Apart from the lightbulb, of course, Edison had a recording studio here and even created a handful of talking dolls. That statistic is even less surprising when you consider the state's history of landmark thinkers and inventors namely, Thomas Edison. 10. Second only to the Mall of America in Minneapolis, New Jersey's 3-million-square-foot mall houses enough activities and amusements to fill an entire vacation, including the Nickelodeon Universe, the largest indoor theme park in the Western Hemisphere. The $25 ticket also includes a host of discounts at Princeton restaurants and shops. The NAS is also home to many World War II-era artifacts from outside of the war. Enter a garden filled with azaleas and rhododendrons surrounded by ponds, gazebos, and bridges, and pack a picnic to enjoy on the insta-worthy grounds. Beyond the global-rich art on display at Newark Museum of Art in New Jersey, there are also science exhibitions, a decorative arts exhibit, and even a museum garden. Access to the grounds is $12 for general admission. Additionally, youll see artifacts from the mines working days dating back as far as the 1830s. If you're looking for a zoo experience in the northernmost parts of Jersey, Essex County's Turtle Back Zoo is a treat. Free & Cheap Activities Liberty State Park - One of the best (and totally free things to do in Jersey City) is to take a stroll in Liberty State Park. Be sure to add Asbury Park Boardwalk to your itinerary when visiting NJ. Address: 211 Main St., West Orange, NJ 07052. If the thrill of roller coasters and water slides are too much for you, Six Flags also has lots of wonderful shows, animal attractions, shopping, and eateries. New Jersey offers many cute things for couples to do. A trip to New Jersey would not be complete without visiting the Battleship New Jersey. There is truly something for everyone at the Princeton University Art Museum. Visitors to this special place in Hammonton will find 30 preserved buildings, from a stunning mansion to a post office and a general store. Address: 200 Morris Pesin Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305, United States. Later, the massive factory burnt to the ground leaving it irreparable and abandoned. The museum is located on the grounds of the WheatonArts and Cultural Center, where the public can visit from April through December for demos, workshops and special exhibits. Food trucks from all over the state will greet you with delectable dishes and treats. Cape May, also known as Exit 0 by locals (its exit number at the end of the Garden State Parkway), is a Victorian-style coastal gem, but also much more than meets the eye. Best Things to Do in New Jersey for Couples - Tripadvisor Beyond these sophisticated collections and exhibitions, Princeton University Art Museum also frequently hosts artist talks, live art shows, special guest lectures, and self-guided family-friendly tours. The farm is operated using antiquated farm equipment and methodologies. If youre looking for something a little more adventurous to do while youre in Jersey, youll want to spend a day at Six Flags Great Adventure. With so many places to go in the great Garden State, a trip to the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in New Jersey should be at the top of your list. We love the picnic seating; you can pack coolers with snacks, lunch, and drinks, making a full day out of your trip to the Monmouth Park Race Track. Beyond enjoying the history of the maritime museum, there are many other sights and activities to participate in. Ten Ideas for a Romantic Getaway in New Jersey Whether you're looking for romantic ideas for an anniversary, birthday, Valentine's Day or just want some fun things to do in New Jersey with your sweetheart, start with our roundup of romantic activities. We highly recommend you make it a pitstop on your visit to the great Garden State. With attractions and rides themed after stories like Little Red Riding Hood, Alice in Wonderland, and the Three Little Pigs, the irresistible charm and wistfulness of this park make it a must see for anyone visiting New Jersey. Take the train straight to Harrison station and you will be at Red Bull Arena. Its one of many fun things to do in New Jersey. Ethnically diverse, Jersey boasts some of the best pizza and Portuguese food in the country. With dozens of wild rides and attractions, a drive-through wild safari, games abound, and the best concessions you can dream of, Six Flags is a must see amusement park during your stay in New Jersey. Youll get to experience what life on a working farm during that time period was like. The hourlong trolley tour is popular with visitors and residents alike. Brunches, beverages, billiards, bars, beaches, board-walking, and