ross Dock Picnic Area – Great views of the Hudson River and the surrounding landscapes. The picnic area is at a prime spot along the Palisades cliffs, allowing you to enjoy panoramic vistas of the river and the New York City skyline.
• Rockefeller Lookout Alpine Lookout - Spectacular views of the Hudson River and the surrounding landscapes. From these vantage points, you can take in the vistas of the river, Palisades cliffs, and the lush forests.
• State Line Lookout – Near the New Jersey and New York state border, it acts as a scenic rest stop and the chance to stretch your legs before the end of the road trip.

Our highlights: As you head off make a visit to Fort Lee Historic Park Visitor Center to learn more about the history of the area, the American Revolution, and the significance of the Palisades cliffs in the region's history.

Englewood Boat Basin is great if you're interested in boating or simply enjoy waterfront views. This marina offers a serene setting to watch boats sail by and take in the beauty of the Hudson River.

A short distance from the end of this route is Palisades Interstate Park. This expansive park stretches along the Palisades cliffs and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.

Scattered with well-maintained trails that wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands is Tenafly Nature Center, and you get the chance to wildlife spot in this pretty and peaceful surroundings. A hidden gem to head to.

Where to stay: Around 5 minutes from Palisades, continuing along Palisades Interstate Parkway, leads you to the impressive Residence Inn by Marriott Orangeburg .

Close to many great places to explore, including Depot Square and Snowden Avenue Park just a short drive away, this modern and stylish hotel boasts an indoor pool and a fitness center.

Make sure to check in advance as guests at can enjoy free appetizers and drinks on certain days – a great perk to enjoy!

Bonus: The stunning views of the Hudson River and the Palisades cliffs attract plenty of filmmakers and TV shows that have used the Palisades Scenic Byway include ‘The Sopranos', ‘War of the Worlds', ‘The Purple Rose of Cairo' and ‘Blue Valentine'.

Our travel tips: Take this route and you'll have different experiences throughout the year, with the changing seasons bringing their own unique beauty. From the vibrant colors of autumn to the greenery of spring, the lookouts allow you to see these natural transformations.

4. Henry Hudson Drive

30 minutes (10 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: Referred to as the ‘River Road' by many, the Henry Hudson Drive is part of the Palisades Interstate Park, running alongside the Hudson River which delivers stunning views of the river and the Palisades cliffs.

Conveniently close to New York City, if you fancy escaping from the city, or visiting the Big Apple afterwards, this is a great scenic drive either side of those adventures. It really offers a chance to experience the natural beauty just outside the bustling city.

How to get there: From Edgewater, head southeast along Henry Hudson Drive, passing Hudson Park and Alpine Marina before reaching Alpine. A super straightforward and scenic journey.

• Ross Dock Picnic Area - Within Palisades Interstate Park this is not only picnic facilities but also scenic views of the Hudson River. From the picnic tables or the nearby shoreline, you can enjoy views of the New York City skyline in the distance.
• Hudson Park – Beautiful waterfront setting this park features a paved promenade and walkways along the waterfront, or if you fancy something more energetic head to the playgrounds and splash pads – fun for all the family.
• Palisades Interstate Park – Part of this impressive park, there are various scenic overlooks to stop at to enjoy the views of the Hudson River and the Palisades cliffs.

Our highlights: Head to the Englewood Boat Basin for a scenic overlook of the Hudson River. Watch boats sail by and take in the beauty of the river, which is typically peaceful and a haven away from the busier outlooks.

Set within Palisades Interstate Park, the Kearney House is a historic 18th-century stone house that provides a glimpse into the area's colonial past.

A short journey towards Norwood, the interesting Women's Federation Monument site is dedicated to the women who played a crucial role in creating and preserving the park.

Where to stay: Located in Englewood and only 4.8 km to New York through the George Washington Bridge is the great Crowne Plaza Englewood, an IHG Hotel .

Plenty of attractions close by, including Wave Hill, Bronx Zoo and Veteran's Memorial Park close by, and a gorgeous indoor swimming pool, spa and jacuzzi to enjoy after a busy day or two sightseeing.

Make sure to reserve a table at the Blue City Grille Restaurant & Bar, serving up great American Cuisine morning throughout the day.

Bonus: Henry Hudson, who was the first European to sail up the river, is why the route has this name, however it took a long 300 years from his voyage to make the name change!

Our travel tips: Whilst there is a toll on Henry Hudson Bridge, this is over the water, and so this stretch of the route is free to pass

Spring and fall are great times to make this trip, with the blooming flowers and bold autumn leaves both making this is a beautiful time to travel. However, with so much to explore throughout this route, you can be sure whatever season, it'll be a pretty and memorable trip.

5. Route 563

20 minutes (15 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: The road is known for its serene and rural outlook, passing forests, farmlands and rolling hills as you travel towards Browns Mills.

As well as a scenic short tour, County Route 563 takes drivers to many spots which you can explore via hiking, biking, fishing and boating.

How to get there: From Egg Harbor City head northeast on Lovers Lane towards County Road 542, before joining County Road 563. It is then an easy journey along County Road 563 to Browns Mills.

• Evans Bridge - Historic landmark along Route 563, known for its picturesque architecture and scenic crossing over the waterway.
• Beaver Branch – A tranquil tributary that meanders alongside Route 563, adding to the beauty of the drive and ideal for wildlife spotting.
• Franklin Parker Preserve – Near Route 563, offers nature enthusiasts a chance to explore thousands of acres of pristine wilderness, with plenty of hiking trails to enjoy to get the best views.

Our highlights: Start your trip with a visit to Storyland Amusement Park. With plenty of entertainment and rides it is sure to keep you and the whole family entertained.

Only a few minutes into the journey, head out to the famous Washington Turnpike, taken by General George Washington and his troops during the Revolutionary War. Head here to enjoy walking, hiking and picnicking in this pretty scenic spot.

The expansive Brendan T. Byrne State Forest is full of scenic vistas and overlooks throughout its trails.

Near Browns Mills, Mirror Lake also offers a serene setting with its calm waters. There are viewpoints and picnic areas where you can stop and enjoy its beauty.

Where to stay: Around 20 minutes from the end of this route, Hill Top Motel can be found in Wrightstown.

A short drive to other popular attractions including Township Park and Mill Creek Park, this motel has a lovely outdoor area and gardens to enjoy relaxing after a days driving and exploring.

Bonus: Also known as ‘Green Bank-Chatsworth Road' in parts, it passes through the heart of the Pine Barrens, with rare plants, such as the carnivorous pitcher plant and the vibrant blueberry plant.

Our travel tips: It is free to travel this stretch of road, but make sure to be on the lookout for Terrapin turtles while you're driving past the marshes.

Driving along this road during autumn offers breathtaking views of colorful foliage, making it an ideal destination for extra special scenic drives.

6. Western Highlands Scenic Byway

25 minutes (20 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: The Western Highlands Scenic Byway shows off the stunning beauty of New Jersey's western highlands, taking you through rolling hills, lush forests and serene lakes.

A gateway to so many outdoor activities and recreation, you can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing and boating along this byway, so make the most of it with plenty of stop-offs as you journey through.

How to get there: Starting from Vernon Township, head northeast on Stockholm Vernon Road towards Old NJ-23, passing the beautiful Hamburg Mountain Wildlife Area.

Once you arrive at Vernon Township, turn left onto NJ-94 and then right onto Sand Hill Road, where you follow the byway along NJ-94 towards Warwick.

• Mountain Creek Resort - During the summer months, you can enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking or how about the water slides and pools – fun for all!
• Pinwheel Vista – Make sure to take a pit stop here and hike to the summit of the Pinwheel Vista. Well worth the effort to enjoy incredible views.

Our highlights: Hamburg Mountain Wildlife Management Area spans around 3,500 acres, and there are many trails for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings.

Make a visit to Treescape Aerial Adventure Park, where you can wander high in the trees at this nature preserve, with zip lines, rope ladders and obstacles to tackle along this overhead scenic adventure.

Cute playgrounds and walking trails greet you at Maple Grange Park and are dotted throughout this parkland. Take the mile paved walk, which is great for a leg stretch and lunch.

Where to stay: Close to many top sites such as Cicerale Park and lots of top ski spots if you are looking to hit the slopes is Appalachian Motel .

There is free parking on site, so no need to worry about your car as you settle here for a day or two, and a pretty garden to sit and reflect after a busy day exploring.

Bonus: Lots of myths circulate this area. ‘Jersey Devil', a mythical creature, is said to live in the Pine Barrens, a character that creates mystery and intrigue to the region.

Our travel tips: As it stands, there is no fee to make this scenic and interesting journey.

Visit in winter and make sure to stop off at Mountain Creek Resort. The resort features a ski area with multiple slopes, terrain parks, and snow tubing. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier, you can hit the slopes.

7. County Road 519

30 minutes (20 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: This is the oldest county road you can take, and in total covers around 88 miles. The section from Great Meadows to Phillipsburg passes barns, farms and vineyards.

The area surrounding County Road 519 is rich in history, where you can get a glimpse into the region's past visiting the old stone houses, churches and farmland.

How to get there: From Great Meadows, head south on County Road 519/Hope Bridgeville Road, passing Beaver Brook Wildlife Management Area and over Pequest River, shortly after turning left onto Belvidere Road.

Continue along County Road 519/Uniontown Road where you will pass Harmony and Upper Stewartsville before arriving at your destination in Phillipsburg.

• Beaver Brook Wildlife Management Area – Spanning over 3,000 acres, this wildlife-rich area is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, who can enjoy scenic walks through forests, meadows, and wetlands during a stop-off.
• Oxford Furnace Lake – A short detour from Brookfield, you'll find Oxford Furnace Lake. This peaceful lake offers a serene setting for picnicking, fishing, or simply enjoying the waterside.
• Pohatcong Mountain Overlook - While not directly on County Road 519 it's around a 20-minute drive from Upper Stewartsville and gives breathtaking views of Delaware River Valley and the towns below. Well worth the detour.

Our highlights: Jenny Jump State Forest near Hope, at the very start of the trip, is a scenic woodland retreat known for its views, hiking trails, and intriguing legend of Jenny Jump, who is said to haunt the forest after fleeing Native Americans and jumping from a cliff.

Delaware River Railroad Excursions train ride allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the Delaware River. The train has themed excursions throughout the year, including fall foliage rides, holiday trains, and special events, all enjoyed by vintage coaches.

A great opportunity to step back in time is a visit to Warren County Historical and Genealogical Society. Get a glimpse into Warren County history at these grounds.

Another popular historical stop-off is Van Nest Hoff Vannatta Farmstead. This farmstead dates back to the mid-18th century and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It provides insight into the daily lives of early settlers in Warren County.

Thirsty after all that history? Several vineyards are dotted along this journey. Little Ridge Vineyards specializes in producing handcrafted wines from locally grown grapes, and do excellent tours and tastings.

Where to stay: A 15-minute drive from Phillipsburg, you will find Hampton Inn Easton along US-22 west and then PA-248, a great location just off the highway, and close to top sites including several parks and popular Dutch Springs Aqua Park just a short drive away.

Stay here and you can enjoy the year-round indoor swimming pool, and state-of-art fitness center. With several restaurants and diners close by, and delicious continental breakfast included, you will also be well fed before you head back onto the road.

Bonus: County Road 519 has a long history dating back to the colonial era. It was originally a dirt road used by early settlers to navigate the rural landscape.

Our travel tips: County Road 519 is a public road maintained by the local county government and does not have toll plazas or toll charges.

This pretty short journey is ok to complete year-round, however, to enjoy the stop-offs, particularly vineyards, head in the warmer weather and you can take advantage of the sunshine and samples. It's also worth booking any tours in advance as it can get busy.

8. Route 542/Pine Barrens Byway

What makes this scenic drive special: In the heart of the Pine Barrens, a vast forested area spanning several counties in southern New Jersey, this route starts in Hammonton and stretches into Bass River Township.

A picturesque drive through the unique Pine Barrens, you will pass long stretches of forests and lakes along this 20-mile section.

The Pine Barrens Byway allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, and head into the depths of nature. It really is a pretty and tranquil drive.

How to get there: Heading away from Hammonton, take Nesco Road and County Road 542, passing Washington and Wading River before arriving shortly after at Bass River.

• Batsto Lake Overlook - Within the Batsto Village Historic Site, the Batsto Lake Overlook offers a panoramic view of Batsto Lake. It's a perfect spot to appreciate the beauty of the lake and the surrounding woodlands.
• Crowley Landing – Ideal for a leg stretch and lunch this pretty waterfront has picnic tables dotted along the waterfront and boat launches if you fancy an afternoon out on the water.
• Wading River - A popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. Rent a kayak or bring your own and explore the tranquil waters surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Pine Barrens.

Our highlights: As you travel this route you get the chance to visit the historic sites including Batsto Village. These well-preserved historic buildings are interesting and you can learn about the region's industrial past. Visit the Batsto Mansion, the blacksmith shop, and the general store for a glimpse into the area's history.

