day trips central nj

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Things to do in central jersey, visit central jersey.

Central Jersey Attractions

If you're ready to hit the streets of Central Jersey, sign up for a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a friendly local show you some of the most popular tourist attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {13 fun activities in Central Jersey fun activities in Central Jersey } are also worth a look.

Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.

Recommended things to do in Central Jersey

What to do in central jersey, free things to do in central jersey.

A break in Central Jersey need not blow your budget. You can leave your wallet at home if you go to:

The Wallace House - If you're interested in times gone by, this is one attraction you can't miss.

Colonial Park - Arrange a picnic date and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the gorgeous plant life.

Things to Do in Central Jersey with Kids

Central Jersey is a fantastic destination for a family escape. Take the youngsters along and enjoy these family friendly experiences together:

• Sesame Place® Tickets
• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour: All Options
• Statue of Liberty Tickets with Skip-the-Line Options
• Early Access Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Central Jersey? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Frequently asked questions

• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Semi-Private Guided Tour
• Spa-Quality On Demand Massage - Staten Island
• Ground Zero, One World Observatory & Optional 9/11 Museum
• One World Observatory: Skip-the-Line Tickets
• One World Observatory: Priority All-Inclusive Combo Tickets
• National Lighthouse Museum Tickets
• Skip the Line: Eastville Comedy Club Ticket - Brooklyn
• Congregation Chasam Sopher – A -1 hour Tour
• Museum at Eldridge Street Tickets and Tour

Rutgers University, Busch Campus

• Rutgers New Brunswick
• Freehold Raceway Mall
• Palmer Square

Discover the most popular places to visit in Central Jersey

• Six Flags Great Adventure

Have a fun-filled day at Six Flags Great Adventure and find out why this is a popular theme park in Cream Ridge. You can seek out the adventure tours in this family-friendly area.

Statue of Liberty

This symbol of freedom, democracy and hope is one of the most famous statues in the world.

Prudential Center

See everything from electrifying hockey games and huge musical concerts to monster truck rallies and children’s shows at The Rock.

• Princeton University

Explore the famous Ivy League university that educated numerous prestigious graduates, including Woodrow Wilson, Michelle Obama, John Nash and more.

Liberty State Park

Besides its many attractions, Jersey City’s sprawling waterfront park offers beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline.

Ellis Island

Relive 60 years of immigration history as you explore the exhibits of this poignant museum. Find out if your ancestors passed through as they entered the U.S.

Explore the campus of Rutgers University, Busch Campus, during your trip to Piscataway. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

Jenkinson's Boardwalk

You can do some window-shopping at Jenkinson's Boardwalk during your trip to Point Pleasant Beach. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Belmar Beach and Boardwalk

Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Belmar Beach and Boardwalk, a popular beach in Red Bank - Tinton Falls. Wander the seaside or discover the area's sunrises.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Central Jersey

Princeton Junction

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Princeton Junction and surrounding area, you can visit Princeton University Stadium and McCarter Theatre.

West Freehold

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in West Freehold and surrounding area, you can visit iPlay America and Freehold Raceway Mall.

You'll enjoy the restaurants and shopping in South Side. You might want to make time for a stop at Lehigh River or Delaware River.

White Horse

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in White Horse and surrounding area, you can visit Grounds For Sculpture and CURE Insurance Arena.

Yardville-Groveville

Though Yardville-Groveville might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Grounds For Sculpture and The Record Collector.

India Square

India Square might not have many top sights, but Edison Memorial Tower and Woodbridge Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Popular day trips from Central Jersey

Lawrenceville

Basking Ridge

South Plainfield

East Brunswick

• Places to visit
• Hotels near popular Central Jersey Attractions
• Nearby cities for things to do
• Expedia's Latest Trends
• Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst
• Rutgers University
• Old Bridge Township Raceway Park
• New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center
• Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
• CURE Insurance Arena
• Menlo Park Mall
• Saint Peter's University Hospital
• Diamond Nation
• TD Bank Ballpark
• Grounds For Sculpture
• Starland Ballroom
• Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
• Middlesex County College
• Rider University
• The College of New Jersey
• Sri Venkateswara Temple
• iPlay America
• Mercer County Park
• Bucks County Playhouse
• Swaminarayan Akshardham
• New Hope-Lambertville Toll Supported Bridge
• SHI Stadium
• The Boathouse at Mercer Lake
• Princeton University Stadium
• Princeton University Art Museum
• Trenton War Memorial Theater
• Laurita Winery
• Washington Crossing Historic Park
• Crystal Springs Family Waterpark
• New Jersey State House
• Raritan Center Business Park
• Bridgewater Commons
• New Egypt Speedway
• Hotels near Six Flags Great Adventure
• Hotels near Princeton University
• Hotels near Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst
• Hotels near Rutgers New Brunswick
• Hotels near Mercer County Park
• Hotels near New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center
• Hotels near The Boathouse at Mercer Lake
• Hotels near CURE Insurance Arena
• Hotels near Diamond Nation
• Hotels near Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
• Hotels near Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
• Hotels near Rutgers University
• Hotels near Middlesex County College
• Hotels near Old Bridge Township Raceway Park
• Hotels near Swaminarayan Akshardham
• Hotels near Menlo Park Mall
• Hotels near Starland Ballroom
• Hotels near Laurita Winery
• Hotels near iPlay America
• Hotels near Sportika
• Hotels near SHI Stadium
• Hotels near Rider University
• Hotels near Sri Venkateswara Temple
• Hotels near Palmer Square
• Hotels near Topgolf
• Hotels near Saint Peter's University Hospital
• Hotels near TD Bank Ballpark
• Hotels near Grounds For Sculpture
• Hotels near The College of New Jersey
• Hotels near Bucks County Playhouse
• New York Activities
• Washington Activities
• Atlantic City Activities
• Ocean City Activities
• Philadelphia Activities
• Brooklyn Activities
• Baltimore Activities
• Rehoboth Beach Activities
• Cape May Activities
• Newark Activities
• Wildwood Activities
• Jersey City Activities

12 Unforgettable New Jersey Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

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.