so much more! A day at Turtle Back Zoo, one of many best-loved New Jersey attractions, will be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. And at night the club scene comes alive with free-flowing libations and both live and DJ music all night long. Within the halls displaying period exhibits and windows framing views of the Manhattan skyline, there are also lots and lots of spoons. Located in Berkeley Township, the marine protected area is home to a year-round population of foxes, as well as ospreys and other birds and wildlife. Human Village Brewing Company The first stop on the list of things to do in New Jersey this weekend for couples is a flavorful destination that offers home-brewed concoctions that are guaranteed to tickle your taste buds. Address: 9200 Atlantic Ave., Margate City, NJ 08402. (Tom Zapcic Photography/Courtesy of Jay & Silent Bob's Secret Stash). For the kids, youll find boardwalk games, a miniature golf course, and live entertainment from the teams mascot Buster. Additionally, theres an epic gift shop and cafeteria for your lunching convenience. Go on a winter hike Grab your jacket, water bottle, and mask and hit the trailsyes, even in the winter. There is so much fun to be had on Moreys Piers that you may even consider spending multiple days there while visiting New Jersey. Nassau Hall is hard to miss directly behind the grand iron gates on Nassau Street; it featured prominently in the American Revolution. The 10 Things to do in New Jersey for Couples | Unique, Exciting, Fun This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. (Getty Images). Unlike common bar crawls, Long Beach Islands Surf & Sip Brew Trail is an opportunity for enthusiasts of local culture and libations to tour the beautiful 18-mile long island. Named on the National Register of Historic Places, the streets of Cape May in New Jersey are lined with 19th-century buildings some of which are now operable beds and breakfasts. If youve never been to a living history museum, heres what you can expect: a real working farm reminiscent of the early 1900s. Add to this magical experience a cup of hot chocolate sold at most of Storybook Lands concession stands, and youve officially entered a winter wonderland. Stock up and save on travel-size toiletries ahead of your summer vacation. Address: 70 Woodens Ln, Lambertville, NJ 08530, United States. Address: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073. A fun date night idea in New Jersey that almost anyone can enjoy, trail rides can be found all over New Jersey year-round. Soaking up beautiful beach views, touring an Ivy League University and exploring one of the world's largest spoon collections are just a few of the many things to do in New Jersey. Address: 1112 Dukes Pkwy W, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844, United States. Atlantic Citys Steel Pier is one of many things to see when visiting Jersey. 20 New Jersey Fun Fall Activities We harvested twenty of New Jersey's top ways to rake in the cool-weather fun this fall. Address: 112 Log Cabin Rd, North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902, United States. Moreover, there are amusement rides suitable for all ages, a gaming arcade, a homemade sweets shop to die for, a magical funhouse, a ropes course, mini-golf, and boutiques for shopping to your hearts content. In the decades since, Asbury has regained its welcoming appeal and solidified its motto of being "Where Music Lives." The best day trips in New Jersey show off a beautiful side of the state! Visit Cape May - named one of prettiest winter towns in America by Travel & Leisure magazine! If youre traveling with small children, Six Flags has a dedicated section called Bugs Bunny Land for the little ones. 1. Performance & security by Cloudflare. Situated among impeccably kept gardens and arboretum, over 300 artistic sculptures grace the nearly-45 acres of expansive land. Participate in a Wolf Watch Tour through the Lakota Wolf Preserve, which welcomes guests to learn about its resident wolf packs through observation, photography and education. The states largest art museum, the Newark Museum of Art is one of the best places to go when visiting New Jersey. This culture-rich museum on the New Jersey campus of Princeton University is wrought with exhibitions, curated collections, and daily presentations and shows. With so many amazing things to do in NJ, start your planning, pack your bags, and dont wait another minute to visit the beautiful Garden State. You can also pack a lunch and plan a picnic or eat at Duke Farms delectable farm-to-table cafe. With white-sand beaches by the mile, lifeguarded swimming, and umbrella/chair rentals available up and down the beach, a day at the shore has never been more convenient. Overall, New Jersey itself is one of the countrys hidden gems, with sightseeing and activities galore. 