Are you looking for somewhere new to explore this summer? Luckily, there is no shortage of options from East Coast road trips to Garden State day trips.
Whether you are a thrill seeker, history buff, or beach bum; a family, couple, solo traveler or group of friends, there are tons of things to do and places to go in and around New Jersey.
In March, U.S. News & World Report ranked the best vacation spots along the East Coast, from Maine to Florida.
“The East Coast offers an enticing range of vacation destinations. From low-key beaches to historical small towns to dynamic metropolises, you can stick to the East Coast for a quick weekend getaway or a longer adventure,” reads the report, which considered things to see and do, accessibility, atmosphere and a variety of other factors.
While air travel is probably preferred for some of the ranked destinations, many of them are within driving distance of North Jersey. If you are not looking to travel far, don’t worry. You can always check out some of the day trip activities or weekend destinations that the Garden State has to offer.
East Coast road trip destinations
If you are looking for inspiration for your next road trip, check out some of these vacation spots included in U.S. News & World Report’s list:
Bar Harbor, Maine: Approximately eight hours from North Jersey is a quaint coastal town called Bar Harbor, Maine. This town, which came in at No. 2 on the list, has tons to offer from shops to food to coastal experiences like whale watching. Not to mention Acadia National Park, which is right next door.
Carova Beach at Outer Banks, North Carolina: No. 4 on U.S. News’ list is Carova Beach, the northernmost beach in the Outer Banks. While hotels are not an option in this area, which includes 11 miles of soft sand and two wildlife preserves, you can embrace this beach’s seclusion by renting a vacation home. The Outer Banks are about eight hours of driving from North Jersey.
Stowe, Vermont: Stowe is U.S. News’ number five vacation spot. Although it is known for its winter activities, the warmer weather brings a ton of fun from mountain biking to canoeing and more. Stowe is less than six hours from North Jersey.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts: “A Cape Cod summer trip is a quintessential New England experience that every East Coaster should have at least once,” says U.S. News & World Report. With beaches, bike trails, whale watching and more, this seashore is worth the less than six-hour drive. Cape Cod came in seventh on the list.
Assateague Island: Located off the coast of Maryland and Virginia, this 37-mile-long barrier island is a great spot to visit for East Coast residents. Shelling, crabbing, swimming, biking and hiking are some of the island’s most popular activities, according to U.S. News, which ranked it No. 8. The island is less than five hours from North Jersey.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia: An approximately five-hour drive southwest will bring you to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, the 11th vacation spot on the list that, according to U.S. News, combines convenience with the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Williamsburg, Virginia: No. 12 of the best East Coast vacation spots is Williamsburg, a town nationally renowned for its history from Colonial Williamsburg to Jamestown and more. Nearby amusement and water parks are perfect for families. Adults will appreciate the area’s restaurants, shops and romantic vineyards. Williamsburg is less than seven hours from North Jersey.
Colonial Singers of Williamsburg perform at 2024 Virginia Thanksgiving Festival at Berkeley Plantation.
Newport, Rhode Island: Newport came in at 15 on the list. Within about five hours of driving North Jerseyans can experience Newport’s gorgeous views, former summer mansions of the elite, maritime museums, food, shops and more.
Finger Lakes, New York: Approximately five hours into upstate New York is this popular vacation spot, ideal in the summer for enjoying water sports on the region’s 11 lakes. Additionally, the Finger Lakes offers wineries, hiking trails, boutiques, and more to entertain visitors year-round. The Finger Lakes came in at No. 22 on the list.
To view the full report and rankings, visit https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-east-coast-vacations/.
New Jersey day trips and destinations
While everybody loves a vacation, sometimes we just need a fun day trip or even a weekend away. Next time you are looking for a day trip or weekend activity, consider visiting one of these spots around New Jersey:
Historic Smithville: For a fun day trip, or a weekend away, consider taking a ride to Historic Smithville. Located just minutes from Atlantic City, this old village will take you back in time. Today, it features over 50 shops, restaurants and hosts numerous weekend events throughout the year.
Allaire State Park: Allaire State Park is best known for its historic 19th-century iron making town, Allaire Village, and the Pine Creek Railroad, a narrow-gauge train ride. In addition to its history, the park is a great place to hike, camp, picnic, bird watch, fish and more.
Land of Make Believe: Land of Make Believe, an amusement park located in Hope, features affordable fun for the whole family with rides, a water park, an arcade, a theatre, a farm and so much more. Tickets start at $42 for seniors and $45 for kids and adults.
Battleship New Jersey: History buffs in need of a day away can take a ride to Camden to visit America’s most decorated battleship at the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial. Not only can you view artifacts from the ship’s past, but you can also become a part of the exhibit as you explore the ship yourself.
Grounds for Sculpture: Hamilton’s Grounds for Sculpture is a great place to visit if you are looking for a relaxing day trip. This 42-acre sculpture park invites visitors to “unwind, explore and connect in ever-changing art-filled gardens.”
Crystal Springs Resort: Whether you are looking for a quick family vacation or a romantic getaway, Crystal Springs Resort in Sussex County may be the place to go. This resort is home to two hotels, six golf courses, ten restaurants, two spas, pools and numerous activities that are included in your stay.
The Jersey Shore: Of course, when it comes to Garden State day trips and vacation spots you cannot fail to mention the famous Jersey Shore. From Cape May to Atlantic City, Long Beach Island, Ocean City, Point Pleasant and so many more, there are countless options when it comes to visiting the Jersey Shore, all of which are within a few hours drive of North Jersey. Throughout the shore, visitors can find countless attractions and activities such as sandy beaches, arcades, amusement parks, mini golf, casinos, water parks, shops, restaurants and so much more.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: NJ day trips, East Coast road trips to explore in summer 2025