More by this Author

Looking to make this year your most fun yet? We’ve made up a little guide with a new adventure each month. You can pick and choose, whatever looks like the most fun to you. Try all 12 of these best day trips in New Jersey to become the ultimate explorer in the state. You don’t want to miss these attractions!

Related Stories

The Small Town In New Jersey Boasting World-Famous Pie Is The Sweetest Day Trip Destination

Just 30 Minutes From NYC, Montclair Is The Perfect New Jersey Day Trip Destination

3 New Jersey Nature Centers That Make Excellent Family Day Trip Destinations

What do you think of this list of the best day trips in New Jersey to take throughout the year? How many have you done in the past or plan on doing this year? Tell us in the comments!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more New Jersey in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around New Jersey!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Best day trips in new jersey.

What are some of the best hidden gems in New Jersey?

Hiding in plain sight are some of the Garden State’s best-kept secrets. We have compiled a list of 12 Hidden Gems In New Jersey we think you might want to visit. From a secret garden to a monument that looks like a castle, a magic shop, a quirky hot dog stand, and more, there are numerous fascinating attractions to visit around the state.

What are some of the best must-visit attractions in New Jersey?

There are plenty of spectacular attractions to visit in the state, just have a look at our article, 12 Must-See Places In New Jersey , for some ideas. 

Can you recommend any road trips in New Jersey?

New Jersey is an awesome state to take a road trip . You can travel around the Jersey Shore, take a haunted or abandoned places road trip, or even a waterfall or small towns of New Jersey road trip. The world (or the state, in this case) is your oyster! 

Related Articles

• The Small Town In New Jersey That Comes Alive During The Winter Season
• Hike To A Hidden Cave, Then Dine At A Historic New Jersey Restaurant On This Cave-Themed Day Trip
• This Walkable Stretch Of Shops And Restaurants In Small-Town New Jersey Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination
• Enjoy A Scenic Train Ride, Then Spend The Night In A Historic Depot In This New Jersey Town
• This Day Trip To The Lakota Wolf Preserve Is One Of The Best You Can Take In New Jersey
• The Tiny Historic Town In New Jersey That's The Perfect Day Trip Destination
• The New Jersey Ghost Town That's Perfect For An Autumn Day Trip
• One Of The Most Unique Towns In America, Haddonfield Is Perfect For A Day Trip In New Jersey

Explore New Jersey

Featured addresses.

• explore map
• farms & orchards
• farm-to-table
• beverage makers
• historic sites
• hiking, biking, kayaking
• arts & entertainment
• where to stay
• where to eat
• why central NJ
• central jersey blog

Staycation Daytrips to Get You Thru Summer 2020

by Brad Fay | Jul 6, 2020 | About Central NJ , Central Jersey Farms

The global health crisis has canceled 2020 summer vacations for thousands of New Jerseyans, making now the perfect time to be a tourist in your own backyard. Hop in a car with your family or companion and discover the farms, historic sites, and pathways that make Central Jersey one of the great agritourism and heritage tourism destinations in the nation.

The folks at Discover Central New Jersey have curated a handy online map with lots of suggestions for places to visit.  You can build a terrific daytrip every week this summer.  Bookmark our website and return regularly for staycation inspiration.

Here are some of our favorite ideas:

The D&R Canal State Park: Central Jersey’s Best Kept Secret

We’re surprised how many locals haven’t heard about the D&R Canal State Park, or if vaguely aware, they don’t realize it is 70 miles long and the second-most visited New Jersey State Park.

The canal and park form a “V” shape to define the Central Jersey region.  A western “feeder” canal wing stretches from Frenchtown south along the Delaware River to Trenton, while an eastern “main” canal travels from Trenton to New Brunswick. For nearly the entire length, there is a well-maintained crushed stone “towpath” that is ideal for walkers and bicyclists.

The D&R Canal and towpath offers great walking, biking, kayaking.

There may be hundreds of locations to enter the park, and nearly every stretch gives you water views and access to abundant wildlife, such as turtles, deer, great blue herons, woodpeckers, and songbirds. You could spend the entire summer walking every mile and stopping off to visit the cute canal villages such as Frenchtown, Stockton, Lambertville, Kingston, Rocky Hill, and East Millstone. Canoe and Kayak rentals are available during the health crisis at Princeton and Griggstown .

What’s more, the D&R Canal state Park is connected to the 22-mile Lawrence-Hopewell Trail , as well as the gigantic Circuit Trails system that is centered in Philadelphia. Explore them all!

Take the pathway less taken with D&R Greenway

D&R Greenway Land Trust has preserved 21,000 acres of farmlands and forest throughout Central Jersey, most of which offer well-maintained yet lightly traveled trails.

One of the most popular is St. Michaels Farm Preserve , over 400 acres of farm fields and pathways on the site of a former orphanage in Hopewell.  The Greenway Meadows in Princeton offers wildflower fields and a poetry trail that are particularly beautiful in midsummer. Both St. Michaels and Greenway Meadows offer innovative audio tours that can be enjoyed on-site via phone app or from home on your computer.

The view from Goat Hill in Lambertville was originally preserved by D&R Greenway.

Nothing beats the view of the Delaware River at Goat Hill in Lambertville, at the end of an easy family hike. If you want to explore Central Jersey’s largest forest, the Sourlands, D&R Greenway trailheads in Hopewell are located along roads less traveled. Find more preserves at DRGreenway.org .

Discover the Bounty and Beauty of Our Farms

Rather quietly, the Garden State continues to earn its nickname year after year. In fact, the pandemic has brought a resurgence to on-farm markets.  Be sure to check out our comprehensive listing .

