Best Weekend Getaways in New Jersey
Planing a quick getaway from New Jersey? What fun! For me, weekend getaways in New Jersey have meant a lovely mixture of fun beach boardwalks while visiting my grandma, historic towns, fragrant gardens and cool hiking trails through wooded parks. From Atlantic beaches at sunset to countryside garden walks, The Garden State has given us plenty to choose from while living on the East Coast for 10 years. Here are my top getaways from New Jersey that I hope you’ll love for your next dreamy 48 hour weekend away.
Beach Weekend Getaways in New Jersey
When people ask me where to go in New Jersey, the Jersey Shore instantly pops to mind, and without a doubt some of the most relaxing weekend spots can be found here.
1. Wildwood
There’s something uniquely nostalgic about this beach town! The clatter of the boardwalk, the scent of salty fries, and that Atlantic breeze across wide beaches...it transported me back in time.
We hopped on a NJ Transit bus from Atlantic City to Wildwood (about 1.5 hours, $10) for an affordable family weekend. The Wildwood boardwalk was the absolute best part of the experience for me. Stretching for miles, it was filled with arcades, shops, and rides that brought out my inner kid and made my son happy. We loved grabbing a slice of pizza, riding the Ferris wheel, and seeing the neon lights at night.
During the day, the beaches were spectacular, with plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sun.
We also loved the dining scene here. Foodies will find tons of choices, from coastal fine dining at Dogtooth Bar & Grill, to inventive seafood at Poppi’s Brick Oven Pizza & Kitchen, known for its wood-fired pies and lively atmosphere. Craft beer lovers can stop by MudHen Brewing Company, Wildwood’s own brewery offering house-made beers, live music, and outdoor dining.
If you’re staying overnight, we picked 2-star Starlux Boutique Hotel where we enjoyed our retro-chic room for two days and the pool just steps from the beach and boardwalk. For a more upscale stay, 4-star ICONA Diamond Beach has stylish rooms with private beach access and oceanfront dining.
- Location: Map & Directions
What I loved best:
My favorite highlight was our casual family breakfast at Uncle Bill’s Pancake House - it was affordable and delicious!
2. Cape May
I thought this was an absolutely enchanting seaside town and one of the best places to visit in New Jersey! Why? First off, it feels like stepping into a living postcard with its grand Victorian homes, colorful "gingerbread" cottages. And, of course, there is the famous, sandy Cape May beach from which you can actually see whales (in season from May to October)!
From Wildwood, we drove about 20 minutes south to the "Jewel of the Jersey Shore" (population 3,100). Perched at the very southern tip of New Jersey, I learned that Cape May is both America’s oldest seaside resort and one of its most picturesque. On our day trip, I walked along the Promenade, and explored the Washington Street Mall filled with boutiques, shops selling sweets shops (my son's highlight!), and outdoor cafés. In addition, we toured the Emlen Physick Estate ($20 adult admission), a grand 1879 mansion that is now a museum.
- Location: Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Birdwatching at Cape May Point State Park, with its lighthouse and sweeping ocean views was my personal highlight.
3. Asbury Park
This Jersey Shore town completely won me over with its mix of seaside charm, artistic spirit, and rock-and-roll history. I thought that it was one of the best weekend getaways when I moved to the East Coast. Why? From the moment I set foot on the lively boardwalk, I could feel the energy of a town that put me in instant vacation-mode.
Instead of driving, we hopped on an NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Asbury Park (about 2 hours, $17 one way). Once thing I noticed as soon as we arrived was that the beach itself was wide, and perfect for swimming. I loved how easy it was to spend the day stretched out in the sun and then stroll right up to the boardwalk for food, music, and fun. Our stay at The Asbury Hotel for two days just steps from the boardwalk was super convenient.
Music is at the heart of Asbury Park, and I couldn’t resist visiting the legendary Stone Pony. Standing in a venue that launched so many careers gave me a thrill, and catching a live show there was an unforgettable highlight.
Downtown added another layer to the experience. I wandered through art galleries, vintage shops, and cafés that gave the area a cool, creative edge. The mix of history and innovation made every street feel worth exploring.
- Location: Map & Directions
What I loved best:
We love a great meal so I was happy to learn that there's so much to choose from in Asbury Park. There's upscale coastal cuisine at Pascal & Sabine and Stella Marina, and inventive comfort food at The Bonney Read. For casual dining, I love breakfast at Toast Asbury Park. In addition, craft beer lovers can explore Asbury Park Brewery, housed in a historic warehouse.
