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Things to Do Archives | New Jersey Monthly
Whether you are a casual stroller, a die-hard angler or a roller-coaster thrill-seeker, the defining anchors of New Jersey’s coastline are the structures that stretch bravely out over the Atlantic Ocean and the southern Bayshore of the New York harbor. The story of the Jersey Shore is permanently written upon these planks, which have been famously built, leveled by devastating hurricanes and fires, rebuilt and continuously planned anew for future generations.
From exclusive private angling sanctuaries to bustling amusement meccas and even highly restricted federal installations, New Jersey’s piers shape our waterfront identity. Here’s your guide to every pier that juts out over the sand toward the water.
Bayshore PiersMost Patriotic Pier Photo: R.C. StaabFuture astronauts looking down at Earth will likely spot the pier of NWS (Naval Weapons Station) Earle’s waterfront complex right alongside the Great Wall of China—a three-pronged “finger” pier, whose trestle stretches an incredible 2.9 miles into the Raritan Bay from Leonardo. Not only is this one of the longest finger piers in the world, but it’s wide enough for both trains and motor vehicles to deliver supplies to load on to ships that resupply the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet. Although NWS pier typically is strictly look-but-don’t-touch, there is an exception for active duty, reserve and retired military personnel plus current and former employees and contractors with NWS Earle. Call NWS Earle MWR at 732-866-2448 to begin the application process.
Fishiest Pier Undoubtedly the Keansburg Fishing Pier.If you want to know what’s biting before you even pack your tackle box, just dial Keansburg Pier’s daily recorded phone message or check their fishing reports on their Facebook page (but not their out-of-date website). This iconic 2,000-foot-long wooden landmark serves as the ultimate barometer for Raritan Bay angling, proving that a great pier is as much about the community on the planks as the fish in the water. A section of the pier collapsed from the ice this past winter, but most of the pier is still open every day.
Three other piers jut into the bay including the Keyport Fishing Pier along the city’s waterfront park, a local hub for community crabbing and spectacular views of the Raritan Bay and New York City. Further east, fish from or swim under the pier at Bayshore Waterfront Park in Port Monmouth at a beach that includes restrooms, free parking and free beach access. Finally, there’s the fishing pier at the Atlantic Highlands Municipal Harbor, tucked away at the far eastern side of the municipal harbor along the trail to Highlands.
Sandy Hook to BelmarMost Photogenic Pier Photo: R.C. StaabKnown up and down the coast for its length and remarkably tall pilings, the pier owned and operated by the Belmar Fishing Club creates a striking architectural silhouette whether viewed from the horizon or walking beneath it. But don’t ask to walk out on the pier. The members of the Belmar Fishing Club own and manage the Club House at the foot of the pier and remain steadfast in keeping it private. Whether you read it on their website or call them, you get the same message, “Unfortunately, we are not accepting new members or additions to the waiting list at this time.”
The Second-Most Musical Pier Photo: R.C. StaabIt was once the greatest music pier, perhaps in the world. Some of greatest acts of the past 80 years played at the Paramount Theatre or Convention Hall on the pier at Asbury Park, including Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Ike and Tina Turner, the Beach Boys, the Rolling Stones and, of course, Bruce Springsteen. Due to long‑running structural and safety problems, the Paramount Theatre and the main Convention Hall auditorium are closed with no firm reopening date. The Grand Arcade, connecting the building and the promenades at each side of Convention Hall, houses a dozen shops and bars, but if you’re looking for live music, head across the street to the Stone Pony, the Stone Pony Summer Stage or the Wonder Bar.
Next to Asbury, the somewhat controversial cross-shaped pier in Ocean Grove suffered severe structural issues late last year and remains closed while the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association determines next steps. Anticipation is building in Long Branch, where in 1879, the first fishing pier along the Atlantic Ocean opened. A new Long Branch Pier is under construction and targeted to welcome strollers and anglers alike in 2027.
Point Pleasant Beach to Seaside HeightsThe Booziest PierPhoto: R.C. StaabWhile Point Pleasant Beach’s boardwalk is decidedly kid-friendly, adults flock to the pier to party. Fans of MTV’s Jersey Shore and their ilk converge on Jenks (Jenkinson’s Club) or its next-door neighbor, Martell’s Tiki Bar. Both legendary beach clubs extend directly off the boardwalk over the sand. With live music and outdoor spaces, crowds soak in the ocean breeze late into the night.
The Comeback PierPhoto: R.C. StaabSeaside Heights’ legendary Casino Pier has storm‑story cred to match its thrills, thanks to The Star Jet Coaster that famously ended up in the ocean after Superstorm Sandy demolished part of the pier in 2012. Today this reborn, ride‑packed pier features new coasters, a Ferris wheel and old‑school games of chance, keeping the classic, loud‑and‑salty American boardwalk vibe very much alive. There is no admission to the pier, but you pay for rides individually.
Atlantic City & Absecon IslandMost World-Famous PierPhoto: R.C. StaabFrom diving horses to dazzling thrill rides, from vaudeville legends to a Broadway musical named after it, Steel Pier stands as Atlantic City’s undisputed heavyweight of entertainment along the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. Stretching 1,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, this historic landmark today offers boardwalk rides, amusement games, food and drinks, and The Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel with incredible views of Absecon Island and nearby Brigantine.
Most Romantic Pier The Ventnor City Fishing Pier blends serious angling with quiet coastal charm. Stretching gracefully out from the boardwalk, the far end features a buys public fishing platform that requires paid admission. But locals know the true magic of the pier lies midway before the admission gate where benches invite couples, friends and solo strollers to linger. Here, people wander out to watch the sun rise over a usually tranquil ocean or relax at day’s end to enjoy the sea breezes.
The pier-centric Absecon Island serves up three more piers including two more in Atlantic City. The Central Pier Arcade and Speedway competes with the Steel Pier for the family entertainment business, especially with its go-kart track. Farther south, the old Million Dollar Pier continues to struggle with its identity. Most recently, ACX1 Studios had converted most of the large mall-like space into a production studio, but it is now in bankruptcy.
The pier of the Angler’s Club of Absecon Island in Margate is a members-only fishing pier and clubhouse jutting from a quiet residential stretch of beach, offering serious anglers room to cast, swap stories and keep gear far from the beach crowds. There is no direct public contact for the club, so prospective fishermen have to seek an existing member to be sponsored into this tight-knit community.
Ocean City to AvalonMost Musical Pier Photo: R.C. StaabSorry, Bruce Springsteen, but when it comes to musical piers, the Ocean City Music Pier is still going strong. This architectural jewel was built in 1928 as a concert hall and today plays host to a summer concert series, tribute bands, musical theater productions and orchestral performances featuring guest artists such as Lee Greenwood, The Righteous Brothers and Broadway’s Lea Salonga.
The Ocean City Fishing Club the oldest continuously operated fishing club in the nation, built a private, members-only pier at 14th Street and the Boardwalk in 1916. It’s distinct from the public Ocean City Fishing Pier on the bay side. The pier reaches roughly 635 feet out over the sand and water, with a clubhouse, deck, gear storage and bait facilities. For prospective members, they host open houses. This year they are 6-8 pm, July 30 and August 13.
Even farther south is the Avalon Fishing Pier is yet another private pier which does not actively promote membership or public access. Built in 1933, the pier is 900-foot long, having been extended 200 feet in 2016 to reach out farther into the ocean to allow year-round fishing.
The WildwoodsThe Most Amusing Pier(s)Photo: R.C. StaabTogether, Morey’s oceanfront piers (Surfside Pier, Morey’s Pier and Adventure Pier) in Wildwood deliver some of the best seaside amusements on the planet, a continuous run of rides and slides stretching out from the boardwalk above the sand. Under the Morey’s banner, you’ll find classic wooden and soaring steel coasters, a towering Ferris wheel that lights up the shoreline and two sprawling water parks where guests can plunge, float and race through a maze of slides. Adrenaline junkies and families alike will find something to love here, from heart-pounding drops to gentle spins with the ocean as their backdrop.
The Coolest PierSeaport Pier in North Wildwood trades roller coasters for resort vibes, anchoring the boardwalk with a sun-splashed pool, a lively stage and a sprawling bar scene. By day, its pool and cabanas feel like a beachside oasis; by night, live music and events turn the pier into a mini-festival with ocean views.
The Saddest PierOriginally built in 1919 by the private Wildwood Crest Fishing Club and acquired by the Borough of Wildwood Crest in 2006, the Wildwood Crest Fishing Pier (aka the Heather Road Fishing Pier) no longer lives up to its name. You can’t cast a line into the ocean from it anymore because decades of sand accretion have left the structure stranded on dry land. With Cape May County funding in place, the Borough plans to extend the deck in the next few years, so it once again sits above the ocean.
The post A Definitive Guide to Jersey Shore Piers: The Saddest, Booziest, Fishiest, Most Romantic and More appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Atlantic City is betting that its latest openings and experiences will make Shore getaways extra memorable this season.
From oceanfront cocktails to indulgent brunches to exciting new dining, the city is giving visitors plenty of reasons to stay and play.
New places for noshes & nipsCaesars Beach Club, which opened this summer, brings a resort-style atmosphere to the beachfront. The open-to-the-public club pairs ocean views with coastal fare, handcrafted cocktails, live DJs and a variety of seating options, from casual lounges to private VIP cabanas.
At Resorts Casino Hotel‘s MAYA, an outdoor cocktail lounge overlooks the Boardwalk. Drawing on the relaxed aesthetic of Tulum, the open-air restaurant pairs tropical cocktails with small plates, such as ancho-braised beef tacos, in a setting that transitions seamlessly from sunny afternoons to lively evenings.
Photo: Courtesy of MAYAAt Bally’s Beach Bar, you’ll find a DJ spinning as cocktails and margaritas flow. Happy hour runs from 11 am to 1 pm, and again from 5 to 9 pm. Sunday brunch also gets an upgrade at Capriccio inside Resorts Casino Hotel; the Italian eatery now hosts Bubbles & Brunch on Sundays from 9 am to 3 pm, with gourmet pastries, made-to-order omelettes, eggs Benedict, prime sirloin and more.
A burger at Bally’s Beach BarPhoto: Courtesy of Bally's Atlantic CityHard Rock Hotel & Casino is also expanding its culinary lineup with its July debut of Sitar, an Indian restaurant from executive chef Christopher Corda offering a contemporary take on the bold flavors of India. Dishes include coal-fired butter chicken and pastooni lobster masala.
Things to see & doFor entertainment, do not miss Spiegelworld’s The Hook at Caesars. It delivers an adults-only spectacle that blends comedy, acrobatics and theatrical flair. The fast-paced, cabaret-style production has become one of the city’s most talked-about shows, offering a memorable alternative to a traditional night out. The show is anchors away come September!
For midweek fun every Tuesday evening through September, singer/songwriter and bandleader Dave Damiani and The No Vacancy Orchestra are, along with a host of other artists, bringing free concerts—with music ranging from the Great American Songbook to Motown—to the Boardwalk’s Kennedy Plaza. Bring your own chair and rock out!
Dave DamianiPhoto: Courtesy of Dave DamianiLooking for family fun? For pint-size guests, Showboat Resort has expanded its supersize Lucky Snake Arcade. For parents, the resort has added an expanded adults-only area to Island Waterpark, with new lounges and more cabana spaces for a resort-style experience. The property has also introduced two new culinary options: Eclair, a French-inspired pastry and confections bistro, andBlissful Bubbles Café, a beverage shop specializing in milk teas, fancy fruit teas and casual eats. If you’re staying over, the hotel has renovated two new floors of guest rooms in the New Orleans Tower, outfitted with new furnishings, refurbished baths, upgraded electronic features and, in many, ocean views.
The new Kidz Club section of Showboat Resort’s Lucky Snake ArcadeThe post Atlantic City’s Summer 2026 Fun Is in Full Swing: New Things to Do & Eat appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Take a look at a map of New Jersey, and it’s hard to miss the countless specks of blue dotting every corner of the state. From High Point to Cape May, reservoirs and lakes both public and private are waiting to be enjoyed.
Darlington LakeMahwahNestled in the northwest corner of Bergen County, Darlington County Park, with its lake, is a prime summer spot. The lake’s main attraction is the inflatable Splash Zone obstacle course—there’s one option for kids between 39 and 48 inches tall, and one for visitors who are 48 inches tall and up. For a quieter time at the lake, there are swimming areas, too. Other activities in the county park include catch-and-release fishing, picnicking, trails and basketball.
Tomahawk LakeSpartaSoon to celebrate 75 years, Tomahawk Lake’s water park features a handful of slides and rides, plus a selection of rowboats, paddleboats and bumper boats, volleyball, a miniature golf course and more. Adults can enjoy a beer garden while kids can choose from multiple snack bars.
Lake HopatcongSussex and Morris countiesPhoto: AEROJO Drone ProductionsThe lake stretches roughly 4 square miles and is shared by Sussex and Morris counties, holding the title of New Jersey’s largest body of fresh water. Its popularity among visitors has been 150 years in the making. On the water, visitors can take their choice of boat, kayak or hydrobike and hit the open water to their heart’s desire. Tours take guests to see Halsey Island, Great Cove and more of the lake’s most notable landmarks. Or families can just spend a day along the lake shore swimming, cooking on the provided grills, and picnicking.
Sunrise Lake Beach ClubMorris TownshipJust a ten-minute drive from downtown Morristown, this lake within pretty Lewis Morris County Park offers a small beach, swimming, an inflatable obstacle course (ages 7 and up; passing a swim test is required), paddleboat rentals and a snack bar. Day and seasonal passes are on offer, as are camps and “munchkin Mondays” from 9-11:30 am. —Julie Gordon
Round Valley ReservoirLebanonLebanon’s 2,350-acre, 180-foot-deep reservoir is one of Hunterdon County’s crown jewels. This largest reservoir in the Garden State is a serene spot which offers swimming with lifeguard supervision, boating, fishing and wilderness camping—the only New Jersey state park to do so (permit required).
Turkey Swamp ParkFreeholdThis 17-acre lake in the Pine Barrens offers rentable kayaks, canoes, rowboats and paddleboats. Visitors can also fish along the shore for bass, catfish and bluegills or take a fishing rod out on a boat. The park offers hiking trails, camping, an archery range and multiple playgrounds. —Jessica Hammer
Deal LakeMonmouth CountyThough it’s a stone throw away from the ocean, Monmouth County’s largest lake has given Shore residents in the area a taste of lake life since it was created from an estuary in 1890. Deal Lake features different channels and ponds that wind through the surrounding towns. Fish for bass and carp, rent a kayak from Deal Lake Dock Co., or coast around the 27 miles of shoreline on a motorboat—just be wary of shallow waters and no-wake zones!
Union LakeCumberland CountySouth Jersey’s biggest lake is an outdoors lover’s dream, offering a vast area perfect for boating, fishing, birding and more. Watch for bald eagles and ospreys before hitting the water yourself. Public boat ramps are available, and everything from kayaks to motorboats up to 10 horsepower are permitted.
The post 8 NJ Lakes to Visit This Summer appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
When the first wave of uncomfortable summer heat rolls in, many New Jerseyans follow a routine as old as time—pack up the car and head toward the Shore in a futile effort to beat the traffic. But hiding in plain sight off of Route 80, Lake Hopatcong offers just as much summer fun.
The lake stretches roughly 4 square miles and is shared by Sussex and Morris counties, holding the title of New Jersey’s largest body of fresh water. Once an area made up of two smaller lakes, it was altered in the 19th century to become the source of the Morris Canal. The result was a sprawling lake that’s continued to attract visitors from far beyond the borders of the Garden State.
[RELATED: 8 Best Lakes in New Jersey to Visit This Summer]
“I’ve had people from New York, Washington, and even Europe who have come out on tours with me,” says Paige Block, a tour guide at Lake Hopatcong Adventure Company, which offers kayaking, hydrobiking and other outdoor activities.
Its popularity among visitors has been 150 years in the making. When railroads boomed in the late 19th century, it didn’t take long for a connection to be made at Nolans Point along the lake’s east side. The arrival of the first passenger train in 1882 established Lake Hopatcong as a go-to summer spot. Attractions over the years have included an amusement park, roller rink and tavern.
Photo: AEROJO Drone ProductionsWhile the landscape in 2026 is far different, Live the Lake NJ, a family of businesses on Lake Hopatcong, still offers a host of activities that appeal to sunbathers and adrenaline seekers alike. On the water, visitors can take their choice of boat, kayak or hydrobike and hit the open water to their heart’s desire. Tours take guests to see Halsey Island, Great Cove and more of the lake’s most notable landmarks.
Aboard Miss Lotta, a 57-foot Skipperliner, passengers are treated to various themed cruises, including happy-hour and cocktail rides, a narrated historical tour, and lunch, brunch and dinner cruises. (Don’t worry—the boat has a fully enclosed dining room.) Private cruise packages are also offered.
Other activities include an 18-hole mini-golf course with holes themed after Lake Hopatcong history. A handful of dining options are available at Nolans Point. The Windlass has been serving Italian and American eats to lakegoers for more than 60 years and offers porch dining and live music events. Alice’s features open-air dining and the Big Fish Lounge, home to live music and various games.
Or families can just spend a day along the lake shore swimming, cooking on the provided grills, and picnicking. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, fees for residents are $6 on weekdays and $10 on weekends and holidays; for nonresidents, it’s $10 on weekdays and $20 on weekends.
Photo: AEROJO Drone ProductionsLive the Lake shares Lake Hopatcong with the thousands of residents who live on its shore and in the surrounding area. Former resident Jessica Murphy has lived in three of the four surrounding towns on the lake and got married on its shores. “The lake was a big part of my life all the time. Growing up, I spent pretty much my whole summers there swimming and sailing,” she says.
Murphy’s lake love continued into her adult life, when she served as editor of the Lake Hopatcong News, a publication dedicated to news and culture in the lake region. She also cofounded the nonprofit Lake Hopatcong Foundation and served as its president and executive director for nearly 10 years. The organization devotes itself to preservation and sustainability efforts for the lake, especially those that go unnoticed.
“There are a lot of invisible things that help make the lake healthier,” Murphy says. “It can sometimes be difficult to get people to rally around something like storm water management. Buy-in and coordination can be difficult for those things that you don’t really see, but are making a quiet difference underground.”
Though private properties surround most of the lake’s perimeter, Murphy says a distinct pride exists among residents and a sense of community can be found, especially during difficult times.
She recalls that, while working at the foundation, residents offered support during a 2019 algae bloom that shut the lake down for a whole summer. “When it first happened, I remember that people were calling us asking, ‘What can I do at my house? What type of fertilizer should I be using? Is there anything I can do?’” she says. “People cared about the lake and were quick to step up during a crisis.” Murphy hopes lake residents will continue this mindset even when it isn’t demanded by an emergency.
Whether it’s as a booming tourist attraction or a sleepy lake for residents, Lake Hopatcong requires the continued support of visitors, locals and admirers for its preservation. To donate to the foundation, visit lakehopatcongfoundation.org.
James LaForge is a former editorial assistant at New Jersey Monthly and a current fellow at Business Insider.
The post Lake Hopatcong Rivals the Jersey Shore as a Top-Notch Summer Escape appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Somehow, the folks at Beach Plum Farm in West Cape May always manage to keep things fresh.
This summer, their popular seasonal dinner series heads en plein air for Tables in the Garden, where tables for two pepper the landscape twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Thursdays, now through September 24.
Couples can enjoy a lilt of romance and intimacy in a public-yet-private space, dining among raised beds of fragrant flowers (including edible varieties!), berries and produce, and perhaps even catching sight of an errant chicken passing by.
Photo: Courtesy of Beach Plum FarmThe kitchen shows off its chops—and farm-to-table ingredients—with such dishes as a carrot-beet medley topped with pea tendrils, and roasted heritage pork with kohlrabi-fennel slaw.
Beach Plum’s farm-to-table dinners first started in 2016, when Cape Resorts owner Curtis Bashaw and his partner began hosting friends for ingredient-focused meals in the bucolic setting. Now open to the public, these special communal-style meals sell out every season, fostering new friendships and garnering returning guests year after year. Farm manager Ed Hackett and his team plan everything from the harvest-forward menus to the tablescapes.
Farm-fresh strawberry shortcake trifle. Photo: Courtesy of Beach Plum FarmThis summer’s BYO meals have staggered start times beginning at 6 pm, so the evenings unfold in a laid-back manner. Guests are welcome to stroll the grounds before dinner, too.
Overnight stays are also an option in Beach Plum’s one-bedroom, two-bedroom or full cottages. A limited-time discounted rate is available.
The post Beach Plum Farm’s Intimate Summer Dining Series Is Perfect for Date Night appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
The world’s biggest sporting event hits the Garden State on Saturday, June 13. Here are some terrific places to take in all the action.
Truly Believe Bar Installation: Now through Sunday, July 19
: Texas Arizona, Hoboken
: With a grand opening on Tuesday, June 9, Texas Arizona will be transformed into a U.S. Soccer headquarters.
Library FC: Soccer Viewing Party: Thursday, June 11 through Friday, June 19
: Hoboken Public Library, Hoboken
: If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to watch the World Cup, the Hoboken Library will be streaming matches.
Soccer Bar Party: Thursday, June 11 through Saturday, July 11
: Madd Hatter, Hoboken
: Enjoy good food, drink specials and the World Cup streamed on more than 100 TVs.
The Hutton World Cup Watch Parties: Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, July 19
: The Hutton Restaurant, Jersey City
: For casual World Cup viewing, the Hutton will be streaming matches on their patio.
Pier 13 : Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, July 19
: Pier 13, Hoboken
: Experience the World Cup from the waterfront at Pier 13. Featuring food truck, drinks and live music, this is a perfect destination for casual viewers.
World Cup Headquarters: Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, July 19
: Asbury Ale House, Asbury Park & Howell
: Experience the World Cup at Asbury Ale House with good food, drink specials, DJs, giveaways and more.
Red Bank World Cup Activation Series : Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, July 19
: Various Red Bank locations
: The World Cup Activation Series includes public watch parties at Count Basie Park and other immersive experiences throughout town. This is a part of Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s NJ World Cup Community Initiative Grant Program.
Soccer at the Shore: Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, July 19
: Harrah’s Resort, Atlantic City
: Enjoy the World Cup from the pool side at Harrah’s. Featuring global flavors, signature cocktails and elevated resort entertainment.
Summer of Soccer: Thursday, June 11 through Sunday, July 19
: Pier Village, Long Branch
: Travel through the village and collect stamp, unlock rewards, and enter to win the grand prize. Wave Resort is also offering outdoor watch parties at the Carousel Bar and Pool Bar featuring branded giveaways and Brazilian-themed food, music and more.
*Flag Cities: Friday, June 12 through Friday, June 26*
: Various locations
: This World Cup fan festival takes place in various cities in New Jersey throughout the month, with live broadcasts, food trucks, soccer activities, live music and more.
The Pig and Parrot: Saturday, June 13 through Sunday, July 19
: The Pig and Parrot (all locations)
: With 30 different screens, the Pig and Parrot will be hosting watch parties at all of their locations with drink specials, games, DJs and more.
Big Match Block Parties: Saturday, June 13 through Sunday, July 19
: Various Hoboken locations
: This city wide soccer celebration spans six neighborhoods and will feature outdoor viewing parties, family-friendly programming, food and more.
Big Match Block Parties: Saturday, June 13 through Sunday, July 19
: Various Hoboken locations
: This city wide soccer celebration spans six neighborhoods and will feature outdoor viewing parties, family-friendly programming, food and more.
Jersey Fan Hub: Sunday, June 14 through Friday, June 26 and Wednesday, July 1 through Wednesday, July 15
: Sports Illustrated Stadium, Harrison
: Enter for free and enjoy real-time broadcasts, live entertainment and more fan experiences from inside a professional soccer stadium.
Soccer & Science: Sunday, June 14 through Sunday, July 19
: Liberty Science Center, Jersey City
: Throughout the summer the Liberty Science Center will be offering events ranging from FC Meet & Greets, soccer themed After Dark activities, drone soccer, the puppy World Cup and more.
FIFA World Cup 26 Soccer Watch Party: Sunday, July 19 (2 pm)
: BergenPAC, Englewood
: Watch the final on the big screen at Bergen PAC.
International Soccer Finals Watch Party: Sunday, July 19 (2-5:30 pm)
: The Lawn on District Drive at The Park, Berkeley Heights
: Watch the final with food, lawn games, local vendors, live music, a kids’ zone and more! Registration is encouraged.
The post Where to Watch the 2026 World Cup in New Jersey appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Spring theater season is in full bloom! The Garden State’s got a great roster of creatively reimagined classics, thought-provoking new works and world premieres.
Here are a few to put on your can’t-miss list.
Photo: Trevor CallahanThe NicetiesThrough April 19Centenary Stage Company, HackettstownPart of Centenary’s professional theater series, Niceties unfolds the story of an Ivy League professor who is challenged by a grad student unhappy with the teacher’s perspective on her work. A routine office visit becomes threateningly passionate conversation about privilege, politics and how personal history shapes our worldview. As each defends their stance, this resonant story lingers well after the curtain falls.
Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade1776Through May 2Paper Mill Playhouse, MillburnHistory is set to a lively score for this musical that took home three Tony Awards when it opened on Broadway in the late ’60s. The dramatic turns that lead to the signing of the Declaration of Independence unfold with John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin and other forefathers hashing out our country’s future.
The MountaintopApril 16-May 3Mile Square Theatre, HobokenThis Pulitzer Prize winner by Katori Hall tells the moving, fictional story of Martin Luther King Jr.’s last night on Earth, as an encounter with a hotel employee expands into a spiritual epiphany. In the sometimes funny, sometimes intense and infinitely inspiring story, Hall paints a poignant picture of King’s private self, expounding on his hopes, his fears and the faith and courage that propelled him throughout his life.