20 Romantic Things To Do in NJ - NJ MOM 155 Hughes Dr, Hamilton Township, NJ 08690. Address: 128 South Hartshorne Drive, Highlands, NJ 07732. What do Meryl Streep, Judy Blume and Danny DeVito all have in common? Even with so many positive attributes, New Jersey is often misunderstood. A drive down the shore is a must and Cape Mays Historic District is one of many scenic places in New Jersey you wont want to miss. Beyond the natural splendor that you can explore on your own, there are other activities available as well. Wetlands Safari Cruise (Birding By Boat) 3. Address: 120 W Main St, Tuckerton, NJ 08087, United States. Add to that the excitement of the Seaside Boardwalk and a visit to Seaside Heights is a must see place to visit in New Jersey. Another one of the best things to do in New Jersey is visiting Liberty State Park. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. While at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum youll be guided through underground tunnels, along which youll learn about the mines abundant history. With more than 140 vendors you can hope to get your hands on really cool vintage clothing, classic cassettes and records, oddities, unique collectibles, original clothing and art, comic books and games, and handmade jewelry. Tease your taste buds with chocolate and wine Spark your senses with velvety chocolate and flavorful wine during chocolate and wine tours around Valentine's Day. Follow your time in the park with lunch and shopping in some of the citys best eateries and boutiques. The interior of the monument and its 291 steps is available to climb on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Address: 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305. Warm up at a New Jersey winery. Tour a winery With more than 50 wineries nestled throughout New Jersey's verdant valleys, there are plenty of opportunities for wine tasting and scenic strolls through seemingly endless rows of grapevines. During the day youll enjoy strolling through the park or along the Hudson Rivers pier; in fact, Pier A Park is a wide-open green expanse perfect for meeting up with friends and throwing a frisbee. 20 New Jersey Fun Fall Activities | VisitNJ.org On this self-guided tour, with a map that is stamped like a passport along the way, youll have the unique opportunity to visit local breweries and surf sites in the southern part of the islands county. Arrive early and expect to pay a vehicle fee between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The museums current galleries include collections of art from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Mediterranean. 1 a. Next door, Smith has created a podcast studio and event space called SModCastle. The observation area at the center of the preserve is a scenic half-mile nature walk, or a shuttle bus is available to drive you. Emlen Physick Estate. Youll learn about the equipment used to mine zinc and iron, the working conditions the miners faced, and the mines geology. Address: 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson Township, NJ 08527, United States. Click to reveal Lambert Castle in Paterson was built within the Garret Mountain Reservation in 1892 by silk magnate Catholina Lambert. (609) 890-3630. You can visit the site where seven Nobel prize winners changed the course of telecommunication to do a little yoga or sip a Negroni. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. Comprising nearly 70,000 acres along more than 40 miles of the Delaware River, and over 100 miles of hiking trails, the park has so many memorable and breathtaking views. It would be batty to not consider brunch at the Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar in the stunning Carroll Villa Hotel, and equally as baffling to not watch the sunset over the beach with the Cape May Lighthouse in the background. A visit to the Howell Living History Farm is super fun and one of the top places to visit in New Jersey. Finally, on many summer nights, the ball game ends with a live fireworks show. Step back in time during your stay in New Jersey with an epic visit to the Morristown Game Vault. The Hoboken Historical Museum created the ultimate walking tour map, available online to download. With over 100 arcade games and pinball machines to choose from, you will undoubtedly recognize many of these nostalgic games. 20 Romantic Date Ideas Get Listed On This Page Back to All New Jersey Dating Guide See Our All New Fun Deals & Discounts of the Month! 