4. Things to Do in Atlantic City
The glitz, the casinos, the boardwalk...this city has them all. For me, spontaneity was part of the plan here.
Atlantic City gave me one of the most unusual yet exciting beach getaways I’ve ever had. The boardwalk was the highlight for me, stretching for miles along the beach. I loved walking it at sunset, stopping at arcades, shops, and food stands along the way. Grabbing a slice of pizza and a funnel cake while the ocean breeze rolled in was pure joy.
In addition, I ppreciated Atlantic City’s history. Visiting Boardwalk Hall and learning about its past gave me a deeper sense of the city’s character.
Foodies will find endless choices — from elevated dining at Dock’s Oyster House, an Atlantic City classic since 1897, to celebrity-chef hotspots like Gordon Ramsay Steak and Amada by José Garces. Craft beer lovers can stop by The Seed: A Living Beer Project, an award-winning microbrewery known for its small-batch, nature-inspired brews.
We spent two days at 5-star Ocean Casino Resort (a AAA Four Diamond award winner) in an ocean-view room with two Queen beds. I especially enjoyed returning to the hotel in the evening for a world-class dining experience since it was my birthday.
- Location: Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Breakfast at Gilchrist Restaurant where I had amazing blueberry pancakes this month, and Tony’s Baltimore Grill for late-night pizza with locals.
A downside? I found the casino-resort environment less restful than more low-key coastal towns.
Local tip: If you live in Pennsylvania, this town is a great weekend trip idea. For example, I caught a NJ Transit train from Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station to Atlantic City once (about 1 hour 40 minutes, $10).
5. The Atlantic Highlands
This place surprised me with how easy it made it to relax (and enjoy incredible views of the New York City skyline which was such a cool surprise!). Visiting The Atlantic Highlands on a day trip from NYC felt like we discovered a hidden gem just an hour from NYC by car (even faster if you take the ferry!).
Instead of driving, I took the Seastreak Ferry from my apartment in Manhattan to Atlantic Highlands (about 45 minutes, $24 one way). We stayed at 3-star Blue Bay Inn for two days.
I loved exploring the historic Victorian homes, browsed the local farmers’ market, and enjoyed a stroll along the marina. Downtown Atlantic Highlands had a unique, inviting vibe. In addition, we hiked down a trail in the nearby Hartshorne Woods Park and I kept thinking that the mix of nature and cityscape was unusual and unforgettable!
- Location: Map & Directions
A downside? I found that Atlantic Highlands isn’t without rough edges. Some storefronts on First Avenue stand empty - storms left scars that are still remembered.
What I loved best:
My favorite meal was at laid-back On the Deck Restaurant & Bar overlooking the marina.
Inland Weekend Getaways in New Jersey
Beyond the beaches, there are so many charming NJ towns to discover, full of history, great restaurants and scenic landscapes. Here are my favorites that I hope you'll enjoy visiting.
6. Bernardsville
I spent a slow, summer 48-hour weekend in this little Somerset Hills town, enjoying how peaceful and green everything felt. August weather was warm and golden with light breezes, perfect for sunrise walks and long afternoons exploring.
After an easy train ride on NJ Transit from New York City, I stayed at the comfortable 4-star Bernards Inn (around $173/night) for two days. I hiked through the Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary (free), wandered the quiet paths at Cross Estate Gardens (free), and sampled local cafés and bakeries in the small downtown.
- Location: Map & Directions
What I loved best:
Breakfast at The Coffee Shop - pancakes, waffles and eggs were perfection!
7. Woolverton Inn, Stockton
March was an incredible time to spend a weekend here, especially since the Delaware River Valley was just beginning to stir from winter’s quiet. In fact, I thought that springtime was the best season here for long walks and scenic drives.
I fell for Woolverton Inn as soon as we arrived at this charming stone manor surrounded by rolling hills and centuries-old trees. Mornings began with breakfast by the fire (fresh-baked scones, local honey, and great coffee!), and our days were spent wandering along the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath, crossing over to nearby Lambertville and New Hope for art galleries, antique shops, and riverside cafés.
To book, check availability or prices for Woolverton Inn
What I loved best:
I loved how the place offered such thoughtful details, from afternoon snacks to cozy nooks perfect for reading or sipping wine together.