Bass River State Forest offers several hiking trails that allow you to explore the Pine Barrens. The 1.5-mile Holly Trail is a popular choice, leading you through a scenic Atlantic white cedar swamp.

The Pine Barrens is renowned for its wildlife, including many species that are unique to the region. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy trying to spot white-tailed deer, red foxes, and the elusive Pine Barrens tree frog as you pass through.

Wading River is home to several hiking trails that wind through the Pine Barrens. Some local favorites include the Batona Trail and the Penn Branch Trail.

Where to stay: Around 15 minutes from destination Bass River, Holiday Inn Manahawkin/Long Beach Island , an IHG Hotel is just off US-9 in Manahawkin/Stafford Township, with top attractions close by like Heritage Park and Manahawkin Lake Park.

Make the most of the indoor swimming pool, a hot tub, and fitness center, which are the perfect way to unwind after a busy day. Afterwards visit The Mainland Kitchen & Pub. Ideal for pre-dinner drinks, pull up a beach chair and grab a drink, before heading to dinner.

Bonus: The Jersey Devil is a mythical creature said to inhabit the Pine Barrens, with tales dating back to the early 18th century, of this winged creature with hooves and a horse-like head.

Our travel tips: This scenic road trip winds through the Pine Barrens region of New Jersey, offering a picturesque drive without any toll booths or fee.

You can be sure of a super picturesque trip if you make it during spring or fall when the flora colors are stunning.

If you fancy a visit to Bass River State Forest, it's open from 8am to 7pm everyday, and for the 2023 season, it's free to visit.

9. Warren Heritage Scenic Byway

35 minutes (20 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: Warren Heritage Scenic Byway (Route 57) is a byway traveling between Greenwich Township and Hackettstown, with tons of outdoor recreation and stunning views of the natural beauty that Warren County has to offer.

Pass several quaint towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm on the way, with towns such as Belvidere and Washington. Exploring these towns, you can understand more about the region's past and culture.

How to get there: From Greenwich Township take the NJ-57 east passing New Village and Washington, and then Anderson, with this super scenic journey fairly straightforward.

After passing Point Mountain North Section take Rockport Road, which then follows up towards High Street before reaching Hackettstown.

• Merrill Creek Reservoir – A short distance from Greenwich Township, you can detour to Merrill Creek Reservoir, which offers scenic overlooks and walking trails.
• Roaring Rock Park – Just on the fringes of Washington this beautiful setting is packed with walking trails, and a great stop year-round. There are several bridges over the creek that offer great picture opportunities.
• Anderson Mountain Reservation – Short journey from Anderson town is this nature reserve, surrounded in lush forests and landscapes. A great spot for taking in the areas views, and wandering the plentiful hiking trails.

Our highlights: Make sure to visit Shippen Manor in Oxford, where this well-preserved historic mansion a must-see. A short detour from Washington, head here and take a guided tour of the estate, stroll through the gardens, and learn about the area's heritage.

While not directly on the byway, Schooley's Mountain County Park is near to Hackettstown and definitely worth the journey. The park features hiking trails that lead to viewpoints where you can take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Not quite had your fix of historic houses? Then head to Rutherfurd Hall in Hackettstown. This stunning example of Georgian Revival architecture is a visual treat both inside and outside.

Where to stay: A short journey from Hackettstown and just off the highway so easy to jump on and off is the Holiday Inn Budd Lake - Rockaway Area, an IHG Hotel close to many pretty parks, including Common Park and Riverside Park.

This well-located hotel also has a great terrace, so make the most of sitting back and relaxing in the courtyard or take a dip in the indoor swimming pool and hot tub.

Bonus: If you continue a short journey from Hackettstown, then you will come across ‘The Shades of Death Road'. This stretch of road has gained a reputation for its intriguing and somewhat eerie name, with legends suggesting its connection to ghostly sightings…!

Our travel tips: This scenic and interesting journey is free to take on, and is a beautiful trip throughout the year. However, the vibrant colors in fall and blooming flowers in spring both make for particularly pretty times to travel.

If you fancy a visit to Shippen Manor, then make sure you head there on the first and second Sundays from May to December and enjoy a free tour.

10. Millstone Valley National Scenic Byway

45 minutes (25 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: This journey is renowned for its views of the picturesque landscapes of the Millstone River Valley and rolling hills, farmlands and waterways that you pass along the way.

Along this route you can enjoy many activities whilst taking in the scenic sights, with many hiking paths and lookouts on this route.

The Millstone Valley Byway is rich in history and passes through a region that played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War and early industrial development of the United States. You can be sure of plenty of informative, historical stop-offs.

How to get there: From Hillsborough Township, head south Main Street and Millstone River Road. This route takes you down the west side of the Millstone River past Griggstown Causeway and down to Reeve Road.

Continuing on River Road you pass Masonic Lodge, before then heading NJ-27 north, passing Kingston and Rockingham Historic Site.

Head onto Canal Road and you'll pass Griggstown Causeway before arriving at Six Mile Run Park – plenty of chance here for biking, hiking and horse-riding. Before arriving back at East Millstone and completing the loop.

• Princeton Highlands Canal – Stop off at The Princeton Highlands Canal, offering a tranquil waterway that winds through picturesque landscapes. A chance for boating and fishing
• Van Horne Park – Nestled along the Millstone River, Van Horne Park is a charming overlook with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.
• Autumn Hill Reserve - A preserved natural area known for its scenic hiking trails, wildlife, and stunning views.

Our highlights: Kingston is a historic village that served as the capital of New Jersey for a short period during the Revolutionary War. It features well-preserved colonial buildings and offers a glimpse into the region's past.

Take a visit to Rockingham Historic Site. General George Washington's final Revolutionary War headquarters, this site in Kingston showcases the restored Rockingham house and offers guided tours.

Or for those wanting to keep on the move stop off at Six Mile Run Park. A vast park spanning over 3,000 acres in Franklin Township, and a great place to head to for a spot of hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing.

Charming, quaint, East Millstone hamlet is located near the Millstone River and known for the East Millstone Baptist Church, which dates back to the early 19th century.

Where to stay: Staying for a day or two? Then make sure to book a stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Bridgewater Branchburg/Somerville , just a short drive from John Basilone Memorial Field, The Children's Museum and Garden State Convention Center.

Modern and bright rooms and lounges to relax in., and on-site fitness center if you want to stay on the move, you can also enjoy a delicious full English breakfast before heading off on your way.

Bonus: During this route you'll pass through Griggstown, which is famous for its ‘Griggstown Cow Parade', a display of creatively decorated life-size fiberglass cows throughout the village. Each cow is uniquely painted by local artists.

Our travel tips: There are no tolls along this route.

Before you set off, go to the visitor center in Griggstown Village. This is open from April to October on weekend afternoons and is a great place to plan your trip or hire out any equipment like canoes & kayaks.

11. Route 29/Delaware River Scenic Byway

45 minutes (30 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: As you drive this winding riverside road, you will be able to enjoy beautiful views along with Revolutionary War-era architecture with this route packed with history, charm and stunning parkland.

The beautiful Route 29, known as River Road at points and Delaware River Scenic Byway, enjoys forest views as soon as you head out of Trenton.

How to get there: Beginning the journey at state capital of New Jersey, Trenton, this straight road takes you on NJ-29, running alongside the beautiful Delaware River.

This route travels past Washington Crossing, Stockton, Lumberville and Point Pleasant as you make the fairly short trip alongside the Delaware River to Frenchtown.

• Washington Crossing State Park – Enjoy tours across this legendary Revolutionary War site, with historical tours and nature trails.
• Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve – Spanning 134-acres, this botanical garden is packed with native flora and ideal for afternoon meander.
• The Lambertville - New Hope Bridge connects New Jersey and Pennsylvania and the bridge is a great spot to enjoy panoramic views of the river and the charming towns of Lambertville in New Jersey, and New Hope in Pennsylvania.
• Bulls Island Recreation Area – Part of the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, here you can enjoy hiking trails and picnic areas in the midst of Delaware River beauty.

Our highlights: New Hope Railroad is a top attraction at New Hope, about halfway along this road trip. Feel like you are stepping back in time at these historic trains that have been around on this railroad since 1891.

Once you arrive make sure to step over the impressive historic Uhlerstown-Frenchtown Bridge across Delaware River crossing New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Frenchtown's Riverside Park is also a lovely spot to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. The park offers picnic areas, benches, and a gazebo, making it a perfect place for a leisurely picnic in peace and quiet.

Fancy something high energy? Then a local favorite is the charming Frenchtown Roller Rink. Around since 1977 you can dance the night away under the neon lights.

Where to stay: Located right off NJ-29 for easy access on and off the highway is Woolverton Inn , close to popular sites including Virginia Forrest Recreation Area and Canal Park.

This beautiful house and grounds is very tranquil and features a pretty terrace for enjoying breakfast and coffee – the full English breakfast options are said to be delicious.

Make sure to relax in the garden after a busy day, enjoying the views of this traditional and picturesque inn.

Bonus: Route 29 has been featured in several films, including the recognized 1997 film ‘The Rainmaker', directed by Francis Ford Coppola, where some scenes were filmed along the road.

Our travel tips: This state highway following the course of the Delaware River is toll-free, although if you cross over the Delaware River to explore, be aware you may need to pay charges to cross.

A great time to travel Route 29 and the Delaware River Scenic Byway is fall, when the colors are stunning. This makes for some stunning pictures whatever the time of day.

Many flock through this route from Memorial Day through Labor Day, so visiting late fall avoids some of the crowds then too.

12. Upper Freehold Historic Farmland Scenic Byway

50 minutes (30 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: This journey passes through an area steeped in history. Along the route, you can discover historic farms, barns, and landmarks that are a mix of serene pastures and charming rural vistas.

It is renowned for its scenery, recreational and cultural sites and is a beautiful route to travel and learn more about New Jersey's history.

How to get there: This loop starts at Allenstown, heading southwest before taking Allentown Davis Station and down Holmes Mill Road passing Cream Ridge Golf Course grounds.

From here, you can visit both Crosswicks Creek Park and Historic Walnford before circling back and visiting Polhemustown, before traveling along Polhemustown Road, Walnford Road and Hill Road south.

From here you'll be nearly at the second section of Crosswicks Creek Park before taking NJ-27, passing Cream Ridge and weaving up to Clayton Park using Trenton Lakewood Road. Stone Tavern and Coxs Corner are then seen ahead of arriving back at the start.

• Heritage Park – A cherished recreational area that showcases the natural beauty of Upper Freehold. With its well-maintained trails, serene ponds, and lush greenery, the park provides a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Crosswicks Creek - The byway crosses over Crosswicks Creek at various points, offering glimpses of the serene waterway. You can find scenic spots near the bridges or pull-offs to enjoy the scenery.
• Clayton Park – A scenic stop-off within the open meadows, wooded areas, and picturesque streams. It provides a serene setting for walking and picnicking.

Our highlights: Historic Walnford is a must-visit, and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region's agricultural and industrial past through its well-preserved buildings, including a 19th-century gristmill, farmhouse, and barns.

A golf fan? Then book a round at Cream Ridge Golf Course. This picturesque and well-regarded course offers players an enjoyable day with stunning surroundings.

If horses are more to your liking, then The Horse Park of New Jersey is a premier equestrian facility, with sprawling grounds and beautiful trails. It serves as a hub for horse-related activities and events, attracting riders and spectators alike.

If you fancy something less energetic, then head to Screamin Hill Brewery. A popular destination in Upper Freehold it is known for its handcrafted beers brewed with locally.

Where to stay: A great place to stay is the fabulous Hampton Inn and Suites Robbinsville , just off the highway and close to outdoor spaces Byron Johnson Park and Drialo Park, and a short drive to Princeton Battlefield.

This great hotel offers a lush indoor pool for taking a dip, and lovely outdoor seating area for some downtime. Make sure to stay for the yummy, well-rated, American breakfast before you set back off.

Bonus: The Upper Freehold Historic Farmland Scenic Byway was featured in the 2008 film ‘The Happening', directed by M. Night Shyamalan. Several scenes of this thriller were filmed along the scenic byway.

Our travel tips: With no tolls you can enjoy access to the picturesque farmland and historic sites of Upper Freehold without any cost.

If you are planning to visit The Horse Park of New Jersey then there are lots of events throughout the year. The popular annual ‘Jersey Classic Horse Show' is held in July, but there are many across the year so make sure to check out the local fixtures.

13. Old Mine Road

1 hour 15 minutes (30 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: If you fancy a scenic drive that is off the beaten track, then a tour down Old Mine Road is just for you.

This drive is packed with incredible views, taking you away from the tolls and traffic of the Turnpike and alongside lakes, creeks and forests. Some describe it as New Jersey's loneliest road, and it could also be seen as one of the most scenic.

One of the best things about Old Mine Road is that it is one of the oldest continuously used roads in the USA following the ancient Native American trail. Traveling along Old Mine Road allows you to experience the rich history in this area.

