14 Unforgettable Places In New Jersey That Everyone Must Visit This Winter
By Kristen|Updated on October 04, 2023(Originally published November 22, 2022)
×
Kristen
Author
Kristen is a writer, editor, and social media maven who loves her state. Born and raised in New Jersey, sharing all it has to offer is her passion. After attending Montclair State University, she continued her education online, obtaining certifications in social media management.
Winter in New Jersey often means lots of snow. That’s a fact, whether we like it or not. Some of us will want to stay indoors, while others will want to go out and explore – either way, you’ll find lots of things to do in New Jersey in the winter. Whatever you’re interested in, New Jersey offers plenty of great places to enjoy during the colder months of the year. If you’re looking for places to visit in New Jersey in winter, this list should help you out.
Please note, during the COVID pandemic, the Winter Festival took two years off; however, (a new version of) the festival resumed in 2023. Check the Winter Festival website for updated event information.
This charming town is always a lovely place to visit, with great galleries and fantastic dining. It's even more magnificent during the Winter Festival, although there are plenty of other events held in town throughout the year. Enjoy paint nights, pub crawls, pancake breakfasts, parades, ice sculpting competitions, and more. Many events are even free! With so much to offer, Lambertville isn't just one of the state's best places to visit in the winter; it's one of the most charming towns in New Jersey.
Though many see this as a warmer weather spot, there is plenty to do here during the colder months, making it one of the best places to visit in New Jersey in winter. Take the family on a photo scavenger hunt every weekend until spring for the chance to win a prize. Check out the gallery or one of the arboretum's indoor exhibits.
The Garden State's premier ski and snowboard destination is perfect for a winter day trip or weekend getaway in New Jersey. The powder is sure to be incredible! You can also enjoy dining at one of the many onsite restaurants or tubing down one of the most amazing snow tubing hills in New Jersey.
Advertisement
4. Sahara Sam's Oasis Indoor and Outdoor Water Park, West Berlin
Please note, Sahara Sam's is now Big Kahuna's Water Park.
If all the snow has you missing summer, head to Sahara Sam's. The massive indoor/outdoor water park recently expanded the indoor area. In addition to the already impressive roster of rides, expect a family pool and two new high-speed water slides. This is one of the favorite family-friendly things to do in the winter in New Jersey. Read our previous article about this New Jersey water park to learn more about Sahara Sam's.
This whimsical indoor mini-golf chain has several New Jersey locations including Paramus, Fairfield, Edison, Eatontown, and Marlboro. You'll find unique decor that looks magical under a black light. Fun for any age, head to Monster Mini Golf if you want to forget all about winter in New Jersey for a while. Check out our past article to learn more about Monster Mini Golf.
Watchung Reservation offers indoor and outdoor winter fun. Hike along the trails, visit the nature center, and enjoy fantastic seasonal programming. Learn all about owls or how to identify a variety of trees without their leaves. Learn more about this New Jersey winter attraction by visiting the Watchung Reservation website.
This historic farm is owned by the state of New Jersey and helps to preserve our state's agricultural heritage. Enjoy nearly two dozen buildings and acres of land while on a winter hike. This farm looks quite magical covered in snow during winter in New Jersey, and you can learn more about it by visiting the Lusscroft Farm website.
There's no doubt about it; ice skating is one of the best things to do in New Jersey in the winter and this seasonal rink is one of the best places to do it. What makes it the perfect place to skate figure eights? Well, for starters, admission and rentals are quite affordable. If you'd rather watch others in the rink, check out one of the free skating shows. For more information, check out the Camden County website.
Open year-round, there is plenty to enjoy here at Tenafly Nature Center during the winter in New Jersey. A few past events held here include Parents Night Out, Hibernation Happenings, Seasonal Scavenger Hunt, and Maple Sugaring. Maple Sugaring is a favorite for all ages, teaching visitors about the history and process while providing an interactive experience. The group will check Tenafly Nature Center's tapped tree and boil down sap to make fresh, warm maple syrup - a treat for everyone!
Many New Jersey campgrounds close during the winter months, but not KOA. Bring your RV or rent a cabin. Winter guests can enjoy the lounge with a fireplace and game room. It's one of the most family-friendly things to do in New Jersey in the winter. The campground is conveniently located just a short drive from Philadelphia. When you're ready to do some winter camping near New Jersey visit the campground's website to book your stay.
You definitely won't forget diving into ice-cold water (for a good cause)! At Seaside Heights, you can brave the cold and dive right into the icy water! The event is held in February and you can visit the Polar Bear Plunge website to learn more.
Get away from it all and enjoy the amenities Cape May has to offer, PLUS an indoor pool. Enjoy discounted off-season rates, spa services, and romantic add-ons including fresh flowers and fruit platters for an extra special surprise (and added cost). An overnight stay here is one of the most romantic things to do in New Jersey in the winter. Visit the Wilbraham Mansion website to book your stay.
Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and one of the best snow tubing hills in New Jersey at Campgaw Mountain Ski Area. Lessons and gear rentals are available. It's no doubt a great place to enjoy classic winter activities in New Jersey.
14. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324, USA
Spanning both sides of the Delaware River in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, there is so much to love about the Delaware Water Gap in the winter. Enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, spectacular views, and so much more! And if the temperatures are low enough, you'll have the opportunity to admire some of the most stunning frozen waterfalls in New Jersey. Have fun with a visit here during the winter in New Jersey but be sure to bundle up. Visit the NPS website for more information on the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
So, what do you think? Are these the best places to visit in New Jersey in winter? What do you think are the best places to visit in winter in New Jersey? Share your favorite events and attractions (indoors or out) with us!
Looking for more ways to enjoy winter in New Jersey? You’re in luck! There are lots of ways to have fun when the temperatures drop, including visiting Vintner Wonderland, one of the best activities to enjoy during winter in New Jersey.
Don’t let the colder temps catch you off guard. Instead, head to The North Face, where you’ll find the perfect assortment of cold-weather gear.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Places To Visit In New Jersey In Winter
Daniella DiRienzo|February 07, 2022
Are there any ski resorts in New Jersey?
There are several ski resorts in New Jersey, including:
While New Jersey isn’t known for its ski resorts, it doesn’t mean there aren’t any here. Located in Vernon Township is Mountain Creek Resort, which offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more. If you prefer to be indoors yet ski, head to Big Snow American Dream, one of the only indoor ski parks in North America.
Where can I do some winter hiking in New Jersey?
Winter's cooler temperatures present the perfect opportunity for hiking. Luckily, there are quite a few places to do some winter hiking in New Jersey, such as:
Hiking during the winter can be quite a beautiful experience. One of the best winter hikes is the Stairway to Heaven Trail in Vernon Township. With its rocky landscape and panoramic views, you are sure to love this hike.
Where can I go snow tubing in New Jersey?
When the ground is covered in snow, it's the perfect time to go snow tubing in New Jersey. Here are a few popular tubing hills in New Jersey:
Snow tubing is one of the most enjoyable winter activities and there are a few places around the Garden State that offer it. You can try Mountain Creek and its 5-acre tubing hill or Campgaw Mountain Ski Area in Mahwah.