8. Lambertville
I thought this spot was an absolute treasure, a riverside town that feels at once artistic, historic, and warmly inviting. Nestled on the Delaware River opposite New Hope, PA, it’s a place of narrow streets lined with 18th- and 19th-century homes.
Only about an hour and a half’s drive from both New York City and Philadelphia, Lambertville offers a perfect escape into history and culture. Once a canal town, it has reinvented itself as a haven for artists, antique lovers, and food enthusiasts.
During my visit, I wandered across the New Hope–Lambertville Bridge, taking in sweeping views of the Delaware River, and strolled along Union and Bridge Streets, browsing antique shops, art galleries, and eclectic boutiques.
What I loved best:
I admired the elegant Victorian rowhouses and Federal-style homes, many lovingly restored, and paused at the historic James Wilson Marshall House, honoring the discoverer of gold in California.
9. Morristown
I know this town well (my in-laws used to live here) and for me it's still a special place to visit. With its leafy neighborhoods and plenty of nature all around, Morristown blends deep Revolutionary War history with modern living.
After an easy and cheap train ride on NJ Transit, our first stop was Morristown National Historical Park, which preserves George Washington’s 1779–80 winter encampment at Jockey Hollow. It's over 1,600 acres of preserved land with reconstructed soldier huts and trails so we only got to see the parts closest to the parking lot.
We also toured the Ford Mansion (1774), Washington’s headquarters during that brutal winter. Admission was $7, and after soaking up the history, we spent the night at the Hyatt Regency Morristown ($189, modern and central).
What I loved best:
Dinner at 1776 Morristown was amazing - I had Sea Bass with laksa curry, asian vegetables and scallions!
10. Princeton
I spent a golden May weekend in this famous university city and fell in love with its blend of college charm, leafy pathways, and elegant old-world architecture.
After a smooth train ride down from New York, I checked into the 3-star Nassau Inn ($209, historic inn dating back to 1756, right on the square). I wandered through Princeton’s enchanting downtown, explored the Princeton University campus with its soaring spires and hidden courtyards, and felt the quiet hum of scholarly life that has flowed here for centuries.
Evenings were best spent meandering along Nassau Street, popping into indie bookstores, boutique shops, and cafés buzzing with students and locals.
What I loved best:
On a sunny afternoon, I sat by Lake Carnegie and watched rowers glide across the water, my personal highlight.
11. Red Bank
I thought this town was an absolute delight—equal parts historic river town and lively cultural hub. Nestled along the Navesink River, this small city charms with its Victorian architecture, bustling streets, and an arts scene that far outshines its size.
Just under an hour by train from New York City, Red Bank is both an easy escape and a true destination in its own right. The walkable downtown is packed with independent shops, trendy restaurants, and live-music venues, all framed by the town’s turn-of-the-century brick buildings and leafy side streets.
During my time there, I explored the boutiques along Broad Street, lingered by the riverfront parks, and admired the restored Count Basie Center for the Arts, which brings world-class performances to the heart of town.
12. Montclair
Tucked at the base of the Watchung Mountains, this is a lively township that blends tree-lined suburban charm with cosmopolitan energy. The town’s leafy streets and artsy vibe felt like a total (and instant!) shift from the city bustle.
We parked downtown on Bloomfield Avenue, grabbed coffee at a local café, and browsed boutiques. We checked into The George for the night, a boutique hotel in a restored 1902 mansion ($235, chic and cozy). Greek Taverna on Bloomfield Avenue is a great Greek dining experience in Montclair that mixes classic comfort Greek dishes with elevated preparations.
Montclair's walkable downtown hums with culture, boutiques, and a sophisticated food scene, while the nearby hills open into sweeping views of Manhattan’s skyline just 12 miles away.
- Location: Map & Directions
I think that Montclair is one of the best weekend getaways from New Jersey. Why? Only about a 45-minute drive west of New York City, staying here feels like stepping into a town where history and modern life mingle gracefully.
New Jersey Cities to Visit
New Jersey's cities provide plenty to see and do on an exciting weekend, from museums and tours to great dining and nightly entertainment. Here are my favorites and what I like to do while visiting...
13. Newark
After years of just flying in and out of Newark to my apartment in Manhattan, I decided to spend a night and take a closer look.
From the airport, it was just a 20-minute drive (12 miles) into downtown, where we stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott Newark Downtown ($165, walkable to the Prudential Center).