How to get there: From Montague, head west on Old Mine Road, with this pretty straight road tracking all the way down to Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

From here you continue to follow Old Mine Road before shortly after reaching Hardwick Township.

Please note that this road in parts may be closed during certain times or certain days, so always plan this journey ahead.

• Flatbrookville Overlook – A short distance from Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, this overlook provides picturesque views of the Flat Brook and the surrounding wooded areas.
• Van Campens Glen Overlook – This stop-off showcases the picturesque Van Campens Glen, a beautiful waterfall and hiking trail. From the overlook, you can glimpse the gushing water and lush greenery of the glen.
• Turtle Beach Overlook - This overlook provides views of the serene Delaware River and its scenic shoreline. It's a peaceful spot to stop off for a leg stretch.
• Kittatinny Point - Located towards the end of Old Mine Road journey, Kittatinny Point offers stunning views of the Delaware River and the Kittatinny Mountain Range. It's a popular spot for picnicking, relaxing, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

Our highlights: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is renowned for its stunning beauty, stop off here to admire the rolling hills, meandering rivers, and picturesque waterfalls.

Found in Dingmans Ferry, Dingmans Falls is the second-highest waterfall in Pennsylvania, at 130 feet. The waterfall is nestled within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, accessible via a short and scenic trail. This really is a must-see natural wonder.

Afterwards head to Dingmans Ferry Historic District. Enjoy an interesting visit to this area to understand more about the region's past found along The Old Mine Road.

Where to stay: Around 20 minutes from towards the southern end of the Delaware Water Gap you can head to Camelback Resort in Tannersville for a great stay.

Ideally located if you are off skiing, with ski-to-door available with Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains just on the doorstep.

Check out the swimming pool and water slides with an afternoon of water fun at the resort before heading for food. With six restaurants on-site serving delicious American and Italian cuisine, you are spoilt for choice.

Bonus: The road is over 350 years old! Just think about the centuries of footsteps, wagons, and carriages that have traveled along this historic road

Our travel tips: Please note that parts of this route are closed in winter.

There are no fees to travel Old Mine Road, making it a great scenic option to take, and particularly lovely in the fall, with the changing leaves making it extra special.

Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area is free to visit, however, from April to October, you might need to pay amenity fees to take part in some of the activities here, such as boating and swimming.

14. Route 539

50 minutes (45 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: Route 539 passes through picturesque countryside, providing scenic views of farmland, forests, and charming rural landscapes.

As well as scenic sights, this route is packed with historic sites, landmarks and original buildings you can stop off and explore along the way.

How to get there: As you head away from Allentown, head southwest on Maiden Lane towards Waker Avenue taking County Road 539 south.

Following this straight route, you will pass Polhemustown and Hornerstown before passing scenic spots Cedar Glen Lakes, Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area and lush forests most of the drive.

After crossing the Garden State Parkway intersection, you will then arrive at Tuckerton.

• Colliers Mills Wildlife Management Area - A vast expanse of protected land you can stop at various designated parking areas, to enjoy the scenic viewpoints overlooking forests, wetlands, and open fields.
• Cedar Glen Lakes – Perfect stop off for those seeking a tranquil lakeside retreat, with a serene setting and the chance to go fishing, boating, and enjoy the walking trails.
• Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area – Spanning over 32,000 acres, this is a huge area to go exploring. Head along Hidden Lake Trail for a short loop to a hidden gem of a pretty lake.
• Brendan T. Byrne State Forest – Around halfway along the journey, you can detour along NJ-72 towards Brendan T. Byrne State Forest. Here there are miles of hiking trails, including the popular Batona Trail with unrivaled views.

Our highlights: Whitesbog Village is in a beautiful setting and is recognized as the birthplace of the commercial blueberry industry. Exploring the village allows you to step back in time and learn about the history of cranberry and blueberry farming in the region. Interesting and tasty!

Take a short detour from Hornerstown along Monmouth Road and enjoy the thrill and spills of the popular Six Flags Great Adventure Park. A great way to kick-start your trip.

With a rich history dating back to the 18th century New Egypt features well-preserved historic buildings and structures, including the New Egypt Historic District. Stroll around this charming and architecturally impressive site.

Also take time to visit Bass River State Forest to enjoy ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking trails wind through the forest, and with Lake Absegami on the doorstep you can also enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing fun.

Close to Tuckerton, Wharton State Forest offers scenic overlooks and vistas. The forest covers a vast area with diverse landscapes, including the iconic Pine Barrens. The Batsto River and Batsto Lake are particularly picturesque and a photographer's dream.

Where to stay: After visiting Tuckerton head 30 minutes towards Long Beach and you can enjoy a night or two in the pretty beachfront Windward at the Beach .

Enjoy a coffee or aperitif sitting on the large wrap-around terrace before taking advantage of the free beach passes you can while away an afternoon or more on the sandy shores.

You can also head to some of the local attractions, including Veteran's Memorial Park and Bi-centennial Park just a short walk away.

Bonus: As you travel Route 539 keep an eye out for the ‘Painted Rock', a large boulder that takes on different images, pictures and slogans over time – but no one knows the painter responsible!

Our travel tips: There are no toll fees to make this trip and many of the stop-offs are also fee-free. However, parking charges and extras (if you fancy boating) will involve some cost and licenses.

Fall is a great time to make this journey, with the surrounding forests really make this trip ‘pop'. Spring, when the roads and attractions are also less hectic, is a great time to travel.

15. Ocean Drive

2 hours (45 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: This route is a great way to see New Jersey's incredible coastline stretching from Atlantic City to Cape May.

People say that to guide the way you need to ‘follow the gull', and there indeed gull signs en route, however you'll not want to stray far anyway from the coastline views.

Ocean Drive provides access to various beaches along the New Jersey coastline, where you can stop and enjoy the sandy shores and top swimming spots.

How to get there: Leaving the bright lights of Atlantic City, take Atlantic Avenue, where you will pass Margate City, Ocean City and Sea Isle City, all bursting with top sights and ocean views.

From here Ocean Drive continues down the coastline passing Stone Harbour and the Wildwoods before after arriving at Cape May.

• Stone Harbor Point – Close to Middle Township, this spot offers scenic vistas of the dunes, beach, and ocean. It's a popular spot for birdwatching and enjoying coastline views.
• Ocean View – Take a short detour to Sea Isle City, a particularly scenic stop. Pristine sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles at this picturesque coastal setting.
• Cape May Point State Park – Once you arrive in Cape May this site offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Check out Cape May Lighthouse, you can take in panoramic views of the coastline.

Our highlights: Make the most of Atlantic City before you head off. If you are looking to drink, dance, gamble or take in a show, this is the place for you! Prepare to be greeted by endless entertainment and fun – there really is something for everyone.

Ocean City is great for family fun. A dry town it's less about partying and more about wholesome entertainment. Play a round of mini-golf or visit the pier for rides.

Make sure to also head to Stone Harbor. You'll find fantastic shops, delicious dining options and a small, local museum that's worth a visit. Don't forget to stop and relax at the beach - you'll find this area a bit more relaxed than Cape May and Wildwood.

Cape May Lighthouse also offers tons to do in this charming town at the end of the journey. Visit the Cape May Lighthouse and as well as a tour you might also get a chance to whale watch from afar. Afterwards head to the local shops and places to eat.

Where to stay: The beachfront La Mer Beachfront Resort property enjoys an ocean view from each hotel room balcony.

Delicious Pier House restaurant on-site serves up great American and Mediterranean dishes, with a seasonal swimming pool to enjoy a dip with glorious ocean views.

Bonus: A popular filming location for films and TV shows, this scenic coastal road has been featured in several top shows including 1998 film ‘City of Angels' starring Nicolas Cage and Meg Ryan.

Our travel tips: The five toll bridges on Ocean Drive charge $2.00 for cars which can be paid in cash or with E-ZPass, so make sure to keep your pass or wallet topped up.

As with any shoreline journey it's best made when the weather is good. Whilst it'll be busier, in spring and summer, and even early fall, you can enjoy the nicer weather for beach stops en route.

16. Drive around High Point State Park

2 hours 15 minutes (50 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: High Point State Park is located in the Kittatinny Mountains of New Jersey, offering breathtaking panoramic views. As you drive across the Appalachian National Scenic Trail you can enjoy the beautiful forests, hills, and valleys.

The High Point Monument commemorates the highest point in New Jersey and serves as a memorial to war veterans, with plenty of historic sites to visit during the journey loop.

How to get there: Starting from Culver Fire Tower head south east, passing Sunrise Mountain Overlook and towards Sawmill Lake Campground.

Take Monument Road to NJ-23 N in Wantage and you'll shortly pass High point Monument for amazing views. Before then dipping back south to visit Montague.

Before the end of the journey, you'll get to visit Sussex County Sunflower Maze before arriving at Buttermilk Falls.

• Sunrise Mountain Overlook – The Sunrise Mountain Overlook at High Point State Park offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, especially during the early morning hours when the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues.
• High Point State Park - A magnificent natural destination, encompassing acres of pristine forests, rolling hills, picturesque lakes, and an abundance of recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
• High Point Monument – The towering High Point Monument stands proudly at the highest point in New Jersey, serving as a tribute to veterans and providing an awe-inspiring view of the Kittatinny Mountains and the sprawling countryside below.

Our highlights: The Appalachian Mountains Trail is a must. Make sure to head along the white trail, the largest one in the park. This very famous trail takes you through the Appalachian Mountains and is sure to leave lasting memories.

The Sussex County Sunflower Maze is a delightful attraction where visitors can wander through rows of vibrant sunflowers.

High Point Golf Club offers golf enthusiasts a challenging and scenic course set against the backdrop of the park's views – what a course!

Make sure to visit Buttermilk Falls. Cascading down a rocky cliff this really is a spectacle.

Where to stay: Set in a great location close to the High Point State Park, with picturesque scenery of Pocono Mountains, the Hampton Inn Matamoras , is an ideal place to stay.

Charming and traditional décor, this is a delightful hotel to spend a night or two. Hungry? A variety of bistros, pizzerias and restaurants are just a short drive away.

Bonus: The Appalachian Trail is a nearly 2,200-mile hiking trail, so if you get a taste of it here, you can always keep going and going!

Our travel tips: Although it is fee free to make this impressive loop, you will need to pay to get into the park when you arrive. Entrance fees are charged from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day.

Fall is particularly pretty, with the changing leaves and woodlands, or head in summer and you can make the very most of all the trails and stops along the way.

17. Route 513

1 hour 55 minutes (65 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: Head along Route 513 and you can be sure of a journey through pretty woods, water fronts, preserves and interesting small towns to stop at and enjoy the views.

Route 513 connects several historic towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm. Places like Chester and Clinton are known for their well-preserved architecture and quaint downtown areas, and well worth a stop off along the way.

How to get there: From West Milford head south-west turning into Union Valley Road and then picking up County Road 513.

This straightforward journey passes Newfoundland, Farny State Park and Rockaway, before arriving at Black River Wildlife Management Area near Chester and a great place to explore.

From here continue along County Road 513 towards historic towns High Bridge and Clinton, before shortly after arriving at Frenchtown.

• Black River Wildlife Management Area – Spread over 3,000 acres this impressive parkland alongside Black River has plenty of hiking trails. It's a protected spot for wildlife conservation, and plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife whilst you walk.
• Voorhees State Park - Near Glen Gardner, Voorhees State Park offers a scenic overlook known as the ‘Vista', with panoramic views of This is a particularly popular spot for photographers.
• High Bridge Reservoir - As Route 513 passes through the town of High Bridge, you can catch glimpses of the High Bridge Reservoir, offering a scenic backdrop as you drive through the area.
• Round Valley Recreation Area - While not directly along Route 513, Round Valley Recreation Area is a short detour. The reservoir and surrounding mountains are breathtaking, and there are designated spots you can stop to enjoy the vistas.

Our highlights: A well-preserved historic gristmill dating back to the early 19th century, The Red Mill shows Clinton's industrial past and serves as a living history museum. Found along the South Branch of the Raritan River, it is also has a pretty backdrop to appreciate.

Frenchtown is known for its vibrant arts scene and unique boutiques. This is a great town to explore and meander through the numerous art galleries and shops.

The town of Chester along Route 513 features a picturesque downtown area with charming historic buildings and quaint shops. Walk along its streets to best see the well-preserved architecture and small-town feel.

Frenchtown Railroad Arch Bridge is also worth a visit. This historic iron truss bridge spans the Delaware River, with intricate lattice design. A lesser visited attraction, head here to wander round and enjoy some peace and views.

Where to stay: If you travel around 15 minutes from Frenchtown to Stockton, you will find the exceptional Woolverton Inn .

A short drive to many top sites such as Virginia Forrest Recreation Area, Canal Park and Pat Livezey Park you can have a packed day exploring before heading back to the beautiful terrace and garden, which are ideal to unwind in.

The next morning enjoy a delicious breakfast, with great Full English option available, a great way to start the day!

