Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In New Jersey
By Raymond Goldfield|Published March 15, 2024
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Raymond Goldfield
Author
Raymond Goldfield is a life-long New Jersey resident and an avid traveler and foodie who can be usually found on the Jersey Shore during the offseason or checking out the latest seasonal flavors at The Bent Spoon in Princeton. He has been working for Only In Your State for since early 2022, where he writes for New Jersey and Iowa and edits the Mid-Atlantic region. He can also be found writing about pop culture for GeekDad. When at home, he enjoys reading comic books and is part of The Rabbitt Stew podcast team. While New Jersey is his home base, he travels regularly and has visited Virginia, Florida, Maine, Minnesota, and Canada as well as all of NJ's border states. Ultimate travel goal? Visit all the best buffets in the United States.
It’s been a long, cold winter in New Jersey, but we still know how to have fun here. It’s the perfect time to explore our many great indoor destinations – or have some cold-weather fun in the great outdoors. Still, there’s nothing like the dawn of spring – it’s when much of the state really starts to come alive again, as the Jersey Shore and other seasonal attractions start to open for business. Given that, it’s no surprise that there are a lot of great things to do in New Jersey in spring. Whether you’re an outdoorsy type looking to explore some great state parks, or if you’ve been waiting for New Jersey’s many farms to bear fruit again, this is the perfect time to get outdoors, enjoy the season, and celebrate the dawning of a new season – including at the many great festivals going on during spring in New Jersey. There are too many destinations to count, but these are some of our favorites.
Spring is flower time in New Jersey, and the state is full of some amazing spots to see the blooms in action. New Jersey is home to one of the largest tulip fields outside of Europe, but you can also find some more laid-back spots to watch nature at its most stunning. Walking among these fields is one of the most romantic things to do in New Jersey in spring.
Popularity: Not usually crowded, although the peak of the season can bring quite a few flower-lovers.
Price: Free to enter, although Presby depends on donations to run. A $10 donation is recommended.
The best projects are those that come from true passion, and that was definitely the case for this Montclair garden. Founded by Frank H. Presby, one of the founders of the American Iris Society, he dreamed of creating a world-class iris garden in Montclair. While he died before his garden could be complete, it was developed by other residents and now features a stunning 26 iris beds, 10,000 irises, and around 1,500 different species. No wonder spring is the most popular time at the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens.
2. Holland Ridge Farms
Holland Ridge Farms, 108 Rues Rd, Cream Ridge, NJ 08514, USA
Popularity: Very crowded in good weather during the height of tulip season.
Price: General-admission tickets are $15 on weekdays and $17 on weekends, with an additional fee of 50 cents per flower.
You won’t find a larger collection of flowers anywhere in New Jersey than this massive Cream Ridge farm. In fact, it’s one of the largest tulip fields outside of Europe. The fields are in full bloom during the spring, so it’s no surprise that the entire farm turns into a massive festival in late April and early May. Visitors can take photos and pick from among the eight million tulips in the field before taking part in many of the other fun family-friendly activities on the farm. It’s no surprise it’s become a family tradition to visit Holland Ridge Farms each year.
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3. Hidden Spring Lavender & Alpaca Farm
Hidden Spring Lavender & Alpaca Farm, 890 Belle Mead-Blawenburg Rd, Skillman, NJ 08558, USA
Popularity: Not very crowded, although Saturdays can be more crowded due to the Alpaca walk .
Price: No fee to enter, except on special event days.
For a more laid-back flower adventure, this small-town farm is known for its massive lavender field that blooms every spring. Not only does the whole place look and smell incredible, but it’s a great place to host events including weddings. But that’s not even getting into the top attraction here - alpacas! These fuzzy friends are on hand to provide adorable photo ops, with a weekly alpaca walk every Saturday. You can go home with Alpaca wool products and a bouquet of lavender flowers after a day at Hidden Spring Lavender and Alpaca Farm.
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Botanical Gardens In New Jersey
There are few things I love more than exploring botanical gardens and arboretums. These preserves are often filled with hundreds of species of flowering plants and trees, and spring is the best time to explore them. Even more impressive? Several of New Jersey’s top botanical gardens have no admission fee, making them some of the best free things to do in New Jersey in spring.
4. Willowwood Arboretum
Willowwood Arboretum, 300 Longview Rd, Chester Township, NJ 07931, USA
Popularity: Not very crowded - this is a true hidden gem for nature lovers.
Price: No admission fee except on special event days.
One of the least-known arboretums in New Jersey, this Far Hills institution is a combination of historic buildings and stunning nature. It dates back to 1792, with most of the buildings being over a century old. They’re surrounded by over 3,500 species of plants along the winding paths. The garden looks like a combination of a plant sanctuary and an art installation, with countless fascinating little sculptures and displays. There are also many shady spots, which makes Willowwood Arboretum a great spot for relaxing on a warmer day.
