55 Summer Day Trips In New Jersey You Won't Want To Miss!

Hot or cold, rain or shine, there’s always something fun to do in NJ. But, when the weather starts to get hot, New Jersey is the place to be!

We have some of the best beaches in the entire country, accompanied by some really amazing family-friendly boardwalks that you won’t find anywhere else.

Aside from the obvious choice for a hot day–the beach–there are SO many other awesome attractions spread throughout the state that are great for having fun and keeping cool.

We spent the first half of our summer going out and trying out all of the most popular summer activities, and discovered some of the unknown along the way.

Magic Sky Play

New Jersey is positively overflowing with summertime excursions! Here are just a few of the many options:

• Cape May: Stroll the charming Victorian streets, hit the beach, and feast on fresh seafood.

• Six Flags Great Adventure: Thrill-seekers will love the epic roller coasters and water rides.

• Wildwood Boardwalk: Funnel cakes, carnival rides, and ocean views - this classic boardwalk has it all.

• Delaware Water Gap: Hike, bike, or paddle your way through the stunning Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

• Asbury Park: This beach town boasts a thriving arts scene, delicious eats, and plenty of live music.

• Atlantic City: This seaside resort town is known for its glittering casinos, luxurious hotels, and electrifying nightlife.

• Princeton: Explore this quaint college town, home to historic architecture, elegant gardens, and world-class art museums.

• Long Branch: Relax on the golden sands, sip cocktails on a beachfront patio, and soak up the laid-back Jersey Shore vibes.

• Seaside Heights: A quintessential Jersey boardwalk experience, with roller coasters, arcade games, and mouthwatering boardwalk food.

• Liberty State Park: Snap photos of the Statue of Liberty, explore the historic trains at the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, and hike or bike the scenic waterfront trails.

• Island Beach State Park: This preserved barrier island boasts 10 miles of pristine beaches, fishing, and birdwatching.

• Grounds for Sculpture: A truly unique experience, this 42-acre sculpture park features over 270 works by both established and emerging artists, set in a beautiful garden landscape.

• New Hope, PA: Just over the border, this artsy river town boasts quaint shops, galleries, and a lively music scene.

• Long Beach Island: Yes, we mentioned it before, but it deserves a second shout-out! Beach, boardwalk, and laid-back beach town charm - it's the perfect summer day trip.

• Allaire State Park: This historic site and park offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as a charming 19th-century village.

• Princeton Battlefield State Park: History buffs will love this site of a Revolutionary War battle, with preserved battlefields and historical markers.

• High Point State Park: Hike to the highest point in New Jersey for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

• Liberty Science Center: A family-friendly science museum in Jersey City with interactive exhibits and hands-on learning.

• Hoboken: A vibrant city with great dining, nightlife, and shopping, plus gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline.

See more day trips in NJ.