Need a change of pace without a long trip? These getaways from New Jersey offer the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and charm—just a short drive or train ride away.
Highlights:
Where to Go with Kids
1. For Families and Beach Lovers: The Wildwoods
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Location:
Wildwoods, New JerseyHighlights:
Looking for a classic East Coast beach escape with retro charm and non-stop fun? The Wildwoods deliver with sunny beaches, iconic boardwalk attractions, and something for everyone—from water parks to tram rides to neon-lit nostalgia.Recommended For:
Families, beachgoers, amusement park fans, and anyone craving sun, sand, and seaside energy.What I Love: ♥
Endless boardwalk treats, beachfront rides at Morey's Piers, midcentury Doo Wop flair, and that laid-back Jersey Shore buzz.- Relax on the spacious beaches of the Wildwoods, known for being both wide and free to access—perfect for sunbathing, sandcastles, and swimming.
- Stroll or ride the famous Wildwood Boardwalk, filled with restaurants, souvenir shops, arcades, and games for every age group.
- Ride the tram car for a classic boardwalk experience with hop-on-hop-off convenience as you take in the ocean views and entertainment.
- Play at Morey's Piers, Mariner’s Pier, and Splash Zone Waterpark—offering thrills, water slides, and family-friendly fun all season long.
- Step back in time at the Doo Wop Experience Museum, where neon signs, midcentury memorabilia, and retro charm tell the story of Wildwood’s past.
Local Resource:
The Wildwoods Official Tourism Site2. For History Buffs and Foodies: Annapolis
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Location:
Annapolis, MarylandHighlights:
If you're dreaming of a charming coastal town with deep colonial roots and waterfront views, Annapolis offers the perfect mix of history, elegance, and Chesapeake Bay beauty. Just a short drive from Baltimore or Washington, D.C., it’s an ideal weekend escape.Recommended For:
Couples, history buffs, foodies, and weekenders looking for a scenic and sophisticated waterfront destination.What I Love: ♥
Strolling cobblestone streets, dining on fresh Maryland seafood, shopping local boutiques, and soaking up harbor views from one of 17 miles of public-access shoreline.- Explore a city rich in colonial history—from historic homes and churches to the United States Naval Academy and picturesque streetscapes.
- Wander along Main Street, filled with acclaimed restaurants, cafés, and seafood spots offering everything from crab cakes to gourmet cuisine.
- Shop for one-of-a-kind finds in local boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores featuring coastal décor, fashion, and artisan goods.
- Stay in a romantic bed and breakfast or a historic inn tucked into the heart of town, many within walking distance of the harbor.
- Enjoy 17 miles of waterfront—perfect for boat tours, kayaking, sunset views, or just relaxing along the Chesapeake Bay shore.
Local Resource:
Visit Annapolis Official Tourism Site3. For Music Fans: Asbury Park
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Location:
Asbury Park, New JerseyHighlights:
Cool, creative, and unmistakably Jersey Shore—Asbury Park is a vibrant seaside destination packed with music history, boardwalk energy, and retro fun. It’s the perfect mix of beach town escape and cultural hotspot.Recommended For:
Couples, music lovers, vintage enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys eclectic beach vibes with a touch of rock 'n' roll.What I Love: ♥
The legendary Stone Pony, the pinball wizardry of Silverball Museum, seafood feasts during Oysterfest, and long oceanfront strolls lined with quirky shops and live music.- Experience Asbury Park’s music scene legacy at iconic venues like the Stone Pony and the beautifully restored Paramount Theatre.
- Wander the bustling boardwalk, complete with arcades, souvenir shops, art murals, and beachside eats perfect for a casual bite.
- Play to your heart’s content at the Silverball Museum, where vintage pinball and classic video games transport you back in time.
- Celebrate coastal flavors at the annual Oysterfest, a favorite for seafood fans and festival-goers alike.
Getaways for Couples
Asbury Park is ideal for a romantic weekend escape. Catch a concert under the stars, share a plate of oysters by the sea, or stroll the boardwalk at sunset with saltwater taffy in hand. With boutique hotels, oceanfront dining, and endless entertainment, it's the perfect blend of seaside serenity and artsy excitement.
Local Resource:
Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce4. For Nightlife Lovers: Atlantic City
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Location:
Atlantic City, New JerseyHighlights:
Atlantic City is the **Las Vegas of the East Coast**—a legendary seaside playground where casinos meet the coast, entertainment never sleeps, and the iconic boardwalk offers four miles of oceanfront thrills. Whether you're rolling the dice or riding a Ferris wheel, AC delivers nonstop energy.Recommended For:
Couples, casino-goers, families, beach lovers, and East Coast travelers looking for a dynamic coastal escape.What I Love: ♥
The glitzy skyline, Steel Pier rides, Monopoly nostalgia, historic lighthouses, and the perfect mix of beachfront fun and world-class nightlife.- Explore the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk—a four-mile stretch of attractions, eateries, shops, and scenic views that inspired the classic Monopoly board game.
- Play at Steel Pier, where roller coasters, water rides, and a giant seaside observation wheel keep the excitement high for all ages.
- Visit the historic Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest in New Jersey, for panoramic views and local history.
- Snap a selfie with Lucy the Elephant, a six-story roadside marvel and one of the most unique attractions on the East Coast.
- Enjoy family time at the Atlantic City Aquarium, featuring live marine shows and interactive exhibits perfect for kids.
