Sussex/Wantage
Skylands Region
Why You’ll Love It: Fall foliage. Need we say more? These neighboring towns in northwestern New Jersey are wooded, rural and absolutely gorgeous when the leaves begin to change. Hike up the famous Kittatinny Ridge to see the High Point Monument standing tall with the rolling farmland below colored crimson and gold. At Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge, walk the Liberty Loop Trail for more autumn color and be sure to keep your eyes out for migratory birds. Then kick back and relax with an outdoor tasting overlooking the vines at Ventimiglia Vineyard.
Where to Stay: This sprawling country setting is the perfect backdrop for a rustic New Jersey fall getaway. After a day of hiking, biking or fishing at High Point State Park, stay overnight in one of the on-site cabins (open through October 15), which stay cozy with a wood stove, or pitch a tent in one of their family- and pet-friendly campsites. Bring your RV or sleep in a miniature log cabin for a “glamping” experience at Sun Retreats Pleasant Acres Farm.
Where to Eat: After a day of exploring the great outdoors (and taking in the stunning scenes along the way), saddle up for some classic comfort food at Early American Tavern or Old Stone in Sussex or locally sourced burgers at Cow Patty’s in Wantage. In the morning, hit up the Airport Diner or the Sussex Sit n' Chat Diner & Pancake House for a mouthwatering breakfast with an old-fashioned, small-town vibe.
Hoboken
Gateway Region
Why You’ll Love It: Just across the Hudson River from New York City, this hipster-cool enclave touts picture-perfect views of the Manhattan skyline, and during the leaf-peeping season you’ll enjoy beautiful tree-lined streets with breathtaking fall colors overlooking the water. Stop into the Hoboken Historical Museum or Barsky Gallery to see the latest art exhibitions. Go window shopping at one-of-a-kind stores and unique boutiques along Washington Street. Or stroll along the Hoboken Waterfront to enjoy some fresh air and riverfront views.
Where to Stay: Stay in the midst of the action at the W Hoboken for a bit of pampering and wow-worthy views. Here, you’ll find plush rooms, the Woodhouse Day Spa and Halifax Restaurant – an on-site eatery focusing on local ingredients sourced from nearby farmers, fishermen and artisans. Looking to break a sweat on your getaway? Check out FIT, the W’s 1,520-square-foot gym, which features views of the city and the Hudson River. Another waterfront property is the Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel, just minutes away in nearby Weehawken. Here, you’ll find more sprawling cityscape views and hotel restaurant Beneci's D'Italia Cucina, serving up authentic Italian fare in an elegant atmosphere.
Where to Eat: With a rich diversity of cultures, take your pick from a variety of international cuisines: traditional Cuban dishes at The Cuban Restaurant and Bar, upscale Italian tapas at Bin 14, flavorful Mediterranean dishes at GreekTown, and New American cuisine with an Argentine twist at Hoboken staple Amanda’s. In the morning, enjoy a leisurely brunch at Anthony David’s, where fan favorites include gourmet items such as chorizo and guacamole eggs Benedict, a wild mushroom omelet with goat cheese and roasted peppers and a crab cake sandwich slathered with lemon aioli.
Trenton
Central Jersey Region
Why You’ll Love It: Get back-to-school vibes with a field trip to some of the museums and important historical landmarks in our state’s capital city. There are so many places to visit and sites to see in Trenton you’re sure to find an attraction that brings out your inner student. See dinosaur fossils, Civil War relics, Native American artifacts and a collection of fine artwork at the New Jersey State Museum. Explore the gardens and grounds of a historic country house at The 1719 William Trent House Museum,and then see where American troops rested, recovered and lived during the Revolutionary War with a tour of the Old Barracks Museum, dating back to the mid-1700s.
Where to Stay: Within 15 minutes of downtown Trenton, discover an array of brand-name hotel chains in neighboring towns: Springhill Suites by Marriott in Ewing Township, Hilton Garden Inn in Hamilton and Hampton Inn in Bordentown. For a romantic getaway, plan a weekend stay at the Inn at Glencairn, a charming bed-and-breakfast in Princeton within a historic home, where you can enjoy the rural beauty of the area and a fresh, healthy breakfast made from scratch.
Where to Eat: Trenton has plenty of options for delicious dining. 1911 Smoke House BBQ always has wings and ribs fresh off the smoker with over 20 sauces and seasonings. Trenton Social is the place to eat, drink and be social, with lively events from happy hours to open mic nights to live music. For dining with water views, make a reservation at Cooper's Riverview – and keep an eye on their calendar for happenings like karaoke nights and Sunday jazz brunch.
