20 Unique Things To Do In New Jersey

With 130 miles of coastline, there's a beach for everyone, from the lively Seaside Heights to the family-friendly Ocean City to the more secluded Cape May. Soak up the sun, build sandcastles, boogie board in the waves, or simply relax with a good book. 

If you're looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of things to do New Jersey to get your heart racing. Go surfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Rent a jet ski or parasail for stunning views from above.

This iconic family amusement park in Hope has been serving the community since 1954. This place offers exciting things in NJ at a reasonable price compared to others.

Unlike some parks where the water park is an extra expense, Land of Make Believe includes its pirate-themed water park with your admission. This means a full day of splish-splash fun without needing to shell out extra cash. The Dop & Twist and Tilt-A-Whirl are an absolute!

Island Beach State Park allows you to sail your boat in designated areas 15 and 21 on the bay side of the island. These tours can be a great option, especially for beginners, as they provide instruction and insights into the local ecosystem.

Remember, these aquatic things to do in NJ state park are only allowed in the summer months, typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Outside these dates, the water can be too cold and rough for safe kayaking.

One of the cheapest places to go NJ has to be Camden. The city offers a plethora of activities and attractions for people of budget, including the Adventure Aquarium.

Home to the longest shark tunnel in New Jersey, measuring an impressive 40 feet, Ahark Realm lets you walk surrounded by various shark species, including sand tiger sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and even a zebra shark! It's an immersive experience that's sure to leave you in awe.

Buckle up, music lover! Are you ready to rock out at Stone Pony in Asbury Park? This legendary music venue isn't just a place to see a show; it's brimming with New Jersey activities that electrify your soul. 

Stepping inside is like stepping back in time to the golden age of rock and roll. Launched in 1974, it's served as a launchpad for legends like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi. Soak in and feel the electricity in the air! 

Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton is a unique and special place that blends art, nature, and history to create an unforgettable experience. You get tons of things to do NJ regardless of your age and interests.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of 42 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, featuring rolling hills, ponds, and walking paths. The sculptures are seamlessly integrated into the natural environment, creating a harmonious dialogue between art and nature.

There's an array of fun things to do NJ, yet the culinary adventure remains on the top. Especially, Hoboken city is famous for its dietary delights, covering the kitchen and flavors from the world around.

Take a whirlwind culinary tour without leaving town. Savor authentic Italian pasta at Augustino's or savor spicy Szechuan cuisine at Chen's Kitchen. Craving Latin heat? Chango Restaurant delivers with its vibrant Mexican and Cuban fusion. ️

Lambertville is an antiquing paradise waiting to be explored. It boasts over 20 antique shops, each with its own charm and unique collection. Think dusty treasures, hidden gems, and vintage finds waiting to be unearthed! ️

This historic downtown is delightfully walkable, making it easy to stroll between shops and soak in the charming atmosphere. Picture quaint streets lined with brick buildings, colorful storefronts, and hidden gems tucked away in every corner.

All animal lovers and curious minds, have you heard of the Lakota Wolf Preserve? The attractions New Jersey are dedicated to the care and education of wolves, bobcats, foxes, and lynxes.

Witness the majesty of these incredible creatures firsthand as you observe them roaming their natural habitats. Imagine watching them play and maybe hearing their haunting howls! Where else can be better than this beautiful place to know more about these animals?

NJ is a true haven for wine lovers. The state houses several wineries, Willow Creek Winery & Farm, and Laurita Winery, offering wine tasting and guided tours.

Learn about their wines and making process with a guided tasting led by experts. Choose from seated tastings or table flights tailored to your preferences. You can also explore their on-site farm and learn about their sustainable practices.

Mountain Creek Resort features over 40 trails with varied terrain, catering to beginners, intermediates, and experts. This includes gentle slopes for learning, cruisers for enjoying the scenery, and steeper terrain for adrenaline seekers.

If you're new to skiing or snowboarding, they offer lessons and camps for all ages and skill levels. Great way to get started safely and confidently. This can be an ideal activity for couples on honeymoon as well. 

CMBO sits at the southern tip of the Cape May peninsula, a critical stopover point for birds migrating between North and South America. This location acts like a funnel, concentrating feathered friends, making it one of the best birding spots in the country. 

No matter the season, you're in for a treat. Witness an incredible diversity of birds, with over 400 species spotted throughout the year. From tiny hummingbirds to majestic hawks, there's something for every birding enthusiast.

The Sterling Hill Mining Museum is the only place in New Jersey where you can take a guided tour into a real mine, complete with tunnels. It's like being in another world!

It boasts the largest collection of fluorescent minerals, with over 70 different types that put on a spectacular light show. You'll also find an incredible 340+ mineral species in total, many of which are rare and found nowhere else. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer variety and beauty of these natural treasures!

Waterloo Village is famous as the only authentic historic village located on the bank of the Morris Canal. As you stroll through, costumed interpreters bring history to life, demonstrating traditional crafts like blacksmithing, weaving, and pottery making. 

The village features over 20 restored buildings, including homes, shops, a church, and a schoolhouse. Each building is filled with period-specific furnishings and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the people who lived here.

Looking for budget-friendly vacation ideas in Redwood, New Jersey? Consider exploring Tudor-style mansions and botanical gardens in Skylands Manor. Admission to the spacious and stunning garden is always free, and you'll have to pay $10 to stroll inside the mansion.

The interior boasts intricate woodwork, fireplaces, and stained-glass windows, reflecting the opulence and craftsmanship of the early 20th century. A guided tour of the ground floor is available on selected Sundays. You can also book this space for your wedding ceremony.

More than a museum, Red Mill Museum Village is a living history village featuring 12 historic buildings, including the iconic Red Mill, built in 1810. Witness demonstrations of traditional crafts like blacksmithing and stone processing and imagine life in the 19th century.

The museum is dedicated to preserving the industrial, agricultural, and social history of Hunterdon County. By showcasing restored buildings and artifacts, it tells the story of the people who lived in the area, offering a glimpse into their traditions.

This recreation area boasts stunning scenery with rolling hills, lush forests, winding rivers, and dramatic waterfalls. Many trails offer panoramic views of the Delaware Water Gap itself, showcasing the stunning valley carved by the Delaware River.

Opt for trails known for scenic viewpoints, like Mount Tammany, Point of the Gap Overlook, or the Appalachian Trail section. Research their difficulty level and elevation gain to match your fitness level.

Millville boasts a quaint, historic downtown with a handful of unique shops, antique stores, and art galleries. If you enjoy browsing one-of-a-kind items, this city might surprise you!

Compared to bustling shopping districts, Millville offers a quieter and more relaxed experience. Farmers markets and craft fairs add to the downtown vibrancy on specific days. Check the Millville Downtown Initiative website for upcoming events.

Located in West Orange, the Rock Spring Golf Club is one of the only two public courses designed by legendary Seth Raynor. Founded in 1925, it's hosted prestigious events like the New Jersey State Open and USGA qualifiers. 

While demanding strategic thinking, the 6,600-yard par-71 course offers fair playability and an enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. Rolling hills, mature trees, and diverse water features create a visually stunning and engaging round.

This US state houses more than 20 lighthouses from where you can explore the scenic view from a bid-eye. One of them is the lighthouse at the tip of Cape May.

Opened to the public in 1988, this historic place has already welcomed over 2 million visitors worldwide. You can include yourself among those million and visit on weekends from 12 to 4 pm. The last climb is 15 minutes before climbing and make sure to carry a camera with you.