As you bundle up for the next couple of months as Jersey temperatures drop, don’t miss out on all the cool things you do this winter either.

Christmas Lights

PNC Bank Arts Center Light Show

If you want to drive through tunnels of cool Christmas lights head over to Holmdel to the PNC Bank Arts Center for this awesome Christmas Light display. A weekday ticket costs $30 and a weekend one $35. Note that closer to the holidays the entry line goes on for miles along the parkway.

Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms

For a cute farm experience, head over to Demarest Farms in North Jersey. For $35 you can take a 30 minutes ride through the orchard surrounded by cute light displays. Stop by the farm store to pick up some fresh goods but note that it closes at 5 pm so you might miss it with the later light show!

Skyland’s Stadium Light Show & Village

If you want a one-stop shop for lights and a Christmas village with attractions and vendors, head over to Augusta to Skyland’s Stadium. Entry is timed and costs $29 per vehicle. The drive is a mile long and will take you around 30 minutes.

Dyker Heights

Dyker Heights in a neighborhood in Brooklyn which gets decorated for the holidays by the local residents to something on another level. Although located in Brooklyn, It’s really a quick drive from central Jersey through Staten Island. Located from 11th to 13th Avenues between 83rd to 86th Street.

The area gets crowded so finding parking will be challenging. There are even local tours to take you around but trust me, you probably don’t need one unless you’re very interested in the details. You can easily spend anywhere from 30 minutes to hours walking around this gem of a neighborhood.

Other Displays:

• Winter Wonder Lights: East Brunswick’s light drive-thru. Largest animated one.
• Six Flags Holiday in The Park: Two in one! Many lights and many rides 🙂
• Historic Smithville near Atlantic City – Light display on the Lake

Holiday Markets & Winter Villages

German Christmas Market

Transport yourself to an awesome European-style Christmas Market in Augusta, NJ. Happening in the first weekend of December, don’t miss this great event. They’ll have many vendors, entertainment, food trucks and of course some nice gluhwein. Too bad it’s only one weekend as it is one of the cutest things to do in New Jersey this winter!

Peddler’s Village

Although it is located a little past the NJ border in Pennsylvania, Peddler’s Village is one of my favorite places to visit in the winter! The little shops sell everything from small trinkets, to food, to awesome holiday decor. There are a couple of restaurants around too. For the holidays, the whole shopping mall gets lit up and becomes a very magical place. After visiting the Village, stop in New Hope which is a very cute small town nearby!

Philadelphia Christmas Village

Ok, ok I get it, another PA intruder, but hear me out. This is a super awesome outdoor German-style market. And you can’t convince me to go to NYC’s super-crowded Bryant Park at this time of the year. There are a ton of holiday vendors, a cute beer/wine garden, and tons of delicious food. Don’t forget to walk the surrounding streets too where you can find a merry-go-round and other hidden gems.

Asbury Park Bazaar

If you’re looking for unique gifts for this holiday season, Asbury Park Bazaar has 5 different locations, Asbury Hotel, Asbury Convention Center, Long Branch, Atlantic City and Atlantic Highlands, all with different dates giving you enough time to check out a couple of them 🙂

Winter Villages

• Bergen County has the Winter Wonderland with Bumper Cars and Ice Skating.
• Newark has a Winter Village with multiple activities.

New Jersey Winter Restaurants

New Jersey Breweries

There is something very comforting about a nice winter lager. You know what’s even better? A beer in a heated igloo as the temperatures reach below freezing and the outside is surrounded by fluffy snow. Check out Asbury Biergarten, one of my favorites, Manafirkin or Man Skirt in Hackettstown for their winter igloo setups!

For a full list of my favorite breweries check out my New Jersey Brewery Guide!

Winter Cozy Restaurants

I love going out to eat during the holidays because of the coziness that the decor brings. Here are some picks for a great holiday ambiance!

• Rails Steakhouse – Towaco: An upscale steakhouse that is perfect for an evening out in the cold
• The Ashford – Jersey City: While I wouldn’t call the food extraordinary here, the decor is great!
• Sorellina – Hoboken: Delicious Italian food among beautiful holiday decor! I’ll take it.
• Cowan’s Public: Not only is Nutley a great place for date night and Cowan’s is a known place for the holidays because of its cozy decor.
• HoHoKus Inn: A small local inn with a simple but beautiful holiday atmosphere.
• Fiorentini in Rutherford: The minimalist aesthetic goes perfectly with Christmas touches!
• Walpack Inn: Walpack is one of my favorites in North Jersey because of its rustic cabin vibes.
• Oceanos – Fair Lawn: A nice upscale seafood restaurant with boujee holiday vibes.
• South House – Jersey City: Another JC spot that transforms into a postcard.

Winter Activities

Skiing, Snowboarding & Tubing

You might not find the best spots in NJ however, a local ski trip is certainly not a bad idea if you don’t want to drive too far. You obviously know Mountain Creek in North Jersey, which has it all. Then you have the smaller Campgaw in Mahwah perfect for beginners or High Point Park for cross-country skiing.

Ice Skating

One of the most fun things to do in New Jersey this winter is a classic, ice skating! Check out Palmer Square in Princeton along with all the town’s stunning decor. Then you have Newport Skates in Jersey City right near the waterfront. The infamous American Dream has a massive indoor rink too. If you want to skate near the shore, check out Pier Village in Long Branch.

The Polar Bear Plunge

Are you brave enough to plunge into the freezing Atlantic in the middle of a New Jersey winter? If so, don’t miss Seaside Heights annual Polar Bear Plunge.

Map for Things To Do in New Jersey Winter

Check out some other off-season guides!

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Resort towns can be tricky off-season, you either end up in a ghost town or find yourself in a less crowded paradise. I heard many good things about visiting Cape May off-season and I’m here to tell you that those things are not wrong. My simple weekend getaway itinerary will give you enough to do during your little escape and let you relax a little too. I personally visited in mid-October and although a lot of places were winding down for the winter, it didn’t limit my plans too much.

In this guide, you will find some visiting logistics, along with a full two-day plan for your visit. 

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

Quick Cape May Logistics

Transportation

Getting there couldn’t be any easier, just go all the way down the parkway 🙂 No seriously, when you get to Exit 0 you’ve arrived. If you’re coming from the north I actually found a bus route from NYC, first bus 319 to Atlantic City and then 522 to Cape May but with over 4 hours of travel time, I don’t know if that’s a smart choice worth the hassle. If you’re coming from the south you can take the Cape May ferry which goes between Cape May and Delaware. It transports cars too!

The main part of town isn’t that big so if you stay in the heart of Cape May, then everything will be within walking distance. There are a couple of attractions a short drive away too, so just like in most of New Jersey, you’ll need a car.  

In-season, you will find a free town shuttle called the Cape May Jitney. It runs between July and the end of September. If you have a special occasion, you can also rent these all to yourself! They run within a certain radius too which won’t restrict you to only staying in Cape May.

How long and where to stay in Cape May

Since there isn’t an overabundance of things to do in Cape May off-season, I would spend 2-3 days there. A weekend is sufficient enough to see the attractions and not feel too bored. I also recommend visiting during the weekend only as many of the attractions close on weekdays during the off-season. In season, however, you can easily spend a week there. 

In terms of where to stay, I would simply recommend staying as close to the main part of town as possible. This will allow you to walk everywhere during your weekend escape and not waste time looking for parking. The best thing about traveling off-season is getting amazing hotel rates that in the summer are 3-4x the amount. I was honestly surprised by how expensive hotels in Cape May are during peak months. A simple night at a decent place can start at $300+ for a night during the summer months. Note that a ton of B&Bs has a 2-3 night minimum too. That’s pretty pricey if you ask me.

While price is one thing to consider, another is availability. I booked my off-season trip almost two months out with very limited options. I don’t know if that’s the corona effect, but I strongly recommend booking ahead of time. My choices were limited to a $600 a night hotel and a small family-owned more budget yet still pricey, The Buckingham Motel. I can’t say that there was anything wrong with it, the owner was really nice and the property and rooms were very clean. However, the place is very outdated so if you like a more modern feel with good TVs and nice bathrooms, and updated kitchens (yes some rooms have kitchens), then this isn’t the place for you. 

When I mention good rates below, note that this is a pricey town. Good means under ~$300 a night 🙂 

Options: 

Rentals:

• Airbnb: If you’re booking far out in advance and traveling with friends, this is a great option for this area. It will save you money, and give everyone space and flexibility. 
• Cape May Rentals: Like a lot of shore towns, finding houses can be done through local rental agencies rather than Airbnb. The selection will be much larger but a lot of the places are rented out by the week.

Hotels: 

• Lokal is beautiful and extremely modern with two nights in-season priced at over 1k and off-season a little more than half of that. Its style and atmosphere are really nice.
• Congress Hall’s style is just the opposite of the above, screaming class and old money. The prices are similar too. It’s located right in the center of town too but also close to the beach. 
• Icona, Montreal Beach Resorts, and La Mer are a little under a mile walk to the town but located beachfront. Off-season rates aren’t bad and the proximity to the beach is awesome.
• The Grand Hotel is both, close to town and the beachfront. Off-season rates are pretty good for the area. 
• The Beach Shack is super cute and located close to the beach. It’s booked out months in advance and its off-season rates are great! 

Bed & Breakfast 

Cape May is extremely charming so staying in an old Victorian B&B is an experience within itself. 

• The Southern Mansion is pricey but it certainly doesn’t lack any charm.
• The Virginia Hotel is a classic in the area and it is an adults-only resort for those not wanting children around.
• Rhythm of the Sea has a 2-night minimum and it’s located right next to the beach. 
• Wilbraham Mansion is an old luxury house with a heated pool and jacuzzi suites. Has a great location too. 
• The Harrison’s style is awesome, contemporary old money? Is that a thing? Also a great location with pretty ok off-season rates. 