Depending on the season, families can enjoy “U-pick” experiences of blueberries, strawberries, flowers, apples, pears, and pumpkins at farms like Snyder’s , Terhune , and Von Thun . Check farm websites to see if they are offering any socially-distanced entertainment on the day of your visit.

Duke Farms , on the former Duke Estate in Hillsborough, combines agriculture education with parklands walking and bike rentals that have earned the nickname “New Jersey’s Central Park.” On weekends they also host a farmer’s market, and most days you can visit nearby Norz-Hill Farm for open-air shopping.

Norz-Hill Farm offers personal shoppers in an open-air tent

Wherever your staycation day-trip may take you, consider bringing a cooler with ice packs to store fresh farm products you find, and make a point of choosing an on-farm market as your last stop of the day. You can find local meat, poultry, baked goods, vegetables of all kinds, and just-picked fruit. On weekends, Hidden Spring Lavender in Skillman offers a wide range of lavender products as well as friendly alpacas for the kids to enjoy.

Another way to enjoy Central Jersey’s bounty is through one of our farm-to-table restaurants. With indoor dining still closed, many offer outdoor dining, take-out, or both—such as Eno Terra and Mediterra in the Princeton area, and Brick Farm Market and Tavern in Hopewell.

Craft Beverage and Wine Makers with Outdoor Tastings and Dining

A changing regulatory environment has fostered an explosion of craft beer making and distilling, to go along with a decades-old tradition of New Jersey winemaking. The reopening of outdoor dining has led to alfresco wine tastings amid the vines Hopewell Valley Vineyards , Old York Cellars , and Unionville Vineyards —but make sure to check websites to confirm hours and whether reservations are required or recommended.

Sourland Mountain Spirits , New Jersey’s Farm Distillery, offers outdoor cocktails overlooking farm fields. Ironbound Hard Cider and Farm offered a gorgeous outdoor “Cider Garden” dining area long before the pandemic and has expanded the farming of vegetables on site.

Enjoy farm views with a cocktail at Sourland Mountain Spirits.

Craft breweries are setting up outdoor tastings and dining, including Harvest Moon in New Brunswick and Triumph Brewing in Princeton. Reservations recommended. Foodies may also enjoy the growing outdoor dining and craft beverage scene in downtown Somerville .

Scenic Drives You Won’t Forget

The “Sunday Drive” is making a comeback in 2020.  Once a staple of the mid Twentieth Century when family cars were something of a novelty, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it the return of the family drive any day of the week.

Red Barn Milk Co. offers farm-to-table burgers, ice cream and more.

Central Jersey offers some remarkably scenic roadways.  The Millstone Valley National Scenic Byway and the Delaware River National Scenic Byway are the only two nationally-designated byways in New Jersey, and both will take you through quaint villages along the D&R Canal as well as their namesake rivers.  They’ll also take you near some terrific on-farm markets like Griggstown and Bobolink.

Although not a designated “byway,” Country Road 579 between Trenton and Bloomsbury is one of the prettiest drives in New Jersey, taking you through quaint villages such as Sergeantsville, Quakertown, and Pittstown, with nice side trips to Hopewell, Lambertville, Frenchtown, Milford, and Clinton, and farms nearby such as Bobolink Dairy and Bakehouse and Ironbound . And Red Barn Milk Company along the route in Ringoes makes the ideal stop for farm-to-table burgers and ice cream.

A Rich History You Can Enjoy Outdoors

Wherever you go on a Central Jersey day trip, you’ll be surrounded by a rich history that can be appreciated safely outdoors without stepping foot into a museum.  Visit the park where Washington crossed the Delaware or where the battles of Trenton and Princeton were fought. Walk the campus of Princeton University, where the Continental Congress was first held at Nassau Hall. Stroll the grounds of Rockingham , Washington’s last Headquarters at the end of the Revolutionary War.

Hidden Spring Lavender is a Century-old farm with a gift shop and alpacas.

Visit the Red Mill in Clinton to learn our early industrial history, simply by walking the grounds and getting your own selfie in front of the most photographed historic site in New Jersey. Likewise at Prallsville Mills in Stockton, where you can also learn about the engineering marvel that is the D&R Canal.

Too often, we save local tourist sites for the entertainment of out-of-town visitors.  Decades from now, when you tell your grandchildren about the disruptive events of 2020, wouldn’t it be great if you could also tell them about the special Central Jersey places you discovered for yourself during that same historic summer?

We’d love to hear about your daytrips this summer.  Drop us a line and tell us what you discovered in Central Jersey.

New Features!

You can now save favorite things to do and places to visit, build your own trip itineraries and have everything you love about the Garden State — all in one place — with a MY VISITNJ page.

As you navigate through the site, click on the little “heart” icons to save Favorites, or click the “map” icons to save items to your trip itinerary.

At any point you can view your Favorites or manage your Itineraries by clicking “Account” in the header to return to your dashboard.

• Search NJ.gov

• eNEWSLETTER SIGN UP
• TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES
• Attractions
• Arts & Culture
• Casinos & Gaming
• Dining & Entertainment
• Outdoors & Sports
• Arts & Crafts
• Beer & Wine Tastings
• Children's Events
• Concerts & Music Events
• Multicultural
• Sports Events
• All Beaches
• Central Jersey
• Delaware River
• Greater Atlantic City
• Southern Shore
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Campgrounds & RV Parks
• Itineraries
• Beer, Wine & Spirits
• Hotels & Lodging

Day Trippin’ in Jersey This Spring Login or Register to save this to your Favorites.

When you’re in a garden state of mind but don’t have a lot of time, it’s jersey day trips to the rescue. here are just some of the cool day trips that are within reach – from the shops to the mountains to the beach..