Local Resource:
Atlantic City Official Tourism Site5. For Quiet Weekenders: The Atlantic Highlands
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Location:
Atlantic Highlands, New JerseyHighlights:
Quietly nestled in New Jersey's Bayshore Region, the Atlantic Highlands is where forested hills meet the sea. With panoramic views from Mount Mitchill, charming local history, and an abundance of parks, it’s an ideal escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike.Recommended For:
Hikers, history lovers, couples seeking coastal serenity, and families in search of relaxed outdoor adventures.What I Love: ♥
The sweeping views from the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard, peaceful woodland trails, and the chance to explore a historic mansion or take in a dinner theater show—all within one charming town.- Climb to Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook, the highest natural elevation along the Eastern Seaboard at nearly 300 feet above sea level, with views of Sandy Hook and New York City.
- Explore the borough’s 10 public parks, including Lenape Woods, a 51-acre preserve with wetlands, wildlife, and walking trails alongside Many Mind Creek.
- Step back in time at the beautifully restored Strauss Mansion Museum, a Queen Anne-style home turned living history site.
- Enjoy a night of live entertainment at the cozy First Avenue Playhouse, a beloved local dinner theater offering intimate performances year-round.
- Navigate the town and plan your day with this handy interactive map.
Local Resource:
Atlantic Highlands Official Borough Website6. For For Romantic: Bernardsville
© Borough of Bernardsville, NJ
Location:
Bernardsville, New JerseyHighlights:
Bernardsville is a serene and sophisticated borough tucked into Somerset County, known for its historic elegance, natural beauty, and refined small-town atmosphere. With landmark architecture, scenic parks, and top-tier dining, it’s an ideal destination for a polished yet peaceful getaway.Recommended For:
Couples, history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers looking for upscale charm and tranquility just outside the city.What I Love: ♥
Walkable historic streets, European-inspired restaurants, manicured gardens, and bird-filled nature trails—plus that rare combination of luxury and low-key leisure.- Stroll the Olcott Avenue Historic District, a National Register-listed area where turn-of-the-century architecture meets boutique shopping and sidewalk cafés.
- Relax at Michael J. Nervine Memorial Park, a peaceful space overlooking the scenic Borough Pond.
- Wander the Cross Estate Gardens, managed with the National Park Service and bursting with blooms in spring and summer.
- Explore the Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, featuring 200+ native bird species and immersive wooded trails maintained by the New Jersey Audubon Society.
- Dine in style at acclaimed restaurants like Bernard’s Inn for elevated American cuisine or Osteria Morini for a rustic Italian culinary escape.
Navigation:
View map of BernardsvilleLocal Resource:
Visit Bernardsville on VisitNJ.org7. For Architecture Fans: Cape May
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Location:
Cape May, New JerseyHighlights:
Consistently ranked as one of America’s best beach destinations, Cape May blends oceanfront beauty with Victorian charm. With historic architecture, lighthouse views, and boutique-lined streets, this National Historic Landmark is a seaside escape like no other.Recommended For:
Couples, history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking a romantic or nostalgic coastal getaway.What I Love: ♥
The entire town’s storybook setting, its impeccably preserved Victorian homes, whale-watching adventures, and sunset strolls along some of the country’s most picturesque beaches.- Unwind on one of the top beachfront stretches in the U.S., praised by the Travel Channel for its wide sandy shores and peaceful oceanfront ambiance.
- Admire the Victorian homes in the Cape May Historic District, where pastel-painted gingerbread cottages line quiet streets.
- Climb the historic Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views or visit the WWII-era Lookout Tower for a glimpse into local military history.
- Tour the Emlen Physick Estate, an ornate 19th-century mansion offering Victorian-era insights, or explore Historic Cold Spring Village, a living history museum with colonial demonstrations.
- Stroll the boardwalk hand-in-hand or browse shops and dine alfresco at the charming Washington Street Mall.
- Set sail on a whale watching cruise, a year-round favorite for wildlife lovers and romantics alike.
Navigation:
View Cape May on Google MapsLocal Resource:
Cape May Historic District8. For Antique Shoppers: Chester Borough
© Municipality of the Borough of Chester
Location:
Chester Borough, New JerseyHighlights:
Named one of New Jersey’s most beautiful towns, Chester Borough in Morris County is a perfect mix of pastoral landscapes, historic architecture, and quaint downtown charm. Whether you're hiking scenic trails or shopping local boutiques, Chester feels like a storybook escape.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, history buffs, antique shoppers, and anyone seeking a peaceful day trip or weekend retreat.What I Love: ♥
Rolling countryside, preserved gristmills, colorful gardens, and a historic district full of charm—all wrapped in the warm welcome of small-town New Jersey.- Explore Hacklebarney State Park for hiking trails, waterfalls, and seasonal hunting surrounded by woodland beauty.
- Step back in time at Black River County Park and the Nathan Cooper Gristmill, where costumed interpreters bring the 19th century to life.
- Wander the serene paths of Willowwood Arboretum, a 131-acre gem of landscaped gardens and native trails.
- Admire the historic 1740 First Congregational Church and the borough’s colonial-era buildings that dot the charming downtown district.
- Shop at over 50 local boutiques, galleries, and antique shops, then relax with a bite at one of Chester’s many charming cafés or cozy restaurants.
Navigation:
View Chester Borough on Google MapsLocal Resource:
Visit Chester on VisitNJ.orgPlan Your Trip