Budgeting in Cape May 

As mentioned above, traveling to Cape May is not a cheap weekend escape. Although traveling off-season will save you a good amount on your accommodations, it’s still a pricey town. Here is a very basic breakdown of prices. Expect to spend an average nightly rate of $200-$300 a night for off-season and $300+ in-season for accommodations. Restaurants are similar to city prices, $12ish a cocktail, $20+ for meals. Depending on the activity, that could cost you too. Expect to pay around $600 at the very very minimum for an off-season weekend getaway. 

Food options 

One of my favorite things to do in Cape May was to eat. Honestly, this place has some awesome food spots. Rather than making one list, I will give you my recommendations scattered in the guide below. 

Miscellaneous things to know about Cape May 

• If staying in town is not very important to you, you will find better rates in the neighboring towns. Although Wildwood wouldn’t be my first choice, hotels there are slightly cheaper. 
• Atlantic City is a little under an hour north of Cape May which could be a good stop on your way home. 
• When traveling off-season, always check if a place is closed for the season. Although the town stays open for the most part, some places do indeed close. 

Perfect Cape May Weekend Itinerary 

Day 0

Evening Arrival: Drinks and Dinner

I personally like to arrive Friday evenings and stay until Sunday night compared to arriving Saturday mornings and leaving Monday mornings. That is the plan I will lead with and try to convince you that it’s the best way to travel. 

After checking into the hotel and freshening up, head out to town and don’t waste any more time. Arriving later in the day does limit you in terms of which places you can go out to eat since Cape May is somewhat of an “early town.” Here are a couple of good options for your first night dinner and drinks: 

• Harry’s Ocean Bar and Grill: If you’re near the beach, this is a solid pick for dinner and drinks. It’s pretty casual, the food is great and it’s open till 10 pm or so. When traveling off-season, the rooftop part might be closed later in the day and weekend hours end an hour earlier during certain months. 
• Fins: Located right in heart of town, this awesome place has a cool vibe with an aquarium inside. It’s casual yet shore trendy. Hours vary by the day but dinner is served until 10 pm. 
• The Boiler Room is an underground pizza bar that is only open on the weekends. It’s open late and has an awesome ambiance. This should be on your best things to do in Cape May list! It’s located in the basement of Congress Hall. Follow the signs to the bathroom and it will be located right next to it. 

Day 1 

Normally in most of my guides, I say wake up early and start your day to see the most of each place. This time I’ll tell you that if you’re traveling off-season, don’t feel guilty about sleeping in till 10 am or so. At the end of the day, with the limited about of things you can do in Cape May off-season, it’s important to schedule some beauty sleep in too 🙂 

We brunch in Cape May 

Brunch is the most important meal of any traveling day. When doing my research, every single blog mentioned MadBatter as the place to eat the “best lunch you ever had.” Whenever I see this amount of recommendations for a place, I get suspicious. Listen maybe it is that good, but it usually ends up being crowded, overpriced, and rushed due to its popularity. You can’t make a reservation there either. Arriving around noon on a Saturday and off-season, the line was still enormous and the wait was under 2 hours. I couldn’t do it. 

I ended up opting out for another popular pick The Blue Pig Tavern located at Congress Hall. Although you can make a reservation (which I highly recommend), I walked in and was seated in under 10 minutes. They have an awesome inside room and a pretty garden seating area too and either way they’re both nice. Let me tell you, this place DID NOT disappoint. The food was delicious probably for the reason that their ingredients come from the local Beach Plum Farm. Another popular area pick, their food was delicious and I highly recommend it. 

Some other brunch spots for your consideration: 

• Elaine’s is a hotel, boutique, and restaurant. They have a nice outdoor space and good ratings for lunch. 
• Uncle Bill’s Pancake House is one of those shore chains everyone raves about. Passing by around lunch, you’ll also see a big line of hungry pancake lovers. 
• George’s Place is a fancy Greek diner that’s a BYOB and cash only. Make a reservation and enjoy this unique spot. 

Shopping time! 

Explore Washington Street Mall  

Washington Street Mall is a charming area in the heart of Cape May that has tons of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It can get crowded during the day but it’s still a really cute place that has that downtown feel. It’s not that big but don’t forget to explore the side streets which have some hidden gems too.

In terms of shopping, you won’t find chains here but rather a collection of all locally owned shops. You can buy a variety of items ranging from souvenirs, trinkets, jewelry, and clothes to snacks. If you’re more of a people watcher, grab some sweets at Crepe May or Uncle Charley’s Ice Cream or coffee at Coffee Tyme and enjoy the area. If you prefer an afternoon drink while people watch check out The Ugly Mug or Delaney’s Irish Pub. Depending on how much you browse, you can easily spend an hour or two in this area. Here is a website with a list of all the available shops. 

More Shopping at West End Garage 

After spending some time at the Washington Street Mall, you’ll notice that despite the large selection of products, you don’t see many artisanal or handmade items there. This is why you’ll head to West End Garge which is a large shopping space located about a 10-minute walk from downtown. This whole place is filled with a large selection of local artists’ crafts. It even has a small bakery and cafe on site. As you browse throughout the whole space you’ll notice that each of the small shops doesn’t have cashiers in them. You will actually pay for anything you find there in the first room you enter so don’t get confused 🙂

See Cape May’s Beach & Lighthouse 

If you’re traveling here off-season, you’ll, unfortunately, miss one of the best things to do in Cape May which is the beach. However, just because you can’t swim, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t see its beauty.

Here are a couple of stops for your afternoon in Cape May. Note that the easiest way to see all these spots is to drive between them. They’re about 10 minutes from each other and are all easily seen in one afternoon. 

• A cool spot to watch some talented surfers (even off-season) is near Sunset Pavillion. There is a ton of them and they’re insanely talented.
• Cape May Lighthouse is a local landmark that’s one of those “top things to do in Cape May” things. You’ll need to purchase a $12 ticket online and entry is until 5 pm. 
• Sunset Beach is located right by the lighthouse and as its name suggests is the place to see the sunset. 
• If you like the sights of boats against a sunset sky, visit Schellenger’s Landing which houses a couple of south jersey marinas and waterfront restaurants. 

Dinner Time 

There are many cool places in town to grab dinner. For my pick, I went to a decently rated Italian place in town. I’m obsessed with good pasta so I was looking forward to this. Ugh, as much as I loved talking to the owners and the ambiance of the restaurant, the food was not great at all so I won’t recommend it. So instead, here are other picks that were recommended to me: 

• 410 Bank Street: A New Orleans-inspired stylish restaurant with award-winning dishes. 
• Sapore Italiano: An Italian gem in town that won’t disappoint. 
• Elaine’s which is mentioned earlier in the post for brunch has some cool outdoor dining vibes at night. 
• Lucky Bones is a very popular casual pick in town located a short drive away. 

For more picks check out this list of restaurants open year-round! 

Bonus – Night Cap time!

If you’re not ready for your day to be over, head out for a drink. These restaurants are open a little later for a nice after-hours cocktail: Ugly Mug, ​​Delaney’s Irish Bar & Restaurant, and Fin’s Bar & Grill.

Day 2

Morning 

Get ready for another day of Cape May Attractions. For the start of your day, I recommend grabbing a coffee and something sweet at Madison Bakery on Beach Avenue. I’d pick that location as the in-town one does not have the greatest reviews. At the beach one, however, I had one of the best chocolate croissants around.  

The next activity for a nice Sunday morning is renting a bike and exploring the town a little more. Shield’s is a bike rental place right next to the bakery and they offer pretty decent rates for the area. I recommend biking the promenade on which you can bike off-season after 10 am.  

Afternoon 

For lunch head over to Exit 0 Filling Station, a really cool restaurant that’s a gas station. Since I visited in the early off-season, I was able to get a table outside. If it’s too cold, however, the inside is just as awesome and I suggest this place for a unique dining experience! The menu is unique too, it’s a combination of burgers and curries. Weird yet tasty. 

Wineries

One of the more awesome things to do in Cape May in the fall is to visit one of the beautiful wineries. I was really excited to see Willow Creek Winery in the West Cape due to its great reputation and stunning grounds. I didn’t check their website though and when I arrived they closed for a private event. So always check 🙂 I did get to see the grounds a little and they really were stunning. On Fridays and Saturdays, they set up firepits in the evening too! 

Another popular winery in the area is Cape May Winery. That’s where I ended up since the above was closed. I do have to say that their way of seating is a little rare, you have to wait to be hostess seated but then you also have to order your food at one window and your wine at another. Can’t say that I loved that setup but the wine was worth the hassle. Prices started in the upper $20s. They have live music on the weekends and a cute little shop on site too. 

If wine isn’t your thing, Cape May Brewery offers a nice selection of beers and seltzers. They have a tasting room and beer garden on a first come first serve basis. They’re also open all year round so you don’t need to worry about being there off-season. 

Sunday Evening

Rather than heading home, enjoy the last hours of your weekend getaway and stay in town just a little longer. Ignore the Sunday scaries with Mad Batter’s open mic night on Sunday evenings or take a nice stroll on Washington Street when it’s all nice and quiet.

If you’re driving north, another option that’s a little more involved and extra is making a short stop in Atlantic City. It’s about an hour north of Cape May and if you head out in the afternoon, you can squeeze in a couple of hours there too. Casinos don’t close so if you have time, it’s a cool stop to enjoy the gambling paradise of New Jersey. 