Spring to the Shore – Spend the day relaxing by the ocean with a great book, collecting shells, strolling the boards or shopping the breezy boutiques. Spring temps and fewer crowds promise a great day all around. Some beaches with boardwalks you’ll want to coast to include Ocean City , Belmar and Atlantic City . See the rest of NJ’s 130 miles of fabulous beaches here . Not sure which beach is for you? Learn more.

Go All-Out Artistic – Brush up on all types of art in a day at these Jersey gems: Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ’s largest museum, the Newark Museum of Art , Montclair Art Museum in the central part of the state or the Museum of American Glass , the heart of WheatonArts in Millville.

Get into Museum-Mode – The perfect any-weather learning, seeing, doing type of day trip can be found at: the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton, The African American Heritage Museum of South Jersey located in Atlantic City and Insectropolis , The Bugseum of New Jersey in Tom’s River. For more museums, click here .

Travel Back in Time – Plan a day to dive into NJ’s diverse history. Whether you’ve always wanted to see the Sandy Hook Lighthouse (the oldest operating lighthouse in the US) or visit Revolutionary War sites like Washington Crossing State Park in Titusville, the options are endless. See more historic sites .

C’mon Out – Jersey is home to some of the most scenic outdoor adventures in the US, and spring is the perfect time to head out and enjoy them. Try ziplining at Mountain Creek in Vernon, tip-toeing along acres and acres of tulips (and picking your own to bring home) at Holland Ridge Farm in Cream Ridge or hiking NJ’s 72-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail . Here are more outdoorsy ideas .

Monkey Around – When it comes to places to see animals , go wild in NJ. Check out Lakota Wolf Preserve located in the mountains of the Delaware Water Gap in Warren County, Hidden Spring Lavender and Alpaca Farm in Skillman or head south to Cape May Park Zoo , Adventure Aquarium in Camden and Wild Safari Adventure in Jackson. We’re adding Lucy the Elephant here too. She’s not real, but she’s a realllllly great place to tour and explore.

Soar & Smile – Theme parks, amusement parks, indoor water parks. There are sooo many places to find high flyin’ rides in Jersey. Here are a few of our favorites: North America’s largest indoor water park and largest indoor theme park in the Western Hemisphere at American Dream in East Rutherford, Morey’s Piers in the Wildwoods and Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson. More ideas here .

Be Young at Heart – Don’t miss the chance to experience one of these super fun kid-friendly outings: Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township, Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, Diggerland USA in West Berlin, and out-of-this-world shows at the Planetarium at New Jersey State Museum. All of these are great for singles, couples, seniors, families, you name it.

Shop, Shop, Shop - If you love to shop (and who doesn’t?), Jersey is the place to be! Save a lot too - at Tanger Outlets, The Walk in Atlantic City and The Mills at Jersey Gardens in Elizabeth. And if it’s antiques you seek, head to the central part of the state to shop Lambertville , known as “The Antiques Capital of New Jersey.” For more shopping meccas, including the amazing American Dream , head here . And if boutiques and main streets are more your speed, take a look .

Wherever you choose to spend your day, you’re sure to work up an appetite, so check out some restaurants nearby. And if you decide to turn your day trip into an overnight visit, that works too. New Jersey has amazing places to stay in every part of the state - north, central and south. As always, check with your destinations before you go for the latest hours and details. Start your journey with the free NJ travel guide and sign up for our e-newsletter too. See you in Jersey!

21 incredible outdoor N.J. day trips you can take right now

• Updated: May. 07, 2021, 3:57 p.m. |
• Published: May. 02, 2021, 9:00 a.m.

Thursday, June 20, 2019. Visitors to Princeton Battlefield State Park find fog rising early in the evening. Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

• Michael Sol Warren | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Great news, New Jersey: It’s warm outside!

Spring has sprung in the Garden State and summer is around the corner. It’s time to shakeoff the cabin fever of winter, embrace the growing freedom of an increasingly vaccinated world and explore what New Jersey has to offer.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

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!

You’ll also love.

Nail Inspiration For Your Next Manicure (Spring/Summer 2022 Nail Art Ideas)

Trending now.

Follow @lifestylejessica

Copyright © 2024 Lifestyle Jessica · Theme by 17th Avenue

100+ Family-Friendly Day Trips and Weekend Getaways in NJ, NY and PA

Family-Friendly Activities 0

Need to escape your daily routine? Getting out of town for a day (or 2) may not be a vacation, but might put you in vacation mode for a few hours or a few days. So load the kids into the car for a family adventure! Need longer than a day trip? We even included some places that are better suited for a weekend getaway. Here are over 100 Family-Friendly Day Trips and Weekend Getaways in NJ, NY and PA. With hectic schedules and limited vacation days, taking a road trip may be just what your family needs!

This page may contain affiliate links.

