FunNewJersey Destinations in NJ Worth Driving To!
Discover the hidden gems and unique spots in New Jersey perfect for a memorable day trip away from the usual tourist crowds.
Exploring the Pine Barrens: A Natural Wonder
Nestled in southern New Jersey, the Pine Barrens covers a vast area of 1.1 million acres and offers a serene escape into nature. This sprawling reserve is characterized by its unique ecology, including pitch pine trees and sandy soil, which make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike along the Batona Trail, spot the elusive Jersey Devil myth, or simply enjoy the quietude of the forest.
For an educational twist, stop by the Whitesbog Village, the birthplace of the highbush blueberry, where you can learn about the area’s agricultural history. The Pine Barrens also hosts canoeing and kayaking opportunities along its winding rivers, providing a tranquil yet adventurous day trip option.
Victorian Cape May: A Step Back in Time
Cape May is New Jersey’s jewel on the shore, known for its stunning Victorian architecture and historic charm. A day trip to this coastal town can include a tour of the colorful gingerbread houses, a visit to the Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views, or a stroll along the pristine beaches. The Emlen Physick Estate, a preserved Victorian house museum, offers a glimpse into the past with its period furnishings and exhibits.
Afterward, wander down to the Washington Street Mall for unique local shopping and dining options. Don’t forget to end your day with a sunset watch at Sunset Beach, where the sun dips below the horizon in a spectacular display of colors.
Also check out the The Staircase to Nowhere which is Nestled within the Cape May Point State Park. This mysterious concrete structure stands alone on the beach, offering stunning views of the Delaware Bay.
The Grounds for Sculpture: An Artistic Escape
The Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton provides a whimsical and immersive art experience spread over 42 acres of beautifully landscaped terrain. Here, visitors can marvel at over 270 contemporary sculptures by well-known and emerging artists, displayed both indoors and out. The park’s creative presentation of art pieces, coupled with its thematic gardens, make for an enchanting journey.
Interactive workshops and seasonal events offer additional layers of engagement, while the charming Rat’s Restaurant on the grounds presents an opportunity to indulge in a culinary delight among the sculptures. A stroll through the Grounds for Sculpture is like walking through a living canvas, where art and nature blend seamlessly.
Historic Smithville: A Charming Village Experience
Historic Smithville is a delightful village that seems to be frozen in time. With more than 60 shops housed in quaint, colonial-style buildings, it’s the perfect spot for those who enjoy a bit of old-world charm mixed with modern-day amenities. The village offers a variety of boutique shopping options, from candy and gift shops to artisan crafts.
Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the antique carousel or take a leisurely paddle boat ride on the lake. Special events throughout the year, such as car shows and festivals, add an extra layer of excitement to the Smithville experience. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the famous Smithville Inn, where a classic American dining experience awaits.
Kayaking and Wildlife in the Meadowlands: Unexpected Adventures
The New Jersey Meadowlands, located just outside of New York City, offers a surprising nature retreat amidst the urban sprawl. This network of wetlands and waterways is a prime spot for kayaking, where paddlers can navigate through the serene marshes and encounter a rich variety of birdlife, including herons, egrets, and osprey.
The Meadowlands Environment Center provides educational programs and guided tours that highlight the region’s ecological importance and restoration efforts. For sports fans, the Meadowlands is also home to MetLife Stadium, where you can catch a game or concert after a day of nature exploration. This unexpected day trip destination showcases the diversity and resilience of New Jersey’s natural landscapes.
Lakota Wolf Preserve
Lakota Wolf Preserve: A wildlife preservation center in Columbia, NJ, offering guided tours to observe and learn about wolves and other animals.
Whitesbog Village
A historic company town in Browns Mills, NJ, featuring cranberry bogs, a farm, and a village with antique buildings showcasing the region’s agricultural past.
Historic Batsto Village
A well-preserved 18th-century village in Hammonton, NJ, offering a glimpse into the area’s industrial and agricultural heritage.
Duke Farms
Duke Farms is a sustainable farm and nature preserve in Hillsborough, NJ, with over 1,000 acres of land, featuring walking trails, bike paths, and educational programs.
Allaire State Park
Allaire State Park, located in Monmouth County, New Jersey, is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and recreational activities.
The park spans over 3,000 acres and is best known for the historic 19th-century iron-making town, Allaire Village, and the antique steam trains of the Pine Creek Railroad.
The 19th-century town of Allaire Village, offering visitors a chance to step back in time.
Waterloo Village
A restored 19th-century canal town in Stanhope, NJ, showcasing historic buildings, craft demonstrations, and scenic walks along the Morris Canal.
Tuckerton Seaport
A maritime village and museum in Tuckerton, NJ, featuring historic buildings, exhibits on the region’s seafaring history, and opportunities to explore the local waterways.
Wawayanda State Park
Trek the 20-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail within this rugged park, offering camping, rafting, and breathtaking views.
Delaware Water Gap
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting through the Delaware Water Gap, surrounded by the picturesque landscape.
The park offers a range of recreational activities, including canoeing, kayaking, rafting, tubing, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, and camping. Visitors can explore the Worthington State Forest and the Appalachian Trail, as well as numerous waterfalls and historic sites.