Map

Bonus Tips for your Cape May Adventure

Winter-Specific Events for Things to do in Cape May 

Christmas time is magical even down the shore. Cape May becomes alive closer to the holidays and for a good reason. People flock to Washington Street Mall for Christmas shopping while enjoying the decorations in the mall. The Victorian houses also get decorated nicely for this season. Here are some Cape May winter events for you: 

• Cape May Christmas Parade: This year it will be on December 4, 2021. The owner of the motel I stayed at highly recommended it for a cute winter activity.
• The tree lighting ceremony at Physick Estate is on November 20th. 
• Congress Hall hosts a Winter Wonderland on its grounds starting December 1. 

More Activities 

If there is something on my list that you didn’t like, feel free to swap it with the additional off-season Cape May things to do below: 

• Emlen Physick Estate: If you’re a history nerd, you can visit this old mansion museum for a tour. Closer to Christmas, they decorate the estate to authentically represent a Victorian Christmas. Tickets are $20 for an adult.
• Whale and dolphin-watching cruises are very popular down in Cape May. Off-season rates might be a bit better but the air much cooler 🙂 Here are a couple of companies that run these tours. 
• If theater is on your travel must-do list, check out East Lynne Theater Co which hosts a variety of shows even in the off-season. 

​​Final Thoughts 

I hope that the itinerary above gave you a nice plan for some awesome Cape May activities. Although traveling off-season does have its cons, it’s also a unique experience allowing you to see this place without the people and annoyances that come with the in-season crowds. Yes, maybe you will miss the beautiful beaches in the summer, but who says you can’t come back in the summer as well 🙂 

Cape May is a gorgeous historic Jersey shore destination. I hope you add this place to your local bucket list and enjoy it as much as I did. Finally, as always, if you have any suggestions any other useful info that you think should be added to my off-season Cape May list, leave them down in the comments! 

More Off-Season Guides

I love local off-season weekend travels! Make sure to check out my Newport and Montauk guides for honest opinions on whether off-season travels there are worth it!

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Farm Fun: Apple and Pumpkin Picking in 2024

Nothing says fall like apple and pumpkin picking, and New Jersey is home to some of the best orchards and farms. Here are the top places to visit in 2024:

• Melick’s Town Farm (Oldwick): With their popular apple-picking season starting in mid-September, this farm is a top spot for families. In 2024, they’ll be expanding their Fall Harvest Days to include a Cider Festival running through October, where you can enjoy hard cider tastings along with hayrides.
• Demarest Farm (Hillsdale): One of New Jersey’s busiest farms, Demarest offers everything from pumpkin patches to corn mazes. In 2024, look forward to their Haunted Hayride and Farm Nights, perfect for families or those looking for a spooky twist to their fall experience.
• Riamede Farm (Chester): If you’re looking for a quieter, more intimate experience, Riamede Farm is perfect. This year, they’ll host a Fall Family Picnic Day every Sunday in October, featuring live music, farm-fresh food, and plenty of U-pick options.

Haunted House Adventure

2024 is packed with spooky activities for Halloween enthusiasts. Whether you love haunted houses or just want a fun scare, New Jersey has you covered:

• Brighton Asylum (Passaic): Known as New Jersey’s scariest haunted house, Brighton Asylum is back for 2024 with new attractions and even scarier haunts. They’ve added an escape room challenge and a virtual reality horror experience this year!
• Scare Farm (Hillsborough): This year, Scare Farm expands with a Haunted Corn Maze and Zombie Paintball, which runs every weekend through October 2024. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of fright and fun!

Sip on Cider

While New Jersey has fewer cideries than nearby New York, there are still some excellent spots to grab a glass of hard cider:

• Ironbound Farm (Asbury): New for 2024, Ironbound is hosting a Fall Cider Tasting Series every Saturday in October, featuring seasonal ciders made from locally grown apples.
• Burnt Mills Cider (Bedminster): With its laid-back atmosphere and food trucks, Burnt Mills remains a favorite. Check out their 2024 Fall Cider & Food Truck Festival too for a perfect autumn day out.
• I mentioned Melick’s farm above for some good fashion apple picking, but you’ll be happy to know that their Oldwick location offers some good hard ciders as well!

New York Cider

Here is where I cheat on New Jersey and tell you that I have four awesome cidery picks a little further north crossing the state border. The difference between the scenery of NY is really unmatchable so most times I’ll choose to drive a little further north to get better experiences. My absolute favorite place in the area is Brooklyn Cider House. No, it is not in Brooklyn but rather a short hike from New Paltz. Their cider is amazing, they offer delicious food, u-pick, live music, and stunning GROUNDS. Oh, and their apple cider donuts are the best I’ve ever had.

Not too far away from New Paltz, you’ll also find Kettlebourough Cider House, a small but gorgeous cider mill on top of a hill. They don’t have a working website but check their status on their Facebook page. Their little farm store offers snacks and delicious cider. Go around back to find picnic benches with the most beautiful views of New York State. They have almost perfect review scores on every website for a reason.

At Apple Dave’s Orchard, Distillery, and even Applewood Winery you’ll find everything your soul can desire, cider, wine, and strong cocktails made from apple whiskey. It’s all on the same grounds, you can picnic, enjoy live music and taste all different types of alcohol. The last time I visited it was pretty busy and I will say that their cider was excellent!

Penning’s Farm Cidery is another cute place in the Warwick area. Don’t confuse the orchard and cider mill with the farm that’s located down the hill. I would say that the farm is worth checking out, they have another restaurant and bar down there as well.

Octoberfest Celebrations

Oktoberfest events have become increasingly popular in New Jersey and New York, and 2024 offers plenty of great options:

• Bear Mountain Oktoberfest (NY): One of the largest in the region, this event runs from late September through mid-October. Enjoy traditional German food, beer, and live music while surrounded by stunning fall views.
• Historic Smithville Oktoberfest (Galloway): Held on October 5th and 6th, this event features over 100 vendors, traditional German food, and family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect way to spend a fall weekend.
• Cape May Oktoberfest (Cape May): An Oktoberfest down the shore? Yes please sign me up!

Fall Winery

When grapes are finally ripe, it’s time to head to the winery. There are many cool spots in the state in which you can not only enjoy the wine but also the beautiful grounds in the fall. My favorite spot will always be Working Dog but I recommend you check out more of my suggestions in the New Jersey Drinking Guide!

Off-season busy town exploration

Fall is the perfect time to explore New Jersey’s beach towns without the summer crowds. In 2024, consider these off-season gems:

• Asbury Park: Known for its vibrant boardwalk and music scene, Asbury is a great place to visit when the summer tourists are gone. This year, check out the Asbury Park Fall Festival on October 12th for live music, food trucks, and local vendors.
• Cape May: One of New Jersey’s most charming beach towns, Cape May is even better in the fall. Don’t miss the Cape May Fall Festival from October 6th to October 8th, featuring a craft show, ghost tours, and seasonal food offeri

Check out my amazing off-season Cape May guide!

Another off-season activity and one of my favorite activities to do in early New Jersey fall is to go biking in places like Sandy Hook or Delaware Water Gap near Lambertville. In the summer, not only does heat make this more difficult but the crowds and lack of parking take away from what is supposed to be a calm experience. Off-season, the temperatures are much better and the crowds are not as intense. If you’d like more information on these activities, check out my New Jersey Summer post for all details on these activities.

Football Game

New Jersey Fall is synonymous with football. I mean what’s better than sipping beer at a tailgate with your friends (clearly I’m not there for the football). If you like college football, head to Piscataway and catch the Rutgers game. Even if you’re not a fan, the energy of those events is awesome. Students, alumni, and die-hard RU fans make this an awesome experience. If you’re not tailgating with anyone, Rutgers hosts a variety of entertainment near the stadium depending on the game. They usually have a beer garden, a stage, and activities for kids and adults.

North Jersey is the home to Metlife Stadium in which you can catch New York Jets or Giants play. Something you have to do at least once in your life! Here is their fall schedule.

Other Ideas for an awesome New Jersey fall

Last but not least, here are some other smaller ideas worth doing this fall:

• Concerts: Obviously a year-round activity but as we’re slowly opening more and more things up, check out the last couple of events at PNC Arts Center or Prudential Center lineup.
• Corn Maze: Bring out the child in you and try a good old corn maze. Here is an awesome list of different available ones in the state!
• Shop early for Christmas: If you’re like me and absolutely hate shopping starting Black Friday for Christmas presents, the best time to get it over with is late fall, before the madness happens. Visit Jersey Shore Outlets or Bergen Town Center for some discounted shopping deals!

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of New Jersey’s Fall 2024

As always, fall is an exciting time in New Jersey. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant fall foliage, picking apples, or getting a good scare at a haunted house, there’s something for everyone in 2024. Don’t forget to let us know in the comments which activities you’re excited about this year!

For more New Jersey ideas on fun things to do, don’t forget to check out my other Jersey posts:

Girls Weekend Getaway Near NYC: Crystal Springs Resort in NJ

There is nothing better for the soul than a weekend getaway with your best friend! As a Jersey gal myself, I’m always on the lookout for awesome girls weekend getaway ideas near NYC, and Crystal Springs Resort in North Jersey has always been on my…

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Visit the best New Jersey Spa: SoJo Spa Club!

