7 Affordable Summer Vacation Spots In New Jersey

Aside from opulent casinos and endless boardwalks, New Jersey attracts travelers with green spaces and classic cuisine like literally jaw-dropping hoagies. Many choose to spend their summer in New Jersey, where the Jersey Shore's beaches, Westfield's lush parks, and Frenchtown's historic landmarks create the perfect atmosphere for an unforgettable vacation. The water sports in Millville, Appalachian hiking trails, and Frenchtown's Swiss franc heritage undoubtedly provide plenty of action. Despite summer price hikes, these often overlooked destinations stay within most budgets, giving you an excuse to take some time off without second-guessing.

Florham Park

Strolling by the many suburbs just west of New York City, Florham Park stands out with its many nature-dense parks while being in the urban area of west New Jersey. Conveniently, the Morristown Airport can be found just outside the settlement. Furthermore, if you are looking for a sunny day on the fairway, you can test your golfing prowess at the Pinch Brook Golf Course – a cleverly-designed public course that challenges players of all skill levels. Also, visiting Florham Park Roller Rink can give the kids hours of timeless roller skating fun. Moreover, with its convenient access to major highways and proximity to larger cities, Florham Park is an ideal place to set base and start summer adventures. For example, a 20-minute drive away, alongside Basking Ridge, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge provides breathtaking landscapes and scenic trails to explore. Additionally, while staying in town, one can learn more about the history of this place at the Florham Park Museum and then unwind in tranquility at the nearby Gazebo Park.

Appalachian Motel, Vernon

Amidst the Appalachian mountains, right along the village of Vernon, the Appalachian Motel is a delightful spot to set base during your vacation. Despite being usually chosen for the various activities available in the Winter, this area turns into a verdant location in the summer. So, escaping the heat wave to enjoy the relatively cool temperatures granted by the countless trees here can be an excellent choice. Moreover, many trails are available for you to hike, including the Appalachian Trail, which runs through Vernon. Additionally, ten minutes away, the Wawayanda State Park grants sixty miles of trails and a beach area where one can relax in tranquility. If you find yourself hungry after a long day exploring, The Glenwood, formerly known as Smokey's Tavern, offers abundant meat-based main courses at an honest price.

Chester

Washed by the Black River, the town of Chester stands on the plains of northern New Jersey. From farmland to forestry, the area makes for a delightful setting to start an adventure. In the early 1700s, Native American Minisink Indians settled here, calling the area "Alamatunk, " meaning "black earth bottom," the bed of the Black River. Later, the British Empire named it after a town in England. Chester changes its colors throughout the year, but it is a great place to visit all year round. Furthermore, downtown Chester mainly comprises brick-and-mortar buildings combined with historic architecture, forming a lovely Main Street.

Moreover, if one wants to taste New Jersey's cuisine, Old Mill Tavern consistently provides exquisite culinary experiences. For example, many customers found the typical pork roll sandwiches delicious. The nearby Tiger Brook Park also grants a quiet setting for relaxing walks amid beautiful scenery. Additionally, many visitors chose to hike the trails along the Black River, which has easy paths perfect for kids.

Quality Inn & Suites Millville - Vineland, Millville

On the outskirts of Millville, The Quality Inn & Suites Millville - Vineland is ideal for an affordable weekend escape in New Jersey. In addition, it grants free parking and an outdoor pool; breakfast is included. Furthermore, the nearby Maurice River provides a setting for outdoor activities like kayaking and canoeing. Moreover, the Maurice River Bluffs Preserve offers stunning vistas and scenic trails along the river, surrounded by wetlands. Also, you can reach the beaches of the Jersey Shore with just a quick drive. For history buffs, the fascinating Millville Army Airfield Museum will tell a story about the Army Air Corps, those who trained here, died here, and their role in the Second World War. 

Frenchtown

Looking over their Pennsylvania neighbors on the other side of the Delaware River, Frenchtown welcomes every visitor as part of the community. This riverside hamlet is one of the few towns that still resemble 19th-century Europe. Furthermore, Frenchtown was once an essential hub for agricultural trading. Today, the town's exceptional pride lies in its remarkable capacity to capture and preserve its history, unlike any other place. Moreover, the scenic Frenchtown Preserve grants a 150-acre space with plenty of trails to trek. If strolling through downtown Frenchtown left you hungry, Frenchtown Cafe serves delicious dishes at an affordable price, such as French toast, omelets, and sweeties like freshly baked corn muffins.

Sussex Motel, Wantage

On the rolling hills south of Wantage, the Sussex Motel grants a cozy retreat amid the stunning scenery of the Appalachian mountains. Recently remodeled, this place boasts a fresh, brand-new appearance and enjoys a convenient location near restaurants, coffee shops, and stores, with a beautiful green backdrop just behind it. For example, Nonna Vita Trattoria offers an exquisite mix of Italian and American cuisines. Furthermore, the nearby Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge boasts many hiking trails, a picnic area, and a dock from which you can launch with your kayak or canoe. Also, the High Point State Park provides stunning views, more hiking trails, and swimming opportunities. Additionally, the Sterling Hill Mining and Franklin Mineral Museums grant more information about the fundamental mining roots of this place.

Westfield

Step into the whimsical town of Westfield, where the nearby natural preserves seamlessly weave into city life. The nearby Tamaques and Mindowaskin Parks are perfect places to unwind and relax, surrounded by lush green scenery. Additionally, feel free to explore the Miller-Cory House Museum, established in 1972; it provides a window into 18th-century American farm life. Furthermore, if one seeks more activities, Echo Lake Park is just five minutes away, and it grants paddle-boating opportunities on the lake or leisure walks on its scenic shores. Moreover, Westfield is a small town that offers affordable locations to stay at the edge of New Jersey, very close to New York City. 

New Jersey's greatest summer strength is in its diversity of action-packed getaway destinations. More than just possible, it is advantageous to avoid overcrowded hot spots by taking a path less traveled (and easier on the wallet). In terms of price, there are affordable retreats in the Appalachian Mountains and in the engaging suburbs of New York City. Neighboring states often overshadow New Jersey when it comes to vacation hype, but New Jersey clearly possesses worthwhile attractions. So, live a little, and find out for yourself what the Garden State has in store for you.