Bonus: The journey is popular for traveling to the annual ‘Great Pumpkin Carve' event in the town of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. While the event takes place just across the state line, Route 513 is a convenient route for visitors traveling from the New Jersey side.

Our travel tips: This scenic and interesting route is free to travel through as you head down Route 513.

Fall is a very scenic time to take this trip, however, if you fancy all the outdoor recreation along the way, then nearby parks and outdoor spots are best visited during the spring and summer, when its busier but more enjoyable to take part.

18. Bayshore Heritage Byway

Via route 49.

1 hour 45 minutes (80 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: The Bayshore Heritage Byway showcases the natural beauty of New Jersey's Bayshore region, offering stunning vistas of the Raritan Bay and the surrounding landscapes.

The Bayshore region is steeped in history. Along the byway you'll encounter historic sites, museums, and landmarks that tell the story of the area's maritime past, including its role in shipping.

How to get there: From Cape May head along Pittsburgh Avenue and NJ-109 north to Garden State Parkway in Lower Township, following towards Upper Township.

From here pick up NJ-55 in Millville from NJ-49, before the US-40 W leads you to Mannington Township.

• Cape May County Park East – A sprawling park offering walking trails, picnic areas, sports fields, and a nature center.
• Beaver Swamp - A picturesque wetland area known for its diverse wildlife it provides a habitat for various bird species and is a popular spot for birdwatching and photography.
• Peaslee Fish and Wildlife Management Area – Stop off here at this pretty conservation area that offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife.
• Union Lake Wildlife Management Area - A scenic natural area surrounding Union Lake, offering boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Our highlights: Cape May County Park & Zoo is a free-entry zoo in Cape May Court House, home to various animals from around the world. Enjoy lions, giraffes, monkeys, and more while enjoying the park's serene setting.

If you want to try something more exhilarating, then visit Tree to Tree Cape May, an exciting adventure park offering aerial obstacle courses and zipline experiences, swinging through the lush tree canopy.

The Maurice River Bluffs Preserve natural area along the Maurice River, features hiking trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and bluffs. It offers stunning views of the river.

Or how about the Palace of Depression is a unique and eccentric structure located in Vineland. Built during the Great Depression, it was constructed using recycled materials and various unconventional objects.

Where to stay: Stop off at Millville for a night at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Millville Vineland , and you can explore local sights, including South Vineland Park and Veteran's Memorial Park.

With a state-of-art fitness center and indoor pool you can relax in style, before heading to the pretty outdoor terrace and gardens before dinner, there are several dining options within walking distance to check out.

Bonus: The Bayshore Heritage Byway is home to one of the largest concentrations of historic lighthouses in the US, so fab for any maritime fans!

Our travel tips: Cape May Toll Plaza is en route, so make sure to show your E-ZPass as you travel past.

Make an early stop off at Huddocks, a great place to get a bite to eat with burgers and soft-serve renowned.

19. Garden State Parkway

2 hours 30 minutes (170 miles)

What makes this scenic drive special: Garden State Parkway is much more than a highway. It might not seem it but it's a super scenic route passing through the heart of New Jersey, with beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastline, and passing some of the best New Jersey attractions along the way.

Unlike other major roads, the Garden State Parkway has a ‘natural feel' about it, with the signage along the roadside aimed to blend in with the surroundings and be sympathetic to the surroundings.

Travel this route directly and it is a speedy way to journey the long length of the parkway from Cape May to Montvale – although in the summer you can expect a little longer on this popular route!

How to get there: A nod towards New Jersey's nickname, the ‘Garden State', The Garden State Parkway is an easy journey traveling the whole trip from Cape May to Montvale following the Garden State Parkway and its green and yellow circular signage.

• Bass River State Forest – Around a third of the way into the journey, this scenic stop spans 23,000 acres has over 20 miles of trails for hiking or biking, or make your way to Lake Absegami for a dip in the pretty waters.
• Double Trouble State Park – Plenty of nature trails around this site, ideal for a leg stretch. The boggy grounds make it ideal for wildlife spotting, such as turtles and beavers.
• Cheesequake State Park – So much to explore, packed with streams, creeks, lakes and meadows spanning 1,610 acres. Biking, hiking, swimming are all popular here. Found only 22 miles from Newark, you can be sure of a super scenic stop before heading towards the city. There is also a Service Plaza in Middlesex County where you can stop to refuel your vehicle and yourself, before continuing.

Our highlights: A short distance from Hockhockson along Highway-18 is Asbury Park. This vibrant coastal town is known for a lively boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and music scene. Make a visit to The Stone Pony, where renowned musicians like Bruce Springsteen began.

If you have time then make sure to visit Island Beach State Park, a barrier island along Jersey Shore just after Toms River, heading on Highway-37 and then along Shore Road. It is known for its natural beauty, dunes, and wildlife – a must for nature and beach lovers.

Once you arrive at Montvale, history buffs are going to enjoy visiting the beauty spot Woodcliff Lake, perfect for boating, fishing, and picnicking.

History fans will also like Montvale Train Station, a historic train station building that dates back to the late 19th century, and The Hermitage, a museum once home to landscape painter William Hayes Ward. Both are interesting and architecturally charming.

Where to stay: Ready to relax? Then just over two-thirds of the way along this journey is Asbury Ocean Club Hotel , close to lots of great attractions including Founder's Park and Asbury Park Boardwalk.

Feel like a celebrity staying at this stunning 5-star hotel, where you get beachfront views, swimming pools and first-class service. The outdoor terrace is the perfect spot for amazing ocean views while you sit back and relax, or visit on-site spa and fitness center.

Bonus: After lots of motorcycle accidents on this pathway from 1961 to 1975 all vehicles were banned from riding that stretch of road. If you were caught then you'd lose both $200 and 30 days of freedom!

Our travel tips: The longest highway in the state, passing 172 miles, has around 11 toll plazas, so make sure to bring plenty of cash along for the ride or a topped-up E-Z Pass.

Unpredictable weather can affect the opening of the Garden State Parkway in parts, so make sure to check ahead before traveling.

Summer months are the busiest times on the road, so if you fancy less traffic, then head in the shoulder months, where the surroundings will also be pretty in spring and fall colors.

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These New Jersey road trips showcase the state's quieter side

Oct 3, 2021 • 6 min read

The 130-mile Jersey Shore ends in Cape May, which has a National Historic District of 600 preserved Victorian homes © Shutterstock / EQRoy

The beauty of life on the road in New Jersey is that one minute you may be in densest twists and turns of a highway interchange then emerge in the most stunning of settings, passing through dramatic peaks with a sprawling view of Manhattan in front of you. (Yes, we’re talking about that stretch of I-280 near The Oranges.) Or you’ll be cruising along the famed Jersey Shore only to find yourself pulling over at the most rustically delightful roadside market near the Pinelands ( The Corn Stop in Mount Holly). 

With 39,000 miles of public roadways to explore, there’s no doubt that the heart of the Garden State is in its arteries. Here, we explore five of the most fulfilling road trip experiences in New Jersey.

The complete Jersey Shore

Start – Sandy Hook; End – Cape May; Distance – 130 miles

Why pick and choose when you can see the Jersey Shore ’s entire 130 miles of famed sand? Start in the north in Sandy Hook, where you can climb the 95 steps of the nearly  260-year-old lighthouse  (check for closure alerts during the pandemic) and follow the Atlantic Ocean’s edge southward to Cape May with its designated National Historic District for its 600 preserved Victorian homes.

For those with a spontaneous spirit, ditch the map and just follow the coastline, making stops where instinct dictates – you can easily find yourself bouncing among lively boardwalks, charming resort towns and nature reserves while enjoying frozen custard, saltwater taffy and plenty of fresh seafood. 

The best time to visit New Jersey

If you thrive with a tad more direction, follow Ocean Avenue out of Sandy Hook and keep going. You may find a couple breaks on the road, like around Asbury Park (pull over for the boardwalk or beach, or perhaps catch some live music at The Stone Pony ) and Spring Lake Beach (worth a stop for its serenity).  

Around Manasquan, hop over to Route 35 and you’ll find yourself on the barrier island through beach towns like Lavalette and Seaside Heights. From there, take Route 37 back to the mainland. Route 9 will then guide you southbound again, where you can get reconnect with Route 35 again into Atlantic City, or just keep on going down parallel to the Garden State Parkway until you reach the equivalent of the parkway’s Exit 0 in Cape May.

River, peaks and falls

Start – Delaware Water Gap; End – Paterson Great Falls; Distance – 111 miles

Chase the geographic wonders of northwestern New Jersey, reveling in all the natural glory that the Garden State has to offer. Start on the western edge at Delaware Water Gap, spending days hiking, swimming or fishing in and around the Delaware River, while exploring the small towns in between – and don’t miss the drive along the 250-year-old Old Mine Road . 

In the summer months, head to High Point State Park , home of the state’s highest elevation, in the Kittatinny Mountains. Or while the snow falls, opt for the ski areas like Mountain Creek in Vernon.

When you’ve had your fill of high elevation fun, drop back down to Lake Hopatcong – the state's largest freshwater lake – with 45 miles of shoreline, including beaches and marinas. Then cap it off with a visit to the second-largest waterfall in volume after Niagara Falls at Paterson Great Falls.

Pine Barrens Byway

Start – Pinelands; End – Belleplain State Forest; Distance – 86 miles

The southern part of the state is home to the Pinelands , also called Pine Barrens, which are as fascinating as they are vast. It’s no wonder that Congress deemed it the nation’s first National Reserve in 1978. Stretching across seven counties and 56 communities, the best way to get to know the 1.1 million-acre area is by driving through it, mile by mile.

The state has designated a Pine Barrens Byway route, starting in Wharton State Park’s Batsto Village, a restored town with 33 historic buildings. Also in the area is the 15-acre Batsto Lake, where canoeing, birding and fishing are all part of the daily routines. 

From there, explore the 53-mile Batona Trail, Bass River State Forest with 12 miles of hiking trails, and the Tuckerton Seaport & Baymen’s Museum . 

Then get deeper into nature by kayaking on the Mullica River or stopping at the 47,000-acre Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, renowned for its migratory fowl. Finally, trace history to Atlantic County Park’s Estell Manor before going for more birding at the Tuckahoe Wildlife Management Area (look for long-eared owls and tundra swans), and ending in Belleplain State Forest, where you can truly get into road-trip mode with 23 miles of driving trails. 

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Palisades exploration

Start – Fort Lee; End – State Line Lookout; Distance – 26 miles

This short but sweet drive is dramatic at every moment. After all, it hugs the Hudson River atop the Palisades cliffs, pitting the soothing waters against the steep rugged basalt stone in a tug of war for your attention. 

Start by filling up in Fort Lee with Korean eats (top picks include So Kong Dong and BBQ Chicken ) before entering Palisades Interstate Park through Fort Lee Historic Park. A short walk from the parking lot will take you to a postcard perfect shot of the George Washington Bridge from the clifftop. 

Also nearby are a historic encampment and visitor center. Continue north to the Ross Dock Picnic Area or Englewood Picnic Area, both at the river level, where you’ll feel swallowed by the gigantic stone walls. 

Whether it’s a relaxing picnic or a walk in the woods (the 30 miles of trails range from rock scrambles to literal walks in the park), let the forces of nature surround you. Keep driving north, making stops at Rockefeller Outlook and Alpine Lookout, both with viewpoints and trailheads. 

Then take a break from the river by hopping over to the Tenafly Nature Center with pathways through 400 acres of wooded lands and programming year-round (like apple cider-making in the fall and maple sugaring in the winter).

Stop at the Women’s Federation Monument before ending at the State Line Lookout. And if you’re craving more, the interstate byway continues north in New York state for about another 27 miles to Bear Mountain State Park . 

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Delaware River

Start – Trenton; End – Frenchtown; Distance – 70 miles

When the state first started its byway system in 1996, this was the first route it chose – starting in the capital of Trenton and cruising alongside the Delaware River all the way up the Frenchtown. 

The adventure begins on the urban side by exploring Jersey’s roots at the New Jersey State Museum and Old Barracks Museum . Be on the lookout for the state capitol, whether you catch a glimpse from Route 29 or plan to stop in for a tour. 

Veer just a few miles off the byway to Hamilton and get lost in the quirkiness of Grounds for Sculpture (where you can step into a sculpted version of the American Gothic painting). 

Then choose your own adventure back along the route, with multiple state parks to enjoy: Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, with 70 miles of trails; Washington Crossing State Park, packed with historical significance from the famed 1776 Christmas night crossing; or the Bull's Island Recreation Area, with a suspension bridge to boot.

As you move along the route, you’ll pass through some of Jersey's jewels: small towns like Titusville and Lambertville before ending up in Frenchtown. 

You might also like: Best parks in New Jersey 15 unmissable things to do in New Jersey  Best places to visit in New Jersey

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Best Fall Weekend Trips from NJ: Top Road Trip Ideas

Not only is New Jersey one of the best places to experience the fall with its beautiful foliage and fun U-pick local farms, but it’s also located near a lot of incredible destinations to do fun road trips. From New England to the Poconos, here are the best fall weekend trips from NJ within a four-hour drive or less.