Every so often, each one of us needs a long relaxation day to temporarily escape our everyday stresses. Whether you’re traveling to the New York City area or are looking for a beautiful local oasis, SoJo Spa is truly one of the best New Jersey…

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Cozy Things To Do in New Jersey in Winter 2023

Since I am not a full-time traveler, I always try to find awesome local things to do in between my trips. You guys always seem to enjoy my seasonal guides which get constantly updated as I find new things to do. So following my Summer…

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Simple Yet Awesome Off-Season Things To Do in Cape May

Cape May is a not-so-hidden South Jersey gem, famously located at Exit 0 off the Garden State Parkway. While its shore neighbors get a reputation for either being obnoxious or too family-friendly for someone without kids, Cape May ends up being the perfect happy medium.…

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Discover New Jersey: 2024 Ultimate Summer Activity Guide

Welcome to your ultimate guide for New Jersey summer activities in 2024! If you’re seeking inspiration for fun things to do in New Jersey, you’ve found the best resource. Bookmark this page, as it will be regularly updated with new and exciting spots to explore.…

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New Jersey Breweries Guide – Quest to Find a Good Beer

As travel paused for a little, one of my favorite activities is discovering cool places in my own backyard. As an avid beer drinker, this includes finding good spots with good beers. And let me tell you, there are a TON of breweries in New…

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Awesome Things To Do In New Brunswick, NJ

When I first came to Rutgers, never did I imagine I would spend 10 years living in the New Brunswick area. After graduation, I coincidentally landed a job here and decided living in the area would be easier. Although that chapter has ended for me,…

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Romantic New Jersey Date Night Ideas For 2024

Discovering cool date spots in New Jersey doesn’t have to be difficult! With a great selection of exciting date activities right here in the Garden State, there’s no need to cross over the river to New York for a fun date night. Whether you’re looking…

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Let’s Get Tipsy in Jersey: Breweries, Wineries & Drinking Activities

With summer 2022 right around the corner, let’s talk about all the fun activities New Jersey provides. This guide will highlight the top places in New Jersey for drinking-related activities: good wineries, breweries, and fun activities. So if you’re looking for something fun to do…

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As we all look forward to stepping out and enjoying the sunshine, I’ve curated a list of the coolest activities New Jersey has to offer. Get ready for an unforgettable New Jersey summer! At the end of this post, you’ll find a convenient map with all these destinations pinned for you.

Having called New Jersey home for many years, I understand that it’s often overlooked as a travel destination. While people move here for the suburban life, they sometimes forget to explore its unique charm. But trust me, there are countless incredible things to do in New Jersey, especially during the summer. Let’s dive into the best summer activities that will make you fall in love with the Garden State all over again!

New Jersey Summer Activities

Jersey Shore

No New Jersey summer is complete without a visit to the iconic Jersey Shore. While places like Seaside Heights and Wildwood are well-known for all the wrong reasons, there are many other beaches and boardwalks that offer a more unique and enjoyable experience. Let’s explore some of the best spots from north to south:

Sandy Hook

Sandy Hook tops the list as both a beach and a National Recreation Area. This gated park, costing $20 per car between Memorial and Labor Day (beach parking only), offers a variety of activities. Outside of these times, entry is free. The park features multiple parking lots that fill up quickly, so plan ahead.

My favorite part about this park is the long bike path. If you’re only there for biking and using the bike parking lot, you don’t have to pay to enter. Renting a bike is easy too, there is a shop on site. Another neat thing about the area is that at each parking lot, you can find mini stations with tools to fix your bike. Also, don’t try parking without a pass in any of the other lots because you will get fined.

In addition to beaches and biking, there is also a lighthouse and a historical fort that offer tours during the summer. As far as beaches, it’s also home to New Jersey’s nude beach: Gunnison Beach. If you like fishing, there is a spot for it too. My favorite is North Beach, which is the Northernmost spot. It’s quite a walk from the nearest lot but also the least crowded. On a clear day, you can even catch NYC views from the shoreline.

Asbury Park

Asbury Park is more famous for its vibrant town than its beach, which gets quite crowded in the summer. The boardwalk is lined with restaurants, bars, and boutique shops.

Walk into town, and you’ll find the famous Stone Pony with awesome summer concerts. Get closer to the lake and find an awesome Biergarten or the Ale House, the famous Johnny Mac’s, or the groovy Purple Glaze Donuts. For amazing sunset views and a more boujee feel, go to The Asbury Hotel rooftop bar.

Ocean Grove

Asbury Park can get pricey and rowdy in the summer so instead, I recommend staying next door in Ocean Grove. It’s within walking distance to Asbury and it’s a much nicer and quieter town. This past summer I stayed at House by the Sea, a small family-owned bed and breakfast, and enjoyed this cute little beach time without the Asbury crowds.

Cape May

Cape May is a dreamy historic town in the southern most part of New Jersey. While summer bookings fill up quickly and the nightly rates reach crazy highs, a nice solution is a long day trip to still experience the charm of this place. If there is any place to have the perfect New Jersey summer, this would be it.

Explore its awesome beaches for some sunbathing but also check out Sunset Beach at the opposite end for the best sunset views. Another landmark is the Cape May Point State Park in which you’ll find the Cape May Lighthouse. A ton of people go to that area for some serious birdwatching too.

In town, make sure to take a stroll at the center of town on Washington Street Mall to explore the local shops as well as its surrounding areas for the historical aspect of town. If you like wine, outside of town, you will find the most adorable vineyard Willow Creek Winery & Farm, the intimate Turdo Vineyards & Winery, and super cute Cape May Winery offering tastings and tapas for the season. If you’re into local brews instead, you have Cold Spring Brewery with some nice outdoor space and Cape May Brewing which has indoor/outdoor space as well as their seasonal Brewtanical Garden open!

Speaking of Cape May, don’t forget to check out my full CAPE MAY GUIDE 🙂

Crusin’ Tikis

Crusin’ Tikis is a fun and unique activity that has recently gained popularity in New Jersey. It’s basically a floating tiki bar and it has a bunch of locations. I floated away from LBI. The activity was super fun but I will say that it is pretty pricey and super short for what you get. The cruise is only 2 hours for $400 and you bring your own food and drinks. If it was 3 hours it would have been perfect. Make sure to arrive early because even being late 15 minutes cuts out your cruising time.

More Beaches

New Jersey’s shoreline is dotted with fantastic beaches, each offering its own charm. While most beaches in New Jersey require an entry fee and parking fees, they are well worth exploring. Some other notable beaches include:

• Point Pleasant
• Sea Girt
• Long Beach Island
• Ocean City
• Stone Harbor

Biking in New Jersey

One of my favorite activities to clear my mind is biking. New Jersey is perfect for this due to its diverse range of trails. From shore-side beach paths to lush green trails, you won’t be disappointed with what the Garden State has to offer. A perfect activity for a New Jersey summer is exploring the best biking trails around.

Sandy Hook Trail

As mentioned in the beach section, Sandy Hook is one of my favorite biking paths in New Jersey. This fully paved and relatively flat trail runs between the sand dunes and the historic area. You’ll feel the ocean breeze on one side and enjoy views of the bay on the other. It’s a fantastic spot, but it can get crowded during the summer. If you don’t have your own bike, there’s a rental shop inside the park.

Here is a map for you to see how long this trail is!

Island Beach State Park

Island Beach State Park doesn’t have an official biking trail, but it does have a bike lane on both sides of its 8-mile road. This spot is perfect for combining exercise with beach time. The path is paved and flat, allowing you to peacefully make your way to the parking lot for a great beach day in a beautiful setting.

Another map for you to plan the best route!

Raritan Canal

The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail begins at the junction of Landing Lane and George Street in New Brunswick on the Raritan River, running through Princeton and Trenton, following the Delaware River. There are multiple entry and parking points along this trail, which is mostly unpaved but offers a comfortable biking path. Check out their massive map here for detailed passages.

I frequently bike this canal path and love its scenic beauty. As the name suggests, it runs alongside the Raritan River and its neighboring canal.

Delaware Canal – NJ/PA Loop Trails

These trails are fantastic and technically part of the Raritan/Delaware Trails, running between New Jersey and Pennsylvania. There are multiple loops to choose from based on the distance you’d like to cover, with bridges allowing easy state crossings. The path can get narrow at times, requiring some maneuvering. When passing through New Hope, you’ll need to cross the street to get back on the trail. Parking options vary based on your starting point, but the map below shows your choices. If you park in New Hope, there is a fee, but parking outside of town offers fewer crowds, free parking, and a bathroom.

Additionally, if I bike these trails, what I like to do is visit the historic towns of New Hope in PA or Lambertville in NJ. To get the details on them, visit this website and find the Loop Trails.

Burlington County Bikeways

If you’re up for a challenge, why not take on the almost 30-mile Pinelands Loop? Not only will you get some nice nature views but you’ll also get some serious exercise. You have two options for this massive bike ride: Star Bicycle Factory Loop and Burlington Pinelands Loop both reaching a little under 30 miles each. Pine Barrens is an interesting area. Remember that in the summer there are ticks in those woods so prepare adequately.

Here is that map for you.

Best Spots for Outdoor Dining for a New Jersey Summer

Son Cubano

There is nothing more North Jersey than a good waterfront restaurant. Son Cubano in West New York will give you the boujee vibes with prime views. Their beautiful outdoor patio is the perfect place for brunch or a nice dinner. I do have to say that on my last visit there I wasn’t thrilled with the experience (the food was on point though) but I do enjoy the views from this area.

I’ll also recommend Molos, which isn’t too far from Son Cubano and where I recently had a much better expierence in!

The Armory

The Armory in Perth Amboy might not be your fanciest spot but it’s certainly awesome for a warm night out. They get packed and for a reason, with a waterfront location, lively music, good food, and cheap drinks, this is the place to be for the locals. I like going there for a couple of beers and just hanging out in their outdoor drinking space. They’re also an awesome place to host a private party!

The Boatyard

The Boatyard is a cute and casual place on the water located in Manahawkin right before LBI. They offer shore bites and drinks in a beer garden setting. The best part is that they also offer boat and kayak rentals in the same marina so if you’re planning a day on the water, you can enjoy both!

