Here’s What to Do in New Jersey When You Only Have a Weekend
Growing up in New York City, I never felt the urge to travel to other states—New Jersey included. Let’s be real: Living in the shadow of the Big Apple, New Jersey often gets overlooked. Sure, there’s Atlantic City, but what else could the Garden State have to offer?
A lot, it turns out. But it wasn’t until a recent visit that I realized just how much I’d been missing out on. Jeff Vasser, the executive director of the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism, sums it up perfectly: “New Jersey might be a little state, but it’s packed with a whole lot of wow.”
He’s not the only one who loves this East Coast destination. It ranked No. 3 on WalletHub’s 2024 list of top states to live in, and I’m here to tell you that it’s not just for locals—the state is a great vacation spot, whether you’re taking a long weekend or staying the whole week.
Curious about what to do in New Jersey? From hidden gems to must-see attractions, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Keep reading to discover Vasser’s expert New Jersey recs, along with a detailed list of seasonal events and going-out destinations for your visit. Who knows—you might even feel inspired to binge all six seasons of Jersey Shore!
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Where is New Jersey?
As you may already know, New Jersey isn’t just an extension of New York—it’s a state with its own rich history and identity. Fun fact: It’s one of the original 13 colonies and takes its name from the island of Jersey in the English Channel, according to Britannica. Bordered by New York to the north and northeast, it’s a place where history, culture and charm collide.
What is the capital of New Jersey?
Trenton is the capital of New Jersey, and if you’re planning to explore the Garden State, be sure to add this historic city to your must-visit list. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Trenton is home to an estimated 89,620 people as of July 1, 2023. It offers a big-city feel while remaining relatively manageable in size—it was the 382nd most populated city in the United States in 2022.
How far is New Jersey from New York?
A quick Google search shows that driving from New York to New Jersey takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes via I-95 South, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway. You’ll cover roughly the same distance if you opt for the Garden State Parkway South and I-95 South.
But there’s a more scenic option: Take the ferry! During my trip to New Jersey, I hopped on the Liberty Landing Ferry from Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park. It’s an especially delightful ride in the spring, summer or fall, offering stunning views along the way. A one-way ticket is just $4.50, and you can grab yours at the ticket machines at Wag Rock or through the NYC Ferry app.
In New Jersey, the ferry stops at Liberty Landing Marina in Liberty State Park or Warner Street before heading back to the World Financial Center. It’s a relaxing and beautiful alternative to driving.
However you get there, it’s a relatively quick trip, making New Jersey the perfect weekend getaway for New Yorkers.
What to do in New Jersey in the winter
“Winter in New Jersey brings a serene charm,” says Vasser. He recommends visiting the Skylands region for cozy retreats, winter sports and hiking in the Kittatinny Mountains. Charming holiday festivals include the Morristown Christmas Festival and the Polar Express train ride in Phillipsburg, “which offer festive cheer and family-friendly fun,” he notes.
If you’re looking for top-notch indoor entertainment, the Count Basie Center for the Arts is the place to be. I had the incredible opportunity to take a private tour of this historic performing arts venue, which is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Over the years, this legendary theater has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Tony Bennett, Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr and even its namesake, Count Basie. Whether you’re a fan of live music, theater or comedy, this iconic venue offers an unforgettable experience.
What to do in New Jersey in the spring
In the spring, you’ll find beautiful gardens and outdoor activities. Vasser’s advice? Bring your family and friends to The Cherry Blossom Festival at Branch Brook Park in Newark, which “draws visitors from around the country to admire its stunning displays of pink blossoms.”
For a delightful lunch, head over to Robinson Ale House in Red Bank. I highly recommend it—its cozy outdoor seating and mouthwatering menu make it a fantastic spot for family outings or catching up with friends. After your meal, take a stroll down Broad Street, where you’ll discover boutiques, art galleries and specialty shops. And if you have some extra time, be sure to swing by JBJ Soul Kitchen—yes, that’s Jon Bon Jovi’s venture!
There’s also New Jersey’s wine country, where you’ll find more than 60 vineyards and wineries opening their doors for tastings, tours and festivals. “Spring is also a great time to explore the state’s many historic sites and scenic parks, such as Princeton Battlefield State Park and Cape May, where the weather is mild and outdoor activities like hiking and bird-watching are in full swing,” Vasser says.
Speaking of bird-watching opportunities, don’t miss out on the Cape May World Series of Birding, “when enthusiasts gather to witness migratory birds stop in this prime coastal location,” he says. It takes place on May 10, 2025.
What to do in New Jersey in the fall
Nature lovers will especially appreciate the Garden State’s richness of land. “With more than 750,000 acres of farmland, we offer a bounty of agritourism experiences, from pumpkin and apple picking to farm visits and farm-to-table dining,” Vasser says. “Through the end of October is tomato season, and visitors love picking and purchasing our fresh and famous Jersey tomatoes.”
If you’re looking for fall festivals, visit the Happy Day Farm Fall Festival, running until November. You’ll find live music, local food and drink tastings, shops full of handcrafted goods and pumpkin picking. When I visited Happy Day Farm, I had the pleasure of meeting the owners, Tim and Olivia Stockel, who truly enjoy having families visit their farm for bonding experiences. “Visitors come up and thank us for opening our land and having people here,” Tim says. “It means we’re doing something right.”
Their farm was packed with fun activities for both kids and adults. I had a blast sliding down the giant slide with a burlap sack, wandering through the charming pumpkin houses and exploring all the exciting attractions. And let’s not forget the lemonade—absolutely delicious!
For more farm fun, you can visit Hallock’s U-Pick Farm in New Egypt and Johnson’s Corner Farm in Medford, great options if you’re looking to pick veggies like squash, sweet potatoes and beets.