Indoor Day Trips in NJ, NY & PA

Adventure Aquarium  (Camden, NJ) American Dream (East Rutherford, NJ) American Girl Place (New York, NY) American Museum of Natural History  (New York, NY) Atlantic City Aquarium  (Atlantic City, NJ) Big Kahuna’s Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark (West Berlin, NJ) Carnegie Science Center (Pittsburg, PA) Children’s Museum of Manhattan  (New York, NY) Crayola Experience  (Easton, PA) Get a discount . Franklin Institute  (Philadelphia, PA) Franklin Mineral Museum  (Franklin, NJ) Garden State Discovery Center  (Cherry Hill, NJ) Giggleberry Fair (Lahaska, PA) Guggenheim Museum  (New York, NY) Herr’s Snack Factory Tour  (Nottingham, PA) Hershey Story Museum  (Hershey, PA) Hunterdon Art Museum  (Clinton, NJ) Imagine That  (Florham Park, NJ) iFLY King of Prussia  (Philadelphia, PA) iPlay America  (Freehold, NJ) Insectropolis  (Toms River, NJ) Jenkinson’s Boardwalk  (Point Pleasant Beach, NJ) Liberty Science Center  (Jersey City, NJ) Legoland Discovery Center (East Rutherford, NJ) Legoland Discovery Center  (Philadelphia, PA) Legoland Discovery Center  (Westchester, NY) M&M World  (New York, NY) Macculloch Hall Historical Museum  (Morristown, NJ) Madame Tussauds New York Celebrity Wax Museum  (New York, NY) Medieval Times (Lyndhurst, NJ) Metropolitan Museum of Art  (New York, NY) Montclair Art Museum  (Montclair, NJ) Monmouth Museum  (Middletown, NJ) Morris Museum  (Morris, NJ) Museum of Early Trades and Crafts  (Madison, NJ) Museum of Modern Art  (New York, NY) Newark Museum  (Newark, NJ) New Jersey State Museum  (Trenton, NJ) New York Aquarium  (Bronx, NY) Northlandz  (Flemington, NJ) Please Touch Museum  (Philadelphia, PA) Ripley’s Believe It or Not!   (Atlantic City, NJ) Ripley’s Believe It or Not! (New York, NY) Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark (West Berlin, NJ) Turkey Hill Experience (Columbia, PA)

Outdoor Day Trips in NJ, NY & PA

Adventureland  (Farmingdale, NY) Battleship New Jersey  (Camden, NJ) Bergen County Zoological Park  (Paramus, NJ) Big Kahuna’s Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark (West Berlin, NJ) Bronx Zoo  (Bronx, NY) Bushkill Falls (Bushkill, PA) Camden Children’s Garden  (Camden, NJ) Cape May County Park & Zoo  (Cape May, NJ) Cape May Whale Watcher (Cape May, NJ) Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach Waterpark  (Seaside Heights, NJ) Central Park Zoo  (New York, NY) Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises  (New York, NY) Claws ‘N’ Paws Wild Animal Park  (Lake Ariel, PA) Cohanzick Zoo  (Bridgeton, NJ) Delaware River Railroad Excursions (Phillipsburg, NJ) Diggerland  (West Berlin, NJ) Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom  (Allentown, PA) Get a FREE Pre-K Pass Dutch Wonderland Family Amusement Park  (Lancaster, PA) Eagleswood Amusement Park  (Staffordville, NJ) Elmwood Park Zoo (Norristown, PA) Enchanted Forest Water Safari  (Old Forge, NY) Fantasy Island Park  (Beach Haven, NJ) Grounds for Sculpture (Hamilton, NJ) Hershey Park  (Hershey, PA) High Point State Park (Sussex, NJ) Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum  (New York, NY) Jenkinson’s Aquarium  (Point Pleasant Beach, NJ) Keansburg Amusement Park and Runaway Rapids Waterpark  (Keansburg, NJ) Kids Castle at Doylestown’s Central Park (Doylestown, PA) Knoebels Amusement Park Resort  (Elysburg, PA) Lakota Wolf Preserve  (Columbia, NJ) Land of Make Believe  (Hope, NJ) Legoland New York (Goshen, NY) Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks (Wildwood, NJ) Mountain Creek  (Vernon, NJ) Ocean City Waterpark  (Ocean City, NJ) Philadelphia Zoo  (Philadelphia, PA) Pocono Raceway  (Long Pond, PA) Popcorn Park Zoo  (Forked River, NJ) Prospect Park Zoo  (Brooklyn, NY) Queens Zoo  (Corona, NY) Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor & Outdoor Waterpark (West Berlin, NJ) Sesame Place  (Langhorne, PA) Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari  (Jackson, NJ) Skylands Stadium (Augusta, NJ) Space Farms Zoo & Museum  (Sussex, NJ) SplashDown Beach Water Park  (Fishkill, NY) Somerset Patriots (Bridgewater, NJ) Statue of Liberty  (New York, NY) Storybook Land  (Egg Harbor Township, NJ) Strasburg Rail Road (Ronks, PA) Tomahawk Lake Waterpark  (Sparta Township, NJ) Turtleback Zoo  (West Orange, NJ) Valley Forge National Park (King of Prussia, PA)

Weekend Getaways in NJ, NY & PA

Asbury Hotel (Asbury Park, NJ) Camelback Resort  (Tannersville, PA) Canopy by Hilton (Multiple Locations) Cartoon Network Hotel (Lancaster, PA) Congress Hall  (Cape May, NJ) Conrad Hotels & Resorts by Hilton (New York, NY) Crystal Springs Resort  (Sussex, NJ) Doubletree by Hilton (Multiple Locations) Eden Resorts & Suites (Lancaster, PA) Embassy Suites by Hilton (Multiple Locations) Fulton Steamboat Inn (Lancaster, PA) Grand Hotel (Cape May, NJ) Great Wolf Lodge  (Pocono Mountains, PA) Hampton by Hilton (Multiple Locations) Hershey Lodge  (Hershey, PA) Hershey Park Camping Resort (Hershey, PA) Hilton Garden Inn (Multiple Locations) Hilton Hotels & Resorts (Multiple Locations) Homewood Suites by Hilton (Multiple Locations) Home2 Suites by Hilton (Multiple Locations) Hotel Hershey (Hershey, PA) Kalahari Resorts  (Pocono Mountains, PA) Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark (Monticello, NY) Legoland New York (Goshen, NY) Motto by Hilton (New York, NY) Nemacolin (Farmington, PA) Ocean Place Resort & Spa (Long Branch, NJ) Red Caboose Motel (Ronks, PA) Rocking Horse Ranch Resort  (Highland, NY) Shawnee Inn (Shawnee on Delaware, PA) Silver Birches Resort (Hawley, PA) Skytop Lodge (Skytop, PA) Split Rock Resort (Lake Harmony, PA) Tapestry Collection by Hilton (Multiple Locations) Tru by Hilton (Multiple Locations) Villa Roma (Callicoon, NY) Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts by Hilton (New York, NY) Woodloch Pine Resort  (Hawley, PA)

Be the first to comment

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Copyright © 2024 | WordPress Theme by MH Themes

The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey

Autumn is all about exploring the garden state's outdoor pleasures—hiking trails, waterfalls, seasonal festivals, and tasting rooms with scenic views..