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.

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Best Counties for NJ Vacations in Autumn:

You can do weekend trips from NJ, and there are plenty of New Jersey vacations to enjoy in-state. From conquering one of the many hiking trails to visiting an “Instagrammable” farm, below are the best counties to vacation in the Garden State:

Bergen County:

Located in the Northeastern part of the state, Bergen County is one of the wealthiest and most populated counties in New Jersey. Even though many NJ residents live in Bergen County, there are a lot of beautiful local farms for fall lovers to enjoy pumpkin picking and hayrides, hiking trails for nature lovers and flea markets for wellness lovers.

The best things to do during a fall weekend in Bergen County, NJ are to visit one of the U-pick farms like Abma’s Farm Market in Wyckoff, Demarest Farms in Hillsdale and Secor Farms in Mahwah. At these farms, you could enjoy a fun hayride, go pumpkin picking, say hi to cute farm animals and pick up delicious fall-baked goods like apple cider donuts and pumpkin pie.

Also located in Bergen County are great hiking and walking trails to take in all the fall foliage. The Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah, Celery Farm Nature Preserve in Allendale and Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve in Franklin Lakes are three great places to visit in New Jersey for free !

One of the most charming villages to visit during a weekend getaway in Bergen County is Ridgewood. It’s a lovely place to stroll around on a crisp fall day!

While you’re in Ridgewood, make sure to stop in one of the many boutiques, enjoy delicious food and drinks at one of the fine dining restaurants, cozy up to a warm beverage at one of the quaint coffee shops and check out the Ridgewood Farmer’s Market on Sundays from 8:30 am to 2 pm.

The best hotel to stay at in Bergen County, New Jersey is the Hilton Woodcliff Lake .

Monmouth County:

Believe it or not, the Jersey Shore makes for one of the best fall weekend getaways in NJ ! The weather is still beautiful to sit on the beach or walk one of the many boardwalks and there are also fun parades for Halloween and great outdoor venues with ocean views to enjoy.

One of the best places to visit in Monmouth County is Happy Day Farm in Manalapan. From late August through October, you can enjoy sunflower fields, pumpkin patches, a corn maze, a silo and an “Instagrammable” pumpkin house.

Holland Ridge Farms is another beautiful place to visit during fall in New Jersey. Located in Cream Ridge, Holland Ridge Farms also has sunflower fields from late August through October. From mid-September through mid-October, this Central New Jersey farm also holds the Fall Flower Festival , where you can pick out different flowers for your autumn décor, enjoy food trucks and savor fall treats!

Monmouth County also holds some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. Asbury Park and Long Branch are fun beach towns to visit during a NJ fall. From live music venues like The Stone Pony (where Bruce Springsteen has performed) to fun fall events like the Asbury Park Zombie Walk , there’s a lot of fun and memories to be made at the Jersey Shore during the fall.

Ocean Grove, Atlantic Highlands and Spring Lake are other beautiful beach towns to enjoy in Monmouth County during a NJ weekend getaway in the fall. Take in the fresh Atlantic Ocean air, book a tee time at a golf course, stay at a luxury hotel near the beach, enjoy one of the many NJ beaches with boardwalks and walk through the Gateway National Recreation Area in nearby Sandy Hook.

Like Ridgewood, Red Bank is another charming New Jersey town on the Navesink River. It’s a great place to enjoy fine dining, special events, antique shops and a weekly farmer’s market.

The best place to stay in Monmouth County is The Asbury Hotel in Asbury Park.

Morris County:

Another great county to check out for fall activities is Morris. From enjoying the different bars in Morristown for Halloween to visiting one of the many farms or fall festivals, there’s a lot to do in this New Jersey county during the autumn months.

One of the best farms to visit in Morris County is Ort Farms in Long Valley. This scenic New Jersey farm is great for all ages and includes hayrides to the patch where you can pick the perfect pumpkin!

This beautiful farm also has a fun corn maze to get lost in, orchards to pick your own apples, farm animals to say hi to, a market that includes Jersey-grown produce and a bakery for apple cider donuts. You can also enjoy food trucks and there are fun kiddie rides. Overall, Ort Farms is a fun place to visit during autumn, in addition to other fabulous flower farms and gardens in New Jersey .

Located near Ort Farms is Schooley’s Mountain Park in Long Valley to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage, conquer a challenging hike, enjoy easy walking trails and admire stunning nature.

From mid to the end of September, you could enjoy the Parsippany Fall Festival and Morristown Fall Festival , where you could participate in family-friendly activities, savor delicious food from local restaurants, listen to live music and more.

You also can’t skip visiting the Grand Harvest Wine Festival at Fosterfields Farm in Morristown during October. Morristown is a charming area to enjoy great restaurants, fun bars, wonderful boutique shops and more.

The best place to stay in Morris County is the Archer Hotel in Florham Park.

Sussex County:

Situated in the northernmost part of New Jersey and at the highest elevation in the state, Sussex County is a must-visit during the fall months. Part of New Jersey’s Skylands Region, in the Appalachian Mountains, Sussex County is perfect for hiking, mountain biking and other fun outdoor adventures.

One of the best NJ vacations is staying at Crystal Springs Resort ‘s Grand Cascades Lodge and enjoying everything the nearby Mountain Creek offers. You could also appreciate all the epic hiking trails in Western New Jersey during a stay in this area.

Located in Hamburg, New Jersey, Crystal Springs is a luxury resort with incredible dining, a wine cellar, an award-winning spa, six top-rated golf courses, a wellness program, beautiful pools and more. It was rated New Jersey’s Favorite Resort and it’s perfect for a romantic weekend getaway, family vacation, girls/guys trip and more.

Mountain Creek , New Jersey’s premier four-season resort is not too far from Grand Cascades Lodge , one of the best short-stay hotels . It includes a ski mountain with snow tubing, mountain bike trails, a waterpark, zip tours and a mountain coaster. During fall in Sussex County, you can enjoy the mountain coaster, participate in the zip tours that will take you through New Jersey’s best fall foliage and go mountain biking!

Because fall is one of the best times to go hiking in New Jersey, you must go to High Point. This mountain peak is situated in High Point State Park between the towns of Wantage and Montague. It’s recognized as New Jersey’s highest peak at 1,803 above sea level.

The trail I recommend doing at High Point State Park is the Sawmill Lake to Monument High Point . It’s a 5.3-mile, out-and-back trail that is considered a moderately challenging route. On this hike, you can enjoy the colorful leaves, go bird watching and get incredible pictures of the monument and views.

The most charming town to visit in Sussex County in the fall is Lake Mohawk in the town of Sparta. Located on the glistening lake, this area features a boardwalk with incredible shops, restaurants, bakeries and beautiful views to admire the foliage.

Memorable Fall Weekend Trips from NJ:

Top Fall Weekend Getaways in the Tri-State Area:

New york city:.

Undoubtedly, one of the best and easiest weekend trips from New Jersey to take during the fall months is to New York City!

Staying in Manhattan can be hectic, so I suggest booking a stay at Arlo Williamsburg (formerly The Williamsburg Hotel ) in Brooklyn. This luxurious hotel has spacious rooms with iconic bathrooms overlooking the NYC skyline. There’s also a fabulous rooftop to enjoy sunset views!

During a fall trip to New York City, you must go to Central Park . New York City’s grandest park is in Uptown and is the perfect place to visit during any of the four seasons. In the fall, you can enjoy all the gorgeous golden, red and orange colors illuminating the park.

The best things to do in Central Park during autumn are to take a horse and carriage tour , rent a bike, enjoy a picnic in the park, visit the Central Park Zoo , ride a boat on the lake, visit the Belvedere Castle , check out Wagner Cove and enjoy the beauty at Wood Chip Vantage Point.

Since New York City still has warm weather through most of the fall, you must also do a food tour through Brooklyn , walk the Highline, visit one of the many rooftops like Eataly , enjoy one of the venues on the Hudson River like Grand Banks and walk over the Brooklyn Bridge.

Other fun things to do in NYC during the fall are visiting a museum like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum , seeing a Broadway show like Hamilton , taking a fun fitness class, shopping in Soho and I could go on.

Finger Lakes, New York:

The Finger Lakes in Upstate New York make for one of the best long weekend trips from NJ during fall. Overall, 11 lakes comprise the Finger Lakes region: Conesus, Hemlock, Canadice, Honeoye, Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles and Otisco.

There is nothing like fall in the Finger Lakes ! Not only are there award-winning wineries along the Finger Lakes, but you could also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to water sports like boating and jet skiing.

One of the best hotels in the Finger Lakes is the Inns of Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It is recognized as one of the best historical sites in the Finger Lakes, being one of the Historic Homes of America by the National Trust for Historic Preservation . Inns of Aurora has a great mix of luxurious old-world charm with modern amenities.

During a stay at Inns of Aurora on Cayuga Lake, you must visit Fargo Bar & Grill for cozy tavern vibes and outdoor fire pits under stringed lights. It’s the perfect place to spend a fall evening and don’t forget to enjoy the s’mores dip.

Other wonderful things to do in the Finger Lakes are to go wine tasting at one of the many wineries like Long Point Winery and Bright Leaf Vineyard , walk through MacKenzie-Childs Headquarters , hike through Watkins Glen and visit the charming Hallmark town of Skaneateles.

Hudson Valley, New York:

Visiting the Hudson Valley is one of the most convenient weekend getaways in the Tri-State area ! Located right above the New Jersey/New York state line, the Hudson Valley offers great options for fall activities, from attending spooky events like The Great Jack O Lantern Blaze to visiting apple orchards and cider mills like Applewood Winery and Cider Mead .

The best hotel in the Hudson Valley is Hotel Nyack in Nyack, New York. This trendy chic hotel was once a warehouse transformed into a place for creative souls and business travelers alike. Hotel Nyack has loft-style guest rooms, a pool, a bar and a restaurant called FARM at Nyack , which offers delicious seafood, pasta and steaks.

There are numerous places to do it all, such as pumpkin and apple picking while tasting different ciders, wines and beers. A few of the best places to visit during autumn are Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery , Pennings Orchard & Cidery and Applewood Winery and Cider Mead , all in Warwick, NY. Most of these farms also have live music, fall harvest events and great food trucks.

In addition to U-pick farms, cideries and wineries, the Hudson Valley boasts many great hiking trails, from fun scrambles to overlook trails. The best hikes in the Hudson Valley for a great adventure are Breakneck Ridge in Cold Spring, Mount Beacon in Beacon, Lemon Squeeze and Eagle Cliff in New Paltz and the numerous trails at Bear Mountain State Park and Harriman State Park .

The Great Jack O Lantern Blaze near Sleepy Hollow also occurs in the Hudson Valley in West Chester County. The Blaze is a fun walk-through experience where you can admire 7,000 illuminated hand-carved pumpkins, making the Sleepy Hollow area one of the best weekend trips from NJ.

Overall, many New Yorkers love to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a great weekend getaway in the Hudson Valley. There’s easy access to the Hudson Valley from the Metro-North Railroad , which you can pick up at Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan.

Mystic, Connecticut:

Connecticut is one of the best states that offers charming fall villages within 3 hours away from New Jersey. Recognized as one of New England’s most beautiful beach towns, Mystic is a lovely place to enjoy delicious seafood, great shopping and historic sites.

One of the best places to stay in Mystic, Connecticut is at Mystic Marriott Hotel & Spa . Chapter One , Oyster Club and Captain Daniel Packer Inne Restaurant are the top places to eat seafood in this New England small town.

What makes Mystic famous is that the 1988 film Mystic Pizza , starring Julia Roberts took place at this lovely fall destination. Located on West Main Street in Mystic, you could visit the pizza parlor, enjoy the famous photos on the walls and savor one of the renowned Mystic Pizza pies.

Other memorable things to do in Mystic during fall weekend trips from NJ are to enjoy all the shops downtown, visit Olde Mystick Village , head to the Mystic Aquarium or Seaport Museum and enjoy outdoor activities and fall foliage at Bluff Point State Park .

New England Weekend Getaways from NJ:

Newport, rhode island:.

Newport is another one of the best fall weekend trips from NJ within a three-hour drive. From the vibrant leaves to the cozy seafood restaurants, there are many reasons why Newport, Rhode Island is a popular destination for autumn.

The best place to stay in Newport, Rhode Island is the Hammetts Hotel , a beautiful, nautical, luxury boutique hotel centrally located on the iconic wharf. Not only can you enjoy the variety of modern rooms and suites that offer stunning views of the city and boats, but the hotel’s restaurant and bar are also notable.

One of the top reasons Newport makes for one of the best weekend getaways is because there are a lot of great restaurants to enjoy. The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar , the Red Parrot Restaurant and Pasta Beach are some of the best!

