Experience the Magic of Autumn in New Jersey
As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp chill, autumn in New Jersey transforms into a vibrant season filled with unique experiences. From exploring picturesque landscapes to indulging in local flavors, the Garden State offers a wealth of activities to enjoy. Let's delve into some of the best autumn things to do in NJ.
Marvel at the Foliage
New Jersey is renowned for its stunning fall foliage, with peak colors typically occurring in late October to early November. To witness this breathtaking spectacle, consider visiting one of the state's many scenic drives or parks. The White Trail in High Point State Park offers panoramic views of the changing leaves, while the Buttermilk Falls Trail in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area provides a beautiful hiking experience.
Apple Picking and Cider Donuts
Autumn in NJ wouldn't be complete without a visit to one of the many orchards for apple picking and cider donuts. The Alstede Farms in Chester offers a variety of apple varieties, along with a petting zoo and a cider mill. For a more rustic experience, head to Wightman Farms in Morristown, where you can pick your own apples and enjoy homemade cider donuts.
Haunted Attractions
If you're looking for a thrill this autumn, New Jersey has no shortage of haunted attractions. The Clinton Halloween Parade is one of the oldest and largest Halloween parades in the country, featuring elaborate floats and costumes. For a more frightening experience, visit the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, PA, which is just a short drive from NJ and is considered one of the most haunted places in America.
Fall Festivals and Fairs
Autumn in NJ is filled with fall festivals and fairs celebrating the season's bounty. The Fall Festival in Cape May features live music, craft vendors, and local food. The Morristown Fall Festival offers a pumpkin patch, pony rides, and a petting zoo. Check out our list of fall festivals for more options throughout the state.
Wine Tasting
New Jersey's wine industry has been growing in recent years, and autumn is the perfect time to visit one of the state's many wineries. The Capalbo Winery in Cape May offers a beautiful setting for wine tasting, with live music on weekends. The Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes features a historic tasting room and a variety of award-winning wines.
Thanksgiving Day Parades
Kick off the holiday season with one of New Jersey's Thanksgiving Day parades. The New Jersey Thanksgiving Day Parade in Camden features marching bands, floats, and balloons. The Montclair Thanksgiving Day Parade is the oldest parade in the state, with a tradition dating back to 1935.
Autumn Escapes
If you're looking for a cozy autumn getaway, New Jersey has no shortage of charming bed and breakfasts and historic inns. The Wolfesden Bed & Breakfast in Cape May offers elegant accommodations and a delicious breakfast. The Rockaway Hotel in Rockaway features modern rooms and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the surrounding foliage.
Autumn Activities for Kids
Autumn in NJ is filled with fun activities for kids, from pumpkin patches to corn mazes. The Buckets & Barnyard in Flemington offers a variety of fall activities, including a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a petting zoo. The Drew Farms in Monmouth Junction features a corn maze, hayrides, and a petting zoo.
Autumn Events Calendar
To help you plan your autumn activities in New Jersey, we've compiled a list of some of the top events happening throughout the state. Check out our fall events calendar for more information.
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Festival | October 9-10, 2021 | Cape May |
| Morristown Fall Festival | October 16, 2021 | Morristown |
| New Jersey Thanksgiving Day Parade | November 25, 2021 | Camden |
| Montclair Thanksgiving Day Parade | November 25, 2021 | Montclair |