Beach Tavern

Beach Tavern in Monmouth Beach was an awesome find for me last summer. I’ve dined there 3 times since and loved the vibes of sitting in a marina with a nice palm trees around. The ambaince is awesome and the food doesn’t dissapoint either.

Walpack Inn

This is such a hidden gem of New Jersey. I visited this place twice already since I found it. Wait, however, until they open their outdoor dining for the summer. You’ll be having a nice glass of wine among the beautiful mountains and the local scenery. The drive there is long but if you like nature, you won’t be bored. The menu selection isn’t very long but decent enough for everyone. I think they’re still getting used to the popularity that they’ve gained in the past year so the first time I dined out there, the service could not catch up with the crowds.

Biergartens of New Jersey

My favorite kind of garden is a beer garden, especially one that has outdoor seating. For starters, Zepplin Hall with a huge outdoor area in Jersey City, and in Hoboken, I enjoy Pilsener House which recently expanded its outdoor seating capacity. Pier 13 is technically not a beer garden but it has a good selection of beers too and honestly unbeatable views. Travel further down and you’ll find Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten in Asbury Park for a rooftop beer experience.

Wineries

If I’m speaking of beer gardens, what better New Jersey summer activity than having a glass of wine outside at a local winery? I won’t go into the full details of those here because I have a full amazing New Jersey Drinking Guide that talks about my favorite picks. However, if you blindly want to take a chance, Working Dog Winery is my top pick for the area 🙂

Additional best outdoor dining places on my New Jersey summer bucket list:

• Cafe Matisse in Rutherford, a lovely garden with a 4-course prix-fix menu
• Marina Grille in Belmar, is a waterfront summer spot
• Rat’s in Hamilton, a place near Ground for Sculpture with its own sculpture garden.
• Erini in Ewing for its green outdoor setup
• Lambertville Station Inn in Lambertville, located on the water
• Andre’s in Sparta for summer lakeside dining

Rooftops Perfect for a New Jersey Summer

Although good rooftops are definitely synonymous with a New York summer, I will argue that New Jersey can get some participation points at the very least.

Marcus at NoHu

Having recently visited this place, I’ll tell you that the views from this Weehawken restaurant are simply phenomenal. Book a table for a sunset overlooking New York from the 6th floor. While the views and drinks pass the rooftop test, the menu on the other hand needs some serious work. The sharable options are just not something I would crave for a golden hour sunset lounge experience.

Rooftop at Exchange Place

Eh, this place is just average. I did want to include it because the views are nice but it’s a bit disorganized and many agree that their service needs a lot of work. I went during a weekday that wasn’t busy and allowed me to have a nice drink in peace on the outside portion of the bar. In terms of food, the bar snacks were decent but nothing out of this world. The place is pretty pricey too so I will only recommend stopping by for a drink on a weekday.

Salvation at The Asbury Hotel

Located in Asbury Park, this place is simply gorgeous! There is nothing like a summer sunset from there! It has raving reviews for a reason. Drinks taste betters on rooftops, it’s a proven fact 🙂 So grab a spritz and enjoy the atmosphere that this gem offers.

Alto in Montclair

This fairly new place opened up in an unexpected location in Montclair. Offering a nice loungey setup, you will also be able to catch a glimpse of that NYC skyline. They have rooftop-appropriate bites ranging from pretzels and other cheese or meat plates.

The Bradford at AC Hotel Bridgewater

Wait, a rooftop in Bridgewater, NJ? Yes, you read that right. This (somewhat) newly opened place serves a rooftop-deprived area. The views might not blow your mind but you’ll get a good atmosphere, lively music, a decent menu, and a wide selection of drinks. This space is trendy and gives you something new and exciting to check out!

Bonus Finds

Harry’s in Cape May may not be a traditional rooftop but it’s still located higher up 🙂 You can’t beat its summer ambiance and the views won’t certainly disappoint. Paulie’s Brickhouse in Jersey City is laid back pizza spot for a causal rooftop setting.

Little Tijuana in Newark has some awesome Mexican-style setup and a surprising rooftop bar in Newark and is the new kid on the block.

New Jersey Summer Outdoor Activities

Grounds for Sculpture – Hamilton

This massive outdoor sculpture garden is a must-see at some point in your New Jersey life. They offered times tickets for under $20 and let you explore the scattered large structures. There are around 300 of them all ranging in size. Visit their website for the most up-to-date visiting guidelines. Take a sneak peek at their interactive map to see how extensive this place is. One thing you should aim to do is visit the amazing restaurant Rats on site along with your visit. It’s probably the most beautiful restaurant in New Jersey!

Duke Farms

I love love love Duke Farms. I mention them in my New Brunswick Local Guide and I will mention them again as something that you should add to your New Jersey summer list. Duke Farms is this large estate in Hillsborough donated by Mr. James Duke who was the owner of the American Tobacco Company. Now you can enjoy this former mansion and its outdoor space. It’s huge so you can walk it, bike it, have a small picnic in it, or purchase some local goods at its occasional farmers market. Note that no official large picnics or outdoor gatherings are allowed but if you grab a couple of snacks and a blanket, no one should bother you. If open, check out its stunning orchid garden.

Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park is a beautiful space located in Jersey City. Take a relaxing stroll while overlooking NYC from across the river. This is a big park yet the parking spaces fill up on nice summer days. You can enjoy a nice picnic from pretty much anywhere. If you haven’t visited Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty yet, this will be your entry point to them too.

PNC Arts Center

There is nothing like a relaxed outdoor concert on the PNC Arts Center lawn. They have seating there too but I recommend grabbing a blanket and preparing to have a magical night in this old-school vibe. Don’t forget to grab your overpriced beer and snacks from the concession stand. Check out their full lineup here.

Drive-in Movie

A cute idea for a warm summer weekend is packing up your car, popping a truck, and enjoying an outdoor movie. Sadly the options for this are extremely scarce as more and more people are turning away from this classic. Your first choice is Delsea Drive-In in Vineland all the way south and the second option is not even located in New Jersey but close enough that I will include it here which is Warwick Drive-in. A small bonus, Warwick movie theater is located right across the street from one of my favorite fall stops, Pennings Farm Cidery 🙂

Water Activities

The Jersey Shore is not only good for swimming and hanging at the beach but also for boating. If you lived here for a while. chances are you have a friend or two whose family owns a boat. However, a fun idea is two rent one with or without a captain. There are a bunch of small websites as well as larger known ones that offer this service for example BoatSetter or GetMyBoat.

Another awesome idea is to kayak or jetski on the Hudson River from Hoboken! There are many options for this and I recommend you check out Hoboken Girl’s article with the research done for you. Lastly, why not create that special moment with your friends and take a hot tub boat tour in the Hudson. Yes, you read that correctly and I suggest you check it out here.

Tubing on Delaware

A totally classic New Jersey summer thing to do is tubing down on the Delaware River. There are a couple of companies to choose from depending on where you’re planning to leave from. In Easton PA you have Twin Rivers Tubing, going south you have Delaware River Tubing in Milford and then Bucks Country River Country in Pleasant PA. The differences are as I mentioned their locations and pricing. Don’t miss The Famous River Hot Dog Man in Milford, a floating barge selling snacks on your tubing adventure.

Hiking in New Jersey

I have a love/hate relationship with hiking. I have days where an outdoor walk is absolutely necessary and other times where I’d rather not even move. Nonetheless, hiking during a New Jersey summer is a nice activity. Note, do not attempt to hike on a super hot summer day or you’ll be miserable. Keep this activity for a cooler day or for the beginning of summer.

Mt. Tammany

This is a New Jersey classic so everyone and their mother will be there too. It’s located on the Delaware Water Gap and you’ll get amazing views from the top. Parking becomes non-existent later in the day too. The whole hike is short but since it’s mostly uphill, you will be tired. This path is a must-do on any New Jersey bucket list. Here is the trail description and map for ya.

Known Jersey hikes for your summer

• Stairway to Heaven – Another Jersey classic, this 7-mile trail gives you different vistas along the way.
• Palisades Park – Why not enjoy some nature along with some Hudson River views? This point has a bunch of different trails depending on the difficulty and length that you choose.
• High Point State Park – The highest point in New Jersey is also a point of some short day hikes. Reach the top for the famous monument.
• Franklin Parker Preserve – If you’re interested in unique Pinebarrens scenery on a rather flat hike, consider visiting this area. Located in Chatsworth, this area is not as popular as the hikes mentioned above so it’s nice to get some peace and quiet.
• Ramapo Mountain State Forest – This trail could be a little confusing to navigate but I do like this for a short afternoon walk. It’s a pretty area.

Visit New Jersey’s Cutest Towns

New Jersey has so many adorable towns to visit where you can grab a coffee, shop around and enjoy the historic vibes. Here are my picks for an afternoon stroll.

The staples:

Hoboken & Jersey City

The most known towns for perfect New Jersey summer vibes are Hoboken and Jersey City. And for good reasons. They offer a ton of outdoor dining, in-town shops, a lively atmosphere, and a ton of people simply enjoying life. I love grabbing a picnic and heading to Pier 1 in Hoboken for a Sunday afternoon. These two tons deserve their own posts because the number of places you can visit there is only growing by the day.

Morristown

Morristown is known for its summer night vibe as well as its cute dining scene. You can walk around town to shop and enjoy the cute vibe. If you’d like more things than just eating, visit the Jockey Hollow Park or The Frelinghuysen Arboretum for some nature. At night this place turns into a party town but during the day it’s just lively enough.

