Fall is that time of year when the love for crunchy cool air, brilliant foliage, and a sense of adventure emerges. And what better getaway than a quick trip across the river if one happens to be in New York City?
From quaint little towns to scenic parks, New Jersey has a whole lot to offer for a really memorable day trip this season. Now, let’s discuss some of the best day trips to make the most out of this fall in the Garden State.
Find Out New Jersey’s Fall Charm
Different from the vibrant intensity that New Jersey State has to offer, New Jersey’s fall landscape varies. The charm is not confined to sprawling parks and hiking trails but picture-book towns with teeming farmers’ markets and quaint local attractions. Be an outdoorsy person or just looking for a stress-free day; these excursions are ideal for one to take some time off and enjoy a change of pace.
Besides the many activities, one might find interest in visiting New Jersey casinos. Whether a seasoned player or just a person who may have an interest in the entertainment scene, this latest guide helps you get all the information needed from table games to eating places within casinos.
Whether you are looking for a little adventure or to sit and relax with good food, the casinos offer a pretty well-rounded experience that is worth considering as part of your fall trip.
Discover Quaint New Jersey Towns
New Jersey has no shortage of quaint towns that can turn into picture-perfect postcards during fall. Amongst these, consider stopping by:
Lambertville
Located along the Delaware River, the town of Lambertville is small and full of antique shops and galleries with great views of the river. In fall, its resident trees burst into colors to provide almost a mystical backdrop in which you can ramble along bustling Main Street. Make sure to stop at one or two of the local cafés for a hot drink and sample the laid-back atmosphere of this cozy retreat.
Princeton
Famed for its university, Princeton is a fine way to spend an afternoon. While walking its historic streets the towering trees fill the campus and town with brilliant hues of red, yellow, and orange. Equally appealing, Princeton contains an array of local eateries and boutiques, perfect for laid-back day tripping. Be sure to take a walk through the picturesque Princeton Battlefield State Park.
Cape May
A fall day at Cape May contains just the right mixture of ocean and foliage views. Cape May has been designated as a place with one of the highest concentrations of Victorian buildings anywhere; it truly is a place where one can step into the past. With historic streets, intimate bed-and-breakfasts, and a dramatic coastline, it is just plain nice to visit the area. The crowds in the fall are much smaller, so that is very beneficial to allow for more peacefulness.
Nature Lovers: Head to New Jersey’s Parks
If you’re looking to do even more outdoors, then New Jersey state parks are ideal locations for a day filled with hiking, sightseeing, and photography. The state offers a diverse array of terrains, so no matter your preference, there’s something different.
High Point State Park
Situated in the northwestern corner of the state, High Point State Park offers some of the most striking views in New Jersey. Climb to the top of High Point Monument, where the breathtaking panoramic views extend into three states. The rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains assure a breathtaking view when one is blanketed in fall colors.
Delaware Water Gap
For the hikers, the Delaware Water Gap is the place. The Gap has many trails; from easy day walks to more arduous hikes. Fall provides the best time to take these trails, especially because the leaves are recolored into majestic colors whose variances make reflections on the waters of the Delaware River. Bring along a picnic and view nature’s splendor, or simply enjoy the fresh fall air.
Cheesequake State Park
Yes, you read it right—Cheesequake State Park! This rare park contains mixed coastal marshland and hardwood forests along its several trails. Cheesequake is great for either a quick afternoon hike or an extended day. As fall rolls in, the marsh and forests put on their best display of color to show off the beauty around.
Family-Friendly Farms and Fall Festivals
Fall in New Jersey means one thing: time for pumpkin picking, apple cider, and a good ol’ hayride! Whether you are the type to head out with family or just seeking out a little of that old-timey farm fun, here is where you want to go:
Terhune Orchards
There is no better example of a fall family day than Terhune Orchards in Princeton. Pick apples off the orchard trees, drink some fresh apple cider, and get lost in their corn maze. Terhune’s fall festivals are noisy affairs filled with music and pumpkin painting amidst delicious seasonal treats.
Alstede Farms
Another fabulous place for enjoying fall activities is Alstede Farms in Chester. They offer pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, including pumpkins and apples, along with hayrides, pony rides, and a huge selection of homemade goodies in their farm store. The farm comes alive during the fall and is a great place to spend one’s day with family or friends.
Seasonal Culinary Delights
New Jersey food during fall is just one of those things that you really shouldn’t miss. Many towns host food festivals to help celebrate the bounty of the season. The Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival, for example, generally takes place every early October with a great food setting, live music, and other various forms of entertainment. It’s going to be a great spot to have little bits of everything: seafood to hearty fall stews.
Other options include visitors’ ability to experience farmers’ markets in this state, enabling them to buy fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan products from farmers directly. Most of these are located in beautiful settings where people can have nice walks and very nice places to communicate with locals.
Conclusion
From quaint small towns to scenic parks, fun casino visits to family-friendly farms, and much more, New Jersey has all one can need for a perfect fall day trip. The cool breeze in the air, great views, and holiday activities invite one to take a break from the rut of daily life and enjoy this season to the fullest.
No matter where you travel throughout New Jersey this fall, you will find brilliant colors, warm hospitality, and plenty of places for adventure. So get together with your friends or family, map out your day, and head across the river for an unforgettable fall experience!
Featured image credit: DepositPhotos.com
