9 Picturesque Towns in New Jersey for a Weekend Retreat in 2024
Looking for the next big weekend getaway? If so, then New Jersey may be an excellent choice for 2024. The "Garden State" of the US is no stranger to picturesque environments, vibrant commercial locales, and unparalleled natural or historical landmarks, such as the Cape May Lighthouse and Princeton University! These beautiful towns are the perfect weekend retreat destinations for travelers this year who need amazing motivators to explore the state!
Burlington
Burlington is a getaway idea that may leave one speechless! Museum lovers may enjoy James Fenimore Cooper House, the birthplace of the famous author who wrote esteemed novels; it also has a circus performance event coming in early October 2024! At the General Grant House, visitors will be astounded by a secretive home that was once important to former U.S. president Ulysses S. Grant. Old St. Mary's Church offers a mix of historic and religious tours around relaxing meadows and Gothic Revival architecture.
Those who love breweries and happy conversations with the locals may find Third State Brewing to be a true pleasure, with its award-winning beers and historical foundations that were once home to early Americans and even a Founding Father! Weekenders who enjoy shopping for interesting goods may like Philip's Furniture and Antiques, a niche locale with crafty trinkets and family-friendly vibes. Amy's Omelette House makes one feel comfortable with its delicious egg and pancake meals for a hungry stomach. For lodging options, one can check in at The Lily Inn, a cozy motel that suits both short-term visits and retirees who want easy access to shopping and dining locales.
Cape May
A well-known New Jersey destination, Cape May goes by many names, such as "Cool Cape May" and "Jewel of the Jersey Shore". The Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey is a wonderful touring idea for exploring historic tributes to abolitionists and the Underground Railroad. The Emlen Physick Estate has 18th-century restored artworks and antiques right inside a unique 18-room Victorian mansion. Cape May Point State Park has calming boardwalk trails and World War II artillery sites right along a gorgeous beach!
Cape May Lighthouse provides trekkers with breathtaking climbs and evening trolley tours. At the Cape May County Park & Zoo, backpackers can see adorable snow leopards and zebras; it also has holiday events coming up like "Boo at the Zoo!" in late October and "Santa's Tree Lighting Celebration" in late November 2024! Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center is an underrated stop for marine life and narration tours. The Lobster House is a splendid option for dockside dining and lobster bars. Simple stays are achievable with Hotel Macomber's scenic shingles and oceanside views, while long-term visitors and retirement planners can reside at Congress Hall for fancy vibrance and hospitable poolside arrangements right near the beach.
Long Valley
Long Valley, once labeled "German Valley" and Dutch Valley," is an alluring destination worth the visit! Obadiah La Tourette Grist and Saw Mill is a 17th-century mill with sunny tours of the oldest village communities and turbine-powered technologies. The Hacklebarney State Park is the best natural sight in town, with its hemlock ravines and glacial valley scenery. The Lodge at Schooleys Mountain County Park is a must-see for Adirondack Lodge porch vibrance and lakeside activities that may appeal to retirees who like event planning.
Those who enjoy horseback riding may be thrilled around Willow Grove Farm, a hidden gem for equestrian tours and excursions around the backcountry. Ort Farms is a treasured locale with farmland scenery and pumpkin pastures; it also has an "Oktoberfest" event scheduled for late September and "Boo Bash" in late October 2024! Over at Chesapeake Tavern, travelers and settlers alike can taste satisfying oysters and salmon around the fireplace. Neighbour House Bed & Breakfast is a laidback lodging spot for short-term visitors who need just a few days within quaint atmospheres, while the Raritan Inn at Middle Valley and Bernards Inn serve long-term customers with Victorian farm beauty and train ride accessibility to neighboring cities.
Frenchtown
Once called "Alexandriaville," Frenchtown is a suburban getaway option that may fit into weekends perfectly! The Uhlerstown-Frenchtown Bridge is a natural wonder for travelers who want an easy narrow bridge sighting with historic perspective and gorgeous Delaware River scenery. Frenchtown Park is a grassy segue with playground amusement for kids and also has creek pleasures right at the banks! Horseshoe Bend Park is an alternative for any trip that consists of sweeping vistas and lush forestry containing unique birds.
At the ArtYard, entertainment fans can enjoy creative art workshops and evening performances that will keep visitors and retirees around for a long time; it will be hosting "Tarot Nights" in November 2024! Frenchtown Roller Rink is a popular rollerskating rink that stands out to minglers. For itineraries only lasting a few days, Decoys & Wildlife Gallery remains a pleasant surprise with its animal statue carvings and introvert-oriented art galleries. Frenchtown Cafe offers tasty blueberry pancakes, while poutine lovers may adore Tavern 519. For 2-day overnight accommodations, The National Hotel is a luxurious resort with charming styles and top-notch customer service that may benefit both weekenders and retirees.
Lambertville
Commonly referred to as "The Antiques Capital of New Jersey," Lambertville is a scenic destination with plenty to see and do. The 267-acre Howell Living History Farm is a typical stop for learning about farmland history and the first barn settlers, plus it is a nice detour for its "StoryTime" children's events during late 2024! The Holcombe Jimison Farmstead Museum also brings out the best agricultural history with its homestead relics. Goat Hill Overlook may astonish hikers with its tranquil overlooks, relaxing trails, and winding riverside!
