New Jersey may be a small state, but that just means it’s easier to explore. Wherever you are, you’re never far from the forest, the beach, the mountains. While it’s wonderful to pick any destination and just go, one of the best ways to enjoy all we have to offer is via road trip. Here are 8 unforgettable New Jersey road trips that you absolutely should take – the adventurer in you will appreciate it. Then be sure to use our ultimate road trip packing list so you have all the essentials when you set out on your adventure!

1. The Ultimate Jersey Shore Road Trip
Flickr/Peter Miller
Link To Interactive Google Map
Some may disagree, but I think that the Garden State is home to some of the best beach towns in the country. From Long Branch to Cape May, every bustling city and charming small town along the shore has its own distinct personality. See some of the best beach destinations on this 3-day road trip.
2. A Spooky, Haunted Road Trip
Flickr/Jazz Guy
Link To Interactive Google Map
From haunted roads to haunted cemeteries, hotels to historic sites, New Jersey has some spectacular spots that just may be haunted. See 9 of them on this chilling, but family-friendly road trip.
3. An Abandoned Places Road Trip
John Griggs/www.entropicremnants.com
Link To Interactive Google Map
We've got some really unique abandoned places in the Garden State - like silos in Toms River and ominous towers in Alpine. Learn about a few (and see some publicly accessible spots) along this virtual road trip.
4. An Epic Waterfall Road Trip
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Link To Interactive Google Map
We may not have many waterfalls in New Jersey, but they sure are pretty. See some of our state's most beautiful falls on this short, easy road trip. You'll see our tallest waterfall (Buttermilk Falls) and our most powerful (Great Falls) along the way.

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5. A Small Town Road Trip
Wikipedia/Smallbones
Link To Interactive Google Map
We've got so many charming small towns in the Garden State - explore just a handful on this road trip that traverses the western side of our state for miles. Destinations include Hope, Haddonfield, Lambertville and more.
6. This Scenic Fall Foliage Road Trip
Flickr/Anthony Quintano
Link To Interactive Google Map
You don't need to head up to Maine or Vermont for incredible fall foliage - you can find colorful leaves all over the Garden State. This road trip takes you down spectacular roads and into some of our state parks for the ultimate leaf peeping experience.
7. A Road Trip Through Our Natural Wonders
Flickr/Doug Kerr
Link To Interactive Google Map
We've got an abundance of natural beauty all over the state, but this trip focuses on Northern New Jersey to cut down on drive time. It's very doable over the course of a weekend and you'll score epic river views from towering cliffs and gorgeous lakes along the way.
8. A Christmas Lights Road Trip
Skylands Stadium / Facebook
Link To Interactive Google Map
Make this a new holiday tradition. It's perfect for school break with the kids or a weekend getaway with a loved one. The shows are pure magic, and several are even free!

For more details on a particular road trip, click that trip’s number to go to the original article. From there, click on the link (where it says “Google Maps”) below each map image to open an interactive version in a new window. Which New Jersey road trip do you think you’d enjoy most? For more Garden State adventures, check out this road trip through some of New Jersey’s Ghost Towns.

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More to Explore

Best Road Trips In New Jersey

Kim Magaraci | July 29, 2021

What must-visit attractions in New Jersey are good for families?

New Jersey is a great state for family-friendly day trips. The possibilities are endless and include options such as:

  • Take a ride on a historic train
  • Climb inside a coastal elephant
  • Play games on the Boardwalk in the summer
  • Liberty Science Center
  • Camden Aquarium
  • Rutgers Gardens
  • Grounds for Sculpture

The possibilities are endless!

What are the best places to visit in New Jersey during autumn?

If you're looking to chase fall foliage in New Jersey, head west! Western New Jersey has the best autumn color. For a beautiful day trip, make sure you hit some of the following spots:

  • Drive up Route 31 through Pennington
  • Pass the famous rolling hills of Bluestone Farm
  • As you get farther north, towns will fade away into the mountains, and soon you'll reach the Delaware Water Gap
  • On the way, stop at Round Valley Reservoir for a walk
  • Visit the Ken Lockwood Gorge to see water and leaves swirling together

 

Are there any things to do in New Jersey over the winter?

Believe it or not, New Jersey is a great place to enjoy winter weather and fun! Not only will you find so many holiday celebrations that you'll need to start a new planner just to keep track, but you can enjoy the snow here, too. Some great things to do in New Jersey over winter include:

  • Mountain Creek has ski slopes for beginners through experts
  • Campgaw Mountain offers skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing
  • If you want to try cross-country skiing, rent gear and take a lesson at High Point
  • Locals know that the winter is the best time to visit the beaches

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