During a fall trip to Newport, Rhode Island , you must enjoy the scenic Newport Cliff Walk, tour the Newport Mansions (the best are The Breakers , The Elms and Marble House ), stroll around the charming city and go shopping, visit a winery ( Greenvale Vineyard is a top choice when it comes to foliage) and sail along the Narragansett River.

Woodstock, Vermont:

One of the best New England weekend getaways from NJ is to Woodstock, Vermont. This charming fall town resembles what you’d see in a Hallmark movie. Woodstock has lovely inns, bed and breakfasts, bright leaves, covered bridges and scenic farms.

The leading hotel to stay at in Woodstock, Vermont is the Woodstock Inn & Resort . It’s a historic inn in the heart of town, boasting cozy fireplaces, a spa, a county club, cooking classes and more. Another one of the best places to stay in Woodstock is 506 On the River Inn .

One of the top places to eat in Woodstock is 506 Bistro & Bar . It’s a locally sourced restaurant with a seasonal menu and craft cocktails. Other great restaurants in Woodstock, VT are Mont Vert Café for breakfast, Richardson’s Tavern and The Prince and The Pauper for lunch and dinner.

The best things to do in Woodstock during autumn are to stroll through the charming downtown area and admire the fall foliage, discover Vermont’s famous covered bridges like the Middle Covered Bridge and the Taftsville Covered Bridge and enjoy the beauty at Sleepy Hollow Farm . These spots are some of the best places to see fall foliage in Vermont !

Salem, Massachusetts:

Salem is one of the best weekend getaways from NJ for families due to its fun Halloween activities and association with Disney ’s Hocus Pocus . This historic town has something for all ages to enjoy and must be added to your New England fall bucket list!

Even though Salem is a short drive from Boston, it’s best to stay in the heart of town to do all the fun activities. Two of the best hotels to stay at in Salem, Massachusetts are The Merchant and The Hotel Salem .

This charming fall city also has a lot of great restaurants like Ledger , Bambolina and Settler as well as fun drink spots like Notch Brewery and Far from the Tree Cidery .

During a fall trip to Salem, Massachusetts , you must learn about the 1692 Salem Witch Trials by visiting the Salem Witch Museum , The Witch House , House of the Seven Gables and participating in a Salem walking tour . The city of Salem also has interesting haunts, so it’s a must to do a ghost tour during your weekend getaway.

Since Salem is also famous for the 1993 film Hocus Pocus , it’s a must to visit all the famous spots from the movie. The filming locations are at The Ropes Mansion , Old Town Hall , Pioneer Village in Forest River Park, Phillips Elementary School on Salem Common (now an office building), Old Burial Hill in Marblehead and Max and Dani’s house (now a residential home).

In October, you must also enjoy Salem’s Haunted Happenings and visit Count Orlok’s Nightmare Gallery and shop. The charm of this fun Halloween city is one of the top reasons why Salem makes for one of the leading autumn weekend trips from NJ.

Boston, Massachusetts:

It’s no secret that Boston is one of the best fall weekend trips from NJ. The capital city of Massachusetts is recognized for its charming neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, beautiful parks for foliage, a renowned dining scene and fun bars to enjoy with friends.

When looking for unique accommodation in Boston, I suggest The Liberty Hotel . It’s the former Charles Street Jail that was turned into a luxury hotel. It boasts modern rooms, great restaurants and fun bars to enjoy with friends.

From watching a New England Patriots game to visiting a fun fall brewery like Sam Adam ’s or Harpoon , there’s a lot of fun to be had during a fall trip to Boston, Massachusetts . You must also enjoy a lobster roll from Pauli’s or a brick oven pizza from State Street Provisions .

The best places to embrace the beauty of autumn are the Boston Common and Boston Public Garden, as well as Beacon Hill.

Boston Common is a 50-acre urban park that hosted British troops during the American Revolution. Boston Public Garden is a lovely area to stroll through during a romantic getaway to Beantown. Lastly, Beacon Hill is a charming neighborhood with cobblestoned streets, beautiful houses, cozy cafés, lovely boutiques and more.

Drivable Vacations from NJ:

Lewes, delaware:.

Cape May is one of the best New Jersey weekend getaways and Lewes, Delaware, is located a ferry ride away across the Delaware Bay. Lewes is the first town in the first state of the United States and it’s a charming destination for history buffs to enjoy in the fall!

One of the best places to stay in this lovely area is Hyatt House Lewes/Rehoboth Beach . You must also eat and drink at Eggcellent for breakfast, Kindle for lunch and Heirloom for dinner, along with Dogfish Head Brewery for craft beer, Nassau Valley Vineyards & Winery for local wine and Beach Time Distilling for spirits.

What’s great about Lewes, Delaware is that it’s close to Rehoboth Beach to enjoy a day by the sea (if the weather permits). September and early October still boast beach weather!

The best things to do on a fall weekend trip to Lewes, DE, from New Jersey are to learn about Lewes’ history at the Zwaanendael Museum , visit the Lightship Overfalls , tour the Cannonball House and walk around Cape Henlopen State Park .

Cape May is also a wonderful weekend getaway in NJ. The best place to stay is at Congress Hall and you must enjoy the beach, visit renowned restaurants like Washington Inn , go wine tasting at Cape May Winery & Vineyard , see the Cape May Lighthouse , go shopping at the Washington Street Mall and tour the historic homes .

Poconos, Pennsylvania:

Another fantastic fall weekend trip from NJ is to the Pocono Mountains in Northeastern Pennsylvania. From luxury lodges to family-friendly resorts, the Poconos are a great choice for an autumn getaway!

A beautiful accommodation that makes for one of the top weekend getaways from NJ for couples is the Lodge at Woodloch . It’s a destination resort with a luxury spa, outdoor adventures, a golf course, culinary experiences and more. The Lodge at Woodloch is a stunning property that offers cozy fireplaces and fire pits to warm up to on a crisp day, along with walking and bike trails to enjoy the colorful leaves and a variety of fitness and wellness classes.

Epic family resorts in the Poconos are Kalahari Resort and Great Wolf Lodge . These resorts offer a fun vibe with spacious rooms and an indoor waterpark. During a stay at the Poconos’ Kalahari Resort , you could also enjoy their fantastic spa while the kids are at the waterpark or arcade.

Another great thing to do in the Poconos during the fall is to enjoy one of the many hiking trails; a great choice is to see Bushkill Falls . You must also go horseback riding and enjoy archery during your getaway!

Baltimore, Maryland:

A city that is often overlooked as a fall destination and makes for one of the best drivable vacations from NJ is Baltimore, Maryland. It’s a beautiful harbor city with historic sites that date back to the Civil War, incredible seafood restaurants, live entertainment and outdoor trails.

The best place to stay in Baltimore during autumn is Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore . It’s a modern and urban retreat situated on Baltimore’s Harbor East. It has waterfront views, incredible restaurants, a rooftop pool and an ice-skating rink during the winter, starting at the end of November.

Maryland is known for its crabs with Old Bay. An incredible place to enjoy Maryland crabs during a fall trip to Baltimore is Captain James Crab House . Other great eateries in Baltimore, MD are The Corner Pantry , Jimmy’s Famous Seafood , Dylan’s Oyster Cellar , Paulie Gee’s , Chiyo Sushi and Petit Louis Bistro .

During a fall weekend trip to Baltimore from New Jersey, you must drive the Charles Street National Scenic Byway for fall foliage, see a Raven ’s football game, go wine tasting at the nearby Boordy Vineyards , do a ghost tour , enjoy one of the many live music venues, tour Fort McHenry and visit a local U-pick farm.

Hershey, Pennsylvania:

Another of the best fall weekend trips from NJ, perfect for all ages, is Hershey, Pennsylvania. Located just outside Pennsylvania’s capital city, Harrisburg, Hershey is home to Milton Hershey ’s famous chocolate factory and theme park.

The best place to stay in Hershey is at The Hotel Hershey . It includes a beautiful indoor and outdoor pool, a sports and fitness complex, a spa, dining facilities and fun outdoor activities. What’s awesome about enjoying the spa at The Hotel Hershey is that not only could you enjoy one of their signature chocolate treatments, but there are also pumpkin spice massages offered during autumn.

Starting mid-September through October, you and your family could enjoy Hersheypark Halloween . The entire amusement park is decorated for spooky season. One of the top things to do at this fun park is to enjoy Halloween fun by participating in Hershey’s Chocolate World ’s Trick or Treat Trail .

In addition to kid-friendly activities, you could also partake in Hersheypark ’s Dark Nights . With a ticket, enjoy five different haunted houses, three scare zones, thrilling roller coasters and dark rides, Halloween entertainment and more. With a Fast Track purchase, you could skip lines to the rides!

Other great things to do in the Hershey area during a fall getaway are to admire the colorful foliage on a Pride of the Susquehanna riverboat in Harrisburg, go apple and pumpkin picking at Strites Orchard in Harrisburg, enjoy wine and beer tasting with food trucks at Spring Gate Vineyard in Harrisburg, conquer the Hawk Rock hike, which is part of the Appalachian Trail and sip local craft beer at The Brewery at Hershey .

Other great fall weekend trips from NJ are below:

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

White Mountains of New Hampshire

Western Catskills, New York

I hope you all enjoyed discovering the best fall weekend trips from NJ. If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected].

Basic Facts of the United States:

Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., NJ State Capital: Trenton, Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more.  Click  here  to get insured for your next trip.

Below are the top travel companies I use for convenience and cost:

• RentalCars.com
• Go Airport Shuttle
• Hostelworld
• GetYourGuide

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Taylor. This has to be one of my favorite blogs ~ guides to the best weekend getaways from NJ. Alot of these places I have visited and truly love • but there are still more places that are so close by, that I still need to visit. This is an amazing guide with all the best places to visit during the fall in the tri state area. Loved reading this blog and loved all the fabulous fall photos. Grrat read ~ love you, mom 👩🏻 xoxo ♥️

“Certainly! Here are five unforgettable weekend road trips from NJ: 1) Newport, RI for Gilded Age opulence; 2) The Pocono Mountains for nature lovers; 3) Shenandoah National Park, VA for scenic beauty; 4) Montauk, NY for coastal charm; 5) Gettysburg, PA for history buffs. Happy road tripping!”

Love this! Montauk and Gettysburg are also awesome. Went to both destinations in my teens. 🙂

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11 Most Scenic Road Trips to Take in New Jersey

You may think of the Jersey Shore TV show and the adjacent New York City when hearing the name "New Jersey." However, New Jersey is so much more than the little sibling of the Big Apple. New Jersey offers some of the most diverse landscapes, including Jenny Jump Mountain to the north and the Atlantic City coastline to the south. 

Road trips in the US are a popular pastime for Americans, but most people think of the Midwest and West Coast for these types of adventures. But the East Coast also has a ton to offer, with New Jersey being one of the most exciting locations. Check out Jenny Jump State Park and the vast Pine Barrens, among others, for the most scenic road trips in the state, all from the comfort of your vehicle.

The Pine Barrens

The New Jersey Pine Barrens, also known as the “Pine Barrens” or “the Pines,” is one of the most stunning locations in Jersey. It covers 1.1 million acres and stretches between 5 counties and 16 municipalities. Three routes allow travelers to experience the entire region, including the south, central, and northern paths. However, you’ll have to take all three if you want to see the whole Pine Barrens that run up New Jersey's coast.

Combined, these routes average about 130 miles and can take more than a day to complete. There’s no need to rush since the Pine Barrens offer some of the most spectacular nature views in the whole state, especially in the Spring or Fall.

Palisades Scenic Byway

Palisades Scenic Byway is not the longest road trip in New Jersey, but it is one of the most stunning. This scenic road system takes travelers along the Hudson River for much of the way and provides an awesome view of New York City. Despite its proximity to the city, most of the parkway is along naturally preserved forests and cliff faces.

The road only stretches for approximately 20 miles in New Jersey (42 if you follow it into New York). However, it's the perfect place to spend the afternoon with many hiking trails and historic sites commemorating the importance of the Palisades' during the American Revolution.

Batsto Wilderness Route

Batsto Wilderness Route is also known as Route 542 since it runs primarily along this roadway. It begins in the small town of New Gretna and ends in Hammonton, with a lot to see in between. It's mostly a wooded region since it is part of the Pine Barrens, although much shorter than the full Pine Barrens path. It's a great place to visit when the foliage changes in the fall, but it’s also a favorite summer getaway to avoid crowds at the shore. 

While traveling this road, the Batsto State Park and historical village are must-see locations. If you enjoy learning about local history, hearing legends, and exploring the forest, then it’s a good idea to take some time to get out of your vehicle and explore the area.

Jersey Shore

New Jersey is a coastal state, meaning the entire western border touches the Atlantic Ocean . Travelers can choose to drive the whole duration of the shoreline, which stretches for about 166 miles; however, the exact distance depends on which path you decide to follow.

The Garden State Parkway and parts of Route 18 South are ideal ways to travel from the south to the northern points. Traveling between Cape May in the south to Montclair in the north is perfect and stretches for approximately 157 miles. It takes drives past several wildlife sanctuaries and prominent shore towns. 