Newark moved fast. The train pulled in, brakes hissing, and the city wrapped around me before I had time to think. Brick, steel, murals on the walls. People rushing, music playing from open windows, not so different from Manhattan after all.
I enjoyed visiting the Newark Museum of Art, strolling through Branch Brook Park, catching a show at NJPAC, exploring Ironbound’s dining scene, and touring the historic Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart.
What I loved best:
The city’s Ironbound district for its incredible Portuguese, Spanish, and Brazilian restaurants, where sizzling seafood, grilled meats, and fresh pastries fill the streets with irresistible aromas.
14. Things to Do in Jersey City
The city is filled with character, from its eclectic neighborhoods and restored 19th-century rowhouses to murals splashed across walls in the Powerhouse Arts District. Our highlight was Liberty State Park (1,212 acres), with sweeping views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
We drove about 20 minutes east from Newark to Jersey City, the second-largest city in New Jersey. We walked around the Liberty Science Center ($30 admission) and then strolled along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway.
What I loved best:
Joining the Beyond the Plate Food Tour and sampling local favorites was my personal highlight.
My Favorite Culinary Weekend Getaways
You may not think of New Jersey as a culinary destination but I can assure you, while living in NYC for 10 years, we've found some incredible gems just across the state lines.
15. Cave Bistro, Avon-by-the-Sea
This bistro in Avon-by-the-Sea (about 1 hour 10 minutes from NYC), is one of the most exciting farm-to-table restaurants I’ve visited, and it instantly became a favorite of mine.
Located near the Jersey Shore, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend dinner after a beach day.
We loved how the space had a natural, earthy vibe, with warm tones and rustic touches that gave the whole evening a cozy and welcoming feel.
The menu was spectacular—focused on organic, locally sourced ingredients with creative twists that made every dish feel fresh, healthy, and absolutely delicious.
I was blown away by dishes like the crab cakes, fresh seafood specials, and plant-based entrées that were packed with bold flavor and plated beautifully.
We thought the pricing was fair for the quality!
One of my favorite parts was the variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, which made it an inclusive and unique place to dine with friends who have food sensitivities!
16. Two Fish BYOB, Medford
This is one of those amazing hidden gems in New Jersey that I can’t stop recommending, especially if you love fresh seafood with a creative twist.
Tucked right into the heart of charming downtown Haddonfield (1 hour 45 minutes from our apartment in Manhattan), it feels like the perfect spot for a joyful weekend dinner or even a romantic date night in South Jersey.
We loved the intimate vibe—cozy, modern, and vibrant—where every table feels special, and the energy makes it one of the coolest dining rooms I’ve experienced in the area.
The menu is spectacular, with seafood dishes that are both refined and exciting, showcasing the kind of brilliance that makes every plate feel like a dream come true.
One of my favorite parts is that it’s BYOB, which I think is such a brilliant idea—it makes the night both affordable and personal, since you can bring your favorite wine or bubbly to pair with the meal.
I was blown away by how fresh and flavorful the dishes were—standouts like perfectly cooked scallops, creative crudos, and tender fish entrées that tasted absolutely unforgettable.
The service was exceptional, too—attentive, warm, and genuinely joyful, adding to the welcoming magic of the evening.
I loved that it’s also walking distance from Haddonfield’s quaint shops and cafes, which makes dinner here part of an exciting little getaway evening.
17. Chengdu 23, Wayne NJ
If you’re obsessed with bold, authentic Sichuan flavors (spicy, and deeply comforting at the same time) like we are, this is the place for you.
Tucked right into the heart of Wayne, I found it to be an easy escape from Manhattan (just under an hour from our apartment), making it a perfect spot for a deliciously relaxed date night outside the city.
The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a cozy, bustling dining room filled with warmth, delicious aromas, and that irresistible energy only a beloved neighborhood spot can create. I loved how every table feels lively, every dish arriving with a sense of excitement, like you’re about to taste something truly special (which you are!).
The menu is incredible, packed with authentic Sichuan classics that are both fiery and beautifully balanced. It’s the kind of meal you think about for days after.
I also loved how close it is to Wayne’s shops and cafés, which turns dinner here into a full, fun little outing, like a mini weekend getaway without having to do much planning.
For me, this was one of the best weekend getaways in New Jersey because it was relaxing and delicious!
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
