For a three-day weekend of true fall splendor, consider a trip out to Alstede Farms in Chester. Founded in 1982, Alstede is a family-run farm that offers apple, peach, pumpkin, Indian corn and berry picking. There is a bouncy house, pony rides and bunny runs for the kids, as well as a corn maze and corn kingdom. After a long day of exploring, enjoy some food on the farm with menu items pulled straight from the farm’s fields, as well as delicious, homemade ice cream. For more apple picking, homemade pies, apple cider and delicious doughnuts, check out the nearby Hillview Farms as well. Spend your evenings exploring historic Morristown and wake up amongst the changing leaves at one of the quintessential bed and breakfasts nearby, The Whistling Swan Inn or The Inn at Millrace Pond.
Princeton is a beautiful place to immerse yourself in the magnificence of fall as it boasts great local art, culture and history. Home to Princeton University, the Ivy League institution offers a stunning backdrop to stroll through and explore as the leaves begin to turn their golden and copper hues. Stop by the Annual Fall Harvest Festival at Unionville Vineyards in October, which features live music, wine tasting, kids activities, grape stomping and many gourmet food vendors. The local Oasis Family Farm has a number of daytime activities for the kids, including a pumpkin patch, haunted fun zone and gem mine, in addition to after dark attractions such as haunted houses and the island of terror. Shopping for fine seasonal produce, specialty goods and gifts is a breeze at the Princeton farmers’ market and Lambertville Flea Market, while a unique and welcoming experience awaits all at the await historic Nassau Inn. Centrally located in Palmer Square and renowned for its first class hospitality, the Nassau Inn has been serving guests since 1756.
For fall activities on the beach, head south to Wildwood and enjoy the cooler temperatures and family-friendly fare. A Halloween house decorating contest runs throughout the month of October, where visitors can take a drive through the streets of Wildwood and vote for which house is the spookiest. The Wildwoods also hosts the 5K Boardwalk Pumpkin Run in late October, where participants of all ages are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costumes while running along the beach. No need to worry about accommodations, as popular locations like the Starlux Boutique Hotel and the Marlane Motel are commonplace in the area.