5. Rutgers Gardens
Rutgers Gardens, 112 Log Cabin Rd, North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902, USA
Popularity: Popular, especially during the spring. This is one of New Jersey’s top botanical gardens.
Price: Rutgers Gardens is a free attraction run by the State University.
The most famous botanical garden in New Jersey, this amazing spot not far from the main campus is full of a massive combination of local and imported plants over the sprawling 180-acre garden. We love the unique, quirky design - including a collection of massive Adirondack chairs scattered around the garden. The large area makes it possible for the garden’s designers to create mini-ecosystems within it, meaning you can walk through a peaceful bamboo garden before retreating to the beautiful pollinator garden - and so much more at Rutgers Gardens.
6.Reeves-Reed Arboretum
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, 165 Hobart Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, USA
Popularity: Moderately popular, but can get very crowded during special events like the spring festival Daffodil Days.
Price: Reeves-Reed Arboretum is free to enter, but a $5 donation is requested. A yearly membership is $70. Admission to Daffodil Days is $10 or $25 per family, but is free for members.
This massive outdoor recreation spot is busy year-round, playing host to a maple sugaring festival during the winter. But it’s springtime when it’s at its most beautiful, thanks to the massive daffodil fields that cover the arboretum. This is an ideal time to visit, because not only is the daffodil bowl gorgeous, but there are educational activities through the event for kids. A farmer’s market, a goat petting zoo, and special events like “Tea at the Terrace” are a great bonus when exploring the trails and sights at Reeves-Reed Arboretum.
Parks To Visit In New Jersey This Spring
New Jersey’s state and county parks might be the most diverse part of our great state. You can find sprawling urban paradises known around the world, or you can find tiny little havens in the middle of your hometown. Spring is when the parks come alive again, and there are usually a lot of fun things to do in New Jersey in spring – including some of the state’s best festivals.
7. Branch Brook Park
Branch Brook Park, & Park Avenue, Lake St, Newark, NJ 07104, USA
Popularity: Very popular - this is one of New Jersey’s most bustling parks. Crowds during the Cherry Blossom Festival can be massive.
Price: This city park is free to enter throughout the year, including during the Cherry Blossom Festival - but bring cash for the many delicious snacks on offer!
Located in the heart of Newark, this massive Essex County park is mostly notable for one thing - cherry blossom trees. Anyone who has seen these trees in full bloom knows they turn the entire area into a glorious kaleidoscope of pink. During the spring, seeing this park is a sight to behold - and you’ll especially want to be here during the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, typically held the first and second weeks of April. This year’s Bloomfest is scheduled for Sunday, April 14th, and looks to be the liveliest day of the year at Branch Brook Park.
Popularity: This might just be the most popular state park in New Jersey, owing to its incredible views and popular attractions. Expect heavy crowds during the spring and summer, especially on weekends.
Price: Liberty State Park is free to enter at all times, although the prices at Liberty Science Center start at $31 for advanced general admission.
Obviously, you don’t need to look far to discover why Liberty State Park is so popular - the Statue of Liberty is hard to miss! The sights here are stunning, and this park is truly in the middle of it all. Not only is it a great picnic spot and full of outdoor dining options perfect for spring, but it’s one of the cultural hubs of New Jersey - mostly thanks to the presence of Liberty Science Center, a sprawling science museum filled with permanent and rotating exhibits for families. A visit here followed by a day outdoors is the perfect spring excursion to Liberty State Park.
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9. Brookdale Park Rose Garden
Brookdale Park Rose Garden, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA
Popularity: Rarely very crowded - this county park and its rose garden are a great hidden gem!
Price: Free to the public when open.
Located in the heart of Montclair, this laid-back country park is full of lush greenery and is always a beautiful sight - but don’t miss the hidden gem located at its heart. This is one of the largest rose gardens in the northeast - over a hundred species of the iconic flower. As you tour the rose beds, you’ll find placards filled with interesting facts about the different varieties planted here. The garden is also full of quirky metal sculptures that make the entire Brookdale Park Rose Garden feel a little like a fairy tale escape.
Spring Hikes In New Jersey
For those who need a break from the busier New Jersey spring activities, we highly recommend getting off the beaten path and exploring some trails. Spring is wildflower season in New Jersey, and you can usually find some amazing views when hiking. These trails couldn’t be more different, but all of them are at their finest when the blooms exit their winter hibernation.
10. Greenway Meadows Park
Greenway Meadows Park, 275 Rosedale Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
Popularity: Moderately crowded - this is an urban oasis that has been gaining in popularity in recent years.
Price: Free admission when open to the public.