Sins of the MotherThrough May 3New Jersey Repertory Company, Long BranchIn a tight-knit fishing town in Massachusetts, a young man returns home searching for answers about his past. A web of secrets unravels throughout this story that contemplates identity, loyalty and the desire to belong. —Jessica Hammer
& SonsApril 16-May 10Luna Stage, West OrangeWork and brotherhood are the emotional background of this world premiere work by Jack Angelo Cummings, winner of the 2025 Kirk Prize for Best New Play. Filled with sharply funny dialogue, this production looks at the sometimes awkward ways in which men find their way to respect and friendship.
My Lord, What A NightApril 28-May 17George Street Playhouse, New BrunswickIn 1937 America, segregation was in full effect, prohibiting African Americans from many rights, including the opportunity to secure lodging when they traveled. This, of course, included many performers whose livelihoods required them to travel. Such was the case when world-famous contralto Marian Anderson was turned away from hotels in Princeton—and the town’s most famous citizen, Albert Einstein, opened his home to her. This dramatic production is based on these true events and the unique friendship that developed as a result of them.
Mrs. ChristieMay 6-May 31McCarter Theatre, PrincetonA fictional Agatha Christie superfan unfolds her own mystery in this whodunit that blends historical events with modern fictional accounts. When the famed sleuth disappeared in 1926 without explanation, then reappeared nearly two weeks later, the public was hungry for answers. Explanations never came. But in this comedic play a century later, Lucy ventures to Christie’s estate to uncover the truth. It toggles between the past and present, paralleling the journey of self-discovery in both women’s lives.
The post Top Theater Performances to Catch in New Jersey This Spring appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Cape May is preparing to once again transform into a hub for musicians, storytellers, industry insiders and music lovers of all stripes.
The annual Singer-Songwriter of Cape May Conference & Showcase returns March 27-28, bringing two days of performances, professional development and industry networking opportunities. For the public, this offers the opportunity to take in a plethora of live performances.
Centered at Congress Hall, the event is designed not only to spotlight talent but also to equip artists with tools to navigate an increasingly complex music landscape, according to its organizers.
“It feels like one big music festival,” says Patrick Logue, vice president of operations for Cape Resorts. He was instrumental in bringing about this event along with John Harris, a talent buyer and production manager.
The event is a big two-day party, with all the venues in walking distance of each other. Music lovers should “prepare to be wowed, because the Cape May Singer-Songwriter Conference promises to be an unforgettable experience.”
Erin McKeown takes the stage at the annual Singer-Songwriter Conference in Cape May Photo: Aleksey PhotographyHeadlining this year are two artists whose careers reflect the diversity and evolution of the modern singer-songwriter tradition. Peter Mroz, who appeared on The Voice in 2021, will deliver a keynote and performance on Friday, bringing his blend of soulful vocals and Nashville-honed songwriting to the event. On Saturday, Maya de Vitry takes the spotlight. A former member of the Stray Birds, her solo career is defined by folk, Americana, country and indie rock.
Beyond the conference halls, performers will also play venues across downtown Cape May. Performances are scheduled for Congress Hall’s Grand Ballroom and Boiler Room, as well as at staples like Delaney’s Irish Pub & Grill and The Mad Batter, among others.
The post Two Jam-Packed Nights of Free Live Music Returning to Cape May appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
We all know the best things in life are free, but do you know all the ways you can spend your time—not your money—in Jersey? If doing your own thing means hiking, shopping, touring museums, visiting history sites or just making sure your kids are entertained, we’ve got you covered with these 50 places across the state to spend your free time.
Free Spots for the Culture VultureMix and mingle with fellow readers, music lovers and art aficionados.READ MOREFree Excursions for the Outdoor ExplorerA plethora of mood-boosting, vitamin D-supplying activities await.READ MOREFree Places for the Panicked ParentFun and educational opportunities to entertain your little ones.READ MOREFree Gems Every History Buff Should VisitRevolutionary War battlefields, museums and remote cemeteries.READ MOREFree Experiences Every Bargain Hunter Will LovePasses, swaps and perks for those who can’t resist a deal.READ MOREThe post 50 Free Places You’ll Love in NJ, From Museums to Furniture Swaps appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
We all know the best things in life are free, but do you know all the ways you can spend your time—not your money—in Jersey?
If you’re the kind of person who wants to get out and explore the state but can’t resist a deal, these free passes, swaps and perks across New Jersey are for you.
(Want more ideas? We’ve got plenty—whether you’re a culture vulture, an outdoor explorer, a panicked parent or a history buff.)
Sharing ShedBradley BeachHave any household items or furniture you’d like to give away? Or do you need something, but don’t want to spend the money? The Bradley Beach Sharing Shed, located at the town’s Department of Public Works site, is only available to the town’s residents for drop-off, but anyone can take items. The concept was created to reduce landfill waste and to save money on collecting bulk waste. Only clean, usable items are accepted. The shed operates while the DPW yard is open. —Jacqueline Mroz
Libraries of ThingsPublic librariesWant to give a new hobby a whirl without opening your wallet? Many Jersey libraries let patrons borrow far more than books via their Libraries of Things—eclectic collections boasting everything from musical instruments to movie projectors to metal detectors. Among the offerings at the Morristown & Morris Township Public Library are snowshoes and a ukulele. The Ridgewood Public Library lends gardening kits, a sewing machine, nature backpacks for adults and kids to take on hikes and more. Reach out to your library for info. —Jennifer Finn & Erin Roll
Museum PassesPublic librariesFree passes for a dazzling array of world-class museums, animal sanctuaries and gardens are available from many public libraries. Attractions vary by library, but popular sites include Battleship New Jersey and the WheatonArts and Cultural Center, as well as Morris Museum, Montclair Art Museum, Museum of Early Trades & Crafts and the Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park. Some libraries also offer passes to institutions in New York, like the Guggenheim, and Philadelphia, like the Please Touch Museum. Costs are covered by libraries and/or volunteer-library support organizations. Borrowers must belong to the library from which they want passes. —Barbara Leap
MCVSD Neptune Annex Free Student SalonNeptuneLooking for some free midweek pampering while helping cosmetology students sharpen their skills? This salon offers free appointments from noon-1 pm and 4-6 pm on Thursdays. Services include basic haircuts, washes, blowouts, and manicures. By appointment only; call 732-431-7245, ext. 5563, to book. —Natalie Civadelic
Stokes State ForestBranchvilleFree, cold, natural spring water is on tap here in the Garden State—you just need to know where to look. At Stokes State Forest in Sussex County, a spigot system makes groundwater accessible—all you have to do is get in line and bring bottles. You’ll find the Artesian Well along Shotwell Road in Branchville. The water is tested quarterly for purity, and access is periodically shut down, so check the website. —Deborah P. Carter
Free First Thursdays at Montclair Art MuseumMontclair
The Montclair Art Museum normally charges admission, but on the first Thursday night of each month the institution opens up its doors free of charge. Peruse the art, go to the learning lab for a hands-on experience, take a gallery tour and mingle with other art lovers. Tickets are free, but pre-registration is required. —Julie Gordon
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We all know the best things in life are free, but do you know all the ways you can spend your time—not your money—in Jersey?
If you love delving into the past, our state has lots to explore, from Revolutionary War battlefields to remote cemeteries and Jersey-centric museums.
(Want more ideas? We’ve got plenty—whether you’re a culture vulture, an outdoor explorer, a panicked parent or a bargain hunter.)
Rutgers Geology MuseumNew BrunswickAs a kid, I was obsessed with digging up clues to the past and piecing them together—turns out, that works well in journalism, too. While at Rutgers, I discovered the Geology Museum (open to the public) through a class. Noticing kids also enjoying the artifacts made me wish my parents had known that college campuses could be playgrounds for curious minds of all ages. —Natalie Civadelic
Princeton CemeteryPrincetonHistory lives in this park-like graveyard. Here, you’ll find the final resting place of President Grover Cleveland and his family. Nearby is novelist John O’Hara’s elegant tombstone and the towering monument to Paul Tulane, namesake of Tulane University. In the oldest part of the cemetery rest early university president Aaron Burr Sr. and his son, the infamous slayer of Alexander Hamilton. Other famous names to spot: Governor Brendan Byrne and murder victims Jose and Kitty Menendez. —Ken Schlager
Revolutionary War SitesMorris CountyNew Jersey is home to more than 600 battlegrounds, skirmishes and graveyard sites from the Revolutionary War—more than any other state. George Washington set up headquarters in Morristown, which history buffs can still visit today; Morristown National Historic Park even has recreated soldier huts. And, as the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary this July, Morris County is hosting special events throughout spring and summer. —Julie Gordon & Thomas Neira
New Jersey State MuseumTrentonA repository of more than 2 million items, the museum provides insight into science, culture, history and the arts. The fossil collection includes a life-size cast of New Jersey’s state dinosaur, Hadrosaurus foulkii. Other exhibitions focus on local history, Native-American traditions, and fine art as a reflection of social trends. —KS
Heritage Glass MuseumGlassboroPhoto: Courtesy of Heritage Glass MuseumMore than 2,000 historic glass items, mostly created in South Jersey, are displayed here. For 150 years, Glassboro was among America’s most successful glassmaking centers. The museum’s oldest piece is the 1784 Heston Bottle, handblown in Glassboro. —Barbara Leap
PaulsdaleMt. LaurelSuffragist Alice Paul provided the final push for ratification of the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote. The museum inside Paul’s circa-1800 childhood farmhouse, called Paulsdale, The Alice Paul Center for Gender Justice, honors the Quaker activist’s legacy. This National Historic Landmark offers free guided tours on periodic Family Saturdays. —BL
West Jersey DepotGlassboroIt’s still 1863 inside this museum at the Glassboro historic train station. This National Historic Landmark displays train-history
information, the original sliding-door ticket window, a telegraph replica, and original photos, tickets, documents and passenger lists. It’s open for guided tours 1-4 pm on the fourth Saturday and Sunday of each month. —BL
Princeton University History TourPrincetonChartered in 1746, Princeton is the fourth oldest college in the country, and the history of the campus is fascinating—so much so that tours aren’t just for prospective students. Free historical walking tours are available to the public via the university. —J. Mroz
Waterloo VillageStanhopeHistory comes alive in this 19th-century town, which was the halfway point on the 102-mile trip along the Morris Canal. Kids can see how people lived back then, how a mill works, how boats unloaded their goods directly into the store built along the canal, and a pioneer farm and blacksmith shop. There’s a native woodland forest with exhibits, activities and miles of trails. —Julia Martin
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We all know the best things in life are free, but do you know all the ways you can spend your time—not your money—in Jersey?
These child-friendly places offer fun and educational opportunities that make entertaining the kiddos (nearly) as simple as a walk in the park.
(Want more ideas? We’ve got plenty—whether you’re a culture vulture, an outdoor explorer, a history buff or a bargain hunter.)
Hidden Spring Lavender & Alpaca FarmSkillmanThe fuzzy, gentle creatures at this 25-acre working farm are ready to pet (on weekends). From mid-June to mid-July, visitors can also walk through the fields of blooming lavender and enjoy the views and scent. Some special events come with a cost, and a gift shop sells handmade lavender and alpaca-wool products. —Barbara Leap
Big Brook ParkMarlboroPhoto: Courtesy of Monmouth County Park SystemFrom fossilized shark teeth to snail shells, kids can search for it all in the stream at Big Brook Park—and even take their findings home. The park, which was underwater 65–75 million years ago, permits visitors to use small hand tools to scoop materials from the stream, where new fossils can be uncovered each spring due to increased water flow there. Dinosaur-bone fragments are rare, but have been found. Enter from the Boundary Road parking lot. —Jessica Hammer
AriZonaLandKeasbeyPhoto: Courtesy of AriZonaLandAn immersive, multisensory factory tour brings visitors through the 620,000-square-foot manufacturing and bottling facility where AriZona’s iconic teas and juices are made. AriZona even promises moments of “surprise and delight,” Willy Wonka-style. Tours are limited to weekdays and fill up, so book in advance. Kids must be ten and up. —Natalie Civadelic
Trailside Nature and Science Center & Sensory Friendly TrailMountainsideWatchung Reservation is full of kid-friendly activities. Start inside the nature center, where little ones can explore a variety of carefully crafted habitats, from a forest to a vernal pool. A sizable children’s discovery room has hands-on play and even live snakes. Outside, the unique Sensory Trail, designed to be accessible for all, is a 0.3 mile loop with interactive elements like musical features and raised sensory garden beds. There’s also a 0.2-mile Braille loop. —Julie Gordon
LetterboxingVarious locationsLetterboxing, which is similar to geocaching, is like a treasure hunt, with organizers hiding small, weatherproof boxes in public places (like parks) and posting clues online for finding them. There are more than 60,000 active boxes listed online, with dozens in Jersey. Each box contains a log book with a unique rubber stamp and an ink pad. Kids also bring along their own log book and stamp, which they use to leave an imprint in the letterbox’s log. Then they stamp their own log book with the stamp they’ve found. It’s fun to collect them, and it’s a great way to get outdoors. —Jacqueline Mroz
South Mountain Reservation Fairy TrailMillburnDozens of teeny, detailed houses, made entirely from natural materials, dot this magical half-mile trail. The South Mountain Conservancy asks that visitors refrain from leaving their own creations, but the group does occasionally ask for submissions. A local teacher created the original homes a decade ago. —JG
Cape May ZooCape May Court House
Photo: Courtesy of the Cape May ZooFrom big cats and primates to reptiles and birds, the Cape May Zoo offers exhibits, educational programs and play areas, where kids can get up close to animals from around the world. The zoo also features picnic spots and a playground. —NC
Field of DreamsToms RiverRWJBarnabas Health’s 3.5-acre complex is designed to engage those with special needs in sports and play. It has wheelchair-accessible basketball and bocce courts, a mini-golf course sans steps, and a playground with a zip line, swings, ramps, a music station and a quiet corner. All visitors must be members, but membership is free to special-needs families. —Emily Melvin
Matchbox Road MuseumNewfieldStarted by Newfield’s Everett Marshall III out of his garage, the museum, opened in 1992, is now a 2,100-square-foot facility with more than 50,000 toy Matchbox cars from the early 1950s to the mid-2020s. The museum is open by appointment only. Call 609-381-2332. —Tom Wilk
Children’s Regatta PlaygroundWest OrangeInspired by the nearby reservoir and located within the South Mountain Recreation Complex, the playground features a wave-shaped rubberized safety surface and play structures designed to resemble boats. A spacious open area with synthetic grass and the Clipper Pavilion make it the perfect spot for a post-play picnic. For a cost, rent paddle boats or visit the Turtle Back Zoo. —NC
Oak Hill FarmsHolmdelKids will be enthralled to see the alpacas, donkeys, sheep, chickens and peacock—plus play outdoor games—while parents relax at picnic tables with goodies from the coffee bar or, if they’re in the shopping mood, the beautiful barn that sells home goods and locally made food items. There’s also a large ruler to measure your kids as you come back year after year. Additional activities vary (and can come with a fee); for spring, there’s flower picking. —Leigh Scheps
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We all know the best things in life are free, but do you know all the ways you can spend your time—not your money—in Jersey?
The Garden State has a plethora of mood-boosting, vitamin D-supplying activities. From trails to parks, gardens to rivers, nature’s bounty is at hand.
(Want more ideas? We’ve got plenty—whether you’re a culture vulture, a panicked parent, a history buff or a bargain hunter.)
Duke FarmsHillsboroughThe 2,700-acre former estate of tobacco heiress Doris Duke now serves as a peaceful oasis dedicated to environmental conservation. Walk or bicycle along 18 miles of paved and gravel paths through woods and grasslands. Next, step inside the Orchid Range, an elegant glass conservatory where more than 1,300 orchid varieties bloom year-round; April is a peak month. Other highlights: the sculpture garden and the Japanese-inspired Meditation Garden. Trails and the Orchard Range are open 8:30 am–4:30 pm, Tuesday–Saturday; the orientation center and café are open Thursday-Saturday. —Ken Schlager
Appalachian TrailSussex & Warren countiesAbout 72 miles of the 2,174-mile Appalachian Trail pass through the rugged northwest corner of New Jersey. For a memorable, moderately challenging day hike, start at the Mohican Outdoor Center (908-362-5670) near Blairstown and trek south 5 miles along the Kittatinny Ridge to crystal-clear Sunfish Pond. For an easy, family-friendly hike, stroll the Pochuck Boardwalk trail in Vernon Valley. Bring plenty of water, lace up those hiking boots, and check ahead for closures. —KS
Rutgers Bamboo ForestEast BrunswickThis serene, large and mature bamboo grove is located within the 180-acre Rutgers Gardens. With tall, thick, overhanging bamboo stalks, this tranquil, almost otherwordly path for visitors to explore is kindly, and rightly, referred to on campus as a hidden gem. —Natalie Civadelic
Raptor TrustMillingtonThis Morris County nonprofit is dedicated to the rehabilitation of birds of prey, as well as environmental education. In addition to providing on-site medical care for injured and orphaned raptors, the grounds are open to the public year-round, and visitors can freely walk the outdoor aviaries—home to hawks, eagles, falcons and owls. Various public programs are available as well, some free of charge, others for a fee. —NC
Sybil’s CaveHobokenPhoto: Courtesy of the Hoboken Historical MuseumPay a visit to the oldest manmade structure in Hoboken. Created in the early 19th century around a natural spring, Sybil’s Cave later became a watering hole—complete with a restaurant beside it—for locals. The cave eventually disappeared behind building debris, but was rediscovered and cleaned up in the mid-2000s by the City of Hoboken. Sadly, you can’t enter the cave, but you can peek inside from behind its gate. Afterward, head to nearby Pier C Park, which has a playground and terrific views of Manhattan. —Jennifer Finn
D&R Canal State ParkCentral JerseyPhoto: Courtesy of the New Jersey Department of Environmental ProtectionSpanning more than 4,000 acres across Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset and Burlington counties, this linear park has over 70 miles of multiuse trails along a historic canal. It’s an ideal place for scenic hiking and biking. Fishing is allowed along the canal without a special park-issued permit, and in the spring, the waters are stocked with trout (state fishing regulations apply). Visitors may enter via various access points in New Brunswick, Princeton, Lambertville or Trenton. —NC
Paterson Great FallsPatersonPaterson’s Great Falls is the second largest waterfall, by volume, on the East Coast. Photo: Courtesy of New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism/visitnj.orgThe second largest waterfall, by volume, on the East Coast is magnificent to take in. Since 2011, the falls and surrounding park have been designated as a national historical park, so a visit to the 77-foot falls features park rangers who can answer any questions you might have. Spring is an especially great time to witness the falls, as seasonal rains make them even more spectacular. —Jacqueline Mroz
Cloverdale Farm County ParkBarnegatA short drive down a dirt-and-gravel road delivers you back in time to a restored cranberry farm from the 1870s. At this 90-acre spot, a replica of the original farmhouse now serves as a visitor center (open Friday-Sunday). Then, it’s off on a 1.4-mile, level, sandy, self-guided trail past the cranberry sorting house and bogs. Print out the self-guided nature-trail map before you go—you never know about cell phone reception in a bog. —Monica Cardoza
Branch Brook ParkNewarkThe Garden State has nationwide bragging rights as home to the largest collection of Japanese flowering cherry trees. This year marks the 50th festival celebrating the 5,300 trees in 18 varieties on display in Branch Brook Park. April events among the profusion of pink flowers include a bike race, a family day with crafts, paddle boating and face painting, and the grand finale, Bloomfest. The closing lineup includes children’s activities, live music, food and Japanese cultural demonstrations. —DPC
Scenic Views of NYCWest Orange & MorristownPhoto: Courtesy of Essex CountyMany waterfront points in North Jersey offer obvious, up-close ways to enjoy the New York City skyline, but we’ve got two favorite spots to take it in from a bit farther away on clear, crisp days. The first is an especially poignant one: the Essex County 9/11 Memorial, located on Eagle Rock Avenue at Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange. The second is Fort Nonsense in Morristown, near the intersection of Ann and Chestnut streets. Part of Morristown National Historical Park, it was built during the Revolutionary War. On sunny, low-humidity days, Manhattan is faint but visible from the top. —JF
Batona TrailBurlington CountyAt just over 50 miles, the Batona Trail offers the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Pinelands. The blazed trail, which marks its 65th anniversary this year, is easy to navigate as it passes through Wharton, Brendan T. Byrne and Bass River state forests. Shorter hikes are available along the trail, which takes its name from the phrase “back to nature.” —Tom Wilk
Frelinghuysen ArboretumMorristownPhoto: Courtesy of Morris County Park CommissionWalking in circles may not sound like a calming experience. But it is at Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morristown, where winding through the labyrinth, tucked behind the gardens, is one of my favorite places for a moment of peace. My kids also love walking the pattern, though I can’t promise they do it as tranquilly. —Julie Gordon
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We all know the best things in life are free, but do you know all the ways you can spend your time—not your money—in Jersey?
If you’re a reader, music lover, art aficionado or pop culture buff, we’ve got you covered below with these free places to mix and mingle with like-minded crowds.
(Want more ideas? We’ve got plenty—whether you’re an outdoor explorer, a panicked parent, a history buff or a bargain hunter.)
Asbury Park MuralsAsbury ParkPublic art is part of Asbury Park’s character and serves as a reminder that art—alongside music and restaurants—played a key role in the Shore town’s renaissance. Vibrant murals are accessible for all during a self-guided tour. The Wooden Walls Project, a public-art initiative started in 2015 by curator Jenn Hampton, is responsible for 40 pieces along the boardwalk and at the arcade and carousel buildings. Just north of Convention Hall, there are 13 murals at the waste-water treatment facility. Away from the waterfront, you’ll find art all around town, turning ordinary walls into masterpieces. —Jacqueline Larcara
Frank Sinatra Walking TourHobokenPhoto: Courtesy of the Hoboken Historical MuseumNo pennies from heaven needed! Grab a free map (or print one online) from the Hoboken Historical Museum and embark on the self-guided Frank Sinatra walking tour. It winds past his former homes, high school and haunts (like Lepore’s, where he reportedly adored the chocolate-covered apricots), as well as eateries that celebrate him with music and memorabilia. The tour ends at his birthplace on Monroe Street. The museum recommends allowing at least two hours for the tour. —Jennifer Finn
Arts 14C Studio ToursJersey CityIn 2018, Arts 14C joined the Jersey City scene with this nonprofit that offers residencies, exhibitions and a range of events, including a regular roster of open studios and free exhibits. On Thursdays, guests can take a facility tour of the 125,000-square-foot building, and periodic open houses invite guests to visit artists in their workspaces. The next open house is scheduled for May 9-10. —Deborah P. Carter
Silent Book ClubMonmouth CountyThere’s no membership, registration or speakers. Bring a book, show up at the designated spot, and you’ve joined the Silent Book Club of Monmouth County. The monthly meetups are held at different venues throughout the county, often in coffee shops, libraries and even distilleries, but also public spaces like parks and beaches. The Monmouth club is part of a nationwide community of readers and is one of the largest and longest-running groups, with nearly 30,000 Instagram followers. Along with reading events, the club hosts opportunities to mingle with other bibliophiles, called Side Quests, that include reading-inspired fun like Bookish Bingo and crafts for a fee. —DPC
Zimmerli Art MuseumNew BrunswickPhoto: Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc./Licensed by Artists Rights SocietyLocated on the campus of Rutgers University, this museum’s large and diverse holdings range from Renaissance paintings to works by contemporary American artists, including New Jersey sculptor/painter George Segal. Also featured: the world’s largest collection of Soviet nonconformist art, comprising stark and satirical pieces from 1956 to 1991. Current special exhibitions (through July 31) feature the works of Andy Warhol and New Jersey-born artist Allan Rohan Crite. —Ken Schlager
The Player AgencySouth OrangeIn 2023, Jesse Johnson and Billy Koester got so engrossed in board games while aboard a Caribbean cruise that they declined to venture off the ship in order to get more game play in. Their mutual commitment to games led to an epiphany: Why not open a board game shop? So when they returned home to the South Orange/Maplewood area, the pair created the Player Agency. The flagship location at Baird Community Center is packed with games like Godzilla Jenga, Monopoly: X-Men, a wide range of Dungeons & Dragons, and mahjong. The game library is free, as are the regular meetup game nights. Located inside the Baird Café, there’s food plus coffee from Paper Plane. —DPC
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred HeartNewarkPhoto: Courtesy of Archdiocese of NewarkIntricately carved figures and radiant mosaics adorn virtually every nook and surface of the Western Hemisphere’s most stunning example of French Gothic architecture. Step inside and gaze up at the 10-story-high vaulted ceiling. Look back from the main altar to view the stunning rose windows. Stroll behind the altar, where small chapels pay tribute to the immigrant groups that define Newark. The cathedral is open to visitors most daytime hours (call ahead to confirm: 973-484-4600); a guided tour is available the first Sunday of every month. —KS
Bell WorksHolmdelPhoto: Courtesy of Bell WorksAt Bell Works, you’re stepping inside a place that holds a spot in history (as the former site of Bell Labs) and the pop-culture zeitgeist (as the setting of Lumon Industries on Apple TV’s Severance). There’s also a ton to do. The self-described metroburb features public basketball courts, free starter pickleball classes, a walking trail and even work-ready spaces. If you cough up some cash, there are several dining options, shows, shops and more. —Jessica Hammer
Princeton University Art MuseumPrincetonThe impressive museum reopened last fall after having been closed for more than five years for construction of a new building to house its extensive collection, which ranges from ancient to contemporary art. The museum’s collection dates back to 1755, and it is one of the leading university art museums in the country. There’s also a lovely restaurant, Mosaic, which overlooks the picturesque campus. —Jacqueline Mroz
BAPS Swaminarayan AkshardhamRobbinsvilleBAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the remarkable Hindu temple in Robbinsville, New Jersey, draws thousands of visitors a day. Photo: Courtesy of BAPS Swaminarayan AkshardhamThe second largest Hindu temple in the world is right in Mercer County. Vast and ornate, it may seem overwhelming at first—it’s worth many visits. The grounds are incredible. The main mandir (temple) features what is reportedly the largest elliptical dome ever constructed from stone. Reserve your free spot on the website. —J. Mroz
Noyes Arts GarageAtlantic CityThis Stockton University affiliate in Atlantic City’s arts district houses galleries, artist studios, shops and the African American Heritage Museum. The galleries feature themed art and historical exhibitions, as well as selections from the permanent Noyes collection by area artists. The African American museum offers an extensive collection of art and artifacts of the Black experience. —KS
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If you loved The Sopranos and still miss Tony and the gang, the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens, is hosting a special exhibit called “Stories and Set Designs for The Sopranos,” now through May 31.