Get the best things to do in NJ sent right to your inbox with our Weekend Buzz newsletter.

What does your perfect fall day in New Jersey entail?

A gorgeous drive through the mountains, taking in the colors of changing leaves along the way? An afternoon of festival-focused fun with the family, picking pumpkins and apples? A laid-back evening at a winery, tasting new varieties and catching up with old friends?

Whatever your ideal autumn excursion, we can bet it features the Garden State’s great outdoors. Below, browse a comprehensive guide of places to visit and things to do this season.

6 Breathtaking Waterfalls You Need to See

The beauty of Hunterdon County’s Lake Solitude can be enjoyed solo or with pals. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions

Ready for an autumn rush? Check out these lesser-known splendors. READ MORE

New Jersey Fall Festivals and Fairs You Won’t Want to Miss

Photo: Shutterstock/Michael Warwick

From Oktoberfest celebrations to family-friendly events, the Garden State has a plethora of fun fall happenings. READ MORE

A Guide to Exploring NJ’s 36-Mile Lenape Trail

The Quarry Point lookout offers a dramatic view over Montclair and beyond. Photo: Ron Wyatt

The sprawling Essex County trail links suburban streets with woodsy mountains and hidden history. READ MORE

Haunted Attractions Sure to Scare NJ This Fall

Eek! Give yourself a fright in the Garden State this season.  Photo: Shutterstock/Alexander Raths

Find frights and delights all over New Jersey as Halloween nears. READ MORE

Unwind at NJ’s Most Scenic Tasting Rooms

Source Farmhouse Brewery in Colts Neck boasts an inviting outside area, complete with Adirondack chairs, a beer garden and games.  Photo: James J. Connolly

Ready to enjoy a brew with a view? Here’s your guide to the Garden’s State’s most picturesque breweries, wineries, distilleries and cideries. READ MORE

Take a Trot on Horseback at Watchung Stable

Watchung Stable connects to 26 miles of bridle paths and features a main barn, an isolation barn, paddocks, one show and four riding rings, and an outdoor hunter course. Photo: James J. Connolly

Guests can traverse the Watchung Reservation—a verdant, 2,000-acre preserve in Union County—on horseback while learning about local wildlife. READ MORE

Ride a Train to the Ol’ Susquehanna Mine

Michael Van Grieson, Aja Mullins and baby Aiden enjoy a ride on the historic River and Steam Train. Photo: Joe Polillio

Board a historic passenger train in Phillipsburg, ride along the Delaware River and arrive at an interactive mining exhibit. READ MORE

Visit the Historic City of Paterson

Paterson’s Great Falls are second largest waterfall by volume on the East Coast.  Photo: Steve Greer

People come from as far away as France to gaze at the stunning Great Falls. Plus, there’s an abundance of fabulous Middle Eastern cuisine to try. READ MORE

Explore the Great Swamp, a Sanctuary for All

A felled tree in the Great Swamp shows its age with its many rings.  Photo: Laura Baer

Take a trek through the Great Swamp, where woodlands, grasslands, brooks and ponds provide a habitat for a wealth of aquatic life, birds and mammals. READ MORE

Geek Out on Hamilton History (And Much More) in Trenton

Trenton is well worth a visit this autumn.  Photo: Shutterstock/Henryk Sadura

New Jersey’s capital city offers the kind of deep-dish American history you can only find in a few U.S. cities. (And don’t forget about its thin-crust pizza!) READ MORE

Get Lost in South Mountain Reservation

Explore South Mountain Reservation’s rocky trails and shady inclines this autumn. Photo: Laura Baer

Put on your walking shoes and hike to Hemlock Falls, a 25-foot-high cascade in the heart of the 2,110-acre wooded oasis. READ MORE

Can’t get enough? Check out more autumnal excursions:

Get Lost But Find Fun in a Corn Maze Visit NJ’s Often-Overlooked Bayshore Heritage Scenic Byway Spend a Peaceful Day at Watchung Reservation Stroll Where Washington Stood Fast Kick Back in a Kayak on the Manasquan River Visit Pequannock Watershed, a ‘Pristine Forest’ in New Jersey

No one knows New Jersey like we do. Sign up for one of our free newsletters here . Want a print magazine mailed to you? Purchase an issue from our online store .

Read more Shore & Travel , Things to Do articles.

By submitting comments you grant permission for all or part of those comments to appear in the print edition of New Jersey Monthly.

Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Best Restaurants in NJ
• Top Restaurants By City
• Restaurant Reviews
• Best New Restaurants
• 52 Things You Must Do in NJ
• Find an Event
• Submit an Event
• Top Doctors
• Top Dentists
• Select Surgeons – Plastic Surgery
• Select Surgeons – Bone & Joint
• Arts & Entertainment
• Best Outdoor Activities
• Fun Things to Do This Spring
• Home & Style
• Subscribe to New Jersey Monthly
• Get Our Newsletters
• Subscribe to Design NJ
• Client Gift Subscriptions

• Oct 23, 2023

Off-Season Serenity in Asbury Park: A Perfect Day During Colder Weather!