And don’t forget about the cranberries. “Aside from apples and pumpkins, what many folks might not know is we’re the third leading state in the U.S. for cranberries,” Vasser says. “Cranberry harvest begins in mid-late September—early October in the South Jersey Pine Barrens. Anyone can book a tour!”
New Jersey also hosts an annual Lighthouse Challenge in October, when you can visit 11 lighthouse sites, three lifesaving stations and one museum. One of my favorite stops was at the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, which is also the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States. I climbed the 95 stairs and used the nine-rung ladder to get to the top, which opened my eyes to a stunning view of the Rockaways, Staten Island, Manhattan and the Sandy Hook area.
Vasser advises visitors to sign up for the mobile Jersey State Parks Passport. The perk? You get points for visiting parks (and often for taking part in activities like hiking and boating), which you can redeem for Jersey State Parks Passport gear.
What to do in New Jersey in the summer
“Summer is the most popular season for tourists,” Vasser says of the state. Towns like Wildwood, Asbury Park, Cape May and Point Pleasant Beach are especially populated during this time.
Beyond the famous Jersey Shore, the state has several other popular destinations this season. According to Vasser, “Princeton, with its charming historic district, beautiful gardens and the world-renowned Princeton University, sees a steady influx of visitors looking to explore its rich cultural and academic history.”
Princeton also hosts outdoor concerts and events during the summer months. Hikers, campers and water sports enthusiasts will want to visit the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area for trails, waterfalls and the peaceful Delaware River for canoeing and rafting.
Even better, summer is home to the Sea.Hear.Now Festival in Asbury Park, which combines music, surfing and art in a beachside setting, “making it a perfect mix of culture and relaxation,” says Vasser.
Why should I visit New Jersey?
“New Jersey offers something for everyone,” Vasser says, and it’s hard to disagree. Along with the iconic Jersey Shore, you’ll find vibrant cities, peaceful nature reserves and a rich cultural history.
What’s more, if you’re from one of New Jersey’s neighboring states—Pennsylvania, New York or Delaware—you’re just a short trip away from an unforgettable visit. Yes, the state is a great place for an extended vacation (a week at the beach, anyone?), but it’s also a great option for a weekend getaway.
Craving adventure, a laid-back retreat or an exploration of history? No matter your vibe, you’ll find plenty of activities to match your style. As Vasser puts it, “New Jersey is where you can ride the waves in the morning, hike in the mountains by afternoon and still have time to savor world-class cuisine—all in one day.”
Where can I stay in New Jersey?
From personal experience, one of the best places to stay in New Jersey is Wave Resort. This stunning four-star hotel sits in the heart of Pier Village, surrounded by a vibrant community of shops and restaurants. The resort features a beautiful outdoor pool deck and is conveniently located right across the street from the Long Branch boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean.
The space itself is breathtaking, with a sophisticated ambiance and a signature scent so inviting that I even brought it home for my own space. Guests also have access to bikes, making it easy to ride or walk along the boardwalk while exploring the surrounding area.
What are some fun facts about New Jersey?
How much do you really know about the Garden State? Hopefully, these fun and interesting New Jersey facts will inspire your next trip (especially if you’re looking for historical attractions).
- New Jersey was the first state to sign the Bill of Rights.
- Hoboken was home to the first organized baseball game in 1846.
- The Atlantic City Boardwalk was the world’s first boardwalk.
- Trenton was home to the first professional basketball game in 1896.
- Some of the best creations were made in New Jersey: the FM radio, the motion picture camera and the light bulb, to name a few.
- New Jersey played an important role in the American Revolution, earning it the title “Crossroads of the American Revolution.”
- You’ll find more than 9,900 farms covering 750,000 acres of farmland in New Jersey.
What is New Jersey known for?
New Jersey is known for a variety of things, some of which may be news to you. Let’s test your knowledge:
- Beaches. The Jersey Shore is popular for its beaches and boardwalks. It’s so well known that MTV launched the reality show Jersey Shore, which became a cultural phenomenon soon after its launch in 2009.
- Atlantic City. This city should be on your radar if you’re looking for casinos, nightlife and the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk.
- Diners. Here’s a New Jersey fun fact: The state is often referred to as “the diner capital of the world.” In fact, New Jersey has more diners than any other state.
- The Sopranos. New Jersey became a hot tourist destination after HBO released its hit show The Sopranos, which followed an Italian American mobster as he struggled with various personal and professional obstacles.
- Iconic highways. Whether you’ve actually stopped in New Jersey or not, you must have heard of the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike.
When is the best time of year to visit New Jersey?
Vasser describes New Jersey as the ultimate all-season playground. It’s a great spot to visit, regardless of “whether you’re catching waves and beach vibes in the summer, hiking through fiery fall foliage, hitting the slopes for winter fun or enjoying the fresh air and the gardens of the Garden State in the spring.”
That said, he notes that New Jersey is most popular with tourists during the summer months, particularly from late June through August. “This is when the state’s famous Jersey Shore comes alive, drawing beachgoers, families and sun-seekers to its iconic boardwalks, sandy beaches and seaside resorts,” he says.
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Reader’s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. For this piece on what to do in New Jersey, Associate Editor Mariah Thomas tapped her experience as a traveler and lifestyle writer. She visited New Jersey in 2024 and interviewed Jeff Vasser, the executive director of the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism for additional information. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Sources:
- Jeff Vasser, executive director of the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism; email interview, Nov. 22, 2024
- Tim Stockel, owner of Happy Day Farm; in-person interview, Oct. 19, 2024
- NJ.gov: “10 Things you didn’t know about NJ”
- Brittanica: “New Jersey”
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