The Haas Gallery has Impressionist art and local studio foundations to make visitors feel at peace around contemporary works. At Music Mountain Theatre, burlesque mainstage musicals make for a splendid outing while new in town. Angelico Winery is a definitive social spot for wine lovers and fans of hospitality as a famed grape winery with quality selections and stunning greenery. El Tule Authentic Mexican & Peruvian Restaurant is a wonderful dining locale for local delights and South American cuisine. Those who book stays here will find solace at Lambertville House, a plaza motel with easy access to art galleries and antique stores.
Wildwood
A notable resort city on the New Jersey coastline, Wildwood is a best-kept secret among the locals. The Doo Wop Experience Museum is full of late 19th-century pop culture references and retro gift shops to keep family-friendly tourists happy. The Wildwood Historical Society is even more attuned to the past with its early 1900s entertainment history and disco exhibits. The Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is an underrated 18th-century landmark with public tours of seashore history and Five Mile Beach sights all along the seawall!
One can visit the Wildwoods Beach Ball Sign, a delightful photography spot with pretty beach sights right around Wildwood Boardwalk. Mariners Arcade is the best getaway idea for skeeball and other prize games. Tourists can pass by Kona Surf Company for surfing pros and maritime goodies, where surfboard varieties and friendly staff make any trip more enjoyable. Surfside West Diner has laidback social brunches and homemade spinach wraps, while Cattle 'n Clover is an Irish pub steakhouse with custom burgers; it hosts "Irish Pub Drinking Nights" throughout late 2024! Guests will enjoy Starlux Hotel's 1970s vintage beach lodges, while retirees can enjoy Ala Moana Motel & Suites for flowerbed beauty and poolside amenities.
Montclair
Montclair, or "The Park Slope of New Jersey" to its residents, is a historical and natural wonder for travelers! The Montclair Historical Society offers unmatched guided tours of 17th-century farmland antiques and generational African-American immigration. The Montclair Art Museum is another historical stop with Native American paintings, pottery creations, and local contributions that are perfect for any visit or retirement. At Edgemont Park, nature enthusiasts can enjoy leisurely conversations with locals around a lake fountain.
Those who crave evening orchestral or symphonic performances can check out Alexander Kasser Theater, known for its dance recitals and balcony viewings that make for the ultimate return trip; it also has live Disney musicals coming in October 2024! Montclair Brewery is a cultured locale with niche concert bands and fine craft beers that make one feel at home. For Latin American cuisine, Samba Montclair has only the finest homestyle Brazilian meals inspired by rustic environments. For fancy stays and hiking trail accessibility, one can stay at The George, while travelers with long-term plans can enjoy comforting bedroom amenities at The Doremifasol.
Ocean Grove
Nicknamed "Ocean Grave," Ocean Grove is a key destination with dozens of Atlantic Ocean splendors fitting for a getaway. At the Historical Society of Ocean Grove, newcomers and locals will find plenty of Victorian architectural tours on local boardwalk history and cultural heritage. Beach lovers may discover Ocean Grove Beach's clean sands, crystal-clear waters, and oceanic tranquility alongside Victorian estates!
At the Great Auditorium, distinct musical events and concerts within a Methodist facility make for a joyous itinerary; it also has some welcoming Christmas activities scheduled for December 2024! The Main Avenue Galleria is a local artistry locale with various watercolor portraits and gallery showrooms that will make people want to stick around. For a truly surprising find, one can stop by Cheese on Main, a cute shop with cheese varieties and innovative sauces! Those who like bagels may favor All Star Bagel by the Beach, a famous and charming locale that loves serving retirees and long-term visitors fresh breakfast items. The Ocean Plaza Hotel has quality living standards and Victorian comfort for short-term guests, while those planning retirement will be better off at Sandpiper Guest House for elderly services and beach accessibility.
Princeton
Princeton, otherwise known as "Princetown" and "Prince's Town" to some communities, is best known for its academic and historical upbringing. At Princeton Battlefield State Park, one can tour American Revolutionary sites once used during the 1770s by American troops. There is also the Princeton Battle Monument, which recognizes George Washington and his endeavors during the Battle of Princeton. Morven Museum & Garden is a historic landmark full of elegant galleries, garden clubs, and childhood legacies; it is going to be hosting yoga sessions in October and 17th-century dance events in November 2024!
Princeton University is an iconic stop as an Ivy League university that is cherished for its academia and intellectual student body. Rural appreciation and winery conversations can be found at Terhune Orchards, a family-owned farm with 200 acres of seasonal fruits and vegetables to satisfy all manners of tourism. Hungry backpackers can visit Agricola Eatery for farmland recipes and homemade kitchen delights, while others may enjoy exotic mashed potatoes at Witherspoon Grill. Anyone on a tight schedule can check in at The Peacock Inn for charming recreation and cozy colonial sightseeing, while retirees will favor Nassau Inn's glorious pub fare and historical murals.
All of these small towns in New Jersey are the best options for any weekend getaway in 2024. With so much to see and take in for a lifetime, these destinations should be at the top of anyone's list when considering travel or retirement this year. No matter what time of the year one considers their next travel plans or post-work hobbies, this list will come in handy!
