Nobody thinks of New Jersey as a snowy winter wonderland, but we do get our fair share of snow squalls, storms, and blizzards. The next time one whites out the Garden State, plan a trip the next day to see some beautiful snowy scenery. This drive along the Delaware River is one of the best for snow lovers to enjoy.
Once the roads are clear, head out on this scenic drive to see some of the prettiest, snowiest places in the state.
The mountain is located within the Ted Stiles Preserve and offers miles of hiking for anyone looking to try snowshoeing, nordic skiing, or just hoofin' it with waterproof boots.
You will have to do a bit of walking to get up here - the view is about half a mile from the parking lot. It's pretty well maintained, but bring snowboots if lots of powder fell.
After your snowy treks up Baldpate and Goat Hill, head into Lambertville for lunch.
Do you love snowy scenery, or do you count the days 'til spring each winter? Let us know in the comments below, and we'd love to hear about your favorite winter destinations!
The locomotive was once one of the most popular means of transport, especially for train rides in NJ. Even today, the state still heavily relies on trains for commuters going into New York and Philadelphia. But rarely do we sit back and enjoy a scenic train ride in the Garden State. These scenic train rides in New Jersey offer a unique experience that can transport you into the past while taking in all of the beauty of the present. Though the state doesn't offer much in the way of railroad excursions, there are several options for things to do in NJ that involve trains.
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1. Delaware River Railroad Excursions, Phillipsburg
Delaware River Railroad Excursions is home to the only operating steam train in New Jersey. Ride this lovely locomotive right along the beautiful Delaware River for a relaxing ride or enjoy one of the many available adventures. Children will love "A Day Out With Thomas," while adults will enjoy the "Warren County Winery Train." Other options include a trip to the Susquehanna Mine, the "Dino Days" event featuring a train ride back into the Jurassic Period - complete with paleontologists and dinosaur skeletons, and themed holiday rides. For more information, head to the website for Delaware River Railroad Excursions.
The Whippany Railway Museum does a wonderful job of preserving New Jersey's railroading history. It also offers round-trip excursions in the spring and fall. Rides are about 45 minutes and travel the route of the Historic Whippanong Trail through Whippany, East Hanover, Livingston, and Roseland. The train passes through the remnants of the pre-historic glacial Lake Passaic, a natural swamp with diverse wildlife, and offers the excitement of crossing high above the Passaic River over a historic bridge.There are several train cars to choose from including a luxury option on the elegantly-restored 1927-era Central Railroad of New Jersey club car, Jersey Coast. This definitely isn't the type of train ride you're used to - it's so much better. The Whippany Railway Museum also offers seasonal events like the Pumpkin Festival and rides with the Easter Bunny. Learn more about what you can expect for your train rides in NJ from the website for the Whippany Railway Museum.
Another train-related thing to do in NJ, in conjunction with the New Jersey Museum of Transportation, Pine Creek Railroad offers short steam train rides seasonally. They also offer unique special events, including the Civil War Encampment and Railroaders Weekend which features a parade of classic and modern trains. Several holiday rides are available, though the Haunted Express Nighttime Rides in NJ are a favorite. Get all the details for Pine Creek Railroad from their website.
4. Black River & Western Railroad, Flemington/Ringoes
These relaxing scenic train trips in New Jersey last approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including a 10-15 minute layover. Use this time to explore the gift shop or museum car. Certain rides even include an extended trip. Ticket prices vary by age. Black River & Western Railroad also offers themed holiday excursions like the Easter Bunny Express and Trick or Treat Train. Head to the website for Black River & Western Railroad to plan your trip.
This line offers a 30-mile scenic trip through the pine barrens, along with special events like a Santa Train. For a truly unique experience, they even provide private charters for corporate and personal functions. You can also take a four-mile rail biking excursion from here that goes along the beautiful Garrett Family Preserve. It's a unique way to catch train-side views and get a little exercise in too! Be sure to check the website for Cape May Seashore Lines to see what's available.
These scenic train rides in New Jersey are perfect whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure. Have you taken any of these scenic train rides in NJ? Tell us about it in the comments!
When the weather gets cold, I always find myself fantasizing about travel - but then I look at the costs of international flights! World travel is an amazing thing if you can swing it, but for the rest of us, there are ways to experience cultures from around the world without having to long-haul it across the ocean. There are a surprising number of international getaways in New Jersey without ever having to leave the Garden State. You can find unique restaurants that offer a taste of Europe along with unique (and in one case, truly authentic) decor, a one-of-a-kind spa that immerses you in a culture of relaxation, and even some small towns that wear their old-time heritage on every corner. Read on to discover five international getaways in New Jersey that you won't want to miss.
Long Valley is a small town in Washington Township that used to be known as German Valley. The name was changed, but the architecture of the original, heavily German immigrant population remains.
The heart of the town is Restaurant Village, a thriving dining and shopping center.
Of course, it wouldn't be a German town without a top brewpub, and the Long Valley Pub and Brewery is the perfect place to tuck into a flight of beer, along with pretzels and schnitzel.
Irish pubs are pretty common in New Jersey - but how about one that was actually brought here from Ireland?
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Located in a popular Whippany hotel, this authentic Irish pub was actually taken apart and shipped here from the old sod before being reassembled here.
But that's just the beginning of the menu. You'll find all the classics at The British Chip Shop - Scotch eggs, sticky toffee pudding, and even a full English breakfast.
Our favorite is definitely Tatra Haus, an old-school European family restaurant serving up hearty plates of pierogis, sausage, and roasted meats in a traditional and raucous environment.
What are your favorite international getaways in New Jersey? Let us know in the comments section! For more tastes of other cultures - including some you can bring home - check out Only In Your State's list of the best supermarkets in New Jersey. And if you'd like to show your New Jersey pride wherever you go, make sure to check out the Garden State collection from Wear Your Roots.