Montclair

Montclair has a classy vibe and is what I call the perfect Sunday town. You go to Montclair to have brunch and then ice cream afterward. There are some little shops and boutiques you can find including Melissa Gorga’s Envy. If you’d like a list of the best outdoor dining options in this town, The Montclair Girl did your homework. Additionally, there are some interesting local things to do that you should check out:

• Van Vleck House & Gardens: A former estate that you can now enjoy for its beautiful gardens and space.
• Montclair Art Museum: Enjoy it for its unique art exhibitions.
• Wellmont Theater: A known local theater for some small and big town acts.
• Presby Iris Garden: Located in Upper Montclair, this cute little garden full of flowers is the perfect area for a walk.

Princeton

This academic town is stunning, sophisticated, and perfect for a Sunday stroll. The main part of town is located in front of the campus on route 27 going off into little side nooks. There are many restaurants and bars in town but to explore more than just the culinary scene, check out the Princeton University Art Museum, Morven Museum & Garden, the numerous churches as well as all the outdoor space offered.

Other towns worth making a trip to:

• Red Bank
• Lambertville
• Frenchtown

Fairs & Festivals

There is nothing like a good summer festival outside. New Jersey might not have a lot of them, but the ones we do have are pretty good if you ask me.

Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival

This year, this is scheduled to take place on July 13th. You will need to purchase tickets beforehand which include the beer tastings, seminars, music, a souvenir glass, and a ton of other perks on-site.

Barefoot Country Music Festival

In Wildwood, you’ll find all the best country artists June 19th-22nd. A 3-day pass will cost you a little over $200 but you’ll find a ton of fun things to do there in addition to concerts.

New Jersey Balloon Festival

This adorable event normally takes place in July but was cancelled this year.

Cultural Festivals

New Jersey is one of the most diverse states in all of the country. The most beautiful thing about it is the ability to meet from all different nooks of the world, being able to attend events that embrace different cultures and establish an understanding of different countries. There are MANY different events hosted throughout the year but the most known summer ones are the following:

• Irish Day in Monmouth – June 9th
• Polish Day in East Brunswick – June 9th
• La Festa Italiana in Jersey City – August 7-11th
• Puerto Rican Day in Jersey City – tba
• Italian Day in Hoboken – September 5th-9th

For a more comprehensive list of what will be held, visit this list here.

Final Thoughts on New Jersey Summer 2024

I hope my list inspired you to do something different or new for the New Jersey Summer 2024. The nice thing about this state is that you don’t have to travel far to do something awesome. I constantly find new and cool things to do here and my goal is to inspire you to do the same.

Yes, my friends, you can have a Perfect Day in New Jersey!

For even more awesome ideas, check out my multiple New Jersey Guides list that features all my favorite things to do in this state.

Don’t forget to also explore all my other worldly destinations!

Map for you to save

Thoughts? Ideas? Suggestions on places that you think I should add here? Comment, comment, comment!

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I should preface that these expectations are for an average, non-clout-seeking traveler with a non-Hamptons salary. If you have a summer home or a large wallet, you probably won’t benefit from this guide. With that said, let’s get to the brutally honest Montauk travel guide for all the fellow “broke b*tches”. I’ll cover the logistics of getting there, things to do, and tell you what traveling there entails.

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

Montauk Travel Guide – Most Important Things to Know

Where is Montauk

The Hamptons collectively refer to a group of towns in the Eastern part of Long Island. Montauk is at the tippy tip and it’s considered the more “low-key” of them all. What once was a quiet resort/fisherman town is now the chosen destination of many influencers that want to be seen. I wanted to see this place for myself as I’ve heard very mixed opinions about it. So I planned my 2-day route with stops along the way that would let me admire the other Hamptons even for a little and see what the hype is all about.

This itinerary is for a simple 2-day local weekend getaway. I’ll give you my best tips and first impressions that I experienced there. Before we jump into the plan though, here are some quick logistics about this destination.

Montauk Transport

Getting to Montauk is easy. The first option is to hop on the highway from NJ/NYC and in 2.5-3 hours you’ll drive through all the Hampton towns into Montauk. Note that this will not be the case in the summer when you should add an additional hour or two to your drive due to traffic. The second option is a bus from the city like the Hampton Jitney or Hampton Luxury Liner. That ranges anywhere from $30-$70 each way which is not horrible. However, it does limit you to how you’ll get around town when staying there. Lastly, you can take the good old LIRR with a ton of stops along the way for a similar rate. The main advantage of a train ride, however, is skipping that dreadful traffic.

I opted for the driving option and there was virtually no traffic getting there. However, this was done in April, off-season for that area. It took about 3 hours to reach Montauk but we also made small detours along the way.

When you arrive, getting around is easy as most of the town is more than walkable. If you want to venture out to the lighthouse, wineries, or beach though, without a car this will not be the easiest of tasks. I personally and naively estimated the town to be a bit bigger than what it ended up being so I was a tad shocked when my drive within town ended within a couple of minutes.

Hotels in Montauk

First things first, BOOK SUPER SUPER SUPER EARLY.

Montauk is a smart town, you know why? Because keeping hotel prices at $600+ a night during the season keeps the broke b*itches away. They’re doing a great job because I certainly won’t be paying that to get back there. Every travel guide you read will tell you that Gurney’s or Surf Lodge is the absolute place to be. Are they nice? Heck yes, but will I drop $1000+ for a weekend at an Instagram hotel? Probably not. Some cheaper options include Montauk Blue Hotel or Royal Atlantic.

I stayed at Sea Crest Resort in Amagansett about a 10-minute drive outside of Montauk. My room had a 1 bedroom apartment and a sea-view balcony. At $300 a weekend night, it was a great place to stay in the area (compared to the insane rates 10 minutes away). Weekdays in April/May are even sold at half that price so if you’ve been dying to see Montauk for yourself, that’s your smartest option. For a deeper dive into cool spots check out Broke Backpackers Hotel recommendations there too.

All I’m saying is that you should simply know what to expect and not be shocked when you start looking at property prices.

Useful Things to Know for Montauk Travel

• Most people are dressed to impress so pack your best outfits. Chances are that you’ll see many Birkins around. Old money, new money, and just money all around.
• Restaurants are pricey and you’ll need a reservation almost everywhere.
• Gas is insanely expensive in town. There will be at least a $2 difference compared to the average prices so fill up before getting there.
• There aren’t that many things to do in Montauk aside from dining, shopping, and lounging. Unless you’re a part of that community, this destination may not be as exciting as you might think.

Your 2-Day Montauk Itinerary

Day 1: Drive through the Hamptons & explore the town

Stop 1: Hampton Bays

If you’re driving in, your first stop will be a cute restaurant called Rumba Inspired Island Cuisine & Rum Bar in the Hampton Bays. The place is cool, with fancy tiki feels on the inside, an outdoor patio, and a vintage bus outside. It had a ton of cocktail options and the food was pretty tasty. The place got packed by 11:30 am so I certainly recommend making a reservation.

The crowd was mixed. Some families celebrating birthdays with their kids, some Instagrammers, and some other fancy humans. This place was probably my favorite spot out this weekend so I genuinely recommend grabbing a meal/drink there. Aside from the restaurant, there isn’t much to do in the Hampton Bays from a touristy perspective.

Stop 2: Southampton

The next stop isn’t so much of a stop because you can admire the beauty of Southampton from the car 🙂 Driving in the Cooper Beach direction you can spot the mansions on Meadow and Gin Lane. Although the hedges will block most of your views, it won’t be hard to see why this is the most sought-after place to be. Driving through the side streets, I appreciated the location’s beauty. Streets lined with tall trees on both sides give the place a very special vibe. If you’d like to explore more of the town, you’ll find the boutiques and restaurants clustered near Main and Jobs Street.

Stop 3: Hotel check-in

If you drove early in the morning, you might get to the hotel before check-in. I always recommend asking if your room is ready though because 7/10 times it is. I stayed at Sea Crest Resort and they let us check in early so around 2:30 pm. This particular hotel was actually nice, located in Amagansett right on the beach. The downside of an April visit is that it’s way too cold to lounge outside. While Jersey had a beautiful warm and sunny day, the cold winds of the island made the beach experience not as pleasant. However, it was nice to grab a cold beer, enjoy the peaceful views and inhale some fresh air.

To be honest I did not expect the temperature difference to be so drastic. The trees weren’t even blooming yet compared to Jersey’s super high pollen counts. I took a fall jacket with me and ended up wearing it the entire time. Make sure to check the temperature before visiting and don’t assume that it’s as warm as its 2-hour neighbor.

Stop 4: Montauk

I was so excited to check out what the hype was actually about. But this is where I have to be a major party pooper and say whomp whomp, “downtown” Montauk is not that great. There is a circle and all of its 3 streets with some shops and restaurants.

The first stop was a quick recharge at Hampton Coffee Company and Montauk Bake Shop. I wanted to stop by Left Hand Coffee for its cool vibes but it was closed. We walked around a couple of overpriced stores in that area and quickly realized that a $100+ crop top is the norm there. Being a beer fanatic, I really wanted to check out Montauk Brewing Company, but due to the long wait, I ended up getting a growler to go instead.

Here are some other places to grab a drink that most people rave about:

• The Surf Lodge: hotel and restaurant known among the Instagrammers/TikTokers. Criticized for horrible service.
• The Montauket: is known as the best sunset spot in town.
• Navy Beach: another trendy popular place with an outdoor drinking scene.
• Liar’s Saloon: located on a dock, this is your local “dive” bar.
• The Point Bar and Grill: local sports bar in the area.

Stop 5: Montauk Lighthouse & Local Nature

The drive to the lighthouse is another 10-15 minutes east of the town. It was closed for renovations when I visited but the whole area was pretty nice. It was crazy windy so I didn’t get to explore much but I imagine that in the summer it’s a nice place for a stroll.