• Sep 13, 2023

Exploring the Autumn Beauty: 15 Must-Do Activities in Princeton, New Jersey

• Aug 17, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best New Jersey Beach for Your Perfect Getaway

• Aug 4, 2023

Cool Off This Summer with River Tubing on the Scenic Delaware River in New Jersey

• May 23, 2023

A Perfect Day in Asbury Park, New Jersey: What to See and Do

• May 19, 2023

From Roller Coasters to Water Rides: The Best Amusement Parks in New Jersey

• Apr 24, 2023

Step Back in Time: Explore the Howell Living History Farm in NJ

• Apr 17, 2023

Experience New Jersey Like Never Before: Soar Above the Garden State with Hot Air Balloon Rides

• Apr 13, 2023

Discover the Best Places to Eat in Somerville, NJ: A Foodie's Guide to the Vibrant Dining Scene

• Feb 14, 2023

Sandy Hook, New Jersey: A Coastal Haven with a Rich History

• Sep 13, 2020

Scenic New Jersey Roads Perfect For Those Long Autumn Drives

• Jul 30, 2020

You Have To Visit These Year-Round New Jersey Flea Markets

• Apr 4, 2020

Get Out of The House and Smell The Tulips!

• Mar 21, 2020

Walk & Wine - Pairing Two - Central Jersey

• Mar 13, 2020

Get Lost In This New Jersey Botanical Garden With An Odd Past

• Feb 17, 2020

Spend a Day In This Charming Jersey Canal Town

• Jan 8, 2020

Hunterdon County Train Excursions

• Nov 27, 2019

Kicking off the Holiday Season In Somerville, New Jersey

• Nov 19, 2019

Have you been to Christmas Underwater?

• Nov 12, 2019

The Festival of Trees & Winter Village

Here are 14 day trips to take over spring break in New Jersey

Before we know it, schools across New Jersey are going to be on spring break and parents are going to be looking for ways to keep them occupied.

While you might not be able to plan for any elaborate vacations or getaways, there are tons of activities across New Jersey that the whole family can enjoy. And, the best part is, these are places you can take a day trip to for some much-needed adventure.

Here are 15 things to do over spring break across the Garden State.

Adventure Aquarium , Camden

Located along the Camden waterfront, Adventure Aquarium has been serving New Jersey since 1993. The aquarium features more than 15,000 aquatic animals throughout two million gallons of water. It allows guests to experience up-close animal encounters, interactive touch exhibits and the ability to learn about some of the ocean's greatest species.

Go: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden; 844-474-3474, adventureaquarium.com .

American Dream Mall , East Rutherford

The American Dream Mall is a one-stop shop for all things entertainment during spring break. Besides having more than 450 retail stores — making it the second-largest shopping mall in the country — American Dream Mall also has several other attractions for memorable family experiences.

Among these attractions is the DreamWorks Water Park, which is the largest indoor water park in the country. There is also Nickelodeon Universe Amusement Park — the western hemisphere's largest indoor theme park with 35 indoor rides and multiple playgrounds. There's also American Dream's Big Snow, the country's first and only indoor, year-round ski experience, as well as the Tilt Museum and Angry Birds Mini Golf.

Go: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford; 833-263-7326, americandream.com .

Diggerland , West Berlin

With four locations in England and its only United States location right here in New Jersey, Diggerland is a unique construction-themed amusement and water park. The attraction offers more than 40 rides and attractions, where kids have the opportunity to operate construction vehicles — kid-sized versions, of course — like bulldozers and excavators. The park also has a full service arcade, zip line and rock wall.

Go: 100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin; 856-768-1110, diggerlandusa.com .

FunTime Junction , Fairfield

FunTime Junction is an indoor children's entertainment center with activities that have been keeping families occupied since 1994. The center offers a 1,800-square-feet vest-less laser tag arena, a helicopter carousel ride, toddler playground, LiteZilla, Krazy Kars, a black light scavenger hunt and more. FunTime Junction's biggest attraction is a multi-level softplay climbspace with slide tubes, web ladders, bouncers and a jump pillow.

Go: 400 Fairfield Road, Fairfield; 973-882-9777, funtimejunction.com .

Insectropolis , Toms River

Also known as the Bugseum of New Jersey, Insectropolis takes guests through the insect world. Visitors are invited to view thousands of exotic insects from all over the world, and can even touch a live tarantula, millipede and a hissing cockroach. There are 12 different exhibits throughout, including an observation bee hive and a mud tube to crawl like a termite.

Go: 1761 Route 9, Toms River; 732-349-7090, insectropolis.com .

Liberty Science Center , Jersey City

Founded in 1993 and located within Liberty State Park, Liberty Science Center consists of 12 different museum exhibition halls, a live animal collection with 110 species, large aquariums, a 3D theater and the country's largest planetarium. The exhibits are constantly changing, with The Science Behind Pixar, Wild Kratts: Ocean Adventure and Touch Tunnel are among those currently open.

Go: 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City; 201-200-1000, lsc.org .

Mountain Creek , Vernon

While we might not see warm enough temperatures over spring break to enjoy the more than 30 attractions at Mountain Creek's waterpark, there are still other activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Mountain Creek offers ziplining tours, which are open to those of all ages, as long as they're at least 60 pounds and 48 inches tall. In this attraction, visitors will travel along a series of zip lines — ranging from 200 to 1,500 feet in length — while getting panoramic views of the tri-state area. And, if you're looking for something a little less daring, but still adventurous, trying Mountain Creek's TreEscape ropes course. Here, visitors must navigate rope walks, obstacles, climbing elements and zip lines while suspending above the trees.

Go: 200 Route 94, Vernon Township; 973-827-2000, mountaincreek.com .

RPM Raceway , Jersey City

In Jersey City, you can find an all-electric indoor go-kart and entertainment destination. RPM Raceway's state-of-the-art racing facility features two quarter-mile long European-style racetracks with Italian-made go-karts that can reach speeds up to 45 mph. The attraction also has other activities, like virtual reality battles, racing simulators, arcade games and billiards, and a snack bar.

Go: 99 Caven Point Road, Jersey City; 201-333-7223, rpmraceway.com .