30 Top Things to Do in New Jersey Soaking up beautiful beach views, touring an Ivy League University and exploring one of the world's largest spoon collections are just a few of the many. More than 100 rides and amusements give Wildwood a wholesome boardwalk feel, and free beaches make a family getaway to South Jersey a no-brainer. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. With views of the New York City skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty, all from the comfort of New Jersey soil, visiting the park makes for an inexpensive day out. Strolling through the botanical gardens of Rutgers Gardens is peaceful, serene, and downright beautiful. There is so much to do at Jenkinsons Boardwalk that you could easily make a weekend trip of it. Of course, there is shopping at hundreds of stores. The state is huge, full of vibrant arts and culture, and some of the very best restaurants you can experience. Address: 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006, United States. Five miles west of Atlantic City in Margate City is a six-story elephant that's nearly 150 years old. There are tractors, dump trucks you name it. Allaire State Park in New Jersey is handicap accessible, has restrooms, picnic tables, a visitor center, and even a museum. Upon entry, there are endless activities for adults and children beyond the simple enjoyment of watching the baseball game. A visit to Grounds for Sculpture provides you the unique opportunity to appreciate the sophistication of art in the outdoor grit of nature. Situated on the beautiful coast of the Atlantic Ocean and amidst many world-renowned hotels, casinos, and resorts, the Atlantic City Boardwalk delivers lots of stuff to do. Furthermore, convenient amenities like stroller rentals, family restrooms, and a childrens playground, make the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets a wonderful day-trip for shopping. The art, culture, and sophistication are alive on the boards and in the streets of Asbury Park. Address: 31 Batsto Road, Hammonton, NJ 08037, (Courtesy of The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism). Ellis Island is a historical landmark that served as a port of entry to millions of immigrants. And if you are in town in December, consider hopping on the Princeton Holiday Trolley Tour to learn more about the city's architecture, noteworthy Princetonians and more. The park has many, just as wonderful, attractions during the summer months too. This also covers the cost to spend a beautiful, serene beach day or go bold at Gunnison, New Jersey's only legal nude beach. From historic sites to the world's tallest roller coaster, here are the top things to see and do in the state. Among notable visitors was President Woodrow Wilson. This is a pit stop on your trip to New Jersey that you wont want to miss. 151 Things to Do in NJ And Why You Should Do Them Right Away - FunNewJersey One of the best, low-key beaches is Surf City on the 18-mile stretch of Long Beach Island. The Tuckerton Seaport is a charming little village situated on Tuckerton Creek in quaint and historic Tuckerton, New Jersey. As thrilling as it all sounds, many reviewers have mentioned that the Adventure Aquarium is primarily geared toward young children. Address: 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, United States. There are hours to be had playing retro games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Pinball. If you're looking for more nerdy movie magic, hit Jay & Silent Bob's Secret Stash on Broad Street in Red Bank, an expanded comic book store with props and memorabilia celebrating its 25th year in 2022. Newark Museum of Art is a highly recommended place to visit in New Jersey and near New York City. At Grounds for Sculpture, art and nature come together to make for a fulfilling New Jersey experience. What's more, thanks to the reservation system, it doesn't feel crowded. Fun Things to do in New Jersey at Night There is so much potential with the number of things to do in New Jersey, and it can seem overwhelming with the sheer amount of opportunity for romance. One of the best things to do in New Jersey, especially if you're visiting the Garden State with small children, is a trip to the Turtle Back Zoo. Set central to the state, FirstEnergy Park, home to the BlueClaws, is a field like no other. But no matter your beach speed, the fact remains that the beaches of the Jersey Shore are gorgeous, clean, and safe to swim. Address: Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544. The castle is home to just a fraction of former Paterson resident Bertha Schaefer Koempel's collection of approximately 5,400 souvenir spoons. Come with U.S. News on a tour of the Bardessono Hotel and Spa in Napa Valley. Of all the fun places to visit in New Jersey, youll want to make the Game Vault a stop on your itinerary. 