Kittatinny Ridge Loop

The Kittatinny Ridge Loop rests just a few miles from the New Jersey-Pennsylania border. This path starts near the Delaware Water Gap and takes travelers clockwise until it ends near Hampton Township. Most of the journey takes you through Worthington State Forest, which offers spectacular woodland and waterway views.

Many out-of-state residents don’t expect to see this fantastic wilderness in the north of Jersey. It's near Jenny Jump State Forest and the Land of Make Believe, making it the ideal summer trip for the whole family.

Route 15 takes travelers between Augusta in Frankford and Dover in Morris County. While the ride is only about 30 minutes long, it takes travelers past stunning views of lakes, rivers, and mountainsides. Thanks to the area's many charming lakes, like Lake Mowhawk, and local parks, it's easy to turn this journey into a day trip.

Adventurous explorers can continue traveling north from Augusta to High Point State Park to check out the Appalachian Trail. Or, head south to stay at Mahlon Dickerson Campground to explore the wilderness.

Delaware River Scenic Byway

The Delaware River Scenic Byway offers some of the most amazing views of the Delaware River along the Pennsylvania and New Jersey border. One of the unique features of this pathway is how it takes travelers through scenic views of nature and lovely small towns with distinctive charms. 

Stockton in Hunterdon County is one of the loveliest townships this roadway will take you through. This college town is a great place to get a bite to eat and walk around for a few hours. Tourists should also stop by John A. Roebling Memorial Park in Mercer County, another excellent spot to check out along the road trip.

Route 519 (Land of Make Believe Highway)

Route 519 is also known as the Land of Make Believe Highway and Bridgeville Road. It's predominantly located in northern Jersey and takes travelers through some of the most gorgeous wildernesses of the state. There are many possible starting points, but beginning in Harmony Township is an excellent choice. 

This path will take adventures past the Pequest River and mountain ranges to the north. You can also end the trip at the Land of Make Believe, one of the most fun and entertaining parks in New Jersey. 

Route 521 takes travelers through a more than 43-mile tour of New Jersey. This route ends in the south at route 519 and ends in the north by Maple Avenue near the border of New York. This route takes drivers on a north-south route through several townships and past many parks and streams. 

Most of the roadway is a two-lane road that takes you through the northwestern parts of the state. One must-see location is the Middleville General Store, the oldest general store in the state, dating back to 1876.

Route 29 (Washington Crossing)

Route 29 is just shy of 35 miles and takes travelers through the southern part of New Jersey. Sections of the roadway will bring you through Trenton, the state's capital , with some beautiful sites to see. However, Washington Crossing State Park is certainly the highlight of this trip.

Washington Crossing State Park is the site where George Washington and the Continental Army crossed the Delaware River on Christmas night during the Revolutionary War. It is a richly historic place with lovely trails and wildlife to explore while visiting.

Pulaski Skyway (Route 1/9)

Route 1/9 is one of the major highways of New Jersey, connecting several small towns together and improving travel throughout the state. The trip's highlight is the Pulaski Skyway, a three-and-a-half-mile bridge stretching over the Hackensack and Passaic Rivers. It gets its name from General Casimir Pulaski, a Revolutionary War hero who, legend has it, saved George Washington once.

The bridge is an essential connection point for routes 1 and 9. You can choose whichever route you prefer as your starting point, but taking the route between Jersey City and Newark is the best choice.

You may worry that traveling through New Jersey is slow and tiresome because it is the most densely populated state in the US. However, many county routes in New Jersey aren't heavily trafficked and are wide enough to accommodate many vehicles without the need to tailgate. New Jersey is abundant in vegetation, with over 2 million acres open and protected from development, perfect for scenic road trips . New Jersey is full of regions with few inhabitants and extensive tracts of wilderness, including the Wharton State Forest, the state's largest State Park, that are waiting for visitors to explore.

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Home » Roadside Attractions Blog » New Jersey Tourist Attractions & Road Trip Stops » The 15 Best New Jersey Roadside Attractions

The 15 Best New Jersey Roadside Attractions

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Are you planning a New Jersey road trip and want to find all the best New Jersey roadside attractions along your route? Whether you’re driving across the state, taking one of the many scenic routes, or visiting the Atlantic City boardwalk or the Jersey Shore, you won’t want to miss these fifteen must-see places to go in New Jersey. They’re fun road trip stops and great additions to your travel itinerary or route.

Below are the 15 best roadside attractions in New Jersey: from a giant elephant to a giant gorilla. From a big light bulb to a fairy tale forest, from an American queen ready to crown you to a muffler man ready to change your tire. You won’t want to miss any of these bucket list worthy tourist traps and road trips stops on your New Jersey vacation.

The Road Trip Journal & Activity Book

Everything you need to have and record an epic road trip.

Enjoy fun games and challenges to pass the time on your next road trip and have a keepsake to look back on for years to come with this entertaining must-have for your next vacation.

Ready to hit the road? Let’s go! I call shotgun!

1. Lucy The Elephant

• 2. The World's Largest Light Bulb

3. Miss America Statue

4. grounds for sculpture, 5. giant salt water taffy, 6. fairy tale forest, 7. nitro girl uniryal gal, 8. mercedes benz tombstone, 9. tire guy muffler man, 10. bud the bayville dinosaur.

• 11. Junk Sculptures at Peterson's Service Center

12. Hindenburg Crash Site

13. mr. bill halfwit muffler man, 14. giant steel hockey player, 15. mighty joe the gorilla, the 15 best new jersey roadside attractions (in no particular order):.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lucy the Elephant (@lucytheelephant) on Jun 17, 2019 at 10:55am PDT

9200 Atlantic Ave, Margate City, NJ

Standing at six-stories tall and weighing over 90 tons, Lucy the Elephant in Margate City, New Jersey is the world’s largest elephant. Lucy was built in 1881 by real estate developer James V. Lafferty. The giant elephant originally functioned as a real estate office and then for various other businesses through the years, from a summer home to a tavern. By the 1960s the poor elephant had seen better days, laying abandoned and dilapidated. Luckily for tourists to come, the citizens of Margate raised money to restore her to her former glory and she is now the pride of Margate City, a National Historic Landmark, and one of the best New Jersey road trip destinations you can find.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Danielle Burrows (@pedestrianpomp)

2. The World’s Largest Light Bulb

Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park, 37 Christie St, Edison, NJ

At the Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park you can find the world’s largest light bulb. To celebrate the famed inventor, a 118-foot-tall tower topped with a 14-foot-tall light bulb was erected at the sight where it was invented in the 1870s. The eight-ton bulb is illuminated at night (though, now with LEDs). While you’re there you can also pose with a not-quite-as-big giant incandescent light bulb replica that’s also found in the park

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1761 U.S. 9, Toms River, NJ

For the majority of years since 1921 the Miss America pageant has been held off the boardwalk in Atlantic City. From 2004 to 2013 the pageant was moved to Las Vegas and then, in 2014, it was moved back to the boardwalk. When the pageant returned, larger-than-life-size Miss America statue was erected outside of Boardwalk Hall. The sculpture by artist Brian Hanlon wears a gown, sash, and crown, and holds out a new crown to signify the passing of the title. Visitors can pose for Instagram as if they themselves are being crowned the next Miss America. There’s also a statue of Bert Parks (famed host from 1955 to 1979) holding out a crown outside the Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel.

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80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton Township, NJ

Seward Johnson (1930-2020) was probably best known for his larger-than-life hyper-realistic sculptures that popped up in cities around the world. Sculptures like the Forever Marilyn (a giant Marilyn Monroe statue based on Billy Wilder’s film The Seven Year Itch), Unconditional Surrender (a sculpture based on the famous Times Square kiss photo, V-J Day in Times Square), and the God Bless America (a sculpture based on the painting American Gothic). You can see more of his works, both big and small, along with works by other contemporary artists at New Jersey’s Grounds For Sculpture .

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Lucille’s Own-Make Candies, 4105 Long Beach Blvd, Beach Haven, NJ

OH FUDGE! That’s what is printed across the building for Lucille’s Own-Make Candies in Beach Haven and what you’ll be saying is you miss this weird New Jersey roadside attraction. Next to the beachfront candy shop you’ll find a delightful giant piece of white-with-pink-stripe salt water taffy, a seaside classic! Take some photos with this giant confection and then head inside to grab some normal-size versions for yourself!

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140 Oak Ridge Rd, Oak Ridge, NJ

Fairy Tale Forest was once a bustling children’s theme park in Oak Ridge. Opened in 1957, it attracted visitors with its fairy-tale themed displays until it closed in 2005. A giant shoe (as in there was an old woman who lived in a shoe) and parts of Rapunzel’s castle are still visible from the road and the New Jersey roadside attraction has plans to open again soon as Fables Restaurant and Marketplace at Fairy Tale Forest.

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Werbany Tire Town Inc, 1337 N Black Horse Pike, Blackwood, NJ

This Uniroyal Gal has been positioned outside Werbany Tire Town since 1965 but she got a big makeover in 2007. Now known as “Nitro Girl,” the Wonder Woman-esque fiberglass woman sports a star-spangled blue skirt, a W-with-wings logo on her chest, and more stars sprinkled in her hair.

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Rosedale Cemetery, 50 E Linden Ave, Linden, NJ

All Ray Tse, Jr. wanted was to get his driver’s license and drive a Mercedes Benz. When he died before his time at age 15 his brother made his wish come true in the form of a 36-ton granite Mercedes Benz placed at the family mausoleum. The memorial’s license plates read: “RAY TSE.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jen Walker (@msjenjwalker) on Nov 5, 2017 at 7:16am PST

Royal Tire & Auto, 301 N White Horse Pike, Magnolia, NJ

The Tire Guy is a 20-foot tall muffler man holding, you guessed it, a tire! This guy has been a mainstay of among South Jersey attractions for years. He’s lived at several locations over the years and has been repainted many times over. Currently he lives at Royal Tire & Auto in Magnolia and sports some bright pink pants and a bright orange shirt! Check him out along with many other muffler men in New Jersey. Look for muffler men at Barnacle Bill’s Amusements (Ortley Beach), Cowtown Rodeo (Pilesgrove), Casino Pier (Seaside Heights), Dracula’s Domain (Cream Ridge), and Golden Galleon Pirate Golf (Ocean City).

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510 U.S. 9, Bayville, NJ

Since 1935 a brontosaurus has served as a local landmark on Route 9 in Bayville. Bud the Bayville Dinosaur is a fixture in town and has seen many paint jobs (including one in a light purple with white and red hand prints all over) over the years. His head was recently torn off by a passing truck but he has been fully restored, painted a more realistic dino-color and is back to being a Jurassic roadside attraction.

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11. Junk Sculptures at Peterson’s Service Center

Peterson’s Service Center, 308 White Horse Pike, Egg Harbor City, NJ

Mechanic Tom Peterson has created hundreds of sculptures made from discarded auto parts over the years. Many of those have been displayed at his garage through the years, including sculptures of dinosaurs, robots, knights, and an eight-foot-tall Statue of Liberty made from car parts, golf clubs, and gum ball machines. Many of the works have been sold off, but a few remain, and are worthy of a road trip stop, including Lady Liberty.

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Front Gate Naval Air Engineering Station Lakehurst, Manchester Township, NJ

In 1937 a German airship caught fire and was destroyed trying to dock in New Jersey. The Hindenburg disaster took the lives of 35 people. A simple memorial in the shape of a cement outline of the Hindenburg was placed in the spot there the disaster took place. The memorial is on an active Naval Air Station, and tours are offered at select times and should be booked ahead.

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Mr. Bill’s, 453 NJ-73, Hammonton, NJ

Mr. Bill, a halfwit muffler man with a yellow shirt, blue suspenders, goofy smile, and boater hat, stands outside Mr. Bill’s in Hammonton. The diner features hamburgers, breakfasts, and ice cream creations and Mr. Bill has beckoned hungry travelers on the way to the Jersey Shore since the 1950s. The restaurant closed in 2014 and reopened with new owners in 2016. He’s since been given a good wash and painted, making this vintage muffler man ready for the next 50 years of being an iconic New Jersey roadside attraction.

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232 Market St, Newark, NJ 07102

Called “The Iron Man,” this giant steel hockey player in Newark is the has been the centerpiece of Championship Plaza, the area surrounding the Prudencial Center and Devils Arena Entertainment, where the New Jersey Devils play hockey, since 2009. The statue, which stands at 22 feet tall and weighs three tons, was designed by professional sculptor and Devils hockey fan.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carrie Kues Maguire (@carriekues) on Nov 6, 2016 at 5:43am PST

Mighty Joe’s Gas Grill & Deli, 1231 US-206, Shamong, NJ

Mighty Joe the Gorilla has had many names over the years. “Kongo-Pongo” and “Magilla” when he lived on the boardwalk in Wildwood and “George” when he watched over a go-kart track in South Jersey. Today he is known as Mighty Joe and stands in front of Mighty Joe’s Gas Grill & Deli in Shamong. Larry Valenzano bought the gorilla and renamed him “Mighty Joe,” after his son who died of a brain tumor in 1999. The giant gorilla holds a sign that says, “Hello, my name is Mighty Joe. My job is to look up to heaven from time to time and say, ‘HEY, JOE, WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU.’”