On that route 27 drive, you can find Deep Hollow Ranch, which allows you to go horseback riding in season right on the beach. Another landmark in that area is Camp Hero State Park, a nice park to get some outdoor exercise. If you love conspiracy theories, check out this article about the dark secrets of this exact park. Another nature stop is Shadmoor State Park.

If you’re craving some exercise and outdoor activities, there are many shops in Montauk offering bike rentals. From what I saw the trails there look great. Your Montauk travel wouldn’t be complete without at least getting some of its outdoor beauty in.

Stop 6: Dinner time

After exploring Montauk, we needed some rest and headed back to the hotel. Also, a cocktail before dinner never hurt anyone 🙂 Even off-season, it was hard to get a reservation a week and a half ahead of our visit so if you’re planning to visit the town, make sure to get those in ASAP. The only thing we were able to get was a “last-minute” table at Muse at the End. The food was good but the selection wasn’t the greatest and it was hugely overpriced for what it was. The crowd was a little fancier too. Overall the experience was fine but I wouldn’t say I fell in love with this place.

Here are some other highly recommended places for dinner in town:

• Harvest on Fort Pond – a family-style town nook
• Sammys – a low-key local staple
• The Shack – a nice place right in the heart of town
• Inlet Seafood – located a little further away but known for its amazing Seafood
• Salivar’s Clam and Chowder House – seafood place located at the dock with a cool outdoor terrace
• Gosman’s – another place on the dock with a topside terrace perfect for sunsets
• Scarpetta Beach – a boujee spot at Gurney’s

Bonus stop: Nightlife in Montauk

Montauk is the place to party in the summer. At least that’s what I hear. I’m a grandma so after dinner I snuggled up in my blanket with a glass of wine and called it a day. So if all day of exploring didn’t kick your butt yet, make sure to make your way out at night. The drinking places I mentioned above usually have something going on at night.

Day 2

Stop 1: Breakfast

Since I am an espresso and a croissant kinda breakfast gal, I was happy with my chocolatey find at Hampton Coffee Company. If you’re looking for something more filling, try Joni’s a known local spot with amazing breakfast options, or Anthony’s Pancake House, a low-key spot with good prices.

Stop 2: Winery

Since this is a two-day itinerary, I recommend stopping by a winery on your drive home. Long Island is known for its wineries and a lot of people love taking their private buses there for special occasions. There are a ton of places in the Hamptons to get some quality wine so if one more person recommends Wolffer Estate and their rosè, I might quite vomit on myself. Don’t get me wrong, their rose is good but the spot became more famous for getting the Instagram picture with a location tag than the actual wine.

Here are some additional picks for you to choose from. Don’t forget to make a reservation if you’d like a tasting.

• Channing Daughters– Bridgehampton. A charming winery with a unique sculpture garden. Tastings are $25 a person and they also have small snacks available for purchase. Wine prices are typically ranging from $18 to its most expensive bottle at $60.
• Jamesport – Jamesport. Beautiful outdoor space with a kitchen on-site that serves delicious pizzas. They do have tastings by reservation and most of their bottles run between $20-$35.
• Clovis Point – Jamesport. This is a by-reservation-only spot with very specific reservation and on-site rules. Their prices are a little steeper but they have a nice outdoor space and high reviews!

North Fork wineries may be a little further out however if you have some extra time during your Montauk travel and want to see that part of Long Island, this is a good excuse to venture out in this direction.

• Duck Walk – Southold. The North Fork wineries are stealing Hampton’s spotlight. Duck Walk offers $12 tastings with reservations and allows you to purchase some snacks in addition to allowing you to bring your own picnic. A ton of their wines are under $20 too. Some of their reviews however are concerning many commenting on the disrespectful staff. Remember, sometimes you get what you pay for 🙂
• Kontokosta – Greenport. Located even further into the North Fork, this modern winery currently offers bottle sales only and no tastings due to COVID. They’re by reservation only and do not allow outside food. It’s located on the water allowing for some unique views however familiarise yourself with all their current policies before visiting.

Other miscellaneous stops along the way:

Before ending your Montauk getaway, make sure to grab a fresh lobster roll at The Clam Bar in Amagansett. I will vouch for 100% for its quality and it was totally worth the $30.

Carissa’s Bakery is highly rated in East Hampton and located centrally if you’d want to peek into this Hampton’s lifestyle.

If you’re planning to stop somewhere else on your drive home, Tutto Il Giorno in Southampton and Sag Harbor won’t disappoint. The food is delicious and the space is very bohemian chic but expects steep prices.

Summer Time Beach Time

Since I visited Montauk off-season, going to the beach was not an option. However, in its peak season, this is one of the major reasons to visit this area. Since I am not one to give you beach advice as I only spent some time on one in Amagansett, I would check out this simple beach guide by On Montauk, to give you a better idea of what to expect from each. Here is a beach list and descriptions from their website:

• Amsterdam Beach: hike to access, remote but worth the hike.
• Ditch Pains Beach: surfer, popular, and with permit parking.
• Edison Beach: central popular beach with limited public parking.
• Gin Beach: quiet family beach with permit parking.
• Hither Hills: family beach with public parking.
• Kirk Park Beach: recommend the beach if you’re only in town for a day. Public parking.
• Montauk Point State Park Beach: not really a lounging beach, rocky for hiking. Public parking.
• Navy Road Beach: pebbly quiet beach, lots of boats.

Final Thoughts on Montauk Travel

Would I visit Montauk again? Probably not. Ugh, I hate to dislike places but let me explain why Montauk is not as dreamy as you might imagine it is.

First, this is not a place for a 5 or even 6-figure income person. Even the off-season rates are nuts and paying $1000+ for a weekend in peak season for a hotel is just silly. To put things in perspective, I spent two weeks backpacking in Peru for a little over that. Yes I know I’m comparing a South American country with a famous resort town in NY but if you’re an explorer like me, you get the point. I call myself a champagne backpacker because as much as I love nice things and spending money on experiences, a trip to Montauk is contributing nothing to my travel life.

Second, there really isn’t that much to do in this town. When I tell you that you can see everything there is to see in less than a day, I mean it. Aside from restaurants, a couple of nature preserves, and boutique shops, there is nothing special to do there.

Third, this is a spot to be seen and take pictures to say you spent a day in the Hamptons. As much as I like my pictures and posting about my travels, I do things for the sake of the experiences first. If I don’t like a place, I will be honest about it and not feed you bs that it’s a wonderful place to be.

But change my mind.

I’m certain my perspective on Montauk travel would be 1000 times different if I stayed in a large house with a nice pool or got that $1000 a night resort room without even thinking about the price. This post is aimed at an average Kasia who is looking to explore what her backyard has to offer.

So with huge disappointment, I vote Montauk a pass.

But Kasia, you traveled there off-season. What do you know? Well to compare, I had a phenomenal off-season experience in Newport, Rhode Island so if you’re curious about what made it different, find it in my post about it.

So should you visit Montauk?

Depends on what you’re looking for. I gave you all the tools and opinions to make that decision for yourself. Here is the research I gathered to make it easier to decide whether Montauk travel is for you.

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Is Newport worth your time in the winter? For sure. Lucky for you, I tested it out and I’m happy to share my tips and the perfect Newport weekend itinerary with you.

My two-day Newport itinerary is not for the traveler that likes to sit and relax at the hotel for hours on end. It’s designed for an explorer like me. Someone who wants to see a decent chunk of the city in the short amount of time there visiting yet still pausing at each spot to enjoy it.

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

Quick Newport Logistics

Getting around Newport

The city of Newport is located on Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island. The 3.5-hour drive from New York goes by in no time. Once you cross the Pell Bridge, you’ll enter the “touristy” zone of Thames Street. If you’re staying in that nook of Newport, you’ll be able to get around on foot. Note that the Newport Mansions and the Cliff Walk are located in the other, more eastern part of the city. To get there you’ll need an uber or the city bus. Your two public transport options are Bus 67 which will take you to all the mansions side or Bus 63 which connects you to the northern part of the city. Between Memorial and Columbus day you can also take the harbor shuttle for some awesome port views.

How long and where to stay in Newport

It’s not surprising that Newport is an expensive city. It’s one of the oldest resort towns in the US and used to be a small playground of the rich of the rich. One of the perks of traveling there off-season is the good chunk of money you can save on your accommodations. In the summer, decent centrally located hotels can easily range from $300 and up a night but off-season you can stay for half of that.

A couple of more-known places in town are gorgeous but will cost ya a good amount. No matter what you end up choosing based on the size of your wallet, I recommend it being close to Bowen’s Wharf. While it’s the most touristy area, you will like it for being the livest part of town. Remember that winter is not busy to begin with so staying far away from the center to save a few bucks might not be the way to go. With a short amount of time in the city, the last thing you’ll want is to be far away from the action. I stayed at the Cleaveland House Inn, a small family-owned bed and breakfast. It was a budget option near Thames Street but I loved the ambiance and how helpful the staff was! The parking lot was super convenient too as it allowed me to park 3 minutes away from the main part of town.

As far as the length of your stay, a long weekend is sufficient to see the highlights of this town. I arrived around noon on Saturday and left on Monday after checkout. It was a good amount of time allowing me to catch all the major spots and still relax a little. In the summer, 3 days would be recommended not to rush the experience and account for the delays caused by more people.

Budgeting in Newport

Things add up quicker than you think in Newport. It’s easy to spend a decent amount of money even in a short amount of time as a weekend. Here are some examples of what you should expect to spend there. A hotel will cost you around $150 a night, that being on the cheaper side. For meals, breakfast can be $20-30, a good lunch with drinks about $60-100 and if you want to splurge on dinner, that’s another $100+ per night. The mansions entry is also $26, and I imagine you wouldn’t want to skip that. That’s just the basics of what you can expect to pay and that’s pretty pricey my friend. And unless you’re carefully planning the more budget spots, you will get stuck paying the prices I just listed. So no, Newport is not a cheap destination.