Located less than two miles away from Princeton’s bustling Palmer Square, this garden is a peaceful retreat filled with small hiking trails perfect for a quick hike. The 55-acre park is alive with wildflowers during the spring, making it ideal for those who want a small dose of nature in the middle of a day in Princeton. The designs here are impressive - even the benches are gorgeous - and we highly recommend coming here towards the end of the day, so you can see the sunset glint off the wildflowers at Greenway Meadows Park.
11. Teetertown Ravine Nature Preserve
Teetertown Ravine Nature Preserve, 30 Pleasant Grove Rd, Port Murray, NJ 07865, USA
Popularity: Not crowded - this is one of the best-hidden hikes in the state, located deep in rural North Jersey.
Price: Free to visit, with campgrounds available for a fee.
This is a 1.4-mile hike in one of the quietest spots of the state, so it’s an ideal destination for when you really want to beat the crowds. The trail is considered easy, but that doesn’t mean it won’t have some impressive sights. This hike will take you past wildflower fields, a lake, and even a small waterfall that should be fully defrosted and running again after the winter. Dogs are welcome on the trail, but should be on a leash, and the Teetertown Ravine Nature Preserve trail is accessible and light on crowds throughout the year.
Spring Picnic Spots In New Jersey
The best thing about a picnic is that it can be anywhere – including on the site of some of the best family things to do in New Jersey. Stunning views, fun attractions, and a day to remember are included when you visit these destinations – some of which are only beginning their annual season in spring.
12. American Dream
American Dream, 1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ 07073, USA
Popularity: Crowds vary dramatically, with the mall getting pretty crowded on weekends and evenings. Keep an eye out for school groups, which can fill up major attractions quickly.
Price: Like all malls in New Jersey, admission is free - the mall wants you inside, spending money! Attractions at American Dream have individual fees, with the Dream Wheel charging $24 for adults and $18 for kids 5-11.
What hasn’t been said about New Jersey’s biggest megamall? This huge indoor recreation destination is filled with hundreds of stores, restaurants, and attractions - including a massive amusement park and water park. With free admission, it can be whatever kind of day you want - but after having lunch at the food court, you’ll want to celebrate spring by seeing it from a more impressive vantage point than anywhere else in the state. Board the Dream Wheel for a ride on a massive Ferris wheel that takes you far above American Dream for a look at the spring nature scene and the New York skyline.
13. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
Jenkinson's Boardwalk, 300 Ocean Ave N, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, USA
Popularity: Increasingly popular as the season goes on, with crowds being largest on weekends. Spring is an ideal time to visit before the summer crowds arrive.
Price: Admission to the boardwalk is free, with all attractions having an individual fee. Beach prices in-season are $13 for adults and $4 for kids 5-11, with season passes available.
The debate over the best boardwalk in New Jersey is a tight one - Asbury Park, Ocean City, Atlantic City, Cape May, and Wildwood all have fans. But we have to say we’re partial to Jenkinson's Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach. It’s smaller, but packed with attractions - including an amusement park, a funhouse, an aquarium, and countless arcades. It’s also full of food options and plenty of outdoor dining areas so you can enjoy the boardwalk delights while taking in that brisk, cool beachfront air.
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14. Storybook Land
Storybook Land, 6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234, USA
Popularity: Popular with families on weekends in-season, but this is one of the smaller amusement parks in New Jersey and is a great break from the mobs seen elsewhere.
Price: Admission is $37.99 for those who buy tickets in advance, and $41.99 at the door.
A charming mini-theme park themed to old fairy tales, this is a great alternative getaway for kids a little too young to enjoy the massive rides at Six Flags Great Adventure. Mazes, playhouses, and playgrounds are joined by small attractions including a dragon-themed roller coaster. Outside food and drink is allowed in the park, so it’s a great picnic spot for families before heading back to the fun of the attractions. Storybook Land is a seasonal park, so spring is when it comes alive again but before the big summer crowds.
15. Turtle Back Zoo
Turtle Back Zoo Sign, 562 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA
Popularity: Very popular - this is one of the top zoos in the northeast and is a great warm-weather destination for families. Weekdays are less crowded, but school groups can change that.
Price: $20 for adults, $17 for kids and seniors. Zoo memberships are available for frequent visitors.
This might be the most popular zoo in all of the Garden State, and it’s not hard to see why - the adorable animals, including sloths, red pandas, and giraffes. Outside food is allowed in the zoo and there are picnic areas inside the zoo for those who want a lunch break from the animals. And for those who want a more upscale type of picnic, the McLoone’s Boathouse restaurant is only a few minutes’ walk away. This charming nautical-themed restaurant has a full menu of steaks, seafood, and pasta with a stunning view of the surrounding park. It’s all part of a day trip to Turtle Back Zoo.
What are your favorite things to do in New Jersey in spring? Let us know in the comments section! If you’re looking for a seasonal home base for your spring adventures, we think these eight picture-perfect Airbnbs are ideal for the season. And if your spring travels are going to take you across the state, make sure to stock up on all the road trip snacks you might want!
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