1. Amusement & Theme Parks. Not only are there incredible views across the Hudson River from the park, but the impact of the 12 million immigrants who passed through Ellis Island continues to be felt today. 3. A newly instituted National Park, Paterson Great Falls are one of many activities that you should plan on your trip to NJ. Fun Couples Day Trip Ideas - Fun Things to do in NJ Lesser known is AC's African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey, which showcases a permanent collection of historic artifacts, as well as rotating exhibits featuring modern Black artists. Of note, theres a Making Mammoths exhibit, a Daniel Tigers Neighborhood-themed exhibit, Rubiks Cube exhibit, and even a wild-animals exhibit. Whats more, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is home to Old Barney the Islands famed lighthouse. The Paterson Great Falls are a top pick for free things to do in New Jersey. Besides seeing all the wonderful animals the aquarium has to offer, there are also many interactive exhibits. The Atlantic City Boardwalk has both exclusive and tourist shops, five-star restaurants and snack stands alike, rides and amusements for all ages, live entertainment, local culture, and hours of fun for all. Located in West Berlin, just 20 miles south of Philadelphia, Diggerland is the only theme and water park of its kind in the country. 15 Best Things to Do in New Jersey - Time Out But its history-rich landscape is just another facet of this charming seaside town. If you plan your visit for the late afternoon, afterward you can even check out the beautiful skyline of neighboring Philadelphia at night. Northlandz 4. Some of this New Jersey zoos other attractions include a dinosaur playground, boating, mini-golf, face painting, pony rides, a butterfly tent, an aviary, and much more. We can all conjure the image of the fuhgeddaboudit mentality and the Jersey Girl attitude. The natural landscape of the grounds perfectly juxtaposes the man-made hardscaping like pergolas, patios, and bridges. Here are 20 unique romantic things to do around New Jersey: 1. After a long day of frolicking in the Atlantic and basking in the sun, a visit to the Piers is in order. Address: 49 Washington St, Newark, NJ 07102, United States. Jersey Shore Alpacas. This, among other points of interest, makes a trip to Liberty State Park in New Jersey, a must do. Address: 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, NJ 08619. There is so much more to do in Princeton than study, which is why it's maybe more fun to be a visitor to this ivy-cloaked university town than a student. If youre wondering what to do in New Jersey, wonder no more! Iconic propeller aircraft, high-speed jet aircraft, helicopters, and engines are all on display at NAS. Consider a stay or at least a drink at the historic Congress Hall, known as America's first seaside resort, with an original opening in 1816. If youre lucky enough to be visiting New Jersey during the months leading up to Christmas, the parks Santa Light Show is a real treat. It is also waaayyy less busy and touristy than Brooklyn which offers similar vibes. Apart from the high-end shops and delicious crepes, Princeton University remains at the heart of this community and is the fourth-oldest college in the country. The action you just performed triggered the security solution. See much more than alligators during one of these exciting trips. Cloudflare Ray ID: 7e22a26addf0bb5f Come with U.S. News on a tour of Meadowood Napa Valley. If science is one of your points of interest, a visit to Liberty Science Center is one of many awesome places to visit in New Jersey. Address: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ 08103. After years of abandonment, artists, hikers, dirt bikers, and ATV riders discovered the abandoned factory. Atlantic City, or "AC" as it's commonly referred to, is still a popular weekend escape for its casinos and shows, but no longer the high-society promenade that "Boardwalk Empire" portrayed on HBO. Your IP: If youre looking for a zoo experience in the northernmost parts of Jersey, Essex Countys Turtle Back Zoo is a treat. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering pricing data, expert recommendations and consumer reviews. Trail Rides. We have lovely romantic towns where couples can get lost like the outrageously unbelievably beautiful Cape May. The piers have tons of restaurants, snack stands, and games for all. After many tours of duty, the Battleship New Jersey was finally decommissioned in 1991 and has been docked in the Delaware River since. [See more of Cape May: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]. Check out their fun intro packages! If youre looking for a novel place to visit today, this old iron and zinc mine in New Jersey is one of many fun places to visit. A trip to New Jersey wouldnt be complete without a visit to Liberty Science Center (LSC). Whether you prefer the sheer majesty of watching the races or the thrill of betting on the horses, youre sure to have a grand time at the track. Enthusiasts of surf and brews come together to curate a one-of-a-kind experience that can be accomplished in as few as one day or as many as it takes. Whether a history buff or lover of fast things, a visit to the NAS today, tomorrow, or this weekend, is one of many outrageous places to visit in New Jersey. Historically speaking, Atlantic City has been deemed a playground for adults. Smith is often seen in town and around Highlands, where he grew up; look for the oversized jersey. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in New Jersey - Tripadvisor And so even though the soccer club known as the Red Bulls represents New York, their stadium and many of their fans are in New Jersey. Beyond the amazing museum exhibits, there are often workshops, panels, films, performances, and creative-play experiences for families and children. According to recent visitors, the studios and workshops at the lab are in shockingly good condition given their age. You simply purchase a wrist band for a set time and play to your hearts content. (Reservations can book up to three months in advance, so reserve early.) This stretch of nearly 10 miles of shoreline is a special place between Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. With art collections of all styles from around the world as well as plenty of American art, the Newark Museum of Art is a mecca of culture. Address: Elm Dr, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States. You can find some of the best views of NYC from this park. Hosted at the CURE Insurance Arena, the flea market costs $15 at the door and offers about 300 unique vendors and a bevy of food trucks to pass a quirky afternoon. Cape May has long been known as one of New Jerseys best seaside towns. Plus, being outside is an exhilarating way to spend the day. Beware though, many of the states beaches do charge small admittance fees and parking can be cumbersome. Sip a chardonnay or pinot noir, sample an IPA or even have a cheese plate or snacks to go with it. Now referred to as the "metroburb," the former Bell Labs building in Holmdel Township hosts a busy schedule of comic conventions, yoga, dance, flower arranging, immersive gaming and a cute outdoor cocktail venue called Bar Bella, as well as offices and the town's library it's a big space. The over 1,200-acre park offers more than majestic views, though. THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in New Jersey Best Free Things to Do in New Jersey Enter dates Filters 1 Attractions Traveler favorites All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Classes & Workshops Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Nature & Parks Formerly, the Brooksbrae Brick Factory produced bricks daily by the thousands. If you plan to be in the southernmost part of New Jersey in the summer, worry about what to do no more. How about "Ms. Marvel," "Indiana Jones" and "The Sopranos"? A one-day ticket to Six Flags Great Adventure starts at $40 per person, not including admission to Hurricane Harbor. This pitstop on your tour of New Jersey is a cross between farm and museum. Take a tour of the vines or experience a beer flight together. And whether you're exploring a world-class museum or skiing in a massive indoor mall, you can always end the day at one of New Jersey's famous diners. So fuhgeddabout what youve seen in the movies and prepare for lots of natural beauty, many historical landmarks, action-packed adventures, and plenty of art and culture. Nearby is the Silverball Museum, which is a retro arcade that will entertain and amaze you with vintage pinball machine play all day for $20. 13. Still, the inspiration for the original Monopoly board is worth passing "Go" to take a stroll along the world's first and longest boardwalk. The first perk of visiting the ballpark is the reasonably priced entry tickets. No, they're not in the river, but along the Camden Waterfront at the Adventure Aquarium. American Dream Dreamworks Indoor Water Park (Editor's Choice) 2. Lucy the Elephant was constructed in 1881 by a Philadelphia contractor, but it was James V. Lafferty Jr. who conceived the eclectic elephant with an interior, and he received a patent for the design. Spend a weekend relaxing at Crystal Springs Resort. Free Things To Do In NJ: You'll Never Guess What's On Our List