Drawing from showrunner and series creator David Chase’s personal archive, the exhibit displays scripts, notes and research materials from the show, documenting the story arcs of the series as well as the development of the characters and their trajectories.
Photo: Thanassi Karageorgiou/Courtesy of the Museum of the Moving ImageThe Sopranos, a crime drama TV series that starred New Jersey’s own James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano, was set in North Jersey and filmed at locations around the state as well as on studio sets. (Those locations were a key component of the iconic HBO series, helping create the show’s New Jersey backdrop as Tony navigated the worlds of the Mafia and Jersey suburbia.)
The exhibit also examines the design of the four principal sites where the series’ central action unfolds: Dr. Melfi’s office, the Sopranos’ home (the exterior of which is in North Caldwell), the Bada Bing strip club (Satin Dolls in Lodi) and Satriale’s Pork Store (transformed from an unoccupied shop in Kearny). These settings were created through a mix of on-location filming in New Jersey and constructed sets at Silvercup Studios in Queens. Also on display in the exhibit are concept art and design drawings that show how the look and layout of each set were created, and how the series’ narrative and visual worlds were established.
Photo: Courtesy of the Museum of the Moving Image/Thanassi KarageorgiouThe Sopranos is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential TV series of all time. It ran from 1999 to 2007 and reshaped American television, setting a new standard for long-form storytelling and character-driven drama.
Nearly 20 years after The Sopranos went off the air, fans still flock to the Soprano house in North Caldwell and drop by Holsten’s in Bloomfield to see where James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Robert Iler filmed the show’s infamous final scene.
The infamous final Sopranos scene, filmed at Holsten’s in Bloomfield. Photo: Courtesy of HBOChase, who grew up in Clifton and North Caldwell, has said the series was partly inspired by a New Jersey organized crime family that was prominent when he was growing up.
For more info, visit the museum’s website.
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New Jersey’s annual North to Shore Festival has announced its summer lineup. From June 13 to June 28, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) will host musical performances, comedy shows and more, highlighting Jersey artists and global talent alike in Newark as well as at venues in Asbury Park and Freehold.
Among this year’s Newark performers are actor/singer Janelle Monáe (2016’s Hidden Figures; her 2023 album The Age of Pleasure); rock band the Black Crowes (“She Talks to Angels”; “Remedy”); Alison Krauss & Union Station; comedian Iliza Shlesinger; Joe Bonamassa and Jesse & Joy.
Taking the stage in Asbury Park: New Brunswick-born punk band the Bouncing Souls; pop-punk band Yellowcard (“Breathing”; “Ocean Avenue”); multi-instrumentalist Kurt Vile; and Jamaican reggae group Black Uhuru.
In Freehold, guests can expect indie band the Head and the Heart; Sublime (“What I Got”; “Wrong Way”); and Grateful Dead tribute band Dark Star Orchestra.
In a statement, Governor Mikie Sherrill said, “The best way to kick off the summer season is by celebrating New Jersey’s homegrown talent and vibrant arts scene—and that’s exactly what attendees can expect at the 2026 North to Shore Festival.”
Tickets are on sale now.
“With performances by globally recognized stars and groundbreaking local artists, this year’s North to Shore Festival once again demonstrates the incredible artistic range, cultural vitality, and creative energy that define New Jersey,” NJPAC president and CEO John Schreiber said.
The post NJ’s 2026 North to Shore Festival Lineup Revealed: Janelle Monáe, Bouncing Souls, Sublime & More appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Ahead of the big feast, get your heart pumping at these runs, happening prior to and on Thanksgiving.
Hoboken’s Annual Turkey Trot 5K: Saturday, November 22 (9 am): Pier A Park, Hoboken
: Embark on a 5K or 1 mile fun run with fellow New Jersey residents the weekend before Thanksgiving festivities.
Racefaster Thanksgiving Day Run in Glen RockTrending StoryThe 50 Best Restaurants in New Jersey: Thursday, November 27 (9 am): 390 Doremus Avenue, Glen Rock: Participate in either a 5K Run or a Kids Fun Run under one mile, with those who register in advance getting a T-shirt.Mercer County Turkey Trot in West Windsor: Thursday, November 27 (8:30 am): Mercer County Park, West Windsor
: Test your skills at the 13th annual Mercer County Turkey Trot’s 5K run or take a leisurely stroll with its one-mile walk.
Fast and the Furriest 5K Turkey Trot in Ocean City: Thursday, November 27 (8:30 am): Music Pier, Ocean City
: Proceeds for this Thanksgiving Day run will benefit the Humane Society of Ocean City, a pet adoption and veterinary center celebrating its 51st anniversary.
CEA & Johanna Foods Turkey Trot in Flemington: Thursday, November 27 (8 am): Court Street Park, Flemington
: Work up a Thanksgiving dinner appetite with a 5K run or two mile walk on behalf of the CEA non-profit.
Somerville 5K Turkey Trot: Thursday, November 27 (9 am): Engine Company No. 1, Somerville
: Embark on a 5K or 1 mile fun run with fellow New Jersey residents the weekend before Thanksgiving festivities.
Run Your Giblets Off Turkey Trot in Holmdel: Thursday, November 27 (9 am): Bell Works, Holmdel
: Celebrate this turkey trot’s tenth anniversary with running and walking events in support of the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
Avalon Turkey Trot: Friday, November 28 (10 am): 30th and Avalon Avenue, Avalon
: Embark on a 5K or 1 mile fun run. Participate for the chance to earn a spot in the top 3 rankings of men, women and select age groups.
Westfield Turkey Trot 42: Saturday, November 29 (9 am): Tamaques Park, Westfield
: Celebrate the 42nd year of this post-Thanksgiving event with various mile runs, games, and soup and bagels for participants.
Thanksgiving Turkey Gobble Trot in Camden: Saturday, November 29 (7:30 am): Wiggins Waterfront Trail, Camden
: Test your legs with the chance to run a 5K, 10K, and even a half-marathon after enjoying Thanksgiving leftovers.
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A few weeks before the October 24 release of Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere—the new biopic about the making of Bruce Springsteen’s 1982 album Nebraska, starring Jeremy Allen White—the Asbury Hotel in Asbury Park opened the doors of its brand-new Boss Suite.
“It’s something we’d been wanting to do for a while,” Simon Little, the Asbury Hotel’s area director of sales and marketing, tells New Jersey Monthly—but the “impetus” came when the film’s cast and crew descended on the Jersey Shore town last winter. The Asbury Hotel “housed a lot of the production team,” Little explains, while White and writer/director Scott Cooper stayed one block over at the hotel’s sister property, The Asbury Ocean Club.
“We didn’t realize at the time how big the movie was going to be….But we knew, given Springsteen’s impact in the area, that this could be something special to celebrate,” Little says. The release would also closely follow the Born to Run album’s 50th anniversary in August, nearly one year after the E Street Band’s historic Sea Hear Now show in Asbury Park in 2024. “We just thought it was perfect timing.”
Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen in Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere. Photo: Macall Polay/20th Century StudiosSpringsteen was “very involved” on the Asbury Park sets for Deliver Me from Nowhere, Little recalls. “He was on location every single day. For the fans to see him down on the boardwalk, and in the Convention Hall, and just around the town—they were very excited. At times there were quite a few crowds gathering.”
The Asbury Hotel soon reached out to its neighbor, the Transparent Clinch Gallery—owned by longtime Springsteen photographer Danny Clinch—to gauge interest in a partnership for a branded suite.
“I said, ‘Love the idea; let’s talk about it—but I’m gonna have to clear it with Bruce, because I wouldn’t feel comfortable without that,’” Clinch tells New Jersey Monthly. “So I sent him a text….And I gotta admit, I was a little nervous about asking him. He immediately hit me back, and he was like, ‘That sounds fantastic!’ I was like, ‘Really?’ He’s like, ‘Yeah!’ I was like, ‘Oh, cool!’ And then I even asked him if he minded that they called it ‘the Boss Suite,’ and he just sent me back, like, a laughing emoji.”
So Clinch, a Toms River native who has photographed Springsteen for more than two decades, began culling images that would adorn the room.
The Boss Suite’s centerpiece is a giant photo of Springsteen’s 2024 Sea Hear Now concert in Asbury Park. Photo: David AppelThe suite’s “biggest moment” is a full-wall photo mural of Springsteen rocking out with ecstatic fans on Asbury Park’s beach at the 2024 Sea Hear Now festival—“which he himself has admitted was one of the top five Bruce Springsteen shows of all time,” says Clinch, who co-founded the festival in 2018. (While video-calling into this interview from a sunny park bench in Manhattan, he was delighted to spot a young passerby wearing a Sea Hear Now hoodie.)
One of Clinch’s favorite photos “actually doesn’t have Bruce in it,” he says: a stark shot of Springsteen’s guitar beside E Street bandmate Clarence Clemons’s saxophone, taken in the back of Asbury Park’s Convention Hall about a decade before Clemons’s death. “It’s just a nice portrait of the two of them, without them being in the photo,” Clinch says. “It means a lot to me.”
Photo: David AppelAbove the bed hangs a large black-and-white image from 2007, showing Springsteen in front of Clinch’s 1948 Pontiac. Clinch had brought the car to a rehearsal at Convention Hall, where Springsteen suggested they take some photos with it. “‘Maybe you should just drive it up on the boardwalk,’ Clinch remembers Springsteen saying. “I was like, ‘Can I do that?’ And he kind of looked at me like, ‘Eh, you’re with Bruce Springsteen. We can pretty much do anything around here.’”
When they’re not engaging in spontaneous boardwalk shoots, Clinch and Springsteen’s on-set playlists often feature a lively blend of vintage rock ‘n’ roll and R&B—from Chuck Berry and Darlene Love to Sam & Dave and James Brown. “He’s somebody that is willing to go the extra mile to get a great photo, and he participates,” Clinch says. “He’s not just standing there.”
Bruce Springsteen and Danny Clinch at a 2024 Sea Hear Now after-party at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park. Photo: Michael Ryan KravetskyOther suite amenities include a record player, a vinyl collection of Springsteen albums, and an itinerary of “Bruce’s favorite spots” nearby, says Little. At turndown—or whenever they prefer—guests can have Springsteen’s favorite late-night snack delivered: a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a cold glass of milk. The sandwich comes cut in guitar shapes. A complimentary Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out cocktail (rum, Curaçao, lime and orange juices, cinnamon, orgeat and coconut cream) is also available at the hotel’s Soundbooth bar and live music venue.
“So you can come into the room, drop your bags, put a Bruce Springsteen album on the turntable,” Little says. “And then you can go out and explore Bruce’s favorite spots, and finish off with a nice cocktail and your PB&J and milk.”
Photos: David AppelThe first 20 guests to reserve can take home a signed copy of Clinch’s book Still Moving, a monograph of his career photographing Springsteen and other musicians.
“It’s been really cool to see people reaching out that were married in Asbury Park 30 years ago on the boardwalk; they’re Bruce Springsteen fans; they want to come back and stay in the suite for their anniversary,” Little says. “We’ve had people from literally all over the country, as far as the West Coast, that have reached out.”
Rates for the Boss Suite, available for booking through at least summer 2026, start at $295. Visit the Asbury Hotel’s website or email sales@stayasburypark.com for more information.
The post Inside the Boss Suite: The Asbury Hotel’s Bruce Springsteen Experience appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Larry Goldberg knows how to pack a punch—at least metaphorically. For his latest knockout, he has returned professional boxing to Atlantic City and, for the second year, has teamed up with the Atlantic City Police Athletic League to introduce and encourage the sport for local youths.
“This quickly became my favorite event of the year,” says Goldberg, who grew up in Margate and attended Atlantic City High School. “I wanted to do my part to see the next generation thrive,” he says. “I saw there was boxing at the PAL, so I got involved.”
In collaboration with PAL, Goldberg, who owns the sports site boxinginsider.com, has spearheaded a premium amateur boxing event, called Battle of the Beach. The event will include 15 fights and is slated for November 9 at the Tropicana in Atlantic City, and is sanctioned by the USA Boxing Mid Atlantic. One hundred percent of this ticketed event benefits PAL. Goldberg donates the belts, the medals and handles the logistics.
Promoter Larry Goldberg with his father, David Goldberg, a longtime Atlantic City business owner. Photo: Stephanie Trapp of Trapp Photos“The kids go into the same room as the pros at the casino. It means so much to them,” he says, noting that he worked at the Tropicana hotel as a teen.
The amateur bouts start at 1 pm; tickets are $30 and $40 (first $40 ticketholders also receive a ticket for the 11/7 professional fight) and are available at Atlantic City PAL or at the door. Goldberg hopes to expand the event even more next year. “I’ve seen how boxing has saved many kids from bad situations,” he says.
In addition to acting as amateur facilitator for the PAL event, Goldberg is the promoter for professional bouts in Atlantic City. Goldberg’s sixth professional match-up will be held on November 7, and will consists of 10 fights, including local fighters such as hometown favorite Justin Figueroa, plus other well established fighters like Swedish rising star Otto Wallin, who Goldberg says, “will likely end up in a major fight in Saudi Arabia next year.” This pro fight will stream on DAZN, and tickets are available through Ticketmaster.
Even when Goldberg is focused on his professional fights, he brings the PAL crowd along by giving out around 100 tickets so they can come to see the kind of boxing matches they aspire to. “You can see their faces light up when they find out they are getting tickets,” he says.
Goldberg, 48, is a third generation Atlantic City business owner. His grandfather operated Boardwalk business and his father founded the Atlantic City Linen Supply Company, which services casinos and other businesses. “From a legacy standpoint [the PAL amateur boxing in Atlantic City] can outlast all of us and be a good thing for the community. The PAL has a really cool program,” Goldberg says. As for his own legacy, he says, “I want to be old man Goldberg, doing this even when I’m old.”
The post Amateur Boxing With Atlantic City PAL Joins the Big Leagues for a Bout at the Tropicana appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Start spreadin’ the news!
On Wednesday, October 22, the first-ever New Jersey Night on Broadway comes to New York City, featuring discounts on select Broadway shows and other perks.
There are 21 participating Broadway shows, including Aladdin, Chicago, Harry Potter & the Cursed Child, Moulin Rogue!, Hell’s Kitchen and & Juliet. Newark native Taye Diggs is currently starring in Moulin Rouge! as the Duke of Monroth. Hamilton native Gianna Harris is playing Juliet in & Juliet; previously, she served as the understudy in Hell’s Kitchen for Tony-winning actress Maleah Joi Moon, who grew up in Franklin Township.
After purchasing one show ticket, customers can get a second one for just $17.87—a nod to the year New Jersey became the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Customers should use the code NJNIGHT25 if prompted.
Additional deals include discounts on NJ Transit transportation and select restaurants in Manhattan and Secaucus. For NJ Transit rides, customers can use the code NJNIGHT for four one-way tickets for the price of two. The code is valid through Thursday, October 23, and the tickets will be valid for travel between 1 pm on Wednesday, October 22, and 2 am on Friday, October 24. This offer can only be accessed through NJ Transit’s mobile app.
Several Broadway productions not included in this New Jersey promotion feature stars with Jersey roots. Union City native Bobby Cannavale is currently starring in Art alongside Neil Patrick Harris and James Corden; Livingston’s Brandon Uranowitz is starring in Ragtime. Former Montclair resident Alex Winter is co-leading Waiting for Godot on Broadway with his Bill & Ted co-star Keanu Reeves. And Tenafly’s Lea Michele will lead an upcoming production of Chess.
The post Broadway Launches Inaugural New Jersey Night With Deals on Shows, Dining and Transit appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Every day in Westfield, whispers can be heard about the town’s creepiest, kookiest, most mysterious and spookiest former resident: Addams Family creator Charles Addams. There’s the mansion on Elm Street, which bears a striking resemblance to the famed Addams Family house that Addams created; the Presbyterian Church Burial Grounds, a source of inspiration for him; and remnants of Addams’ early scrawls that are on display. But every October, the town fully transforms into a celebration of the iconic cartoonist’s legacy by hosting AddamsFest.
The annual festival, started in 2018, blends art, history and Halloween throughout the month of October. Suburban homes turn into haunted houses through a town-wide decorating contest, local artists are given a spotlight in an Addams-inspired mural gallery on Central Avenue, and special events highlight the year’s unique theme. This year’s festivities will run October 8-29.
“The point of AddamsFest is to build bridges across our community and give people something to be proud of that’s uniquely their own,” says Adrian Pastore, producer of the festival. “It’s a day of joy for people to come together and celebrate everything that’s great about our town.”
This year, the festival has a “Femme Fatale” theme, focusing on the mystique of the female characters in Addams’s work. This will culminate in an art exhibition called Femme Fatale: Morticia Addams and More, running weekends from October 10-26. Original works by Addams, on loan from the Tee & Charles Addams Foundation, and pieces by local artists are being featured in the gallery show.
A town-favorite event, Charlie’s Ale Garden, sees residents pack into the Westfield Armory for live music played by local bands, paired with beer, wine, games and food trucks. Another popular event, Addams Family Fun Day, turns Quimby Street into a spectacle of giant bubbles, live music, crafts, and booths from local businesses.
One recurring attraction, Maniac Pumpkin Carvers, has been a mainstay at Addams Family Fun Day since the beginning. Founded by friends Chris Soria and Marc Evan, the company uses pumpkins as canvases, carving all sorts of designs to fit AddamsFest’s yearly theme. “A lot of people really appreciate the artwork,” Soria says. “It’s a great opportunity for us to share our craft with people.”
A Morticia-and-Gomez-themed masquerade ball, where guests get decked out as Addams Family characters, takes place on October 10 at the James Ward Mansion.
Photo: Michael ParasThe festival’s inception came about seven years ago, when creator and chairperson Dawn Mackey, then in her first days as a Westfield councilwoman, took inspiration from BlobFest, an annual festival in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, where the 1958 movie The Blob was filmed. Westfield’s adaptation, a tribute to its most famous former resident, was a no-brainer, and plans for a month-long Addams celebration soon commenced.
Baked into the festival is an appreciation for the cartoonist’s upbringing in Westfield and his lasting impact on pop culture. In 1938, he created the Addams Family characters as a cartoonist for The New Yorker, which famously spawned several movies and TV shows over the years, including the current hit Wednesday.
An interesting piece of Addams’s early art can still be seen in town. As a teenager in the 1920s, Addams graffitied a skeleton in pencil and chalk on the wall of a barn near his house. Dudley the skeleton stayed hidden for nearly a century before seeing the light, when the relic was removed from the barn in 2018 and put on display by the town.
Westfield is also home to what many have dubbed the Addams Family House, a 19th-century home on Elm Street that Addams regularly passed while walking to high school. The house’s Gothic Revival architecture helped inspire the cartoon family’s home.
The Elm Street home that inspired the Addams Family house. Photo: Michael ParasBeyond the Addams Family, the cartoonist was an accomplished artist. The festival attempts to ensure that Addams’s vast body of work is not forgotten and to capture his essence. “He’s a fascinating man,” Mackey says. He was indeed “dark and broody,” as one might imagine, but he also had “a fantastic sense of humor. He was the life of the party. He just was sort of like a source of light and joy.”
Not just a grand tribute to Addams and a celebration of art, Mackey says the festival’s most important trait is that it’s uniquely Westfield and something no other place in the world can claim.
“I like to say that AddamsFest is by the community and for the community,” Mackey says of the event. “This is cultivated. It’s curated. It’s homegrown. That’s what makes it really special.”
The post Inside AddamsFest: Westfield’s Creepy, Kooky Celebration of Charles Addams appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
These sculpture gardens integrate artwork made of stainless steel, stone, bronze and more into lush Garden State landscapes, offering outdoor galleries to stroll at your own pace.
Laurelwood Arboretum’s Sculpture TrailWayneThis 30-acre botanical jewel’s walking trail showcases 15 sculptures. Behind this visionary trail are Laurelwood volunteers and Pines Lake residents Stuart and Leslie Reiser, whose dedication fueled the project. Curated by Scott A. Broadfoot, the sculptures are available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds donated to the arboretum. Guided tours are available.
Daily, 8 am until dusk. Golf carts are available. Entrance is free; donations are accepted.
725 Pines Lake Drive West.
Clifton Arts Center and Sculpture ParkCliftonThe narrative of the Clifton Art Center and Sculpture Park began in 1994 with the vision and dedication of former mayor and councilwoman Gloria Kolodziej. Following the passing of her husband, Kolodziej embarked on civic leadership that championed the arts. Kolodziej, along with a team of supporters, transformed a 26-acre municipal parcel into an outdoor-gallery park. Clifton’s Sculpture Park, one of the few municipal art parks in the nation, has laid the groundwork for an indoor arts center as well. The 26-acre municipal complex has more than 30 sculptures.
1 to 4 pm Wednesday–Saturday. Suggested admission, $3; donations are welcome.
Clifton City Hall Complex on Well Road, at 900 Clifton Avenue.
Sculpture for LeoniaLeoniaSculpture for Leonia is an all-volunteer nonprofit dedicated to adorning the town’s streets with art. Established in 2006, this initiative has placed more than 50 sculptures, lent by the artists. The artwork, scattered across town, finds its focal point in the Erika and David Boyd Sculpture Garden, which honors the namesake artists, at the intersection of Broad Avenue and Beechwood Place. Once celebrated as an art colony, Leonia was home to renowned American painters such as Charles Chapman, Harvey Dunn and William Merritt Chase. Click here for a map of installations.
Entrance is free. Daily, 6 am-9 pm.
Erika and David Boyd Sculpture Garden, 305 Beechwood Place.
Haddonfield Outdoor Sculpture Trust (HOST)HaddonfieldIn 2012, resident Stuart Harting founded HOST, a union of public and private collaborations with the borough that furnishes the downtown area with figurative and abstract outdoor sculptures. The art is a mix of permanent installations and transient pieces, some on loan, some available for direct purchase from the artists. The evocative collection includes a graceful ballerina, a stoic postman, a poignant refugee, a monumental red heart, and a whimsical menagerie housed at the Haddonfield Children’s Sculpture Zoo. Click here for a map of a self-guided tour.
Entrance is free.
Haddonfield Children’s Sculpture Zoo, 338 Kings Highway East.
Ron Shipmon is an art collector, curator, advisor, and USPAP-certified art appraiser, with over three decades of experience.
The post Where Art Meets Nature: Stroll These Scenic NJ Sculpture Gardens appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Chartered in 1746, Princeton University is the fourth oldest college in the country, and the history of the campus is fascinating—so much so that tours here aren’t just for prospective students. “Anyone coming on one of our tours will walk away with a much deeper appreciation of why Princeton was so pivotal in the history of our country,” says Elizabeth Monroe, executive director of the Historical Society of Princeton. “As a town that has such a rich history, from the Leni Lenape to Washington marching his troops on the way to battle, we have witnessed so many pivotal events of history here.”
Historical tours of the campus are available to the public for free via the university as well as the Historical Society of Princeton for $20 per person.
Left: A peek at Rockefeller College. Right: The Dodge Memorial Gateway. Photos: John EmersonOn either tour, you’ll see Nassau Hall, which served as the original college, comprising classrooms, dorms and a library. The hall also holds significant historical importance, as it was occupied by both American and British forces during the Revolutionary War. In 1783, it temporarily hosted the Continental Congress, serving as the interim U.S. Capitol for four months.
Nassau Hall, built in 1756, served as the original college. Photo: John EmersonFor instance, two U.S. presidents attended Princeton (James Madison and Woodrow Wilson), as did two signers of the Declaration of Independence (John Witherspoon and Richard Stockton). Albert Einstein was a founding faculty member of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton. “On our tour, you’ll learn about Einstein and famous innovators and pioneers in science, and regular people as well,” says Monroe.
On the tours, visitors will learn about the striking architecture on campus, including modern structures by Frank Gehry. Princeton’s architecture is regarded as an important example of collegiate Gothic style, with its textured stone buildings and unique sculptural details. Blair Hall, which was designed in the late 1890s, influenced campus architecture across the United States.
Rockefeller College Photo: John EmersonThe Cleveland Tower, with its noteworthy bell tower, contains a carillon (a set of bells played using a keyboard) that was added to the tower in 1927 as a 35th reunion gift from the class of 1892. It’s played four days a week throughout the year, except during exams.
Visitors can also learn about Princeton’s unique eating clubs, which began in the 19th century and became the primary social hubs after Greek-letter fraternities were banned in 1855. These social and dining clubs are still a distinctive part of Princeton life.
Fall day-trippers can get a first look at the revamped Princeton University Art Museum, which reopens October 31 after having been closed for more than five years. The museum dates back to 1755 and is one of the leading university art museums in the country. Its extensive collection ranges from ancient to contemporary art.
The newly renovated Princeton University Art Museum reopens October 31 after a five-year closure. Photo: Courtesy of Princeton University Art Museum/Joseph HuA new three-level building has been constructed on the site. Its form follows its function, with a design that shapes new ways of encountering artworks. The building consists of nine interlocking pavilions and devotes 80,000 square feet to gallery display. The museum’s ground floor has two interior “artwalks,” which feature works of art including sculptures and large-scale paintings. There are also educational spaces, including two creativity labs for hands-on art making, six classrooms, an auditorium and two seminar rooms.
