New Jersey offers endless opportunities for fun but sometimes that fun can be costly. Museum admission prices can add up and even outdoor activities can put a dent in your wallet. Certain state parks and beaches charge small fees and, while it's worth it, sometimes you want to spend less. How does free sound? Good to me! Here are 10 free outdoor activities to enjoy in New Jersey that the whole family can enjoy.
This architecturally impressive lighthouse is also home to a free museum. Learn about local history and discover the birthplace of the Pledge of Allegiance. Climb the towers and enjoy spectacular panoramic views or simply stroll the grounds and take in the scenery. This spot was once known as the best and brightest lighthouse in America; now non-operational, it still retains its beauty. Visit Wednesday-Sunday at 2 Light House Road, Highlands.
An area favorite, this free zoo is home to over 550 animals and 250 species. Parking is also free and there are plenty of play areas for children. Strollers, wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available for rental. For a small fee, kids can enjoy the train, carousel and rock wall. Visit them daily at 707 N. Rt. 9, Cape May Court House.
This working farm recreates rural life in New Jersey circa the year 1900. Expect authentic processes and practices that will take you back in time. Best of all, the farm is very interactive. Help plant, cultivate and harvest crops, care for animals, sweep the barn or make soap, butter and ice cream. Visit on weekends for events like sheep shearing and potato planting. You'll find the farm at 70 Woodens Lane, Lambertville.
This marine life rescue center along the shore has responded to over 4,800 strandings of whales, dolphins, seals and sea turtles that have washed ashore over the years. Their mission is to "Rescue, Rehabilitate, Release, Preserve." Visits are free and educational. Enjoy the Sea Life Center with its "Please Touch" displays and gift shop or stop by the outdoor observation tank in summer months. Visit at 3625 Brigantine Boulevard, Brigantine.
Atlantic City may be going through a rough patch with several casinos closing but it's still a wonderful place to be. Grab a meal at a great restaurant, try your luck on the slots, take in a show or swim in the fantastic free beaches. Or, enjoy ocean views from the sand inside the Playground Pier. It's incredibly relaxing and always the perfect temperature.
This 127-acre arboretum is open daily, free of charge. Themed gardens highlight everything from summer shrubs to shade trees. For a small fee, your family can pick up a discovery backpack or take part in a springtime scavenger hunt (with prizes). Visit the arboretum at 353 East Hanover Ave.
Linden is often known as an industrial town off the New Jersey Turnpike but it isn't all refineries. This free to visit nature sanctuary offers hiking trails, geocaching and beautiful views. Find this urban oasis at
The Raptor Trust is one of the premier wild bird rehabilitation centers in the United States and it is open to the public daily during daylight hours. View hawks, eagles, falcons and owls up close and learn all about these incredible birds. Find them at 1390 White Bridge Road, Millington and donate if you can.
This beachfront former military base now serves as an open air museum complete with gun batteries and barracks. It is a wonderful place to walk around and part of the National Park System. They also offer free events, like guided hikes and moonlit walks. You'll find Fort Hancock at the northern end of Sandy Hook.
This 15-acre sanctuary is home to around 150 farm and domestic animals. While the sanctuary operates 24/7, it is open to visitors on select days. Guests can enjoy feedings or purchase feed on-site so they can interact with the animals themselves! There are also a variety of special events throughout the year. While free, donations are greatly appreciated. Visit at 6908 Railroad Blvd., Mays Landing.
Please note that many of these attractions have strict Covid guidelines. Call ahead or email (where available) to make sure the trip is a good fit for your needs and to learn about any upcoming programs.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Summer never seems to stick around long in New Jersey - it's all part of living in a state that moves a mile a minute, I guess. But that just means it's all the more important to pack a lot of good times into August while we have the chance! Some of us might be looking forward to our fall pumpkin-picking and leaf-peeping trips already, but the weather is still great out there - so we put together this ultimate New Jersey summer bucket list to help you create an epic August. From some of New Jersey's best parks and forests, to fun and thrilling amusements, to delicious food - and even an indoor escape or two - these eight destinations perfectly sum up summer in New Jersey for us. You can pick the one you think will send your summer off with a bang- or try to pack them all into a few action-packed weeks!
There is no better way to enjoy a cool drink than while hanging around the pool - and you can do exactly that at The Shore Club, a luxury resort in Spring Lake. This hotel just opened its outdoor drinking spot, simply called The Pool Bar, and it offers a full menu of seafood-forward dishes along with a selection of craft cocktails created by skilled bartenders. Our favorites have to be the frozen margaritas - perfect for a sweltering day.
New Jersey has some fantastic boardwalk parks in towns like Wildwood, Point Pleasant Beach, and Seaside Heights - but one we particularly like is Keansburg Amusement Park in the town of the same name. It has an old-school vibe, is more affordable than many of the alternatives, and is adjacent to a water park and a go-kart course. It's also next to the Old Heidelberg, a German-themed dive that serves the shore's best chili dogs.
There are some days that just aren't meant for the outdoors - like when the mercury hits 95. On those days, it's the perfect time to explore one of New Jersey's many malls - but there is none more epic than American Dream in East Rutherford. This massive complex features an amusement park, indoor ski slope, luxury shopping district, and dozens of dining options ranging from barbecue to dim sum - as well as the newest attraction., The Gameroom. This Hasbro-themed arcade is the first of its kind in the United States.
New Jersey's county parks are great hidden havens without the crowds of the state parks - but they're often packed with surprises. Overpeck County Park in Bergen is particularly impressive - it's home to a live music venue, an Equestrian sports center, a dock for fishing, and bridges that provide amazing views. It's also home to Field Station Dinosaurs, an independent attraction featuring dozens of audio-animatronic dinos.
I'm sure people were shocked when I said I had never tried boardwalk lemonade and fries before - but they really do live up to the hype! There's just something unique about this fresh-squeezed lemonade with just the right amount of sugar, and those crispy double-fried potatoes. The best place to enjoy this classic combo is at Pucker in Asbury Park - one of the best boardwalk snack stands out there. Of course, if you're in the mood for a sausage sandwich, pizza, or another boardwalk classic, you'll find those stands nearby too.
New Jersey's shore is an amazing dining spot that spotlights seafood - and many of the best restaurants feature wonderful outdoor dining spots. One of our favorites is The Shrimp Box in Point Pleasant Beach, which serves a casual but upscale menu of seafood classics that often taste like they came straight from the sea. The outside patio bar is a great place for a meal or a casual drink after a day at Jenkinson's.
Many of New Jersey's best state parks are mobbed during this time of year - so it's the perfect time to explore a laid-back state forest instead. Bass River State Forest, one of the largest at 29,000 acres, is full of amazing recreation opportunities including great swimming and fishing spots, fifteen well-maintained hiking trails, and a sprawling campsite with 176 tent and trailer spots, if you want an extended adventure.
There is no better way to end a summer day in New Jersey than with a cruise. There are plenty of Hudson River cruises, but we're partial to River Lady Cruises, which is a Toms River cruise on an old-school riverboat complete with a paddlewheel. There are several options for cruises, but our favorite is the dinner cruise - which takes you down the river at sunset after a sumptuous multi-course meal with your choice of six entrees.
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Are any of these destinations on your New Jersey summer bucket list? What are your favorite end-of-summer traditions? Let us know in the comments section! The end of summer is just the start of the fun in New Jersey, though - towns like Asbury Park are almost as action-packed in the off-season, and top hotels like the Asbury Ocean Club are much lower-priced during the fall.