Asbury Park
Shore Region
Why You’ll Love It: After a fresh dose of creativity, this coastal town is enjoying a resurgence, with plenty of new (and classic) eateries, nightlife and hotel hotspots to explore. Catch a show at The Stone Pony or the Paramount Theatre. Grab a drink and stay for the music at the Wonder Bar or Soundbooth. Visit the Silverball Museum to try your hand at classic pinball games in their retro arcade. Or take in the sights along the boardwalk and shop the many unique storefronts along the way.
Where to Stay: Just two blocks from the Asbury Park Boardwalk, stay in style at The Asbury Hotel – which offers a modern-meets-retro vibe, a chic swimming pool and numerous cocktail bars, plus Baronet, a 4,300-square-foot rooftop space that plays host to well-being classes and outdoor movies. Going to a show at The Stone Pony? Book a room at The Empress, just a few hundred feet from the venue.
Where to Eat: This historic Shore town has found a new groove, with trendy hot spots stealing the show. Go for sliders and disco fries served inside a rock-n-roll-inspired bowling alley at the legendary Asbury Lanes. Try modern Middle Eastern fare like green falafel and lamb kofte at Reyla. Or start your day with brunch pizza (yes, that’s a thing) at Talula’s.
Margate
Greater Atlantic City Region
Why You’ll Love It: Of all the fall vacation ideas out there, a trip to the seaside is often overlooked. But fall is arguably the best time of year to experience some true seaside serenity. (Check out our guide for more luxury fall beach vacations!). Enjoy a quiet day at the beach in this coastal Jersey town, then stroll along Ventnor Avenue to peruse the numerous unique shops (and maybe even catch some end-of-summer sales). Both beloved and iconic, Margate’s ideal location and coastal charm make it a favorite for all types of travelers – from beach lovers and sports enthusiasts to anglers and surfers alike.
Where to Stay: Up the coast in neighboring Ventnor City, you’ll find historic accommodations with vintage-style décor and modern accommodations by the sea at North Beach Hotel and The Carisbrooke Inn. Just over five miles away is Atlantic City, where you can choose from an array of hotel casinos, budget-friendly motels and specialized boutique hotels. For a luxury experience, book a room at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, featuring a spa, fitness center and more than 20 dining and nightlife options on-site.
Where to Eat: There’s no better place to enjoy fresh seafood than right by the water. Dine on freshly shucked oysters, clam chowder, lobster mac & cheese, jumbo lump crab cake and more at Steve & Cookie's By the Bay. At Tomatoe’s, enjoy the best of land and sea, from burgers and fried chicken to sushi and a fresh catch of the day. Meanwhile, Margate Dairy Bar & Burger has been serving up juicy cheeseburgers, loaded-up hot dogs and thick milkshakes since 1952.
West Cape May
Southern Shore Region
Why You’ll Love It: As the weather gets cooler, the beach-seeking tourists depart and are replaced by birds that flock to the area. Bring a pair of binoculars to this rural town on the southernmost tip of the Jersey Shore and explore the wetlands at Cape May Point State Park – a well-known birding area, particularly during the fall migration. While you’re here, hike the trails and take in views from the top of the Cape May Lighthouse. Nearby, revel in the bounty of harvest season with just-picked produce, freshly pressed juice, local jam, honey and more in the market at Beach Plum Farm. For more local flavor, take a vineyard tour at Willow Creek Farm & Winery and enjoy a tasting led by one of their wine educators.
Where to Stay: Escape for the weekend and enjoy all the area’s historic appeal when you stay at the Highland House, a pet-friendly bed-and-breakfast brimming with country cottage charm. Nearby, the Wilbraham Mansion is a Victorian-era residence carefully transformed into an elegant bed-and-breakfast, complete with vintage furnishings, intricate wallpaper and turn-of-the-century architectural details.
Where to Eat: Funky, low-key and offbeat is the vibe in West Cape May (the more casual side of neighboring Cape May), and its food scene reflects that. Dine on tasty tacos filled with island flavor – Caribbean spices, fresh seafood and plenty of tropical citrus – at Key West Tacos. Fresh salads, sandwiches and plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are on the menu at Bella Vida Garden Café. For an elegant dinner, try Sapore Italiano, a BYOB Italian restaurant housed in a Victorian-style home.
Before visiting your chosen destinations, please call ahead or visit the official websites or social media pages to get the latest hours of operation and other need-to-know details.