The museum is inaugurating the space with two special exhibitions: Princeton Collects highlights transformative works of art donated in honor of the museum’s new building, including major paintings by artists such as Mark Rothko, Joan Mitchell and Gerhard Richter. Toshiko Takaezu: Dialogues in Clay shows the ceramic works of the abstract artist and Princeton professor.
The museum also features four large-scale commissions by the artists Nick Cave, Diana Al-Hadid, Tuan Andrew Nguyen and Jane Irish, and two outdoor sculpture acquisitions by the artists Jun Kaneko and Rose B. Simpson.
If you want to enjoy the outdoors while you’re in Princeton, visit Herrontown Woods Arboretum. Open to the public every day at no cost, it features several miles of walking trails over its 142 acres. The original woods were donated by renowned mathematician Oswald Veblen of the nearby Institute for Advanced Study, and the house and cottage that he owned with his wife have also been added to the woods.
Terhune Orchards Photo: John EmersonTerhune Orchards is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and is marking the occasion with special events. In addition to the farm’s 250-year-old historic barn, there are a winery, farm store and Barn Door Café. On Saturdays and Sundays through November 2, there are fall family-fun festivals being held at the farm, including pick-your-own pumpkins and apples, a cornstalk maze and more.
For those who are more culturally minded, the McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton is a prominent performing arts center known for diverse programming, including theater, dance and musical events. This fall, I & You: The Musical runs through October 12, and a conversation with the writer David Sedaris takes place October 3. The play 300 Paintings will run in November.
There are many wonderful spots to dine in Princeton, including Agricola on Witherspoon Street, which earned a spot on New Jersey Monthly’s Top 40 list this year. This creative and popular farm-to-table restaurant, with an open kitchen and cool atmosphere, is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients from their own Great Road Farm and other local purveyors.
For ice cream, in addition to the iconic Bent Spoon, check out Halo Pub on Palmer Square, with its own locally made, premium, artisanal ice cream produced with milk from its own dairy.
The post Why Princeton University Makes for a Perfect Fall Day Trip appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Rattling down a leaf-strewn, rocky road in a golf cart, I am shuttled through a picturesque forest adjacent to the Great Gorge Golf Club in Vernon. Although the day is warm for mid-October, the dense tree canopy is quickly changing to its fall colors. My ride slows to a stop at the entrance to a clearing, cloaked by foliage, where I already see the reason for my journey, suspended above me and stretching out in all directions: TreEscape Aerial Adventure Park.
I suit up with the mandatory gear—a climbing harness, two auto-locking carabiners, safety gloves and a micro trolley for zip-lining—before venturing over to an elevated wooden platform from which all 10 of the available rope courses begin. Here, I am quickly assured of safety precautions by John Matusiewicz, the operations manager for TreEscape, who is serving as my guide for the day. “[The staff] climbs the course every single morning….You want to make sure that a tree or a branch hasn’t gone down,” he says.
John Matusiewicz, TreEscape operations manager, supervises from the ground. Photo: Steve Hockstein/HarvardStudio.comThe spiderweb of wooden contraptions and steel wiring is well hidden, not just by the trees, but by its location in rustic Sussex County. TreEscape was established in 2017 and is part of Great Gorge.
Now harnessed and ready to go, I make my way onto one of the 10 courses, which come in varying degrees of difficulty, identified by a color-coded key. (I start on a yellow course, meaning easy to medium.) Children younger than 14 are required to be supervised by an adult on the ground at all levels; at higher levels, they must be accompanied and meet a minimum standing reach. Anyone above that age is free to go solo on any course.
The courses range in height, difficulty and length, with dozens of unique rope bridges, each designed to present a different sort of test. The easiest ones, best suited for beginners and families with young children, are just a little higher off the ground than some playground equipment; the tougher courses can reach more than 150 feet in the air and feature precarious obstacles such as diagonal wooden planks and full-body rope swings. There’s a separate zip-lining course, the Black Creek Flyer, where patrons can sail through the trees from trunk to trunk, platform to platform.
TreEscape first-timer Ryland Rybau, of Brooklyn, quickly gets the hang of the course. Photo: Steve HocksteinI take my first steps onto my chosen course, secured by my two carabiners. Before departing, I am instructed how to use them: clip the first onto the line, slide it over to a red Tweezle key (a safety-locking mechanism), push the clip into the key to lock it, and then attach the second, unlocked clip onto the line. As I cautiously walk the first section, a collection of wood planks floating on air, my carabiners slide dutifully along the safety line, making certain that if I lose my footing, I won’t end up on the ground. Upon reaching the first tree platform, I unhook the unlocked carabiner, find the next Tweezle key, and lock it in place. This unlocks the other one, allowing me to secure it on the next safety line. This process repeats each time I complete a section, so that there is always one clip free for the next Tweezle and one keeping me on the line.
My course presents plenty of daunting traverses, including three metal hoops I have to climb through. The tightrope below my feet is thin enough to give me a view all the way to the forest floor, glittering with red-orange leaves and spots of light. It is an incredible squirrel’s-eye view.
At the final section, I find a zip line waiting to take me back to solid ground. I quickly hook my carabiners up, take the leap of faith, and am stopped in my tracks. I must appear to be the world’s largest Christmas ornament, twirling six feet off the ground, suspended by a climbing harness and two LockD clips. I had used the wrong gadget on my harness and gotten myself thoroughly stuck in the middle of the line. My guide graciously suits up and comes to my rescue.
A patron walks across a challenging climbing element called Jura’s Logs. Photo: Steve Hockstein/HarvardStudio.comTreEscape is one of a handful of adventure courses across New Jersey, a pastime that’s been rapidly expanding in recent years. “People are looking for other ways to get outside and do things, and it’s definitely a unique way to do that,” says Matusiewicz.
Take Sydnie Burnett of Scotch Plains, who enjoyed the challenge of TreEscape—and the workout. “That was only three courses? Wow, it felt like more,” Burnett says. Nevertheless, she and her partner, Jerald Wesley, are eager to keep going.
If you work up an appetite or want to extend your day trip, there’s plenty to do in the area near TreEscape, with a vast nexus of golf courses, resorts and luxury spas blanketing the woodland scenery from Vernon down to Hamburg.
The land on which TreEscape was built was once home to the Legends Resort & Country Club, a Playboy hotel built by Hugh Hefner in the 1970s; Great Gorge pays homage to this history with Hef’s Hut Bar & Grill, its restaurant named for the late magazine mogul. It’s the perfect spot to grab lunch, with elevated comfort food and craft drinks.
For more dining options and overnight accommodations, Mountain Creek and Crystal Springs resorts are both just 10 minutes away.
But for adventure seekers, the main draw here is the courses themselves. And the effort, as my fellow climbers and I conclude, is part of the fun. Ryland Rybau, a first-time patron from Brooklyn who visited with her father and brother, soared through her first course as though she had done it a millions times. When asked if she had been here before, she said, “No—but I’m definitely coming back!”
Connor Carlin is the editor of The Progress, a weekly publication covering the Caldwells, Essex Fells, Fairfield and Roseland.
The post The High Life: Explore TreEscape, New Jersey’s Thrilling Aerial Playground appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
It ain’t over ’til it’s over!
That’s the hope of Yogi Berra fans as they attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest game of catch ever, in honor of the baseball legend’s centennial year.
On Sunday, September 21, the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center in Little Falls will host Yogi’s Big Catch Challenge—a community-wide attempt to make history and celebrate the legendary Baseball Hall of Famer, who lived in Montclair with his family before his death in 2015 at the age of 90.
At least 973 pairs of Yogi fans are needed for the record-breaking effort, which has already sold out. The event will take place on the ballfield at Yogi Berra Stadium, located on the campus of Montclair State University, adjacent to the museum. Each pair will be required to stand ten feet apart while tossing and catching a baseball continuously for five minutes.
The event will be emceed by sports commentator Bob Costas. Former New York Yankees greats Ron Guidry, Willie Randolph and Bernie Williams will also join the celebration.
“During this special centennial year, we couldn’t think of a better way of honoring Yogi’s legacy than to bring the community together right here, outside his museum, to play the game he loved best,” says Eve Schaenen, the museum’s executive director. “As far as the world record goes, we’ve been told that it’s exceedingly hard these days to get people to show up to break them. But then again, it’s pretty hard to win ten World Series rings…and we’ve got all ten of Yogi’s rings on display in our museum. So we’re optimistic!”
The Little Falls museum will provide commemorative baseballs to all participating pairs, courtesy of Rawlings. The record also requires all players to wear baseball gloves; the museum will provide loaner mitts if needed, though fans are encouraged to bring their own.
Although the event is sold out, fans can livestream it at 1 pm at yogisbigcatch.com. They’re also encouraged to play catch on their own and post photos or videos on social media, tagging the museum (@yogiberramuseum), which will be resharing the posts.
Berra played 19 seasons in Major League Baseball, all but his final season for the New York Yankees. He later became a manager and coach. Widely regarded as one of the greatest catchers in baseball history, he was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972.
The post Yogi Berra Museum Hopes to Break World Record in Epic Game of Catch appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
When the calendar flips from August to September, people who live along the Jersey Shore delight in what they call local summer. The large crowds have dispersed, tables are available at favorite restaurants, the days are warm, the nights cool and crisp, and the ocean temperatures still in the 70s. While not every day is warm enough for leisurely relaxing in a beach chair, there is no better time to enjoy a walk along an uncrowded beach.
Here are ten more great ways to enjoy fall at the Shore.
Flock to Cape May to Go BirdingEach October, for the fall migration, birds and birders fly in from all over North America to the town that National Geographic calls one of the world’s top 10 bird-watching destinations. There can be thousands of hawks, falcons, eagles, swallows and warblers in the sky. Join the faithful at the Cape May Hawkwatch near the Cape May Lighthouse, particularly during New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Fall Festival, which runs October 16-19 and features talks, excursions and more events.
Watch Whales Migrate Off the CoastAs the water cools, humpback whales breach and flap their tails off the Jersey Shore as they head south to the Caribbean. Through November, regular whale-watch cruises are offered by Jersey Shore Whale Watch out of Belmar and by Cape May Whale Watcher and
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center
Bring the Kids to Storybook LandEgg Harbor TownshipPerhaps because it’s a throwback to an earlier era or just that Storybook Land knows how to throw a party, but families converge on this amusement park near Atlantic City for the Fall Into Fun Festival, featuring hayrides, a pumpkin patch and a maze. The one-price admission includes unlimited rides for younger children, along with storybook attractions.
Walk LBI’s Southernmost BeachHolgate, Long Beach TownshipOnce the endangered birds have nested and their offspring are born, Long Beach Island’s most pristine beach opens September 1 to beachgoers, surfers and fishermen. The Holgate section of the Edwin Forsythe Wilderness Area offers views of Atlantic City to the south and the Rutgers University Marine Field Station across the dunes beyond Little Egg Inlet.
Rock the Doo Wop SceneWildwoodRelive the Doo Wop era in Wildwood with dance parties and concerts at the Wildwood Convention Center the weekend of October 17-18. Be sure to head across the street to visit the Doo Wop Museum or explore the space age architecture of the nearby hotels built in the ’50s and ‘60s in Wildwood and Wildwood Crest.
Climb a LighthousePhoto: Donna ConnorWith the restored Barnegat Lighthouse reopened, plus regular visitor hours at the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Abescon Lighthouse and Sea Girt Lighthouse, there’s no better time than fall to visit lighthouses, particularly October 18-19 for the Lighthouse Challenge, which encourages people to visit 11 lighthouses, four lifesaving stations, and one museum in two days.
Join the Zombie WalkAsbury ParkOn October 4, the zombies converge on the Asbury Park Boardwalk for one of the country’s largest zombie events, the Asbury Park Zombie Walk. Zombie makeovers and a costume contest are featured as thousands gather to walk and moan from the Asbury Park Convention Hall to downtown Asbury Park.
Spend a Weekend with WitchesHistoric Smithville, GallowayIf more than 50 quaint shops and restaurants aren’t ample enough reasons to head to Historic Smithville, the Galloway spot livens up the fall with popular themed weekends such as Monster Bash, Oktoberfest, Witch’s Day Out and more festivals.
Celebrate Oktoberfest at Bahrs LandingHighlandsAt Bahrs Landing, where the Lobster Boss reigns supreme, diners expect fresh fish along with oysters, soft-shell crabs and clams. Yet Bahrs has long featured a stout Oktoberfest menu with potato pancakes, kielbasa and schnitzel through mid-November that can be enjoyed while watching the boats sail in Sandy Hook Bay.
Pick an Apple from a Viewpoint of the BattlefieldBattlefield Orchards, FreeholdBefore taking a stroll to see the fall foliage amidst the hills of the 1,800-acre Monmouth Battlefield State Park, stop at the nearby Battleview Orchards and pick your own apples. From late August until late October, more than a dozen varieties of apples can be plucked off the trees or purchased from the orchard’s country store along with freshly pressed apple cider.
R.C. Staab is a travel writer, book author, playwright, and wildlife and Jersey Shore enthusiast.
The post 10 Things to Do at the Jersey Shore in the Fall appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Think you can beat the buzzer? Give it a try at the American Dream mall’s Great Big Game Show, which opened earlier this year. Groups of up to 14 can spend a frenzied couple of hours playing a mashup of the greatest TV game shows. An entertaining host guides the game as guests earn bragging rights.
Two teams of up to six players each are positioned in front of buzzers on opposite sides. Players compete in short, modified versions of more than 18 games, many inspired by game-show classics like Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. There are also a Nerf-gun battle game and a Jenga-like challenge. As they compete, each team racks up points, which are displayed on a large screen.
“The last few years have shown that people are really looking for immersive in-person experiences,” says Scott Sauers, senior manager of marketing for the concept. “This checks all those boxes; it’s fun and bright and actually feels like you’re on a game show.”
Sessions cost approximately $45. Small groups can join other patrons, or you can opt for a private game. You can even bring a date and play one-on-one.
The American Dream location is the company’s 11th; Great Big Game Show locations include San Francisco, Honolulu, Las Vegas, St. Louis and, soon, New York City.
The concept was dreamed up by the people who created the Escape Game in 2014, a puzzle-based adventure where players work together to solve themed challenges in a set time.
The post Can You Beat the Buzzer at American Dream’s Game-Show Experience? appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
If you’re a kid in New Jersey, there are a heck of a lot of options for fun. From science centers to amusement parks to the boardwalks and beaches at the Jersey Shore, there’s always something exciting for families to explore in the Garden State.
Below, we present our definitive list of the 50+ things every Jersey kid must do. Our team—and the kids in our lives—have explored much of what Jersey has to offer, and the spots on our list are places we absolutely love. We hope you love them, too.
- South Mountain Reservation Fairy Trail in MillburnThe Fairy Trail’s tiny homes are designed to blend in with their natural surroundings. Photo: Bryan AnselmExploring the woods is a timeless children’s activity, but when you add fairies to the mix, the experience gets even more magical. Along the half-mile Fairy Trail, located just steps from charming downtown Millburn and within the South Mountain Reservation, kids (and adults, too) will be enchanted by the dozens of teeny, detailed houses that line the path. If you believe in the lore (as many of the young visitors do), a group of magical fairies live in these little structures, which are entirely made from natural materials (acorns, bark, shells, etc.) and include impeccable details from minuscule cereal bowls to tiny tables. Local special-education teacher and artist Therese Ojibway started the trail over a decade ago, and it is now maintained by the nonprofit South Mountain Conservancy. The conservancy occasionally asks the community to create new homes to be placed along the trail, but asks that people refrain from leaving anything there without approval. An annual Fairy Day each spring celebrates the magic of the place and gives kids a very special introduction to our natural world. —Julie Gordon197 Glen Avenue
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A Look Inside New Jersey’s Tiny Forest Movement2. Lake Hopatcong in LandingJersey’s biggest lake offers loads of water fun: boating, water skiing, tubing, windsurfing and swimming. Water-ski instruction is available, and speed boats and pleasure boats are available to rent at many of the area’s marinas. There are two public beach areas for a day by the water, and nearby Mahlon Dickerson Reservation has campsites if you want an overnight trip. Lakeside dining is on offer at several restaurants, and Lake Hopatcong is one of the only lakes in Jersey that boasts lakefront restaurants accessible by boat. We recommend the family-friendly Windlass. —Jacqueline Mroz
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Lakota Wolf Preserve in ColumbiaMost kids will never come face-to-face with a wolf in the wild. But Jersey kids can see and learn about these magnificent creatures up close at Lakota, one of the largest natural-habitat animal preserves in the northeastern United States. Located in Warren County, the preserve offers a guided wolf watch—a chance to observe four wolf packs playing and interacting in their natural environment, while a naturalist explains their eating habits and social structure. In another area, kids can see foxes, bobcats and lynx. —Julia Martin
89 Mt. Pleasant Road; 908-496-9244 -
Rutt’s Hut in CliftonIf your kids like hot dogs, and you want to give them a bit of cultural cachet while they’re chowing down, take them to this classic spot for a “ripper.” These hot dogs are deep fried so that the casings deliciously crack and split. Don’t skimp on the famed relish. The original roadside stand opened in 1928, and Babe Ruth was known to be a fan in his time. Rutt’s Hut is beloved beyond Jersey, too: It has been featured on numerous travel and food shows, including Travel Channel’s Food Paradise. —J. Mroz417 River Road; 973-779-8615
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Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash in Red BankCult-classic Clerks and its sequels are the inspiration behind Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash, a comic shop from the movies’ director, Kevin Smith, a Jersey native. Here, collectors, novices and the curious can peruse lots of quirky merch, like Clerks stickers, photos signed by all five Comic Book Men (a television spinoff from Clerks that was set in the store), magnets, mugs, hoodies, an array of signed and one-of-a-kind objects from Smith’s movies, plus a variety of other comics and books. —Deborah P. Carter65 Broad Street; 732-758-0508
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Delsea Drive-In Movie Theatre in VinelandNew Jersey’s only remaining drive-in theater is fun for all ages—and a unique experience for families used to heading to the multiplex or watching Netflix. Kids will get a kick out of taking in a double feature from the car, with the audio coming over the vehicle’s speakers, while munching on treats from the snack stand. The drive-in is open Friday through Sunday, typically from mid-March through November. —Jacqueline Larcara2203 South Delsea Drive; 856-696-0011
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Somerset Patriots in BridgewaterWant to see some professional baseball without paying major league prices and heading into New York City? The Somerset Patriots, a minor league club, is the Yankees’ Double-A affiliate, meaning you’ll get a chance to watch some top prospects (shortstop Anthony Volpe played for the Patriots before moving over to the Yankees in 2023). Whether you see future stars or not, Bridgewater’s TD Bank Ballpark offers a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for watching a ballgame with kids of any age. And if younger fans need a break from the action in between the lines, they can play at the Fun Zone down the first base line. —Gary Phillips1 Patriots Park; 908-252-0700
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The Show Place Ice Cream Parlour in Beach HavenWhat’s a sweeter Shore activity than going out for ice cream? Watching a mini Broadway show while enjoying it! At this 50-year-old Long Beach Island institution, savor sundaes named after musicals as singing and dancing “waitri”—cheerfully clad in red-and-white-striped aprons and vests—perform show tunes. You never know when you might be plucked from the audience to belt out a few bars. It’s open seven days a week in the summer—but make online reservations in advance to ensure you snag a seating. —Jennifer Finn200 Centre Street; 609-492-9477
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Tubing Down the Delaware in KingwoodEach year between Memorial Day and Labor Day, hundreds of families go tubing down the Delaware River. For some good clean fun, Big Bear Gear, an exclusive State of New Jersey tubing licensee, offers an adventure-filled day. Following a water-safety talk, embark on a laid-back five-mile river float that can last anywhere from 90 minutes to three-plus hours. Ages 8 and up. —Susan Brierly Bush
1874 River Road; 609-460-4784 -
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum in MantuaPhoto: Courtesy of Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan UniversityWhat kid doesn’t love dinosaurs? The recently opened $74 million Edelman Fossil Park & Museum (located at Rowan University, where these creatures are also studied) offers an incredible array of prehistoric experiences. One unique activity is the Quarry Dig, located in an active research quarry, where visitors can unearth actual fossils from 66 million years ago, like mossasaurs, sea turtles and marine crocodiles. There are also virtual reality experiences, where kids can roam freely through prehistoric terrain; live critter encounters; and much more. —JG
66 Million Mosasaur Way; 856-284-DINO -
Battleship New Jersey in CamdenAt 11 stories tall and nearly 300 yards long, the Battleship New Jersey offers a one-of-a-kind overnight adventure. Children aged five and up, accompanied by an adult, receive a guided tour of the ship and learn about its role in World War II, and the Korean and Vietnam wars. Families then sleep over on the ship in the real bunks used by sailors. Dinner and breakfast are included. Cost is $85 per person. —Tom Wilk62 Battleship Place; 856-966-1652
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Storybook Land in Egg Harbor TownshipWith such rides as the Cinderoller Coaster and Tick Tock Clock Drop, Storybook Land lives up to its name. Geared to children aged 10 and under, the family-run amusement park is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year and is still a delight to visit. Summer is the high season, but it remains open through December, with the Fall Into Fun Festival in October and Fantasy of Lights from mid-November through December. Park admission is $38.99 for tickets bought online and $41.99 for tickets bought at the park. —TW6415 E. Black Horse Pike; 609-646-0103
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Liberty Science Center in Jersey CityPhoto: Courtesy of Liberty Science CenterLiberty Science Center is, hands down, one of the top kid-friendly day trips in all of New Jersey, with fascinating and fun hands-on discovery for all ages. The centerpiece is the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium, the largest planetarium in the United States, which has an Elmo-guided film tour of the planets for the littlest viewers and more serious showings for older science lovers. Then there’s the pitch-black Touch Tunnel, a longtime Liberty Science Center favorite that recently reopened post-pandemic; the thrilling Infinity Tower climb; a massive model-train set; a variety of live animals; a zone specifically designed for young kids; and rotating exhibits like “Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body,” which is running through September 1. —JG
222 Jersey City Boulevard; 201-200-1000 -
The Candy Lab in HaddonfieldWhat kid doesn’t have a sweet tooth? Not only is this place the remedy, it’s a hands-on creative studio that allows kids aged 5–12 to make crafty edible treats. Think M&M-trimmed sunglasses, marshmallow-stacked snowmen and candy mosaics. There’s a roster of daily after-school classes, parent-and-me workshops, private parties, and holiday classes like one-of-a-kind gingerbread-house making, Easter-egg coloring and fashioning spooky Halloween goodies. Classes are $20 and up. —DPC
104 Walnut Street; 610-229-0663 -
Mountain Creek in Vernon TownshipIn the winter, Mountain Creek is all about skiing and snowboarding, with 167 acres of trails and lessons in both. For something different, take advantage of night skiing, or take the kids snow tubing. Then, in the warmer months (June-September), this spot turns into a high-energy water park with slides, river rapids, and the legendary Canyon Cliff Jump into the water below. There’s also the High Tide Wavepool, as well as mountain-biking trails. If you want to make your day trip into a weekend away, they offer lodging and restaurants. —J. Mroz200 Route 94; 973-827-2000
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Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant BeachLighthouse Point is one of two miniature golf courses on Jenkinson’s Boardwalk. Photo: Courtesy of Jenkinson’s BoardwalkCome for the ocean waves and stay for the rides, arcade games, miniature golf and boardwalk eats at one of the most family-friendly boardwalks down the Shore. There’s even an aquarium located right on the boards—perfect for an extra-hot or rainy day when you need an indoor escape—complete with penguins, fish, sharks and an endangered sea turtle named Ace. Arrive early for the most parking options at the best prices (or take NJ Transit right to Point Pleasant Beach). Beyond the summer, Jenkinson’s hosts year-round events, from movie and karaoke nights to trick-or-treating and a holiday light display. —Stefanie Jackowitz-Robinson
300 Ocean Avenue -
Crabbing at Cheesequake State Park in MatawanThis state park offers a prime spot for kids to learn how to crab. From the Hooks Creek Lake parking lot, walk a short way down the Perrine Road trail to the bridge on the creek, which is great for beginners. From there, families can catch blue crabs in cages or with bait and a string. Afterwards, dig for mussels along the bank, or take a dip in the lake. You don’t need a permit for basic hand lines, nets and collapsable traps. —James LaForge300 Gordon Road; 732-566-2161
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Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West OrangeThe legendary inventor had many lightbulb moments in his huge West Orange laboratory complex, where he researched the innovations that brought us the motion picture camera, improved phonographs, sound recordings, silent and sound movies, and more. The world’s first movie studio, the Black Maria, operated on the property; a replica reopened last year after a two-year renovation. Arrive early if you want to visit Glenmont, the grand Edison family home, in nearby Llewellyn Park–it’s a hot ticket. —J. Martin211 Main Street; 973-736-0550
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Wharton State Forest in HammontonWhat better way to do a digital detox than roughing it for a few nights under the stars? Wharton State Forest checks every box of the typical camping trip: tent and trailer sites, hiking, boating, fishing, birdwatching and more. The park is also home to some unique history in the form of Batsto Village, a former industrial center that predates the Revolutionary War. The village offers seasonal tours and education programs. Reserve campsites online; fees vary. —J. LaForge31 Batsto Road; 609-561-0024