What to wear in Newport during the winter

I think it’s safe to say that everyone’s hesitation about traveling to Newport Rhode Island in the winter is the weather. When I visited, the temperatures were around 25 to 40 degrees during the day. That’s pretty chilly for a town on the water but I was quite surprised that it wasn’t brutal compared to how that same temperature feels in New York or even Boston. When packing, I would consider warm and comfortable shoes first. You will regret having your feet cold because you decided to wear cute winter boots. For the amount of exploring, make sure to prioritize comfort and warmth over everything else. You’ll also need a heavy winter jacket, hat, and gloves. Don’t forget the standard warm sweaters and thick pants for underneath. I know this sounds like common sense but you’d be surprised how many tourists walk around shivering because they wanted to look good rather than be warm.

Newport Rhode Island Travel Guide

I spent two days in Newport this February and I am here to show you that you can have an amazing time there even in the winter. My plan included seeing the highlights without trying to squeeze too many things in. There is a ton more you can do in-season too but if this is your first time in Newport, my plan should be a good start for you. This is your two-day travel guide for Newport Rhode Island.

Day 1

Your best bet is to start the day as early as you can. It took me under four hours to reach the city from New Jersey with only one rest stop along the way. Since I traveled off-season, my accommodation was able to check me in super early right before noon. We left the car in the parking lot on-site, freshened up, and headed straight out. Our carefully planned route ended up being just enough not to exhaust ourselves and feel accomplished at the end. This is what I will share with you for your plan and I hope that you can embellish this travel guide with your own stops as well 🙂

First Stop: Lunch time at Diego’s on Bowen’s Wharf

After hours of driving, the first thing I wanted is some tasty food and a cold beer. The perfect first stop on the trip was Diego’s, a Mexican spot with some cool vibes. A reservation on the weekend is a must because of the limited indoor capacity. There are three main dining areas, the outdoor heated patio, the lower indoor space, and an upstairs dining room with stunning views of the port. I made the reservation for the upper level and it was the perfect first experience of this city. The food was super tasty and the drinks were even better. A couple of shots of tequila got me ready to explore the town.

Next: Recharging and exploring the shops of Bowen’s Wharf

After an amazing lunch at Diego’s, I recommend spending some time in the Wharf. It’s such a cute area to explore for local shops and a nice lively vibe of the town. However, to stop yourself from losing stamina, you’ll need some caffeine. Newport has awesome coffee. Seriously, for probably having 6 cups there over the whole weekend, I did not have one bad one. On the Wharf, we ended up at the Coffee Grinder which has a cute outside area to sit on the water. The coffee was great but the prices were just nuts for two cups (close to $20 for black coffee). I made sure to enjoy some time on the little patio just to make it worthwhile.

Bowen’s Wharf has a ton of shops so explore it for as long as your heart desires. Make sure to walk near the boats and admire their winter beauty. This is also the spot from which a lot of boat tours leave. I did not see any running in the winter but as early spring approaches, that might change soon. If you travel in the future during the winter months, make sure to check if the Newport winter festival is back on.

Then an afternoon walk down Thames Street

Thames Street is a cute touristy street. The part you care about runs between Marlborough Street down to Wellington Ave. If you’re starting from Bowen’s Wharf, walk south (making a right out of Bowen’s) and explore the little local shops in Newport Rhode Island. I recommend making a loop there. There are so many boutiques and trinket shops. My favorite little shop was the Salty Babe for some new fashion trends. If you walk fairly far down, you should grab a drink at O’Brein’s a very known pub in the city.

Once you make your way back, stop at Kilwin’s for some out-of-this-world chocolates and ice cream. Another cool spot I recommend in that area is Brick Alley Pub. It’s super known but the decor and service make it worth stopping at for at least one drink. If you still have some energy left, there is another small shopping area at the Long Wharf Mall. It’s mostly retail chains and only a couple of local shops.

Oh and then don’t forget to relax a little

Now after half a day of exploring, you will need to rest a little before dinner. Make sure to take some time at your hotel to relax and enjoy some time for yourself. I’m always guilty of rushing and packing my schedule with things to do and forgetting to relax while on vacation. In Newport, I almost made the mistake of pushing through the schedule, but I stopped myself to pause even for a little. After driving almost 4 hours and then spending another 4 exploring the town, I didn’t realize how bad I needed a serious nap. I think you will do the same.

To end the day, have dinner at Mamma Luisa’s

There are SO many good dinner options in town that it’s hard to choose one. My go-to at almost any destination is always the best pasta in town. I found Mamma Luisa’s online and it certainly did not disappoint. The restaurant is located down on Thames Street, a little further away from the main touristy part. It’s inside an old house and serves delicious meals. Parking could be hard so Uber may be a good choice.

Just kidding, time for a night-cap

If you’re a drinker like me, finding a bar that’s open late could be a struggle. The Fastnet Pub was one of the only open spots near my accommodation for some late-night brews. Can’t say that it was a classy experience but hey, you need to see all the parts of town right?

Day 2

The first day was packed for us so sleeping a little later than expected was almost unavoidable. Especially after the nightcap stop. I wanted to stick to my travel plan and after a strong cup of coffee, I was ready for day two of exploring Newport Rhode Island in the winter.

Are you ready for another full day of Newport activities? Because on the second day, you will get more of the Newport vibes outside the area of Thames Street. You’ll spend time outside for a good chunk of it so don’t forget to bundle up in your warm clothes.

Start your day with a filling breakfast

Before heading out for some more exploring, make sure to grab a good breakfast. I enjoyed the coffee and food at Drift Cafe right on Thames and also at the Cru Cafe located inside the town so that’s what I recommend to you. Other known spots that were recommended to me are The Corner Cafe, The Franklin Spa and The Hungry Monkey.

Then, grab a beer at Newport Vineyards

After breakfast, take a trip to a different spot 15 minutes outside the town, the Newport Vineyards. It’s a winery/brewery/restaurant. I did the beer tasting there instead of wine and it was good but crazy pricey for the amount you get. The food was ok too but nothing spectacular. The space is very large but I would make reservations a couple of weeks in advance as it’s a very popular spot. The grounds are pretty but in the winter there is not much you can do there aside from drinking at the moment. Although the place did not blow me away, I recommend grabbing a beer or a glass of wine and some small tapas. It’s still super awesome and is located a little out of the way, lets you see another side of this area.

Don’t forget to tour at least one Mansion

You can’t visit Newport and not see at least one of the famous mansions. Check out how to richest families in the states used to enjoy their summers at these grand estates. They’re known as the Gilded Age Mansions and they were built in the late 1800s. Their extravagant European decor makes them a super unique activity on the East Coast. Even if you’re not into history, I recommend visiting at least one of them on your Newport trip.

Unfortunately during my visit, only The Breakers was open. It was once the estate of the wealthy Vanderbilt family and is probably the most known mansion in the area. The current price as of February 2021 is $26 and the last entry is at 4 pm. Parking is super convenient on-site too and it’s free. There are no operating tours but through the NewportMansions app, you can listen to the audio tour as your walk around. Don’t forget to bring your headphones with you if you’re planning to do this. It’s scheduled to close between March 1st and May 27th again.

For the other mansions, The Marble House is scheduled to reopen on March 1st this year and the Green Animals Topiary Garden in early April. It doesn’t look like The Elms will open until the fall and The Rosecliff is not on the schedule this year. Check out the Newport Preservation Society for the most up-to-date opening information. If you’re curious about the history of the mansions, check out the full list of them here.

And of course, walk The Cliff Walk

Newport’s tourism is known for the mansions but also for the Cliff Walk. It’s a promenade along the eastern shore that is about 3.5 miles long. If you have the time doing the full round trip allows you to see multiple perspectives while also getting some exercise in. The main parking is around Memorial Boulevard at Easton’s Beach and also there are meters near the 40 steps point. If you’re planning to do a longer walk, I suggest parking in that area. However, if you’re visiting the Breakers, you can just park there and walk a street over to access the Cliff Walk from Ruggles Ave. Turning right towards the southern part has a little rough rocky terrain. That continues to Belmont Beach with a few more challenging parts of the trail being located at the end. The left, more northern part of Ruggles is lighter and has some amazing mansion views. The northern part is more crowded but also easier on the terrain.

Finish the trip with a beautiful sunset and a boujee dinner

First, don’t forget to rest a little after the mansions and the Cliff Walk. Then, if the weather is clear, make sure to head to the wharf to catch the sunset. There is nothing prettier than sailboats, calm waters, and that pastel sky with a bright orange or red sun coming down in front of your eyes.

For dinner, I recommend 22 Bowens, a fancy steakhouse with the perfect ambiance. It is a little pricey for an average traveler but worth setting some funds aside for. Other places that won’t disappoint but won’t break the bank are The Red Parrot, Midtown Oyster Bar, or Sardella’s.

Final Thoughts on a Newport Rhode Island winter

Newport Rhode Island in the winter or even early spring is an amazing idea for the following reasons:

1) There are no crazy crowds, allowing you to peacefully eat out, see mansions, and do the Cliff Walk.
2) It’s half the price of your accommodations.
3) Parking is available (almost) everywhere.
4) There is almost no traffic.
5) It feels like you have this whole city to yourself.

And while I will be returning in the summer, my winter memories of Newport will always be very special.

I hope you found this guide useful and that I showed you that winter should not be stopping you from visiting this destination.

If you have any recommendations or thoughts that you think are useful for this travel destination, I would love for you to share them in the comments!

Map of Newport Rhode Island

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