Want to see more of the strangest roadside attractions in America? From Alabama to Wyoming, check out our list of the best roadside attractions in each state .

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The road trip you’ve been dreaming of starts here! Journal about your stops and get to know your fellow passengers with activities and exercises designed to pass the time and bring you closer together. Instead of “Are we there yet?” you’ll find yourself asking, “We’re there already?”. Complete with prompts you can turn to while driving between locations, this journal will one day be a memento of your life-changing trip.

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These 7 Road Trips In New Jersey Will Take You To Places You'll Never Forget

Kristen is a writer, editor, and social media maven who loves her state. Born and raised in New Jersey, sharing all it has to offer is her passion. After attending Montclair State University, she continued her education online, obtaining certifications in social media management.

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New Jersey is a small state. It takes under four hours to get from High Point to Cape May and crossing the state from east to west will only run you about an hour. Typically, road trips are seen as longer journeys, but we pack a lot of beauty and adventure into a tiny space. Whether you’re looking to cruise along the beaches or soak up some history, there is a road trip in the state that you’re sure to love. Take a peek at what we think the best road trips in New Jersey may be!

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From scenic views to historic homes, Jersey has got it all. Lucky for us, no matter where we are in the state, we are just a few hours from all the goodness New Jersey has to offer. You’re never far from a beautiful beach, state park or Revolutionary War battleground. Sometimes these sites are best seen separately while other times a road trip enhances the experience. Why not take a day to celebrate our state and head out for a drive? Did your favorite New Jersey road trip make the list? What would you add?

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What are the best things to do in New Jersey for families?

For generations, families have been embarking on some of the best road trips in New Jersey in order to see the Jersey Shore! All summer long, you'll find the best things to do in New Jersey in our beach towns. There are the rowdier spots like Seaside Heights, the family-friendly retreats like Ocean City, and the quiet towns with nothing but soft sand calling your name, like Sea Isle. Beyond the beaches, families can enjoy great shopping at outlets in Tinton Falls, Jackson, and Blackwood, or they can visit the attractions and theme parks at the American Dreams Meadowland Complex .

What are the most scenic places to visit in New Jersey?

New Jersey is home to so many beautiful parks and preserves. The Pinelands cover much of south Jersey and showcase a pristine coastal pine ecosystem that's getting rarer and rarer along the East Coast. In the Skylands or Highlands, you'll find rocky ridges and mountains that offer unparalleled hiking. It's hard to top the overlooks along the Delaware River, too - from Fort Mott to Mount Tammany.

Which must-visit attractions in New Jersey belong on everyone's bucket list?

Some of the quirkiest and most popular spots in the state deserve to be seen! Add Lucy the Elephant, in Margate, to your Garden State Bucket List ASAP! Speaking of Gardens - places like Grounds for Sculpture, Deep Cut Gardens, and Rutgers Gardens are worth a visit, too. Some other must-visit attractions include the Delaware Water Gap, The Great Falls in Paterson, Liberty Science Center, and the Burlington County Prison Museum. Each of these places offers a glimpse at the natural and manmade history that's shaped New Jersey's story since the beginning of time, and each destination will capture your heart and remind you of why you love to live in New Jersey.

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18 FUN Things to Do in New Jersey with Kids

N ew Jersey is often overshadowed by its bustling neighbor, New York City, but the Garden State can be a fun and exciting place for a family vacation. Brimming with exhilarating theme parks, lively beaches, and picnic-perfect nature reserves, New Jersey is much more than just a pass through destination.

Don’t believe me? Keep reading! We’ve compiled a list of the very best fun things to do in New Jersey with kids. With so many unique attractions in New Jersey for families – you’ll head home from your trip saying “I NJ”! 

Fun Things to Do in New Jersey with Kids

Family trips create fun memories no matter what you do or where you go. However, New Jersey has some particularly exciting family activities your kids might love. Whether you are flying into Newark with plans to visit NYC, or you are driving through from Pennsylvania, consider spending a few extra days in New Jersey.  

With so many fun things to do in New Jersey with kids – the unsuspecting state may become an unforeseen family favorite.

1. Visit a Jersey Shore Beach

New Jersey has nearly 115 million visitors each year, with many likely stopping to see the state’s famous beaches. Jersey shores like Sea Bright, Stone Harbor and Manasquan are just a few places to take your family for a day on the sand. Be sure to bring sunscreen and water, and pack your beach essentials for kids , to make memories that last long after the sand washes off.

Be aware that you will need to purchase beach tags for $10 per person to access the beaches in Ocean City. While there are free beaches along the coast, they don’t have lifeguards, so they may not be the safest options for your family. 

2. Spend a Full Day at American Dream

American Dream is not just a shopping mall – it is a full-fledged entertainment center.! You can ride roller coasters, waterslides, and even go skiing inside this megacenter of fun!  

American Dream houses both the largest indoor water park in North America and the largest indoor theme park in the western hemisphere plus the first and only indoor real-snow park where you can ski year round.

Plan to spend a full day or two, visiting Nickelodeon Universe and Dreamworks Water Park before taking a ride on the 300-foot high Dream Wheel . If you get hungry, well, you have more than 50 dining options to choose from.

And there are always special events going on at American Dream that add to the fun and excitement.   

3. Ride a Historic Train

Whippany Railway Museum , located in the small Hanover Township, is a unique place that provides year-round family-friendly fun in New Jersey. 

The museum hosts fun events throughout the year. You can visit around Halloween for the Pumpkin Patch Train or come during the spring season to ride the Easter Bunny Express. 

Visitors will learn all about the trains and the history of the railroads in New Jersey, so your family can fully appreciate what makes these trains amazing when it’s time to ride them.

4. See a Fabulous Manhattan View

Although you can only experience the Statue of Liberty by visiting New York City, you can still see Manhattan from New Jersey’s Liberty State Park. The Jersey City park located on the upper New York Bay offers a front-row seat to Manhattan’s skyline providing the ultimate family photo background. 

Aside from epic views, there are walking trails, playgrounds, and the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial worth visiting in the park. And if your kids tire of outdoor activities, the Liberty Science Center is within walking distance and is one of the best places to visit in New Jersey with kids.

5. Bike Around the Gateway National Recreation Center 

Of all the free things to do in New Jersey, your family has to see the Gateway National Recreation Center in Middletown Township. There’s a forest with plenty of trails for stretching your legs after a long road trip, as well as swimming beaches, and the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the US . 

Don’t forget to bring supplies or gear for your preferred activities — the center has a quiet coastline, tennis courts and basketball courts to entertain even the sportiest of kids.

6. Dig for Fossils Together

If you have a dino-obsessed kiddo then Field Station: Dinosaurs in Leonia is a must-visit. This family-friendly activity in the northeast corner of New Jersey will leave dino-loving kids starstruck. 

Your children can pretend to be paleontologists who dig for fossils, attend educational shows and discover life-sized dino recreations throughout the park. 

Don’t miss the Jurassic Jump attraction that helps kids reach new heights with the help of a massive trampoline and a safety harness and the new Jurassic Zoo Bounce House for kids 12 and under.

7. Drive Dump Trucks at Diggerland USA

Kids who play with dump trucks in sandboxes and watch construction equipment YouTube videos will have their minds blown at Diggerland USA . 

No hard hats are required at this unique construction-themed park in West Berlin, New Jersey that lets children drive go-carts shaped like tractors and skid steers, operate kid-friendly machinery and even splash around in a water park. 

It’s one of the most popular family activities in New Jersey because it caters to the specific adoration many little ones have for construction. 

8. Get Lost in a Fairytale

Instead of reading fairy tales before your kids go to sleep during your next New Jersey family vacation, you could immerse them in their favorite fictional worlds. Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township brings tales like Alice in Wonderland and Humpty Dumpty to life with fun and whimsical rides.  

There are even themed restaurants that keep the fun going while your family snacks on their favorite theme park foods.

9. See the Cape May Zoo

Cape May is a popular vacation destination for families in New Jersey. Located at the southern tip of the state, the Cape May peninsula is home to beautiful beaches, seaside resorts, and a fun zoo that is the perfect activity to break up a beach trip.  

The Cape May Zoo features 250 different species, like buffalo, giraffes, ostriches and even termite colonies. Your family will see all kinds of animals for free nearly any day of the year.

10. Splash Around in Van Saun Park

Another fun place to spend some time outdoors in New Jersey with kids, Van Saun Park is located in the city of Hackensack. It has activities that fit any family’s budget. You can take your children to Harmony Playground and splash pad, bike down trails or walk around the park on paved pathways.

You can also get tickets to the park’s other amenities, like seasonal pony rides, a carousel, or the mini train that chugs around the property. In winter, they

If you’re traveling with your family dog, there’s also a dog park within the property where your pup can get their energy out in a fenced-in area. Visit while the park’s open to include your furry best friend in the family fun.

11. Spend the Day in Ocean City’s Wonderland

Ocean City is another popular New Jersey family vacation destination with a lot of fun activities and attractions for kids. 

Consider stopping by Gillian’s Wonderland Pier when you’re driving through or staying in Ocean City. 

Young children love the carousel and the balloon race ride, while older ones sprint to rides like the Canyon Falls Log Flume or the Moby Dick swing.

Ocean City is also known for its entertaining boardwalk, making it a fun place to visit in New Jersey with kids

12. Watch Sea Creatures at Jenkinson’s Aquarium

If you’re heading to Point Pleasant Beach, be sure to spend a morning at the Jenkinson’s Aquarium . 

Whether your vacation forecast is full of rain, snow, or sunshine, you and your family can visit the aquarium to see fish, penguins, sharks, and coral reefs. 

It’s one of the most educational indoor activities in New Jersey, thanks to its in-person and virtual teaching moments with the animals. Stroll the nearby boardwalk when you’ve seen everything the aquarium has to offer then dine on delicious food under the sunset.

13. Explore the Liberty Science Center

Located in Jersey City’s Liberty State Park, parents looking for family-friendly indoor activities in New Jersey can check out the Liberty Science Center . 

It has interactive exhibits that encourage children to get creative while they learn. When you’re ready to rest, the massive on-site planetarium offers shows that will take your family on a trip through the galaxy. It’s the largest planetarium in the western hemisphere. 

And to top it off, you can also get great views of New York Center from the observation deck.

14. Swim in Hurricane Harbor

Six Flags and Hurricane Harbor are popular family activities in New Jersey and across the United States in cities where they have theme parks. 

Located in Jackson Township, Six Flags has its classic theme park rides while Hurricane Harbor invites everyone to cool off during the hot summer months on its thrilling water slides and other water features. There are even family-sized cabanas where you can relax between dips in the splash pools or trips down the water slides.

15. Search for Fairy Houses

New Jersey residents have long upheld folklore traditions , which is why there are fairy houses along trails in South Mountain Reservation. As long as your kids stay on the walking paths and don’t add anything to the tiny houses, they can enjoy the magical setting without breaking any of the park’s rules. 

The Fairy Trail at the South Mountain Reservation is a short half mile trail where you’ll find tiny fairy homes built into the hollows and roots of treats or crafted from natural materials. 

Don’t worry if you run out of miniature houses to spot — the park also has a zoo, mini golf, a pristine playground and paddle boats for family fun all day.

16 Wear Cowboy Hats at Wild West City

Do your kids imagine galloping across the Wild West when they play make-believe? You don’t have to go all the way to Jackson, Wyoming or West Texas for those cowboy vibes. 

Instead, visit Wild West City in Byram Township, New Jersey to make their dreams come true. It features recreated historic cities and living history stations and reenactments so they can learn about things like blacksmithing and farming. Ride a few of the horses before stopping for comfort food at any of the themed restaurants.

17. Attend an Elephant’s Birthday Party

Located in Margate City, Lucy the Elephant is a National Historic Landmark. She’s a unique New Jersey attraction built in 1881 that stands six stories high. Anyone can visit to take pictures, but those who want more time can actually go inside the oldest roadside attraction in the United States on a guided tour. 

If you wish to see the spectacular sight, the venue throws her a birthday party every year in July.

18. Jump in a River Tube

River tubing is a fun outdoor activity where nature is the main attraction! There are numerous places to go tubing while in the Garden State during the summer months, so see if there are tours close to where you’re staying. 

Your family might love the adrenaline rush of soaring over the water on the Delaware River, especially if it’s a sunny day. 

Conclusion: Enjoy These Family Activities in New Jersey

Pick any of these family activities in New Jersey. You can also give your kids a list of possible activities and have them choose what you’ll do so they feel like a bigger part of the trip. No matter where you go or what you do while you’re in the state, you’ll have an incredible time together. 

Do you have a question or comment about any of these fun things to do in New Jersey with kids? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below. 

Like it? Pin this list of fun things to do in New Jersey with kids!

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