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Paper Mill Playhouse in MillburnThe Little Mermaid ran at the Paper Mill Playhouse earlier this year. Photo: Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMadeThe Tony Award-winning Paper Mill Playhouse is one of New Jersey’s premier professional theaters, where five Broadway-caliber productions are staged annually. It’s a great first step for kids (starting at age four for select shows, like the upcoming Disney’s Frozen) to see large-scale productions without the stress, crowds and cost of Broadway. The staff and ushers make kids feel comfortable inside the theater, with booster seats and an extra dose of compassion. The theater also offers autism-friendly performances. —Leigh Scheps
22 Brookside Drive; 973-376-4343 -
Insectropolis in Toms RiverPhoto: Courtesy of InsectropolisIf the kiddos are into creepy-crawlies, head to Jersey’s own bug museum for activities, games and exhibits. Make like a termite and crawl through a mud tube or spy on bees in their hive. Kids can even touch a tarantula. Insectropolis has roughly a dozen specially themed exhibits to give patrons an in-depth glimpse into the world of insects. The museum is also open for camps and birthday parties. (Click here for a guide to New Jersey museums, many of which are kid-friendly.) —J. LaForge1761 Route 9; 732-349-7090
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Adventure Aquarium in CamdenPhoto: Courtesy of Kaleidoscope CoveJersey’s top aquarium provides a full day of underwater fun. Adventurous types will get a kick out of the Shark Bridge (a narrow rope bridge above a pool of sharks) and Shark Tunnel (where they swim alongside and above you). The aquarium has the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast. New this summer, the spectacular Kaleidoscope Cove groups 100-plus species by color (instead of habitat) and surrounds them with light, movement and interactive features. Two hippos (yes, really!), turtles, penguins and a touch tank round out the attractions. —JG1 Riverside Drive; 844-474-FISH
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Jets/Giants Training Camp in Florham Park, East RutherfordAttending an NFL game at MetLife Stadium is always a great way to spend a Sunday in the fall, but the Jets and Giants let you get even closer to the action during training camp each summer. Both teams hold open practices, and tickets are free. You just need to reserve them online. With the Jets practicing at their facility in Florham Park and the Giants working out at their training center adjacent to MetLife in East Rutherford, open practices are a great way for fans to interact with players, get autographs and pictures, and learn the intricacies of football. —GP
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Ocean CityStroll the boardwalk in this alcohol-free town where kid-friendly amusements take a front seat. Check out Jilly’s Arcade for retro games like Skee-Ball, pinball, air hockey and more. Along with games, this Shore gem offers water sports galore: surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, sailing, windsurfing and guided nature walks. Kids (and kids at heart) can also enjoy a round of miniature golf, or explore the Ocean City Historical Museum. —Ben Wasserman
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Pyramid Mountain in MontvilleShare the wonders of nature with the kids while they burn off steam at Pyramid Mountain National Historic Area in Morris County. The park’s three hiking areas—Bear Rock, Tripod Rock and Whale Head Rock—have fantastic stone formations called glacial erratics, plus pretty views and burbling streams. An easy three-mile round-trip hike along the blue trail brings you to Tripod Rock, an enormous boulder that balances, seemingly impossibly, on three small stones. Get there early; the lot fills up quickly. —J. Martin
472 Boonton Avenue; 973-334-3130 -
Cape May Diamonds in Cape MayScour Higbee and Sunset beaches for the quartz stones known as Cape May diamonds. These clear quartz pebbles are smooth, relatively clear, and can be polished to a rich luster, which earned them their nickname. While these opaque stones don’t garner the ardor of their distant relatives—or the price—they are fun to hunt for in the sand, and some of the local jewelers will even set your finds in necklaces, rings, bracelets and more. The Sunset Beach Gift Shop can provide tips for diamond hunting. —DPC
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Funny Farm Rescue & Sanctuary in Mays LandingAt this 25-acre farm rescue, visitors can pet and feed free-roaming emus, alpacas, donkeys, sheep, a Red Angus steer, pigs, horses, goats, cats, dogs and more creatures. The 600-plus domestic, farm and exotic animals had little hope before being rescued and given a permanent home at Funny Farm. Parking and admission are free; donations are welcomed by this charitable organization. Open 8 am-4 pm, Tuesdays and Sundays year-round. —Barbara Leap6908 Railroad Boulevard; 609-742-9410
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Pier Village Carousel in Long BranchTaking inspiration from its location at the ocean, this newly built wooden carousel features elaborate Jersey Shore-themed wooden horses and figures such as a pelicans, dolphins and a crowned green frog—which kids love to make adults ride. Unlike most carousels, which close after Labor Day, this one at kid-friendly Pier Village is open year-round, noon-5 pm. —R.C. Staab155 Ocean Avenue N.; 732-564-6703
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Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson TownshipNitro is a hypercoaster, meaning it is built for speed, height and airtime. Photo: Courtesy of Six FlagsThrill seekers will find it easy to spend a day at Six Flags Great Adventure. It is the second largest theme park in the world, with nearly 60 rides. Opened in 1974, this 160-acre park boasts 13 roller coasters, including the 230-foot high Nitro. Six Flags also features Hurricane Harbor, a 45-acre water park, and Wild Safari, an off-road adventure with live animals. —DPC
1 Six Flags Boulevard; 732-928-2000 -
Jersey Jet Ski in Jersey City, KeyportZoom into the New York Harbor from Jersey City and discover a private, buoyed-off 100-acre zone with jaw-dropping views of the Statue of Liberty. Families can join guided tours around Lady Liberty, NYC landmarks and Manhattan. Kids as young as six can ride as passengers with an adult, while teens with a driver’s permit (16 years old) or photo ID (18 years old) can ride solo. Tours also launch out of Keyport. —RCS
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Waterloo Village in StanhopeHistory comes alive at this 19th-century town, which was the halfway point on the 102-mile trip along the Morris Canal. Kids can see how people lived back then, how a mill works, how boats unloaded their goods directly into the general store built along the canal, and a pioneer farm and blacksmith shop. There’s a native woodland forest with exhibits, and activities and miles of trails to explore. —J. Martin526 Waterloo Road; 973-347-1835
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Shakespeare Theatre of NJ in Florham ParkPhoto: Brian B. CroweTheater-loving kiddos and teens will be amazed during a tour of the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s 50,000-square-foot interactive museum. At the Thomas H. Kean Theatre Factory, they’ll experience behind-the-scenes spaces like the costume shop and set-design studio. The enchanting building is also a work of art, with the prop and costume inventories displayed in an imaginative way. Guests can join the few public tours held each year or call the box office to arrange a private group tour. Also see how that behind-the-scenes magic translates to the stage at one of the Shakespeare Theatre’s kid-friendly productions. —J. Larcara3 Vreeland Road; 973-408-5600
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American Dream in East RutherfordThere’s so much to do with kids at this mega-mall (the second largest in the country) that it’s hard to know where to start. There are DreamWorks waterpark; a Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park with rides; roller skating and ice skating in the winter; and a huge Ferris wheel with climate-controlled gondolas that offer views of New York City. American Dream also has indoor surfing and skiing, as well as a Sesame Street Learn and Play for the little ones. There are plenty of restaurants for when the tykes get hungry, including Around the Clock Diner. Don’t forget that you’ll have to pay $5 to park here (the first 30 minutes are free). —J. Mroz1 American Dream Way; 833-263-7326
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Grounds For Sculpture in HamiltonPeter Woytuk’s Bull #5 and Bull #4 (2002), a gift of the Seward Johnson Atelier. Photo: David Michael Howarth PhotographyAt this 42-acre, year-round sculpture park and arboretum, children can enjoy contemporary sculptures that make art accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The park offers a blend of art and nature with more than 300 sculptures, indoor galleries, and various events and programs. There’s even a replica of Monet’s garden. The art collection includes interpretations of famous paintings as sculptures as well as unique, modern pieces that kids can touch and feel. It’s a great way to teach children about art in a hands-on way. —J. Mroz
80 Sculptors Way; 609-586-0616 -
Fairy Tale Forest in Oak RidgeFairy Tale Forest isn’t the kind of theme park with all the modern bells and whistles. This Jersey classic provides a nostalgic trip back in time for fans of the original Brothers Grimm tales. First opened in 1957, the spot reopened last summer after a years-long closure, but it’s kept its classic, kitschy feel intact. Throughout the park, a trail guides visitors to small structures, inside which fairy tales come to life with sound, characters and story. There’s a small restaurant on the grounds, plus interactive shows. —JG140 Oak Ridge Road; 973-697-5656
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Wild West City in StanhopePhoto: Courtesy of Wild West CityRediscover the Old West on the East Coast. Wild West City recreates the look of an 1880s frontier town, complete with saloon, trading post and plenty of showdowns. Families visiting the theme park can enjoy stagecoach rides, check out the frontier museum, pan for gold, go on rides, and try one of several dining options. Even after nearly 70 years, this family-run park is still a fun and immersive blast from the past. —BW
50 Lackawanna Drive; 973-347-8900 -
IKEA in ElizabethFor a bird’s-eye view of jumbo jets landing at nearby Newark Liberty International Airport, take the littles to the IKEA superstore in Elizabeth. Head to the restaurant and snag a coveted table next to the big windows. Enjoy the show as you feast on kid-friendly eats like Swedish meatballs and mac ’n’ cheese. —SBB1000 Ikea Drive; 888-888-4532
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Diggerland USA in West BerlinKids can embrace their inner construction worker at New Jersey’s one-of-a-kind construction-themed amusement and water park. Kids will enjoy rides built around the art of operating heavy machinery, from controlling a pint-sized big digger to going for a spin in the carousel-inspired Dig-A-Round to enjoying a swim at the always fun Bulldozer Bay. If you want to continue the fun past your day trip, stay overnight at Diggerland’s upcoming Family Camp Out event happening this October. —BW100 Pinedge Drive; 856-768-1110
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Hawk Watch in AlpineEvery fall, hawks migrate southward from New England, and one of the best places to spot them is State Line Lookout on the Palisades. Hawk Watch volunteers are on hand most days from 9 am to 4 pm to answer questions about the 16 species of hawks and vultures riding the thermals above the glittering Hudson far below. There are also a refreshment stand and hiking trails. Bring your binoculars and your sense of awe. —Leslie Garisto Pfaff201-768-1360
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Essex County Codey Arena in West OrangeLace up those skates, snap on that helmet, and hit the ice. Opened in 1958, Codey Arena (formerly South Mountain Arena) has an important place in New Jersey history: It’s the former practice arena for the New Jersey Devils, and it hosts the Essex County Special Olympics, among other events. For everyday fun, public skating is offered Friday-Sunday ($10-$12) with skates available for rent ($5). Various lessons and leagues are on offer, too. —SJR
560 Northfield Avenue; 973-731-3828 -
Northlandz in FlemingtonVisitors can ride a 1890s steam engine replica train at Northlandz. Photo: Courtesy of NorthlandzAll model-train collectors like big and detailed sets, but Northlandz takes it to a completely different level. As the world’s largest model railroad, Northlandz spans 52,000 square feet, combining hundreds of trains and decor along eight miles of track to recreate jaw-dropping communities and landscapes. A full-sized replica 1890s steam engine train is also available for those who wish to go for a ride on the real thing. —BW495 US-202; 908-782-4022
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Reaction Lab in Atlantic HighlandsReady to whip up elephant toothpaste or gooey slime—without turning your kitchen into a disaster zone? Reaction Lab is a kid-friendly science lab for families craving hands-on fun. This interactive science studio lets kids and parents dive into wild experiments and creative projects, all in a safe, mess-free environment. Geared toward elementary school-aged children and their families, Reaction Lab is open Wednesday through Saturday, with special hours reserved for birthday parties. —RCS
2347 NJ-36; 732-856-8163 -
Holmdel ParkThis 664-acre park is wonderful to explore in all four seasons. It offers an arboretum, fishing, ice skating, sledding, and 10 miles of trails where many schools compete in cross-country track—plus the Longstreet Farm (a living-history farm) to see the animals and experience life back in the 1890s. Kids can run around two playgrounds including the Forest Edge Playground, which was recently upgraded with new equipment, flooring and sensory-friendly musical instruments. —LS
44 Longstreet Road; 732-946-9562 -
Perkins Center for the Arts in Collingswood, MoorestownBookended between autumn’s early-childhood programs and summer arts camp are a wide range of classes for children, teens and adults in music, movement and visual arts. Little arts lovers will adore Mini Musicians, Made to Play (art making for the earliest learners), and other kids’ activities. The Perkins Conservatory of Music at both locations provides personalized and group vocal and instrumental lessons for all ages—even newborns! —BLCollingswood: 30 Irvin Avenue; 856-235-6488
Moorestown: 395 Kings Highway; 856-235-6488 -
Crystal Springs Resort in HamburgIf you really want to score some brownie points with the kiddos, take them on a weekend trip to Crystal Springs. The resort, located in picturesque Sussex County, is the only place of its kind for families in New Jersey. The property features two hotels: the more upscale Grand Cascades Lodge, with an expansive indoor/outdoor biosphere pool, and the Minerals Hotel, which has family-friendly amenities like pools, a nine-hole golf course, a rock-climbing wall and archery. Seasonal activities like “glicing” (skating on faux ice) and visits with Santa are also on offer. Note to parents: If you get time away from the little ones, explore the property’s legendary 45,000-bottle wine cellar or get a spa treatment. —JG1 Wild Turkey Way; 855-977-6473
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Twin Lights in HighlandsOn a clear day, treat your history buffs in training to a spectacular view atop the circa-1862 Twin Lights lighthouses, which stand 250 feet above Sandy Hook Bay on one of the highest points along the coast. Visit the museum loaded with lighthouse and lifesaving-station artifacts, and view films and slide shows. Take a self-guided tour of the medieval-style towers, or book an adventure led by a local historian. —SBB
2 Light House Road; 732-872-1814 -
Wheaton Arts in MillvilleSouth Jersey’s impressive glassmaking roots are celebrated at this 45-acre cultural center featuring the Museum of American Glass, a glassblowing studio, a ceramics studio, a nature trail, a store and more. Watch the fascinating glassblowing process during year-round public demonstrations, learn from gaffers in hands-on workshops, or attend the annual fall festival to get a feel for the breadth of work created here. From April through December, the center is open Thursday through Sunday. —J. Larcara1501 Glasstown Road; 856-825-6800
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Historic Smithville in GallowayTreat the kiddos to old-school fun at Historic Smithville, located minutes from Atlantic City. What started as a stagecoach stop is now a charming village with cobblestone streets, foot bridges, restaurants and 50 shops. This South Jersey gem is known for its kids’ carousel, train and boats. Family events like Oktoberfest, a costume pet parade for Halloween, car shows and festivals happen throughout the year. —SBB615 East Moss Mill Road; 609-748-8999
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Camp Creek Run in MarltonNature blooms year-round at this 50-acre preserve in Burlington County. Summer camp for kids aged 5–13, offers an immersive local-ecology education plus sports, boating, swimming, hiking, crafts and more. The rest of the year is devoted to environmental education programs for all ages. The nonprofit Camp Creek Run is “dedicated to growing curiosity and wonder while nurturing future scientists and caretakers of the natural world.” —BL199 Taunton Lake Road; 856-596-4250
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Fort Mott State Park in PennsvilleStep back in time and explore a military installation that dates to the late 1890s. Climb 28 steps at Battery Gregg, where long-range guns were deployed to protect the Delaware River from invasion, and enjoy an elevated view of the waterfront. A self-guided walking tour offers a close-up look at the concrete-reinforced fort’s interior, including the shell room and fire-control tower. —TW454 Fort Mott Road; 856-935-3218
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ZoosPhoto: iStock/DhoxaxIn New Jersey, our zoos are, first and foremost, about seeing incredible animals. To many parents’ delight, they also focus on conservation and education. Inside Paramus’s Van Saun County Park sits the Bergen County Zoo, our state’s largest, with an array of mammals (including the red wolf and mountain lion), birds and amphibians, plus summer camps and other programming. In West Orange, there’s the beloved Turtle Back Zoo, an 11,000-square-foot complex on the South Mountain Reservation featuring more than 130 animal species—including lions, giraffes and penguins—an adventure course, opportunities to feed stingrays and other creatures, and a train and a carousel. At the state’s southernmost point, the Cape May County Park and Zoo provides an opportunity to see multiple creatures up close—for free—like the American bison, giraffe, capybara, and the always-adorable red panda. It even recently topped USA Today’s top 10 list of best free attractions in the country. —BW Bergen County Zoo: 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus; 201-634-3100Turtle Back Zoo: 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange; 973-731-5800Cape May County Park & Zoo: 707 US-9 North, Cape May Court House;609-465-5271
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ArcadesPhoto: Courtesy of Silverball Retro ArcadeSometimes a Switch 2 or PlayStation 5 just can’t compete with an old-fashioned arcade. Across New Jersey, several retro arcades offer the thrill of pinball, Skee-Ball and classic games for as long as your hand-eye coordination will allow—no quarters required. At Morristown’s Game Vault, dozens of popular 1980s titles are available to play within the walls of an old bank, from Street Fighter II to Pac-Man and even Tron. Billy’s Midway in Hawthorne offers a similar vibe, featuring iconic arcade machines dating from 1933 to 2012, like Donkey Kong and Punch Out. And down on the Asbury Park boardwalk, Silverball Retro Arcade not only features 200 games to play, but regularly rotates available titles from a collection of 600—complete with detailed descriptions of each game’s history, making it as much a museum as a fun hangout. —BW Game Vault: 22 South Street, Morristown; 973-994-8500Billy’s Midway: 312 Lafayette Avenue, Hawthorne; 973-304-4530Silverball Retro Arcade: 1000 Ocean Avenue North, Asbury Park; 732-774-4994
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Toy storesPhoto: Shutterstock/FamVeldNo matter the era, kids love toy stores, and they aren’t going out of style anytime soon. Tons of Toys has four locations across North Jersey, with everything from plushies to Lego to board games, and no shortage of fun.
Shop action figures and vintage collectibles at YesterToys in Chatham, where nostalgia is the name of the game.
Inside the 3,000-square-foot House of Fun in Barrington, toys line the walls from floor to ceiling. Browse figurines, trading cards, T-shirts, DVDs and VHS tapes, and even arcade machines.
The Haymarket in Ship Bottom was founded half a century ago by kids-at-heart owners Susan and John Hay. They boast a high-quality and sophisticated collection, featuring everything from art sets to beach toys. —J. LaForge Tons of Toys: Madison, Bernardsville, Wyckoff, WestwoodYesterToys: 240 Main Street, Chatham; 973-507-9041House of Fun: 210 White Horse Pike, Barrington; 856-833-1199The Haymarket: 2120 Long Beach Boulevard, Ship Bottom; 609-494-7228
- Aerial ropes coursesTreEscape in Vernon Township Photo: Courtesy of Great GorgeZip on over to any of several aerial ropes courses in New Jersey for an outdoor adventure to challenge kids of all ages. Kids naturally love climbing, and these courses given them a safe way to navigate obstacles like rope bridges, swinging logs, ladders, aerial sufboards and zip lines while testing their balance, coordination and confidence.
Diggerland USA in West Berlin
This construction-themed amusement park has a ropes course within its adventure park. For an additional fee, there is a 700-foot zip line.
100 Pinedge Drive; 856-768-1110
FLG X Adventure Course in Ledgewood
This aerial course has more that 30 zip lines, making it the largest zip line course in the United States. There are a host of creative elements that include scrambling walls and an aerial surfboard. Children aged 9-11 can climb the first three courses; those 12 and up can access them all.
59 Mt. Arlington Road; 888-241-4582
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk Adventure Lookout Ropes Course in Point Pleasant Beach
There are two courses, for younger and older kids. The larger one offers a chance to walk the plank and a zip line with ocean views.
300 Ocean Avenue; 732-892-0600
TreEscape in Vernon Township
This course has 11 progressively more challenging courses, with more than 150 elements for adventurous kids as young as 4 years old. Courses can take up to four hours to complete. With six proficiency categories, there’s something for everyone.
414 Country Road 517; 862-801-7028
Treetop Adventure Course at Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange
There are junior courses here for kids at least 48” tall and six years old; parents can accompany their kids on the course. Kids over 54” tall can try the adult course. The zip line is longer than a football field.
560 Northfield Avenue; 973-731-5800
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If you’re near the Hudson River on a beautiful summer day, you may see a large sailboat glide by. Maybe there’s a school group trying their hand at steering and raising the sail. Or perhaps there are passengers just enjoying a day on the water.
That boat is the Clearwater, a unique floating classroom and cultural center.
Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, the sloop’s parent organization, was founded in 1966 by folk musician Pete Seeger and his filmmaker wife, Toshi. The river was severely polluted by toxins coming from upstate power plants. The group’s advocacy helped start the decades-long cleanup of the Hudson and helped lead to the passage of the Clean Water Act in 1972. Today, the river is cleaner, but a lot of work remains.
The sailing trips educate people on the river’s history and ecology and encourage them to care for it. The organization has inspired sailing classroom programs in other states, like Michigan, Florida and Ohio.
But it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. The group had an emergency fundraising appeal in 2024 after the pandemic disrupted sails for two years.
“It really validated our importance to the community,” executive director David Toman says. “We raised $350,000 in three weeks.”
The Clearwater sails out of New York ports and the Alpine Boat Basin in the Palisades.
To learn more, visit clearwater.org.
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The Garden State might just as well be called the Golfer State. In addition to our many renowned private country clubs, New Jersey is blessed with more than 100 daily-fee courses that provide enjoyable, affordable golf for all levels of play.
For this story, we chose 12 courses around the state that we recommend as good values worth the attention of any Garden State golfer. These are not the state’s most-challenging courses—although most evaluators would likely place Neshanic Valley and Hominy Hill among the state’s top five toughest public layouts. Still, each course has its own memorable holes, hazards and quirks—some of which we detail below.
Our even dozen includes semiprivate and resort courses as well as county-run public courses. All offer some kind of seasonal membership, which typically means reduced greens fees and earlier access to tee times. Even without a membership, it’s pretty easy to secure a tee time at most semiprivate courses, whereas some county courses provide nonmembers only a two-day booking window.
Nonmembers can always score the best rates with weekday play; some courses also offer reduced afternoon rates, senior discounts, or online discounts for bookings made in advance. (Rates vary with demand; the sample nonmember fees shown below range from the lowest prime-time weekday rates to the highest weekend prices.)
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Frank Sinatra’s Parents’ Hoboken Brownstone on Sale for $3.95MLike most recreational golfers, we played all of the courses from the middle tees; all distances are based on those middle tees unless otherwise noted. Courses are listed alphabetically. Now, let’s tee it up:
The Architects Golf Club (Warren County)The Architects pays tribute to history’s great golf-course designers, but its expansive, leafy views also attest to the lush beauty of western New Jersey. Each hole reflects the style of a famed designer, creating an assortment of challenges. The classic work of Baltusrol designer A.W. Tillinghast, for example, inspires the pinched fairway on the par-4 seventh hole. The par-3 eighth has a beastly two-tiered green in the manner of Seth Raynor. The tough 11th (à la William S. Flynn) is a dogleg-right par-5 requiring a long tee shot over a gaggle of 11 bunkers. Eight bunkers are scattered like puzzle pieces around the green on the par-3 17th, the signature of designer Stanley Thompson. Pro tip: Pick up a yardage book in the clubhouse to learn the strategy for each hole.
700 Strykers Road, Phillipsburg • Warren County (semi-private)
Rates: $65-$120, both with cart
Amenities: Driving range, full-service restaurant
Bay Course at Seaview, Seaview Dolce Hotel (Atlantic County)The Seaview Dolce Resort watches out over the Bay Course. Photo: Ken SchlagerPlay either of Seaview’s 18-hole courses and you walk in the footsteps of giants, from Hogan to Snead to Sorenstam, as well as golfing presidents and rock stars. Several holes on the Donald Ross-designed Bay Course afford views of the Atlantic City skyline across Reed’s Bay. The links-style Bay layout challenges you with deep pot bunkers, ball-gobbling berms, and small, tricky greens, such as the two-tiered finish to the par-4 sixth. The back nine features several doglegs and two long par-3s of 221 and 193 yards. The neighboring Pines Course is a woodlands layout with lots of elevation changes. The courses flank the historic Seaview Dolce, a comfortable stay-and-play resort hotel with an elegant dining room, clubby grill room, bar, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis, and other activities.
401 South New York Road, Galloway • Atlantic County (resort course)
Rates: $95-$115, both with cart
Amenities: Extensive practice area, full-service restaurant
Black Bear Golf Club, Crystal Springs Resort (Sussex County)A sprawling water hazard guards the par-3 seventh. Photo: Courtesy of Crystal Springs ResortLike its fellow Crystal Springs courses, Black Bear provides a scenic and challenging mountain golf experience. But compared to its better-known cousins, Wild Turkey and Ballyowen, Black Bear is a relative bargain—and tee times are easier to score. Mountain golf means lots of blind shots, rewarding downhill drives, and tough uphill greens. The par-5 second hole requires an accurate tee shot onto the narrow fairway. On the par-3 seventh, the kidney-shaped green wraps around a broad water hazard. On the par-3 11th, your drive must carry from an elevated tee box to an uphill green. (A sign left of the tee box warns, “This is bear country.”) The 15th fairway runs downhill, then rises dramatically toward yet another uphill green. Even the cart paths can be challenging; several have speed bumps to remind you that you’re playing on a mountainside.
138 Route 23 North, Franklin • Sussex County (resort course)
Rates: $84-$125, both with cart
Amenities: Driving range, Trackman range, full-service restaurant
Francis A. Byrne Golf Course (Essex County)An ambitious renovation in 2023 restored many of the intended features of this county-operated course, built in 1927 and originally part of the adjacent Essex County Country Club. The makeover resulted in improved tee boxes, abundant fairway bunkers, and tricky greens, such as the ninth, with its befuddling horseshoe-shaped ridge. Notable challenges include the uphill, dogleg-left par-4 fourth hole, and the downhill, par-4 eighth, with its near-impossible two-tiered green. Legend has it Grand Slam champion Bobby Jones cited the 15th—a dogleg-left par-5—as one of the toughest holes he ever played. Amen to that. The round closes with two totally revamped holes: the par-3 17th, with its steeply sloping green, and the elongated 18th, now a par-5 with two yawning fairway bunkers.