Six Flags Great Adventure , Jackson

For a day full of adrenaline, take a trip to Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson. The amusement park is home to 14 world-class roller coasts like El Toro, Kingda Ka, The Joker and Batman, as well as a variety of thrilling family rides like the Roaring Rapids and Skyscreamer.

Six Flags Great Adventures also features a 350-acre drive-through safari. The Safari Off Road Adventure takes guests on round-trip excursions aboard open-air vehicles where they can see as many as 1,200 animals from across the globe, including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes and lions.

Go: 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson Township; 732-928-2000, sixflags.com/greatadventure .

Space Farms Zoo & Museum , Wantage

Space Farms Zoo & Museum is a complex that spans 100 acres in Sussex County. The zoo has more than 500 live wild animals, including lions, tigers, bears, leopards and more. There is also nine large museum buildings on the complex, with more than 50 antique cars, motorcycles, old horse-drawn carriages, old farm machinery and more. There is also a large picnic area, playground and restaurant available.

Go: 218 County Road 519, Sussex; 973-875-5800, spacefarms.com .

Sterling Hill Mining Museum , Ogdensburg

For those with inquisitive minds, the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg a perfect spring break attraction. Guests can participate in a walking tour that explores approximately 1,300 feet of tunnel inside the first level of the mine. During the tour, guests will learn about the equipment, history, working conditions and geology of the mine and will get a look inside areas like the lamp room, shaft station and mine galleries dating back to the 1830s. Sluice mining is another attraction, where visitors can purchase a bag of sand, which is then poured into a tray and dipped in water to reveal a variety of minerals and fossils.

Go: 20 Plant St., Ogdensburg; 973-209-7212, sterlinghillminingmuseum.org .

Turtle Back Zoo , West Orange

First opened in 1963 and currently part of the Essex County Parks Department, Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange consists of 1,400 animals across 20 acres in the South Mountain Reservation. The zoo has major exhibits like African Adventure, Big Cat Country, Essex Farm, Sea Lion Sound and a stingray touch tank. Turtle Back Zoo also has other activities like a safari mini golf, a prehistoric playground, pony rides, face painting and a butterfly tent.

Go: 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange; 973-731-5800, turtlebackzoo.com .

Van Saun County Park , Paramus

Van Saun County Park spans more than 130 acres and offers attractions like ball fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, splash pads and even a miniature train ride. The park is also home to the Bergen County Zoo, where guests are invited to explore animal exhibits, take carousel and pony rides, as well as watch free live animal shows in the zoo amphitheater.

Go: 216 Forest Ave., Paramus; 201-336-7275, cobergen.nj.us/parks-recreation/van-saun-county-park .

Wild West City , Byram Township

First opened in 1957, Wild West City is a family-owned, Western-themed park created by the American Foundation for the Preservation for the Old West. The attraction's sandy main street features replicas of buildings from notorious Western towns like Dodge City, Kansas, and Tombstone, Arizona. The park has live-action shows, a barnyard, museums, history demonstrations and train, pony and stagecoach rides.

Go: 50 Lackawanna Drive, Stanhope; 973-347-8900, wildwestcity.com .

Maddie McGay is the real estate reporter for  NorthJersey.com  and The Record, covering all things worth celebrating about living in North Jersey. Find her on  Instagram @maddiemcgay ,  on  X @maddiemcgayy , and sign up for her  North Jersey Living  newsletter.   Do you have a tip, trend or terrific house she should know about? Email her at  [email protected] .

THE 5 BEST Day Trips from New Jersey

Day trips from new jersey.

• New Jersey to Central Valley
• New Jersey to Marrakech
• New Jersey to Lakewood
• New Jersey to Jackson
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Black SUV - 7hs Staying Woodbury Outlets - Up to 6pax - Free Tax

2. Marrakech day trip from Agadir & Taghazout

3. Private Shopping Tour from Philadelphia to Jackson Premium Outlet

4. Private Shopping Experience in Woodbury Common Premium Outlets

5. Private Shopping Tour from Philadelphia to Gloucester Outlets

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island

NYC Bus Tour of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens: Contrasts, Color and Character

Washington DC Day Tour from New York City

Woodbury Common Premium Outlets Shopping Tour from Manhattan

Washington DC Day Trip from New York City

City of Contrasts Tour-Manhattan, Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn

Niagara Falls in One Day from New York City

A Day in Amish Country

Washington DC and Philadelphia in One Day from NYC

Long Island Full Day Wine and Food Tasting Vineyard Tour from NYC

New York Contrasts Tour

Boston Freedom Trail Day Trip from New York City

Philadelphia and Amish Country Day Trip from New York City

New York City bus and boat tour

Long Island Wine Tour from Manhattan (3 Wineries & Tasty Lunch)

A Day in Brooklyn Bike Tour

The Best of New York City Self-Guided Audio Walking Bundle Tour

Hamptons Private Day Trip from New York City

Explore NYC- Tour of Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens & Brooklyn

The United Kitchens in the Borough of Global Eats with Culinary Backstreets

Discover Subway Secrets Underneath Lower Manhattan - Private

Full-Day Tour Chuang Yen Monastery and Woodbury Common

NYC Private Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, 100% Personalized

NYC Hamptons, Sag Harbor, and Outlet Shopping Day Trip

Full day Long Island Brewery Tour

Edison AARP...friends you haven't met yet!

Edison AARP is an organization of senior citizens from various communities in New Jersey. 

Why Join Edison AARP?

Attend a Meeting

Overnight trips.

The Edison AARP runs a variety of fun-filled day trips for their members and the public. 

Explore new destinations with other seniors. Trips vary in length and are based on our member input.

​​Meetings are held  on the third Monday of each month from September through June. Meetings are not held in July or August.

Copyright © 2024 Edison AARP - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by GoDaddy

• OVERNIGHT TRIPS
• COMMUNITY SERVICE