Whether you are a local looking for a new adventure or a visitor eager to explore, New Jersey is full of fun and exciting places to visit right now.
When it comes to the best things to do in New Jersey, you are spoilt for choice. No matter what you are here for – food, the views, or a bit of history, our guide’s got you covered.
Sounds good? Let’s dive right in.
Enjoy the Sunset at Liberty Lookout
- Chill vibes with an unbeatable view
- Sunset’s the time to be there
- A quiet spot away from the buzz
Liberty Lookout is where you go when you want to just kick back and soak in those skyline views without a swarm of tourists around you. It’s pretty much an open secret among the locals.
Grab your favorite snack, maybe some tunes, and just chill, watching the sun dip down behind the city. And yeah, that Statue of Liberty view? It never gets old.
Explore the Best Eats on Newark Nibble Way
- A mix of everything, from street food to sit-down meals
- Home to the coolest food markets
- Outdoor spots, great for hanging out
If your stomach’s doing the talking, Newark Nibble Way has the answer. This isn’t your usual eat street. Picture this – tucked-away places where the owners know your order before you do it and dishes that feel like a trip across the globe.
Stumble across a food market here, and you’re golden. It’s real people making real good food, no frills.
Historical Journey Begins at Ellis Island Echoes
- Not your standard museum trip
- Stories that hit close to home
- Quiet corners that make you think
Find yourself wondering are the best things to do near me while visiting New Jersey? Our next destination might be what you are after.
Ellis Island’s got layers, especially for locals. Sure, it’s a museum, but it’s more like stepping back into our shared story.
Walking through, you feel those echoes of the past – the grit, the dreams. It’s in the air. The personal tales hit deep, making the island feel less like a tourist stop and more like a bridge to our shared history. This is one of the most fun things to do in NJ.
Your Go-to Destination for Picnic: Hamilton Hideaway
- Secret garden vibes
- That gazebo’s a local icon
- Pups are welcome too
Hamilton Hideaway is your go-to for those days when you just want to lay out on the grass without the whole world buzzing around you. It’s like Jersey City’s little pocket of peace.
With its old-school charm and friendly faces (pups included), it’s perfect for a solo day out or a low-key get-together. Plus, that gazebo is kind of the unofficial landmark for locals – definitely one of the best things to do in Jersey.
Secret Sips at Hidden Hops Brewery
- Craft beers you won’t find anywhere else
- The laid-back vibe of their backyard patio
- Their small-batch releases are local legends
Hidden Hops Brewery is like the speakeasy of Jersey City’s beer scene. Tucked away in an unassuming spot, it’s where you go for a pint of something unique.
The brewers love to experiment, so there’s always a new batch to try that’ll never make it beyond the city limits. Plus, chilling in their backyard patio feels just like a friend’s backyard BBQ – if your friend made insanely good beer.
Vintage Finds on Coles Street
- A treasure trove of retro gear
- Bargains and one-of-a-kinds
- The community vibe among shoppers and sellers
Coles Street is where you go when you’re looking for that vintage jacket or retro lamp no one else has. It’s a bit of a hunt, but that’s the fun part. The street is lined with shops that feel more like collectors’ homes than stores, each with its own story. This is one of the most popular destinations for fun things to do NJ.
And the people? They’re just as eclectic as the merchandise. It’s less about shopping and more about the find – and maybe making a few friends along the way.
Bites Off the Beaten Path at Grove Street Eats
- Food finds that are strictly local
- Hidden gem eateries with menus that surprise
- The neighborhood feel, even in the crowd
Grove Street Eats isn’t your shiny, polished food district; it’s grittier, more real, and that’s why we love it. Here, food isn’t just eaten; it’s experienced. Think of family-run spots that have been here before hashtags were a thing, serving dishes with stories as rich as their flavors.
It’s the kind of place where every meal feels like discovering a secret, shared only with those who take the time to explore.
What to Do in New Jersey If You Have 3 Days
Three days in New Jersey? Perfect! It’s just the right amount of time to dip your toes into the Garden State’s rich blend of culture, nature, and history. Here’s our quick things to do New Jersey guide:
Start with the iconic Liberty State Park for breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the NYC skyline. Then, explore the streets of Jersey City, where culinary adventures await on every corner.
For a touch of history, Ellis Island offers a poignant glimpse into America’s past. Nature lovers, don’t miss the serene beauty of the Pine Barrens for a hiking or kayaking expedition. Beachgoers can head down to the Jersey Shore for some sun, sand, and sea.
And if you’re after something unique, the mysterious allure of the abandoned Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital offers an offbeat exploration. Three days in NJ means a taste of its best offerings, with each day tailored to your preferences for an unforgettable experience.
So, What Are the Most Fun Things to Do in New Jersey?
There are so many things to do near New Jersey, whether you want to marvel at the NYC skyline from Liberty Lookout, indulge in diverse flavors on Newark Nibble Way, or soak up history at Ellis Island.
Whether you are wondering what are the best New Jersey things to do near me this weekend or want to spend your Friday evening with your friends, our guide’s got something for everyone.
Explore Coles Street’s vintage shops for unique finds. And all you beer enthusiasts, don’t miss the Hidden Hops Brewery’s craft selections. Did we miss anything? Are there any things to do in New Jersey for adults and kids that we missed? Let us know!