1100 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange • Essex County (public)
Rates: $60-$80, plus optional cart
Amenities: Putting green, chipping area
Galloping Hill (Union County)With a course renovation completed in 2016 (plus a spacious new clubhouse and restaurant), Galloping Hill secured its place among the most challenging and attractive county-run courses in New Jersey. Its rolling terrain means numerous steep uphill approach shots, including the par-5 closing hole. Most memorable is the madcap par-4 14th, with its two camelback humps forcing blind shots as you work your way toward the wickedly sloped green. The course is well maintained by Kemper Sports, a professional management company, but several low-lying holes on the back nine are notoriously swampy after rainy spells.
3 Golf Drive, Kenilworth • Union County (public)
Rates: $66-$70, plus optional cart
Amenities: Extensive practice area, full-service restaurant
Harbor Pines Golf Club (Atlantic County)Go long to avoid the traps flanking the deep eighth green at Harbor Pines. Photo: Courtesy of Harbor Pines/Kip Meyer PhotographyIf you like wide fairways—and who doesn’t—you’ll find a safe harbor at Harbor Pines. Grip it and rip it from the tee box, but watch out as you near the greens, which are well guarded by hungry pot bunkers that swallow all but the most accurate approach shots. Just when you think you’re almost home, you have to deal with the 170-foot-long, half-acre bunker that sprawls along the fairway as you approach the 17th green. The greens themselves are massive but tricky, with undulations, crowns and steep slopes that will put your putting skills to the test. And did we mention the 12 ponds and 17 acres of water? In 2023, the course, located about 15 miles southwest of Atlantic City, unveiled the Roost Pub & Grill, an inviting, airy space with an extensive menu and patio seating.
500 St. Andrews Drive, Egg Harbor Township • Atlantic County (semiprivate)
Rates: $98-$125, both with cart
Amenities: Extensive practice area, full-service restaurant
Hominy Hill Golf Course (Monmouth County)Designed by the famed Robert Trent Jones Sr., this county-run course may be the toughest on our list. There are 138 bunkers to contend with. Greens are large and tricky. The rough is frustratingly dense. The par-5s are notoriously challenging. But then again, the course is fairly wide open and walkable, with no significant elevations. The challenges continue all the way to the par-4 closing hole, a dogleg-right that steers toward an elevated green. Breathe easy; you made it! Pro tip: Scoring a tee time on a Monmouth County course is especially challenging. Nonresidents only get a two-day window and must pay a reservation fee of $6.
92 Mercer Road, Colts Neck • Monmouth County (public)
Rates: $67-$84, plus optional cart
Amenities: Driving range, snack bar
Mercer Oaks West Course (Mercer County)Lake Mercer bulges into the fairway in front of the 17th green. Photo: Courtesy of Mercer Oaks Golf Course/Jack KosowskyThe wide fairways, short roughs, and lush, wooded surroundings of the Mercer Oaks West Course will delight golfers of all abilities. But beware: The going gets tough as you approach the greens, which are virtually all well guarded by voracious sand traps. Keep your drive out of the fairway bunkers on the par-5 fourth hole, and you’ve got a good chance for par. On the other hand, only the longest hitters can make par on the 415-yard, par-4 sixth. You’ll need another especially long and accurate drive on the par-4 ninth to set up a second shot over water to the green. And you should do your best to stay left on the par-4 17th, where a bulge of Lake Mercer juts into the right side of the fairway. (You might spot the U.S. national crew team, headquartered at the nearby Caspersen Rowing Center in West Windsor, training on the lake.) The course is almost entirely flat and conducive to walking. The neighboring East Course is a similarly sprawling links layout.
725 Village Road West, West Windsor • Mercer County (public)
Rates: $62-$68, plus optional cart
Amenities: Driving range, full-service restaurant
Neshanic Valley Golf Course (Somerset County)Up for another challenge? Ridge, the toughest of Neshanic’s three nines, awaits with blind shots, tricky greens, and the confounding par-5 fifth hole, which requires a long, accurate drive and a second shot over a wide waste area onto a separate fairway leading into the green. After navigating Ridge, the Meadow nine is a walk in the park, but don’t let down your guard on the closing hole, a long par-5 leading back to the majestic clubhouse. The picturesque, county-operated course is public golf at its finest.
2301 South Branch Road, Neshanic Station • Somerset County (public)
Rates: $82-$97 with cart
Amenities: Driving range, snack bar, restaurant
Pinch Brook (Morris County)Now for something a little different. This executive (i.e. short) course, wedged into the busy heart of Florham Park, totals just 4,653 yards from the white tees. Given a tight footprint, the course is designed with nine par-3 holes (compared to the typical four par-3s) and only two par-5s. The holes themselves are normal distances, so the types of shots required are no different than a full-size course. The overall length of the course encourages walking; an abundance of benches is an added enticement. The round closes with three par-3s, including the knee-knocking 16th, which requires a 140-yard tee shot over water. Pro tip: If you play the blue tees, be prepared for some long par-3s, notably the 190-yard sixth.
234 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park • Morris County (public)
Rates: $58-$75, plus optional cart
Amenities: Putting green, snack bar, grill room
Preakness Valley East Course (Passaic County)George Washington never golfed at Preakness Valley, but he did sleep at the adjacent Dey Mansion during the summer and fall of 1780. The gravesites of Washington’s host, Colonel Theunis Dey, and other Dey family members are preserved in a small cemetery at the 11th hole on the easily walkable East Course. Challenges include the long par-3 fourth hole and the tricky par-4 16th, a dogleg-right requiring a long and accurate drive. The West Course is the slightly longer track; both county-operated courses are relative bargains.
209 Totowa Road, Wayne • Passaic County (public)
Rates: $52-$62, plus optional cart
Amenities: Driving range, restaurant
Rutgers University Golf Course (Middlesex County)The front nine of this woodlands course, which runs alongside the Rutgers Busch Campus, is mainly flat and easily walkable. The back nine is a different story. On the par-4 10th, you face a downhill drive and a tough uphill second shot across a deep ravine to the raised green. A layup might be academic. The ravine stays in play for the par-3 11th and par-5 12th as you navigate the course’s most devilish holes. Doglegs and ample bunkers add to the challenges throughout your round. Another bonus: The chimes in the bell tower at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology sound every half hour, reminding you of the course’s connection to New Jersey’s flagship public university.
777 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway • Middlesex County (public)
Fees: $48-$59, plus optional cart
Amenities: Driving range, restaurant
Ken Schlager is the former editor of New Jersey Monthly. He only shares his handicap with his closest friends.
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Twenty-five years ago, Marie and Steve Voorhees had a hay field and a dream. Today, visitors flock to their 25-acre farm in Skillman every weekend. What has replaced the once hay-strewn field to draw guests from far and wide? Fields of lavender and a herd of alpacas.
These two unrelated attractions have proven a boon for the couple. Now, at Hidden Spring Lavender Farm, the Voorheeses walk the property introducing guests to their woolly, fleece-bearing alpacas, the nearby fields of lavender, and their shop with a wide range of lavender-based products.
“People have no idea what they’re coming into,” Marie says. “We get a lot of city kids, and they don’t know what it’s like to pet an animal like an alpaca or walk through a field of blooming lavender. To watch their expressions is so satisfying. It just gives me pleasure.”
Photo: Arron AndrewsThough the farm now boasts roughly 5,000 lavender plants, Hidden Spring started as a blank slate. The original hay farm was complete with cattle and even a big red barn, but the hay field was far from picturesque during the off-season in the eyes of the Voorheeses. They wanted a product that was not only pleasing to the eye, but also resistant to the large deer population in the area.
In 2012, they decided to give lavender cultivation a shot, and while their expectations were low, the end results were fruitful. The perennial plant—which is often used in aromatherapy for its calming and soothing properties—quickly became the farm’s signature product. Marie got to work, and the initial 1,000 plants soon began to multiply. Fifteen varieties are now grown at the farm and harvested from mid-June to mid-July. The old barn was repurposed as a farm shop with everything lavender: oils, bouquets, soaps, home-freshening products, neck pillows, lavender-stuffed teddy bears and more.
Photo: Arron AndrewsBut something was still missing—until a furry piece of the puzzle fell into place.
When boarding horses became too labor intensive, the couple sought a new animal to give a home. With a longtime love of alpacas, Marie thought the farm’s visitors might also share this affection. “I just wanted something that would benefit the experience of coming here,” she says.
Photo: Arron AndrewsStarting with just four alpacas in 2018, the fluffy farm animals were a hit with visitors. The herd has since burgeoned to 22, with more on the way. In addition to alpaca walks, where guests can get up close and friendly with the animals, they host special events; the couple even dresses the alpacas in festive hats for holidays like Christmas. “They just put a smile on your face,” Marie says. “You can’t help it. It’s just the way they are.”
Photo: Arron AndrewsThere’s even more to these exotic animals than meets the eye; some of the alpacas are specially bred to produce award-winning fibers. The couple brought two females to compete in the Eastern Alpaca Jamboree in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, this April, where they were judged on fleece quality and presentation. The alpacas have gotten numerous first-place wins over the years. Hidden Spring’s on-site shop sells goods like blankets, socks and yarn made from alpaca fleece.
For all the feel-good fun Hidden Spring offers, running the farm hasn’t come without its challenges. The farm was formerly a wedding and events venue. With difficulties in recent years keeping up with state regulations, fees for township permits and liability insurance, the couple decided to nix those services altogether.
Predictably, the pandemic also threw a wrench in the farm’s operations. Providing mostly outdoor services, the farm was able to stay open, but saw much less traffic. This pushed Marie to think outside the box; she designed and sold thousands of face masks.
“With business, you have to continuously reinvent yourself. Every so often, you have to bump it up a notch,” she says.
Photo: Arron AndrewsThrough it all, the Voorheeses have had only a few minor price increases in more than a decade. On non-event days, Hidden Spring is free to visit, and no reservations are required. The couple also donates gift baskets and other products to organizations across New Jersey, such as the New Jersey Agricultural Society and the Woodland Wildlife Refuge in Pittstown. The owners take pride in the consistency of their products and the accessibility of the alpacas. “It’s strictly a labor of love,” Marie says.
Hidden Spring Lavender Farm, 890 Route 601, Skillman; 609-558-7034.
Want to visit a lavender farm in another town?* Pleasant Valley Lavender in Morganville is a pet-friendly spot where guests can pick their own lavender, shop and book photo sessions. Princeton Lavender in Princeton boasts alpacas and ponies, and also hosts events. At Field & Flock Lavender Farm in Woodstown, visitors can take classes and learn about the lavender-distillation process; the farm also hosts small events. And Orchard View Lavender Farm* in Port Murray hosts events and sells bath/body products and teas; check the website for information on visiting.
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If you’ve ever wondered what lies behind the tall hedges of New Jersey’s most manicured properties, you’ll have the opportunity to see for yourself this spring and summer. The Garden State boasts an abundance of well-kept, “secret” destinations whose homeowners annually unveil their jewel-box grounds to the public through the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days program, which announces specific days for members to offer garden tours. Since 1995, the nationwide initiative has welcomed guests to thousands of private gardens. Open Days participants delight in sharing their prized spaces, creative ideas and technical expertise with horticulture enthusiasts and gardening novices alike.
Among New Jersey’s most popular Open Days venues is the casually elegant Jardin de Buis, tucked away in bucolic Califon. Jardin de Buis is designed with 25 acres of formal gardens, accentuated with stunning structures decorated with one-of-a-kind European antiques. Each visit is an intimate experience suggestive of the French countryside. This year, Jardin de Buis will entertain Open Days guests on Saturday, June 14, from 10 am to 4 pm.
The structures at Jardin de Buis are home to one-of-a-kind European antiques. Photo: Courtesy of Christian TorresThe estate, which endeavors to create harmonious balance between architectural features and the natural environment, will also take part in World Topiary Days on Saturday, May 10.
“I participate in Open Days to inspire and also to demonstrate how this property is managed 100 percent organically and sustainably,” says owner Andrea Filippone, president of F2 Environmental Design. Originally an architect and builder, Filippone turned her focus to landscape design after purchasing the undeveloped parcel in 1995.
“I didn’t move to Hunterdon County to surround myself with a fence. I made a conscious decision to enjoy the menagerie of deer, fox, bear, pheasant and turkey that strolls up to my windows,” she says. “About 30 to 40 deer typically wander through the property each day, so I planted what they don’t eat. It was mostly trial and error, but it was a good challenge that limited my palette,” she says.
Visitors to Jardin de Buis are greeted by a view of the classical orangerie. Photo: Courtesy of Christian TorresFilippone, a former associate professor at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, is passionate about enhancing the health and beauty of the environment. “I teach environmental and organic practices because the design and sustainability aspect is huge for me. Jardin is lush and green, but we use no chemicals or fertilizers. Sure, there are a few weeds here and there, but I don’t overwork the property. I listen to the land and aim for a wild, natural appearance with soft edges.”
The horticulture expert frequently lectures on boxwood and landscape design to institutions such as Metro Hort, a regional horticultural organization; the Frelinghuysen Arboretum; Rutgers Master Gardeners; and garden clubs across the country. She is also president of the American Boxwood Society.
Guests enjoy touring Jardin de Buis’s greenhouse, which has a spacious planting area. Photo: Courtesy of Christian TorresOver time, Filippone has developed sections of the property to include a chicken coop, duck coop and beekeeping area. The estate is also home to an organic greenhouse. Resident floral designer T.J. McGrath regularly occupies the greenhouse and hosts sustainable floral-art workshops. Jardin relies heavily on its composting and soil-mixing area and maintains its own 5-acre boxwood nursery.
“All of our efforts are intertwined,” Filippone says. “This property enables me to make a long-standing contribution to the world by teaching about soil, sustainability and organic gardening.”
New Jersey Open Days 2025Open Days hosts agree that the best way to learn about gardens is to experience these sanctuaries in person. For a list of more participating gardens, or to purchase 2025 Open Days tickets, visit the Garden Conservancy’s website.
Anna’s Pollinator Haven in Montclair, open Sunday, June 1, from 10 am to 4 pm, is a peaceful place to watch birds, butterflies, hummingbirds and bees. “My garden is where I learned how to garden. It’s full of mistakes and happy accidents,” says the owner.
The Cottage in Montclair, an L-shaped property with gardens and a sunken side yard, will be open on Sunday, June 1, from 10 am to 4 pm. A wide, grassy path ambles lazily down a shady hillside through century-old oaks and spruces.
The Secret Garden @ 377 in East Orange is something entirely different. Also known as the Gotelli Garden, the 74-year-old formal Italianate venue is open on Sunday, June 1, from 10 am to 4 pm. This unexpected oasis sits atop a parking garage at Harrison Park Towers and is entered through the lobby.
Bird Haven Farm in Califon, the country residence of jewelry designer Janet Mavec, is open Saturday, June 14, from 10 am to 4 pm. The 25-acre parcel is home to hay meadows, fruit trees and gardens. Barns, outbuildings and a 19th-century stone house offer a breathtaking view.
Garden of Federal Twist in Stockton, open on Sunday, June 22, from noon to 6 pm, is a broad landscape garden accessed through a private woodland path and glade. Visitors are treated to multiple intersecting paths, immersive plantings and tall forest trees.
Stonewall Gardens in Boonton, open on Saturday, June 28, from 10 am to 4 pm, features fruit, vegetables, and woodland and shade gardens. The continually busy owner purchases bare root perennials, rails them in a “nursery,” and renovates and opens new gardens. “Now that I think I’m close to done, I’m anxious to share with others,” says the gardener.
Follow our home + style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
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Moviegoers at Montclair’s Clairidge theater who want a drink to go along with their popcorn now have a new menu of options: beer, wine, hard cider and canned cocktails.
The nonprofit Montclair Film, which runs the Clairidge, is selling the drinks under a newly implemented law that allows small nonprofit movie theaters in New Jersey to sell alcoholic beverages.
The menu at the Clairidge offers refreshments from New Jersey-based companies such as New Jersey Beer Co., Ironbound Hard Cider, Montclair Brewery and Opici distributors. A longtime sponsor of Montclair Film, New Jersey Beer Co. even created a special new drink: The Montclair Film Director’s Cut Blood Orange IPA, available exclusively at the Clairidge as well as across the street at Story Slams and Improv Comedy nights at Montclair Film headquarters.
“We are incredibly excited to be able to offer a unique program of beverages to our patrons at The Clairidge,” says Evelyn McGee Colbert, president of the Board of Trustees at Montclair Film. “We thank Governor Murphy for helping local non-profit movie theaters with this new law, and the Montclair Town Council for approving the license for our cinema.”
The law, signed by Governor Murphy in 2020, makes relatively inexpensive licenses available to nonprofit theaters with as few as 50 seats. Liquor licenses are a hot commodity in many New Jersey towns; in Montclair, recent licenses fetched prices of more than $1 million.
The Clairidge is a six-screen, independent art-house theater focusing on independent, documentary and international films, as well as big-studio fare. The theater hosts conversations with filmmakers, students and community organizations, and is one of the sites for the annual Montclair Film Festival every October.
“This license will enhance the entertainment experience for our patrons and will help our organization continue to grow, ensuring that the cinema is here for years to come,” says Tom Hall, artistic director at Montclair Film.
For more information and movie showtimes, visit theclairidge.org.
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Life isn’t easy for the common tern, a kind of seabird that likes to nest on Hoboken’s Pier 11. Recently, though, the threatened species has gotten a much-needed boost from the community.
The Hoboken Tern Parade, a city-wide celebration of the city’s newly named honorary bird, is being held now through June 1. Thirty local businesses and organizations, including Fiore’s House of Quality, Lepore’s Famous Chocolates and Little City Books, are displaying fanciful tern decoys created by local artists.
After June 1, the parade will be on view at the Hoboken library until June 13, on June 15 at a waterfront event, and, following that, at the Hoboken Historical Museum. Eventually they’ll be auctioned off, with proceeds going to protection efforts.
The spring celebration, which includes scavenger hunts and bird walks, is an effort to bring attention to the tern’s plight. The birds were almost wiped out during the Victorian era, when they were hunted for their feathers, used to adorn hats. With protections, their numbers bounced back, only to plummet again in recent years due to habitat loss.
Two years ago, local birding enthusiasts, led by activist and educator Jeffrey Train, discovered that the owner of the pier had hung nets to keep the terns away. Train started a conservation group, Our Tern, and when a bird got caught in the netting and died, local officials and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection got involved. The nets came down.
A tern on Hoboken’s waterfront. Photo: Courtesy of Juan MelliThe next challenge is finding the terns a new home. City officials are investigating the feasibility of building a pier where the birds can nest undisturbed. In their mission, the birders are joined by a supportive international community also fighting to preserve tern nesting sites.
Our Tern was inspired by a group in Honolulu, Hawaii that named the white tern its official bird, and a community leader from a Mexican town has reached out for advice on protecting their own local population. When citizens speak up, Train says, “there is an echo effect that sends a message that everybody can do this. And that’s really, really important.”
The live colony can be observed from early May through summer’s end on the waterfront at 12th Street.
[RELATED: Inside the Unique Rehab Center Saving NJ Birds]
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“I didn’t pick peonies. They picked me,” says Kathleen Gagan, owner and founder of Peony’s Envy display garden in Bernardsville. “The deer didn’t eat them and I didn’t kill them, so it was a perfect match.”
The garden’s playful name was born years ago at a cocktail party, when Gagan enthusiastically announced to several couples her plan to start a peony farm in her backyard. One of the guests said, “Sounds lovely—I’m sure we’ll all have peonies envy!”
Having previously lived a dynamic lifestyle working as a corporate communications consultant and linguist overseas for 15 years, Gagan was happy to settle back into bucolic Bernardsville. In 2002, she planted her first peony crop. Four years later, she began selling rootstock commercially and opened her garden to the public because she was “eager to build something that others could visit and enjoy.” Today, her property is home to one of the most extensive collections of peonies in the country.
More than 700 different cultivars thrive at Peony’s Envy. Photo: Arron AndrewsAlthough Peony’s Envy is known for its wide variety as a display farm, that’s only a small part of a much larger commercial venture centered around a bustling mail-order business. “We’re primarily a root grower, and our online catalog is open 365 days of the year, 24-7. Annually, we ship thousands of orders globally,” Gagan says. She grows 700 different cultivars, and each year her catalog showcases about 125 of them for sale. The Peony’s Envy crop is continually rotated, so the catalog offers ever-changing rootstock in white, pink, yellow, coral and red varieties.
Gagan, a nationally recognized gardening expert, appreciates the laid-back vibe of established peonies because, unlike other crops, they are easy to maintain. “Before starting my peony garden, I failed at a peach orchard because deer ate all the trees. Then I tried raising irises, with no luck,” she says. “Finally, I had success with peonies. Deer and rabbits don’t like them, and the established plants require little care. Everything you do for them comes back year after year because it’s a generous plant that gives back so much more than it takes.”
The cultivated-peony craze began in China 1,000 years ago and took root in England in the early 1800s before spreading to the United States in the early 1900s. One of the first books written for American peony gardeners was The Book of the Peony, penned in 1917 by Alice Harding of Harding Township in Morris County. Thanks to a worldwide fan base, Gagan’s library is filled with gifted first editions of peony books, including Harding’s.
Gagan’s favorite varieties of the genus Paeonia include Scarlett O’Hara, Pink Scarf and Amalia Olson. “There are thousands of peony cultivars registered with the American Peony Society. As one’s knowledge grows, there is a deeper appreciation for the abundance of varieties, along with individual flower forms and fragrances,” the horticulturist says. “With new cultivars always being introduced, it’s enough to captivate one’s interest for decades.”
Photo: Arron AndrewsGagan’s kaleidoscopic garden, laid out over the 7-acre Somerset County property, displays all four major types of peonies: woodland, tree, herbaceous and intersectional. Each variety blooms for 7 to 10 days over a six-week period.
Peony’s Envy is open every day from late April to early June. To fully enjoy the scope of the garden, some guests visit once a week. Tree peonies bloom in early May, while the herbaceous varieties bloom during late May and into early June.
“Raising this flower requires no innate talent. Anyone can do this,” says Gagan. “Once you establish the plants, even if you do nothing, your garden will be great. And if you do more than nothing, the result will be fabulous.”
The entrance fee to the private garden is $10 per person. “It’s all very passive, as guests meander through unmarked trails. Some visitors think we’re mean because we don’t allow smoking or pets. But this is simply a peaceful sanctuary to recharge and learn about peonies,” says Gagan, who writes gardening articles and lectures around the country.
Peony’s Envy is not a pick-your-own farm, but cut flowers are available for purchase. (If you prefer to pick your own blooms, visit the commercial Peony’s Envy growing location at the English family farm in Liberty Corner.) Following Mother’s Day, Peony’s Envy offers Friday-night picnics. Guests pay a $20 fee and are invited to spread a blanket and bring a picnic supper between 5:30 and 7:30 pm. “Friday night events have become a regular date night. And we’ve even witnessed a couple of wedding proposals,” says Gagan.
She admits, “I continue to do this because I haven’t failed at it yet. When people ask what I do for a living, I like saying, ‘I’m a peony farmer!’ It’s a great conversation starter.”
35 Autumn Hill Road, Bernardsville.
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Take the Lead, an original musical playing at the Paper Mill Playhouse through April 27, is a crowd-pleaser, especially for young people. At the premiere, the Millburn theater was packed with exuberant adolescents who hooted at the jokes and clapped enthusiastically at the joyful, energetic dancing, a combination of hip-hop and ballroom.
Based on the 2006 dance film of the same name starring Antonio Banderas, the musical features the work of top Broadway talent. Choreography is by Jennifer Weber (& Juliet) and Maria Torres (So You Think You Can Dance), and the cast includes former 3LW and Cheetah Girls member Adrienne Bailon-Houghton, Vincent Jamal Hooper (Hamilton, The Lion King), Savy Jackson (Bad Cinderella), Tam Mutu (Doctor Zhivago, Moulin Rouge! The Musical) and Matthew Risch (Modern Family, How to Get Away With Murder).
For the premiere, about 1,000 tickets had been offered free of charge to students at ten local high schools. According to Mark Hoebee, producing artistic director of the Paper Mill, the initiative aligns with the musical’s inspiring story about Pierre Dulaine, a professional ballroom dancer who brought dance into New York City public schools as a way to teach confidence, dignity and creativity through the arts. His program, Dancing Classrooms, has served more than 700,000 K-12 students in NYC and around the world for more than 30 years and counting.
After the show’s premiere, Dulaine himself was introduced, to great applause.
“Access to the arts and arts education is invaluable, especially for young people,” says Hoebee. “Paper Mill strives to entertain, inspire and enrich lives through theater, and welcoming local students to Take the Lead does exactly that.”
Paper Mill offers $20 student tickets; $30 under-30 tickets; and discounts for veterans and military personnel, first responders, educators, and those enrolled in state-assistance programs. Visit papermill.org for tickets and more info.
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Every other spring, designers and home-decor enthusiasts from New Jersey and New York make a pilgrimage to the Mansion in May Designer Showhouse and Gardens. This year, the popular event, which attracts more than 22,000 visitors and hundreds of volunteers, happens at Wildfair, in the heart of Chester Township. Mansion in May is the signature fundraiser for the Women’s Association for Morristown Medical Center.
Once a sprawling farm and mill, Wildfair is rich in history that dates back to 1804. In 1934, Elizabeth and Harry Bowly Hollins III of New York acquired the property and hired the Philadelphia firm of Willing, Sims & Talbutt to modify the original stone farmhouse to create a rambling retreat. In the mid-1990s, a subsequent owner retained architect Hiland Hall Turner and Eberle Builders to design and construct further additions, creating the bucolic country estate that stands today.
The elaborate design event involves 38 accomplished interior designers, 13 top landscape designers, and 650 volunteers working more than 15,000 hours. Since 1974, Mansion in May has hosted 20 venues and amassed nearly $14 million, significantly enriching the programs and infrastructure of Morristown Medical Center. Proceeds from Wildfair will support the new Proton Therapy Center at Morristown Medical Center, changing the landscape of cancer care.
“Mansion in May always attracts prestigious interior designers,” says Kathy Ross, the event’s co-chair. “We are looking forward to opening the doors to Wildfair on May 1 and revealing the exquisitely designed spaces from this year’s talented and dedicated professionals.”
Visit mansioninmay.org for tickets, which are $50 in April and $55 in May. Ticket holders are invited to visit the mansion and landscaped gardens, shop in the boutiques, and enjoy a gourmet boxed lunch on the grounds in the café. Mansion hours are 10 am to 4 pm, seven days a week throughout May. (Last entry to the mansion is at 3 pm.) On-site parking is not available. A free shuttle is provided from off-site parking at 80 West Main Street in Mendham.
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Photo: Chuck SolomonIn the classic film A River Runs Through It, Brad Pitt pursues trout with dreamlike ease, casting his line across a Montana river in an elegant, shimmering arc.
My first attempts at fly-fishing took place in a grassy field behind a Passaic County strip mall. My casts flopped to the grass in wimpy squiggles. It was hardly cinematic.
I began my fly-fishing education at Tight Lines, a fly shop in Parsippany. In addition to stocking all manner of gear, Tight Lines offers instruction and guided trips. I signed on for Fly Fishing 101, a two-hour introductory class taught mostly in the shop, amid the rows of rods, reels, pre-tied flies and assorted outdoorsy accessories.
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The Ultimate Jersey Shore Beach Guide: Best Beaches by Category & CountyThere were seven of us in the class, including a father-daughter pair. After introductions and orientation, our instructors, Erik Barton and Francis Ryan, took us to the triangle of grass behind the shop and handed out practice rods. It was a brisk and drizzly day, the sort of morning a fly fisherman might love.
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First, we learned to thread the polycarbonate line through the loops in the 9-foot-long graphite rod. Then came the basics: stand square; use your arm, not your wrist; swing the rod evenly back and forward; let the weight of the line do the work.Our first casts were unimpressive; some were laughable. But, with continued attempts and guidance from our instructors, my classmates and I began to catch on.
“It’s a never-ending process,” offered Ryan, addressing our shared frustration. “Guys who have been doing this a long time will tell you it takes 30 years to get a perfect cast. And if you’re still alive after that, it takes another 10.”
Back in the shop, we plunged into the details. There were knots to learn and a dizzying variety of flies and fish habits to understand.
New Jersey has numerous popular fly-fishing streams, including the Musconetcong, Pequest and Flat Brook rivers and the South Branch of the Raritan at Ken Lockwood Gorge. The state stocks each annually with a bounteous supply of rainbow trout. Brook and brown trout appear naturally in the waterways, although only the brook trout is native to New Jersey.
The essence of fly-fishing is to attract the trout with lightweight lures that mimic the insects and crustaceans that the fish prey on. A big part of the hobby is making your own flies. For our lesson, we used prepared flies made with synthetic or natural materials, including feathers, hair, and bits of animal skin wrapped around a small hook.
The flies have goofy names like the wooly bugger, a small lure made with turkey feathers that imitates crayfish. The hare’s ear nymph (made with rabbit fur) mimics insect larvae; it’s meant to attract trout at the bottom of a stream. Conversely, dry flies float and attract trout at the surface as they hunt for the Mayflies, caddis flies and stone flies that flit atop the water.
Schlager dons waders for his first crack at trout fishing. Photo: Chuck SolomonTen days after soaking in all this knowledge, I arrive at 7 am at the Point Mountain section of the Musconetcong to reconnect with Francis Ryan for a private lesson on the river. Ryan, 21, grew up in Denville, where he started fishing the Rockaway River with his father at age six. He still lives in Denville and has been working at Tight Lines for three years.
Ryan has brought along all the fishing gear we need for the four-hour lesson, including rubber waders. As we hike upstream on a trail alongside the river, Ryan describes how to “read the water.” Riffles are fast-running, agitated sections; runs are steadier, smoother flows; pools are deep pockets behind logs and boulders.
Schlager walks a trail along the Musconetcong River as instructor Francis Ryan reads the water. Photo: Chuck SolomonThroughout the lesson, we move from spot to spot, reading the water and hoping to stumble upon the places where the trout are biting. For starters, we wade shin deep into a gentle run. “Fish are very lazy,” Ryan says. “They like slack water.”
On the grassy field 10 days earlier, I had learned two types of casting: false casting (an overhead motion) and roll casting. Fishing on the river calls for roll casting, a sideways motion used to avoid overhead branches. With my right hand on the cork handle, I swing the rod back toward my left shoulder, then forward across the river.
My initial casts go nowhere. I’m lifting the line too quickly, Ryan explains. I slow down and let the weight of the line carry itself farther across the stream. After a few tries, my casts travel a respectable distance.
Ryan ties on a sculpzilla, a fly made of rabbit fur intended to mimic a sculpin, a bottom-dwelling bait fish. Photo: Chuck SolomonAt the end of the line, Ryan has attached two weighted nymphs about three feet apart. “I like to give the fish lots of options,” he says. “It’s like a buffet line.” He has also attached a red plastic float called a bobber or indicator. Once the line is in the water, it drifts with the river into a horseshoe shape. The goal is to keep the cast aligned with the rod, manipulating it to help the fly float in a more natural manner, a process called mending. Holding the rod in my right hand, I pull the slack back with my left hand to mend the line, a technique known as stripping.
Ryan offers a refresher on line management. Photo: Chuck SolomonAfter mending the line once or twice, I cast again. And again. And again. With no luck here, we step back on the bank and trudge upstream to try another hole. Now we’re looking for seams where fast water meets slower water. “Fish love seams,” Ryan says.
At each new hole, I continue casting, targeting the seam. Finally, the bobber disappears under the surface, indicating something is on the line. Following Ryan’s commands, I pull up on the rod and strip the line until it is taut. With luck, the hook will set in the trout’s mouth. But when the bobber stays under and the line doesn’t move, it’s clear all I’ve caught is a rock.
We repeat this process for several hours, trying different holes. “Each day is different,” Ryan says. “Each day, the fish want something different.”
I get a few bites, but fail to set the hook and haul in the fish. Ryan tells me this is not uncommon. “Trout are experts,” he assures me. “If they recognize it’s not a fly, they spit it right out.”
Schlager tries his luck again from the edge of the river. Photo: Chuck SolomonBut mostly, I’m hooking rocks. Freeing the line from the rocks often means losing a hook. Thank goodness Ryan is standing by, cheerfully pulling new flies from his plastic fly box. As the river rushes around our legs, Ryan expertly ties the flies onto the thin extension at the end of the line, known as a tippet. I’m impressed and a little deflated. Could I do this without Ryan’s assistance?
We try a swifter, deeper section of the river, wading in with our boots pointed into the current. The bottom is strewn with slippery boulders covered with slime. “Rock snot,” Ryan calls it. I walk gingerly through water up to mid-thigh, grabbing Ryan’s arm to avoid toppling into the drink. The waders are working. Amid turbulent waters, I remain bone dry. We pick a spot to cast. No luck. We trudge farther across the river and try again. Still, nothing.
Back onshore, I’m exhausted and dejected. All I’ve hauled in so far is a Y-shaped branch. Lesson time is running out, so we start downriver toward the cars. Ryan chooses a wide run for my final stand.
Noting the bugs on the surface of the water, Ryan opts for a dry fly. He ties on a chubby Chernobyl, a large white-and-purple fly made of foam. I continue with repeated casts as he calls out commands: “Recast. Don’t drop the rod too low. Big mend, up and over. Mend again. Feed it some line. Good drift.”
Then, much to my amazement, I hook one. I set the line, strip it tight, and swing the trout out of the water and into Ryan’s waiting net. It’s a rainbow, about 14 inches long, Ryan guesses. I’m relieved to see it has come off the hook by itself. I cradle the fish in my hands for a few seconds. It appears unperturbed. After a photo, I toss it back.
Finally! After hours of casting, Ryan nets his student’s first catch. Photo: Chuck SolomonMore amazement: On the very next cast, I hook a smaller fish. Ryan identifies it as a creek chub, native to these waters. Back it goes. I cast again. And within five minutes, another rainbow is in the net. Ryan hands it over so I can feel its heft. This guy seems sad, as if I had ruined its morning.
As we walk back to the cars, we encounter a rugged-looking fellow unloading gear from his pickup. “How’d you do out there?” he asks. And for the first time in my life, I have a fish story to tell.
Schlager shows off his second rainbow trout before releasing it to the river. Photo: Chuck SolomonGET HOOKEDFly casting is not difficult, but there’s plenty to learn. Tight Lines offers lessons in fly casting and fly tying at its Parsippany retail location and on various New Jersey rivers.
Tight Lines’ introductory class, Fly Fishing 101, is held in the store on specific days throughout spring and summer. The two-hour class costs $59.95. Visit tightlinesflyfishing.com for dates.
For fly-casting instruction on one of several rivers, Tight Lines charges $60 per hour. Wader rentals are $35; all other equipment is included in the hourly fee.
For further information and reservations, call 973-244-5990.
TROUT RULESNew Jersey freshwater lakes, rivers and streams are generally open for trout fishing year-round, except when stocking is taking place (this year, between March 17 and April 5). In 2025, the official spring trout season opens April 5, following three weeks of stocking. Close to 600,000 trout, raised at Pequest Trout Hatchery, are stocked each spring in New Jersey’s public waters; additional trout are stocked in the fall.
Permits are required for anyone aged 16–69. An annual permit is $22.50 for residents 16-64, and $12.50 for those 65-69. An additional trout stamp ($10.50) is required for all permit holders. Buddy discounts are available for family members.
Each year, New Jersey conducts two free fishing days, when no permit is required for freshwater angling. In 2025, those days are June 7 and October 18.
Catch-and-release regulations vary by location and season. For example, at the Point Mountain section on the Musconetcong River, the daily limit for most of the year is one trout of at least 15 inches. Additional catch and all brook trout (an indigenous species) must be released immediately.
For additional information or to apply for a permit, click here.
Ken Schlager is a lecturer at Rutgers University-New Brunswick and the former editor of New Jersey Monthly.
[RELATED: Fun Things to Do Outside in New Jersey This Spring]
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When Joseph Kuzemka held his first punk-rock flea market in Trenton in 2013, he booked 40 vendor tables and two food trucks, expecting at most 100 attendees. Over 3,000 people showed up.
This year, the weekend of April 12–13, the New Jersey Punk Rock Flea Market (formerly the Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market) will host upwards of 10,000 people per day, with 12 food trucks, at CURE Insurance Arena. Among the interesting offerings from the 500 vendors will be vintage clothing and toys, artwork, vinyl and cassettes, taxidermy, antiques, jewelry, curiosities, comics, and horror memorabilia. There will be cosplay contests, live piercings and tattooing, celebrity guests from the punk and hardcore world, and musical entertainment.
The market typically hosts events five times a year, sometimes in towns outside Trenton. It’s inspired dozens of similar punk rock markets in the United States and Canada.
To Kuzemka, it’s not surprising that the event caught fire here. There was always a strong punk and artistic culture in Trenton, he says, where he previously hosted a popular event called Art All Night. The flea market lets people buy “offbeat and different” art from the artists themselves, rather than secondhand sellers, he says.
The other reason? “A lot of New Jerseyans carry chips on their shoulders,” Kuzemka says. “That rebelliousness fits well in the rock and roll and punk rock lifestyle.”
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Set in Long Island and New York City, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a timeless tale of class, wealth and infidelity that’s been called the Great American Novel. New Jersey played a supporting role in Gatsby’s creation. Fitzgerald attended Princeton University from 1913 to 1917, where he wrote poems and prose for the Nassau Literary Magazine and lyrics for student shows presented by the Princeton Triangle Club.
“Princeton was crucial in Fitzgerald’s development as a writer,” says Maureen Corrigan, author of So We Read On: How ‘The Great Gatsby’ Came to Be and Why It Endures. Fitzgerald’s first novel, This Side of Paradise, drew inspiration from his Princeton days and established him as a literary figure, she notes.
The university will celebrate Gatsby’s centennial this spring with a series of events. They include “Living Forever: The Archive of The Great Gatsby,” an exhibit at the Firestone Library that opens April 10, and “What’s So Great About The Great Gatsby?,” a roundtable discussion on April 28 featuring Corrigan and Anne Margaret Daniel, editor of the Norton Library Edition of The Great Gatsby.
Corrigan estimates she’s read Gatsby about 100 times and remains a tireless champion of the book. “It’s the Sistine Chapel of American literature in 185 pages,” she says, quoting a former student of hers at Georgetown University, where she teaches literature. “Gatsby tells the central myth about the promise of America and simultaneously undermines it.”
Gatsby lives on at Princeton, thanks to a donation of Fitzgerald’s papers by Scottie Fitzgerald, his daughter. Some items have been digitized and can be read online, including Fitzgerald’s corrected first edition of The Great Gatsby. “Princeton is the mother lode of the Fitzgerald archives,” Corrigan says.
For a Gatsby event schedule, click here.
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More Revolutionary War battles and skirmishes (some 600) were fought in New Jersey than in any other state. Fall is the perfect time to visit these seven historic locations that reflect New Jersey’s immense role in the War for Independence. Enjoy the surrounding foliage as you walk in the footsteps of General George Washington and his tenacious Continental Army.[RELATED: The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey]
Fort Lee Historic Park & MuseumHudson Terrace, Fort LeeLocated on a cliff overlooking the George Washington Bridge, the park commemorates the site (then called Fort Constitution) where Washington gathered his troops after their retreat from Manhattan. The park includes a reconstructed Revolutionary War encampment and a visitor center with Colonial-period exhibits. (Park open 6 am-7 pm daily; visitor center 10 am-4:45 pm Wednesday-Sunday.)201-461-1776Historic New Bridge Landing1201-1209 Main Street, River EdgeOn November 20, 1776, with the British hot on his heels, Washington led his ravaged army in retreat from Fort Lee over the Hackensack River across the original bridge in this park. Had Washington not outrun his pursuers, the American Revolution might have ended there. Today, period buildings in the park are open for special events, including the Steuben House, which served as Washington’s headquarters in September 1780. (Park open dawn-dusk.)201-343-9492Morristown National Historic Park30 Washington Place, MorristownThe park’s multiple sites include the Jockey Hollow encampment (with a visitor center, hiking trails and recreated soldiers’ huts); the Ford Mansion (the preserved 18th-century home that served as Washington’s headquarters for the winter of 1779); and the neighboring Washington’s Headquarters Museum.[caption id="attachment_344071" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our October 2024 issue here. Photo: Joe Polillio/AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Monmouth Battlefield State Park16 Route 33, ManalapanThe rural landscape remains much as it was when Washington’s troops outwitted the British on June 28, 1778. Attractions include 25 miles of walking trails with wayside exhibits and a restored Colonial-era farmhouse (open limited weekends). A battle reenactment is staged the third weekend in June. (Park open 8 am-4:30 pm daily; visitor center 9 am-4 pm Wednesday-Sunday.)732-462-9616Washington Crossing State Park355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road, TitusvilleThe site of Washington’s Christmas-night crossing of the Delaware River in 1776 is a sprawling riverfront park with 13 miles of trails; picnic tables; a nature interpretive center (open weekends); and the circa-1740 Johnson Ferry House (open Thurs-Sat). The visitor center has two galleries of Revolutionary War artifacts and offers a film. (Park open 8 am-4:30 pm daily; visitor center 9 am-4 pm daily.)609-737-0623Princeton Battlefield State Park500 Mercer Road, PrincetonIn one of the Revolution’s pivotal moments, Washington rode his horse between the battle lines and rallied his troops to repel a British assault. Today, you can get a free tour of the battlefield and visit the Thomas Clarke House, a preserved structure from the period. (Park open daily, sunrise to sunset; Clarke House open 10 am-4 pm Thursday-Saturday and 1-4 pm Sunday.)609-921-0074Red Bank Battlefield100 Hessian Avenue, National ParkThe site where a small garrison of American soldiers—including a regiment of free African Americans, enslaved people and Native Americans-—defended Fort Mercer against a larger Hessian force has been preserved as a historic park on the Delaware River. The site features historic signage and tours of the Colonial-era James and Ann Whitall House. (Park open daily, sunrise to sunset; Whitall House open 11 am-3 pm Thursday-Sunday, April-October.)856-853-5120[RELATED: On Washington’s Trail: A Road Trip for the History Buff]
No one knows New Jersey like we do.* Sign up for one of our free newsletters here*. Want a print magazine mailed to you?* Purchase an issue from our online store*.The post Peep Fall Foliage at NJ’s Revolutionary-War Sites appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_344072" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Put Yourself in the Picture (Roberto Lugo, 2022, Grounds for Sculpture) is a 20-plus-foot tall, oversized riff on Philly artist Roberto Lugo's ceramic pieces. Photo: Arron Andrews[/caption]Step into the larger-than-life world of Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, where you can take a bull by the horns, nosh in a three-dimensional re-creation of Monet’s garden, or snap a selfie inside a 27-foot urn, vibrantly rendered in a patchwork of color. Here, imagination is on display, and you can’t believe your own eyes. This is Seward Johnson’s world.“He’s not only the founder,” says Lynn DeClemente Losavio, chief legacy officer at the Seward Johnson Atelier, which is in part the wellspring of the sculpture park. “He is the creative architect around the ideas that were infused into Grounds for Sculpture.” Johnson, a New Jersey native who died in 2020, was zealously dedicated to his vision for learning, teaching and, most of all, expanding art.[caption id="attachment_344071" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our October 2024 issue here. Photo: Joe Polillio/AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Initially a painter, Johnson left the two-dimensional world of painting at age 38, after his wife enrolled him in sculpting classes, embarking on a journey of artistic discovery that became a vocation, with a calling to educate and share. Grounds for Sculpture, opened in 1992 (and No. 1 on NJM's list of 52 things you must do in New Jersey), is the public outgrowth of Johnson’s passion. But behind the curtain of the stunning 42-acre park, peppered with nearly 300 sculptures set among pristine landscaping, lie two rare and remarkable workshops, where wide-ranging and challenging ideas take wing.[RELATED: The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey]
After casting his first piece—a life-size girl created in dense foam, then finished by a foundry in stainless steel—Johnson entered the work in a competition. He took home best in show and was eager for more, returning to the foundry to learn the process. “This was, like, 1969,” explains DeClemente Losavio. “The foundry owner was like, ‘No, that’s not how we do this.’” But Johnson was hooked—and undaunted. He sought out artists and craftspeople to teach him, along the way perfecting his skills and creating a community of like-minded artists.To house his new operation, in the 1980s Johnson acquired the abandoned New Jersey State Fairgrounds, with four oversized warehouses—ideal space for making sculptures that sometimes soar over 20 feet high. Johnson’s atelier became a hub for artists to learn, collaborate, teach each other and make art. “Prolific artists like Magdalena Abakanowicz and Beverly Pepper were coming in and working in the studio,” says DeClemente Losavio. “Apprentices, students and masters of the craft were all working there. It was an amazing creative space.”[caption id="attachment_344075" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Return Visit by Seward Johnson, 1991, the Seward Johnson Atelier. Photo: Arron Andrews[/caption]Inevitably, this inspired hive produced a lot of sculptures. “The artists had started putting their work in the backyard behind the building. They were pretty big pieces, so to find a place to house or display them was really difficult,” DeClemente Losavio says. During a lunchtime conversation between Johnson and a couple of other artists, the notion of turning the backyard into a showplace solidified, and the odyssey of this wonderland took shape.Today, this workshop lives on as the Seward Johnson Atelier, with a separate companion arm dedicated to new technologies, the Digital Atelier. The staff of artists, draftspeople, digital designers, fabricators, metalworkers, painters and more(many of whom multitask in these mediums), have rendered 25–30 percent of the works in the park.A tour through the atelier is wondersome with sights of various projects in different stages of completion. Beyond the swinging doors that separate the atelier’s front-office space and the workshop areas, a craftsperson is diligently hand sanding a huge block of urethane foam that is partially sculpted into what looks like the beginnings of the hull of a boat, or even a not-quite-finished arm for some humongous being. Shelves hold curious pieces like basketball-sized, neckless urethane heads with expressions that range from solemn to ghoulish as they await their next step.Around the bend from the sanding station is the mixing room, where a collection of liquidized raw tints can be blended to offer an endless spectrum of hues. “Seward’s work is designed to be outside, to be touched. You can’t use acrylic paint for that. To get the hyperrealistic finish...how do you do that?” DeClemente Losavio asks rhetorically. In a moment of creative epiphany, Johnson and his team turned to automotive paint, “because what’s more durable than that?” The automotive paint, adapted for sculptures, offers the desired weather- and fade-resistant lacquer. “The evolution of the [sculpture park’s] body of work is based on technology catching up with [Seward’s] ideas,” says DeClemente Losavio.[caption id="attachment_344077" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Nick Valenza, product lead of paint, patina and preservation, reviews the tints in the mixing room. Photo: Arron Andrews[/caption]“We can make any color an artist could ever imagine,” she asserts. For Johnson’s perhaps best-known series, “Celebrating the Familiar,” hyperrealistic figures are fashioned to look like humans and fool the eye. Creating the variations and depth of skin tones for such realism requires not just precise color mixing, but also application.Much of the paint is applied with spray guns, instruments designed for precision and detail that far exceed the potential of a rudimentary spray-paint can. The craftspeople who wield these guns are trained specialists who have earned certifications to work with these highly specialized chemicals.[caption id="attachment_344076" align="aligncenter" width="778"] The paint booth. Photo: Arron Andrews[/caption]There are a several areas for painting, but the premier spot is a 30-foot-tall paint booth—the tallest of its kind east of the Mississippi and one of a handful in the country. Outfitted with a cherry-picker-style lift, the scale of the paint booth is a draw to artists like Roberto Lugo, who painted Put Yourself in the Picture on-site.[caption id="attachment_344078" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Los Mariachis Seward Johnson, 1994, Seward Johnson Atelier, gets a fresh paint job as a staffer uses a precision spray gun to achieve a realistic, human-look finish. Photo: Arron Andrews[/caption]The studio has areas for iron- and millwork, as well as cutting-edge digital operations. The Digital Atelier, formerly the research-and-development arm of the business and once privately owned by a former atelier staffer, is now the hub for high tech creating. Johnson embraced innovation and was always eager to learn and incorporate new ways of doing things.[caption id="attachment_344074" align="aligncenter" width="778"] A metalworker makes sparks fly. Photo: Arron Andrews[/caption]Here, state-of-the-art processes, such as computerized milling, 3-D printing and digital sculpting technologies, can produce objects for projects from movie sets to video shoots and art installations. The technology can reduce months of work into weeks.[caption id="attachment_344079" align="aligncenter" width="778"] G. Frederick Morante, department coordinator at Johnson Atelier, and a sculptor with a studio on the grounds, programs the digital milling machine. Photo: Arron Andrews[/caption]The park’s permanent holdings include the work of more than 150 artists, including New Jerseyans George Segal and Willie Cole. More than 700 artists have created or commissioned work at one or both ateliers.Grounds for Sculpture is a place to “experience life and really embrace what life’s about,” DeClemente Losavio says. “Sometimes, you need to slow down and look at a piece of artwork and see what the deeper story is.”[caption id="attachment_344073" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Mask-making workshop display. Photo: Arron Andrews[/caption]Join the fun► Latex mask-making class • Wednesdays, October 4–25; 5:30–9:30 pmIn keeping with Johnson’s mission, the Seward Johnson Atelier is committed to growing and supporting art in many facets, with public workshops for budding artists and casual crafters. The four-week class takes students through the process of making molds to create wearable latex masks.►Take a private group tour behind the scenesFor more information, contact the Johnson Atelier at 609-890-7777.
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[caption id="attachment_344101" align="alignnone" width="778"] A bike-friendly bridge near Cavallo Park in Lambertville on the D&R Canal State Park towpath. Photo: Colin Miller[/caption]As the most densely populated state in the country, crisscrossed with a web of busy roads, New Jersey can be less than hospitable to bikers. One major exception is Delaware and Raritan (D&R) Canal State Park, a whopping 70 miles of protected paths along the old waterways that were used to transport goods in the 1800s.The second-most visited state park after Liberty State Park, D&R crosses five counties (Middlesex, Mercer, Burlington, Somerset and Hunterdon) and 32 towns. Its tree-shaded dirt trails, rich with wildlife and river views and free of motorized vehicles, are a biker’s paradise.[RELATED: The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey]
Cycling along the trail, one watches out for beaver, turtles, frogs and birds, including eagles, osprey and great blue herons—not cars.“Some people come to the park just to count the turtles basking in the sun,” says Vicki Chirco, resource interpretive specialist for the park, adding that more than 100 species of birds have been counted along the canal, and many make it their nesting place. “It’s a gem and a unique resource, offering bikers of all abilities a chance to cycle safely, away from traffic," she says. "People can’t believe they’re in New Jersey.”[caption id="attachment_344104" align="alignnone" width="778"] Bikers cross over the Swan Creek in Lambertville on the D&R Canal State Park towpath. Photo: Colin Miller[/caption]Nature isn’t the only draw to the linear park, the two main branches of which run from Frenchtown to Trenton and from Trenton to New Brunswick. The area is rich in history, with much of the original 19th-century canal system intact, including locks, spillways, stone-arched culverts and bridges, and clapboard lock tenders’ houses. Quaint towns with shops, art galleries, restaurants, flea markets, and historic homes and landmarks, such as Washington Crossing State Park, provide charming rest stops.“You get a very rural, forested feel, but then you hit these really beautiful, iconic river towns that offer you different places to stop off, get an ice cream or a bite to eat,” says Stephanie Fox, also a park resource interpretive specialist.Leaf-peeping perchThe spacious trails along the canal are used year-round for walking, biking, jogging, horseback riding and cross-country skiing, yet are generally uncrowded. (There are also boat launches along the path.) Autumn brings prime leaf peeping. Walk your bike across any of the three pedestrian bridges spanning the Delaware in Frenchtown, Lambertville and Lumberville (designed by the Roeblings, of Brooklyn and Golden Gate Bridge fame) for outstanding views of the foliage on both the Pennsylvania and New Jersey sides.[caption id="attachment_344071" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our October 2024 issue here. Photo: Joe Polillio/AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]The bridges also make it possible to bike a circular route and end up at your departure point without having to retrace your steps, since the Pennsylvania side also has a towpath trail along the Delaware. If you want to take a 14-mile ride, for example, you could start in Lambertville and bike north 7 miles to Bull’s Island Recreational Area. From there, walk your bike across the Lumberville Bridge and ride south until you hit New Hope, Pennsylvania, another charming river town, before crossing the Lambertville bridge back to your starting point.At Bull’s Island, a stone plaque honors the mostly Irish immigrants and locals who, for a dollar a day, dug the canal in the 1830s to ship coal, farm products and other goods to New York City and Philadelphia from New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Originally, canal boats were towed by mules on a path parallel to the waterway, now the D&R Trail. Once shipping was supplanted by freight trains in the early 1900s, the canal was abandoned, but 50 years ago this year, the state began work to preserve it for recreation and as a public water supply.Visit dandrcanal.org for a schedule of events and rides through year-end to celebrate the 50th anniversary.In Lambertville, you can view a lock with a plaque that explains how it worked. There were originally 14 locks along the shipping routes that helped vessels navigate elevation changes. Several of the clapboard homes of the bridge and lock masters still stand in Griggstown, Port Mercer and Blackwell’s Mills. Lock masters had to open and close the locks so ships wouldn’t get stuck; bridge masters operated swing-arms to let the vessels through.[caption id="attachment_344102" align="alignnone" width="778"] Cyclists travel the towpath along the Delaware River between Frenchtown and Lambertville. Photo: Colin Miller[/caption]Mapping it outTo plan your trip, decide on your destination and desired mileage. The D&R Canal State Park website has a mileage chart with distances between each town. It also recommends loop trails of various lengths and lists the park’s free parking lots. (In nice weather they can fill up, so arrive early.)Bike rentals are available in the bigger towns, such as Frenchtown and Lambertville. For more sights and things to do, visit the website for the Delaware River Scenic Byway.Keep in mind that the towpath is not for racers or road bikes, says Chirco. The surface is not paved, so hybrid or all-road bikes are best. Even then, keep your speed moderate. “You are sharing the road with walkers, runners, and families with small kids and dogs on leashes. This is not a throughway,” she says.Pass on the left after ringing your bell (it’s required by law in New Jersey to have a bike bell) and calling out, “Passing on your left!”[RELATED: New Jersey’s Best Biking Trails: A Passionate Cyclist Shares His Secrets]
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Perhaps it’s the full moon. Or the unusually temperate climate for late October, requiring only a light jacket for an evening stroll. Or maybe it’s the wish to kick off Halloween weekend with a spine-tingling scare. Whatever their motives, more than 60 people have arrived at the Smith Cadbury Mansion in Moorestown on a Friday night last autumn to participate in Moorestown Historical Society’s annual ghost tour.So many have shown up that the crowd has to be divided into two groups, one for families with kids, which vows to be a bit less scary, and a second that promises no holds barred. I opt for the latter, expecting ghouls jumping out of dark alleys, spirit sightings, and stories of murder and mayhem.But over the next 90 minutes, as this tour winds its way through downtown Moorestown, I see that I’m in for a lot more. From the costumed characters representing different eras to the tales shared by our guide, I get a crash course in the history of this Quaker town that played a role in the Revolutionary War and has been visited by everyone from Benjamin Franklin to naturalist John Audubon to women’s suffragist Alice Paul.“This is not going to be your typical haunted hayride,” says Gary Ell, a historical society trustee and lead guide. “You’re going to learn 400 years of actual history, tales of heroes and rescuers from the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights era. And it’s going to blow your mind.”[caption id="attachment_344071" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our October 2024 issue here. Photo: Joe Polillio/AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Held over three weekends in October, the Moorestown ghost tour reflects an evolving approach to this annual fall institution, adding authentic details and interesting insights to the otherwise sometimes hokey seasonal activity. Moorestown isn’t alone in creating an added-value element to its ghost hunting.[RELATED: The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey]
Recognizing its locale as “certified brainiac territory,” the Princeton Tour Company takes a scientific approach to the ghost tours it leads through the town that is home to New Jersey’s only Ivy League-university. Armed with dowsing rods and therma-meters, the ghost-hunter guides lead guests through graveyards, campus passageways and battlegrounds, seeking evidence of spectral beings who continue to haunt the town.“We go to sites where there have been unexplained experiences and try to track down unsettled spirits,” says Mimi Omiecinski, owner of Princeton Tour Company, which, throughout the rest of the year, runs trolley tours, pub crawls and a tour of sites where movies were filmed in Princeton.The ghost tours are held the last three weekends in October and draw as many as 150 participants on a given night, says Omiencinski, who notes that some of the uncensored ghost stories can get a little graphic. With such notable people as Grover Cleveland, Aaron Burr Jr. and Paul Tulane buried in Princeton, you’re bound to learn a bit of Princeton’s history as well.Focusing on 20th-century history, Asbury Park’s ghost tours feature graphic descriptions of murdered children, a devastating fire at the local newspaper’s office, and echoes of a blood-curdling scream from a washed-up corpse. Kathy Kelly, the owner of the Paranormal Book Shop and Museum, offers curated ghost walks through Asbury Park’s downtown and along its boardwalk from May to November.After opening her bookstore and museum on Cookman Avenue in 2008, Kelly went back to school to get a master’s degree in history to research the stories that she tells.“When I first started these ghost walks, I had the stories, but accessing the areas where they occurred was a little dangerous,” says Kelly, referring to Asbury Park’s downturn in the not-so-distant past. Kelly—who also conducts seances at her museum and has been brought in to conduct numerous paranormal investigations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania—credits her tours as contributing to the seaside town's renaissance.“We have many people who spent their childhood summers here, and they come back now to take the tours with a profound sense of nostalgia,” says Kelly.For the ghost tours, Kelly has fleshed out close to 20 stories, which a handful of hired guides rotate through on a given night. On the downtown tour my daughter and I took in May, our guide, Johnny Peterson (who is also a performance artist), told us about the 1917 fire that swept through the Asbury Park Press building, where the sounds of the old printing press can still be heard on some nights.We also learned about a banker’s son who got caught in the bank vault and died, a forlorn Native American looking for his long-lost wife, and the frequent sighting of a man in a blue suit occupying the last bar seat at Barrio Costero. And then there is Asbury Park’s most famous death: 10-year-old Marie Smith, whose headline-grabbing 1910 murder has been the subject of numerous books, podcasts and films.Back in Moorestown, the ghost stories are more benign, from the apparition of Father Damian, often sighted in a window of the parish house of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church on Main Street, to the silent women playing croquet in the moonlight, reenacting the daughters of a 19th-century embalmer.The stories get a bit more colorful as the tour continues, passing through a graveyard, a former brothel, and a still-intact but long-abandoned jail cell.In a whisper, Ell provides sketchy accounts of a dead sex worker and a man stabbed in the head. When pressed for more specifics, the historian admits that the local police “told us to take out some of the ghost stories,” like the one about a long-dead policeman still seen patrolling the streets by some. Nevertheless, the audience remains riveted.“I always feel like ghosts are of someone who was murdered, or had an unsettled death,” says Ell. “That’s why they are still here with us, and why people want to connect to them.”Moorestown Ghost ToursHeld on Fridays and Saturdays the last three weekends in October. Run by the Historical Society of Moorestown, tickets are $15 per person.Princeton Ghost ToursHeld on Fridays and Saturdays Oct. 11–26. Run by Princeton Tour Company, tickets are $3 per person.Asbury Park Ghost ToursHeld Friday–Saturday from May to November. Run by Paranormal Books and Curiosities/The Paranormal Museum, tickets are $15-$20 per person.[RELATED: Visit These New Jersey Cemeteries For a Fascinating Walk Through History]
Jill P. Capuzzo is a food and features writer for New Jersey Monthly, a contracted freelancer for the New York Times, and a contributing reporter to the Philadelphia Inquirer and other publications.
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The Cape May Bubble theory claims that when the rest of New Jersey is experiencing cold or rain, Cape May is warmer and sunnier. It’s easy to write the idea off as regional folklore, but there’s something to be said for a slightly milder climate at Exit 0.We visited Beach Plum Farm during an extended fall nor’easter, and, while the rest of the Jersey Shore was wild, wet and windy, the farm cottages nestled into the spruce, ferns and cedar trees felt calm and protected.Beach Plum is a working farm that offers farm-to-table dinners, a produce stand and market, farm tours, six cottages where guests can stay, and an event space in West Cape May, less than two miles from the bustle of the beachfront and downtown. A farm, and even a wooded neighborhood of this kind, is anomalous in New Jersey’s overbuilt Shore region, preserved by Cape May’s foresight in protecting its historic charm where other towns bulldoze it.[RELATED: The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey]
There’s a fantastic balancing act being accomplished between utopia and reality on these 62 acres, an equilibrium between agritourism ideals and agricultural efficiency. As you walk the grounds, past fairy-tale cottages, happy farmers in overalls, edible flowers, and cute piglets tussling over a piece of fruit, there’s a hint of organic illusion—a farm-themed boutique property with hayrides and fresh herb cocktails served in the garden where they were grown.[caption id="attachment_344121" align="alignnone" width="778"] A scenic ride through Beach Plum's property. Photo: Courtesy of Beach Plum Farm[/caption]But there’s also a level of authenticity that’s not cloaked from the public. The strawberry flies induce insanity after a summer rain. The turkey pen smells like cultivated hell. And if you come back to visit in a few months, those playful piglets will be between lettuce and tomato on artisanal bread.And for all of its storybook charm, Beach Plum can actually feed a community.Some of Cape May’s recent success can be attributed to Curtis Bashaw, a man of vision and ambitious projects, one of which is Beach Plum. (Bashaw also threw his hat into the political ring and is running for U.S. Senate in November.) He and his husband, Will Riccio, bought the overgrown land in 2007, and it now produces 100 types of fruits, vegetables, herbs and animals, raised in fields and greenhouses to be sold, prepared on-site, or delivered to the kitchens of his Cape Resort restaurants.Christina Albert, Beach Plum’s director of agriculture, explains that Beach Plum has found success in regenerative practices not common in today’s agribusiness. “The soil in South Jersey is very sandy,” she notes during our tour. “It’s really hard to keep nutrients near the crops. But it’s also easy land to till.”[caption id="attachment_344120" align="alignnone" width="778"] Visit the pigs at Beach Plum in the fall. Photo: Courtesy of Beach Plum Farm[/caption]She tells the story of one field that, early on, was frustratingly unproductive. “We had tried beets, Swiss chard and lettuce, but nothing would grow. That land was telling us it needed to rest,” she explains. So the staff experimented with a cover crop for one growing season, then let the chickens do their thing, roaming, fertilizing along the way, and scratching at the earth for the second year. The third year, it produced 11,000 pounds of tomatoes.“We’ve failed at times, but we learned a lot, because Curtis isn’t afraid to take risks, and he doesn’t need every field to produce every season,” explains Albert.Eggplant is raised in one field. Hens greet you from the coop. There’s a walking trail through a wooded wetland. Beans, mustard greens and arugula thrive in a greenhouse. Beekeepers harvest honey off in the distance.Kids can legally start working agriculture jobs at age 12. The farm has seen a host of locals start as preteen part-timers.[caption id="attachment_344119" align="alignnone" width="778"] Pumpkins and gourds are available at Beach Plum in the fall. Photo: Courtesy of Beach Plum Farm[/caption]Fall is a fantastic time to visit. Beach Plum is open Wednesday to Sunday, 8 am-3 pm; the market and kitchen are open daily. The Montauk daisies come into bloom. It’s a great opportunity to pick out pumpkins and gourds while enjoying breakfast or lunch out of the Barn Kitchen, with all ingredients harvested on-site or on a few nearby plots that Beach Plum now cultivates. “Fall is sort of peak fragrance around the farm, too. There are the wet leaves mixed with sweet persimmons and the Elaeagnus (silverberry) shrubs,” Albert adds.[caption id="attachment_344071" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our October 2024 issue here. Photo: Joe Polillio/AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Late October tends to show off the most brilliant colors of fall foliage. Beach Plum is a highly coveted wedding venue, but each Friday night in October, and Fridays and Saturdays in November, the staff host harvest dinners made with Beach Plum's veggies, livestock and herbs. After Thanksgiving, Beach Plum introduces a holiday-dinner series though December.If you don't want your time at Beach Plum to end when the day does, you can stay for a night or two on the property.Last fall, I spent a weeknight in the Hidden Cottage, erected in 2018, along with the Hill Barn, by an Amish builder from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and his sons. Traditional wooden tenon pegs hold the hemlock-beamed frame together. Not a single nail or screw was used in the process. Sitting on one of the peaceful porches, it's easy to get lost in the fascinating joinery and smell of hemlock. There is ample space—three bedrooms, two baths, two porches, and a well-appointed kitchen. The vibe is an easy mix of mid-century and rustic. The outdoor sitting area with a fire pit has a country feel, but the outdoor shower reminds you that the Atlantic Ocean is just a few blocks away as the crow flies. Rates start at $527.[caption id="attachment_344215" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Beach Plum Farm is beautiful in the fall. Photo: Courtesy of Beach Plum Farm[/caption]The farm-to-table dinner is not offered on weeknights, but town is a short drive or bike ride away (on one of Beach Plum’s loaners) to dine at the timeless Blue Pig Tavern, the regal Brown Room or Tommy’s Folly Café, all at Congress Hall. You can also try the Ebbitt Room at the Virginia Hotel, the underground Boiler Room music club/pizzeria at Congress Hall, and the informal Rusty Nail surf bar, all part of the same Cape Resorts family as Beach Plum, offering food that was harvested next to your cottage.A farm stay here is as much a chilled-out getaway as it is proof of concept that agricultural and economic sustainability can meet somewhere in the middle.Jon Coen, of Ship Bottom, is a freelancer and creative hustler who covers surf, environmental issues, travel, food and culture when he’s not looking for blue claw crabs and (occasional snowy) waves.[RELATED: The Best Restaurants in Cape May]
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In a state boasting large swaths of parkland, a 21-acre tract tucked behind a residential street in Montclair might be overlooked. That would be a shame.What the Alonzo F. Bonsal Wildlife Preserve lacks in size, it makes up for with its rich array of native plants, animal life and walking paths—all made possible 50 years ago by a consortium of nature lovers and government officials.“It’s a tale of two municipalities and some people who saw the gem this could be,” says Jonathan Grupper, president of the Bonsal Wildlife Conservancy, a nonprofit created in 2022 to oversee and raise money for the sanctuary.The tract borders Clifton and is named for a member of the Bonsal family of Montclair, which donated seed money for the project in 1974 after the land had been set aside under New Jersey’s Green Acres program.The Bonsal received further protection a few years ago with Clifton’s novel resolution to bury an above-ground sewer line that had threatened the woodlands; the preserve abuts a 9-acre parcel owned by the North Jersey District Water Commission. Today, Grupper leads a dedicated group of volunteers who perform trash cleanups, clear the preserve of invasive species like Japanese knotweed, and even conduct fish counts on the Third River, a Passaic River tributary that runs through the preserve.One of those volunteers, Cesar Presa, hopes to get the word out to a population beyond local residents and birding enthusiasts tracking warblers and dozens of other avian species.“It would be great if more people visited and gained an understanding of the natural world,” says Presa, who leads the Bonsal’s invasive species strike force. “They’d get such enjoyment, but also see how much work is needed to care for this land.”[RELATED: The South Mountain Reservation Fairy Trail Is a Magical Place to Visit]
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On Saturday, September 14, the busiest road in Montclair will be even busier than usual—but instead of cars, it will be filled with jazz lovers and musicians.The occasion is the grand finale of the 15th Annual Montclair Jazz Festival, also known as the Downtown Jamboree, featuring some of the top names in jazz performing on two stages along the half mile of Bloomfield Avenue from Grove Street to Midland Avenue, which will be closed to traffic. Also performing will be teaching artists and musicians from Jazz House Kids, the Montclair music education nonprofit that hosts the festival."One of the hallmarks of the Montclair Jazz Festival is to bring the very best of new and upcoming talent to the stage, coupled with an all-star cast of legendary artists we are excited to bring to town,” says Christian McBride, the nine-time Grammy-winning bassist and artistic director of both the festival and Jazz House Kids. “More than 250 artists will be featured over the course of the festival—and one of my favorite comedians on the scene today, Alonzo Bodden.”Andromeda Turre, host on SiriusXM’s Real Jazz channel, will host the main stage.The event, which runs from noon to 8 pm, is free. Bloomfield Avenue will be lined with food and beverage stalls featuring options from Montclair’s vibrant dining scene, plus other merchants. At the Wellmont Arts Plaza, the Verizon Family Jazz Discovery Zone will have music, art and movement activities geared toward kids and their families from noon to 4 pm.A post-festival dance party from 8 to 10 pm at the main stage at Lackawanna Plaza will feature McBride as DJ, along with Prince Hakim, who has deejayed at Bonnaroo, Art Basel and New York clubs. The event, a free festival tradition, features McBride curating tunes under the moniker DJ Brother Mister. McBride is married to Melissa Walker, the founder and force behind Jazz House Kids. He's also artistic director of Rhode Island's Newport Jazz Festival, and host of the NPR show Jazz Night in America.The Montclair Jazz Festival has come a long way from its humble beginnings in Montclair’s Nishuane Park as an impromptu location for Walker’s music students to perform for their parents after summer camp. With that recital, Jazz House Kids was born, and the Nishuane gathering grew to epic proportions. Three years ago, the locale switched to downtown Montclair, in a partnership with the town’s Business Improvement District.The festival has also evolved into a summer-long event, with free performances at the Wellmont Arts Plaza leading up to the September finale. This summer featured Wallace Roney Jr., the Jason Marshall Quartet, the Ries Brothers; and a Prince/David Bowie tribute band, among others.For the full schedule of Saturday’s Downtown Jamboree performances, or to make a donation to Jazz House Kids, visit the festival's website.
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What strikes visitors first upon seeing the massive Hindu temple in Mercer County is the size and ornateness of this vast complex. The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham awes first-time guests, even if they’ve seen photos and read that it is the second largest Hindu temple in the world—yes, the world—right there in Robbinsville.The temple, which took more than a dozen years and cost close to $100 million to build, officially opened last October. It was seen as a reflection of the growing size and influence of the Hindu population in New Jersey—the largest concentration of Hindus in any state, at 3 percent of the population. (California is second at 2 percent; the United States overall has the seventh largest Hindu population outside of India.) Almost all Hindus are Indian, and their visibility in public life has grown dramatically since the U.S. immigration reform of 1965 opened the door to a wave of newcomers from Asia.[caption id="attachment_341223" align="alignnone" width="778"] The temple is set on 185 acres. Photo: Courtesy of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham[/caption]At first, many did the low-wage jobs often left to immigrants—taxi drivers, motel owners and convenience store proprietors. But now, Indian Americans are following the trajectory of so many earlier waves of immigrants, becoming better educated and much wealthier, while retaining passion for the practice of the religious traditions of their homeland.And that is the main reason this new temple exists.But what is almost as surprising as the grandeur of the place is the ordinariness of the crowd. During a visit on a sunny spring Sunday, at least half the visitors appeared to be neither Hindu nor Indian—just a thoroughly Jersey mix of young and old, and out-of-state tourists. Some piled out of tour buses, but most arrived by car, guided by volunteers into one of the enormous parking lots—many still unpaved and dusty—off Route 130.[caption id="attachment_341225" align="alignnone" width="778"] Mahant Swami Maharaj, guru and president of a major branch of a Hindu denomination, doing inauguration rituals at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham. The temple officially opened last October. Photo: Courtesy of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham[/caption]Nicole Mazurick of Lawrenceville has been there four times already; this time, she brought her two sisters-in-law from Pennsylvania. Debbie Stetzer heard about the temple from an Indian friend and came down from Fair Lawn with her daughter, who had seen a video of the temple on TikTok. “It’s awesome, it’s totally amazing,” Stetzer says. She sent a selfie to her cousin, who shot back, “Are you on vacation?”Granted, the lovely spring weather almost demanded a day trip. But the Robbinsville temple, set on 185 acres, seems well on its way to becoming a Garden State destination. A retired couple from Toms River was leaving early because the lines were so long, but said they’d come back. A group of young women came from Philly thanks to an Instagram influencer. A family from West Long Branch heard about it because a teacher they knew went on a class trip and couldn’t get over the place.Keyur Patel, who runs the food court and other temple services, says there were 35,000 visitors on New Year’s Day, mostly Hindus. “We’ve had 20,000 today,” he says, and that looked about right. In fact, just a few weeks later, the temple set up an online timed-entry system to better regulate the crowds. And, yes, they even have an app, available for both Apple and Android devices.“We did expect this,” says Darshan Patel, a tax attorney from Princeton who was my guide for the day. “The campus is meant to bring all people together from all backgrounds. That’s how the temple was built, how it operates.”[caption id="attachment_341226" align="alignnone" width="778"] The temple's craftsmanship and details are incredible. Photo: Courtesy of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham[/caption]The authenticity is truly remarkable—and purposeful. “This is not an adaptation,” Darshan Patel insists. “It is genuine, built just like temples in India.”Hundreds of stonecutters and craftsmen were brought over to work on the temple, along with volunteers from the state’s Hindu community. Nearly 2 million cubic feet of marble, sandstone, limestone and granite went into the complex, much of it from India, but some quarried in Italy and other parts of the globe to ensure it could withstand the climate of the northeastern United States.“The ancient idea is that, when you build a temple, it will last for at least a thousand years,” Darshan Patel tells me. Teakwood from Burma covers every area that is not stone. There are 10,000 carved statues (and more coming) around the vast courtyard, and at the center, the main shrine features what is reportedly the largest elliptical dome ever constructed from stone.To tour the mandir, or the temple sanctuary, visitors must remove their shoes. No photos are allowed, and cell phones must be silenced.[caption id="attachment_341227" align="alignnone" width="778"] Nearly 2 million cubic feet of marble, sandstone, limestone and granite went into the complex. Photo: Courtesy of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham[/caption]It’s a stunning and unique experience, like being inside a Lego set of Carrara marble pieces, all assembled according to the exacting instructions set down in ancient Hindu scriptures—with some concessions to local building codes, of course. The ceiling blocks are connected by dowels and held together by their own weight and very little mortar.The pool and fountains in front of the Akshardham include water brought from sacred rivers in India, as well as from 300 bodies of water around the United States. Statues of garlanded elephants welcome guests to the visitor center and into an enormous carved entrance hall. Darshan Patel smiles as we walk in, and says, “Sometimes it is sensory overload.” The real aim is to make it feel like a village in Gujarat, the western Indian state where the Swaminarayan movement began and where most local devotees hail from. “This is a reflection of ancient India,” my guide tells me. “It’s traditional Indian architecture brought here to the United States. That’s a driver for people.”Yet this authenticity may have come at a price. A lawsuit filed last year alleges that the temple was built on the backs of foreign laborers who were made to work long days in dangerous conditions for little money. Temple members express shock and regret at the claims when they are raised and hope they are unfounded because they do not represent the Hindu spirit of the Robbinsville temple. So far, the lawsuit has not moved ahead or resulted in charges.For a while, the abuse allegations popped up first in web searches about the temple. But the temple is quickly becoming the friendly face of Hinduism in America, as it was designed. Just as Catholic immigrants in the 19th century sought to establish their presence with grand cathedrals modeled after those they left behind in Europe, so too Hindus in the 21st century are showing that they belong by building monumental tributes to their faith. “It’s exactly the same thing. They are now part of the American landscape,” says Edwin Bryant, a Rutgers University professor of religion who specializes in Hinduism. “Now they want social recognition and cultural representation.”[caption id="attachment_341224" align="alignnone" width="778"] The temple is seen as a reflection of the growing size and influence of the Hindu population in New Jersey—the largest concentration of Hindus in any state. Photo: Courtesy of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham[/caption]For all the Asian authenticity, they also want to bridge the Old World and the new, which is why the complex features such amenities as a full-service cafeteria (“The family that eats together, stays together,” reads the motto of the Shayona Café) and a gift shop with all sorts of merchandise, from Hindu tchotchkes, children’s books and candies (“sanctified sweets”) to a portable puja (prayer) kit, everything branded with the temple’s Americanized logo. A museum is set to open next year. “You would not see those in a traditional temple in India,” says Vineet Chander, Hindu chaplain at Princeton University and an expert on the Hindu-American diaspora community. “It’s a bit Disneyland, it’s a bit megachurch, it’s a bit of the architectural wonder,” Chander says. “I see students wearing a Swaminarayan hoodie and I think, Wow, I’d never have done such a thing as a young person, even if I could find a Hindu hoodie.”The bigger challenge for the Robbinsville temple is educating other Americans about Hinduism. That’s a tall order in the best of circumstances. Many Americans toss around terms like yoga and karma, but what they mean is often far removed from the Hindu concepts. And they are getting to know about holidays like Holi and Diwali as those celebrations have started appearing on school calendars. But genuinely understanding Hinduism is not easy because it is so different from the Western idea of religion.[caption id="attachment_341265" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Hundreds of stonecutters and craftsmen were brought over to work on the temple, along with volunteers from New Jersey's Hindu community. Photo: Courtesy of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham[/caption]Hinduism is generally regarded as the oldest religion in the world, originating some 4,000 years ago among the peoples across the Indus River, from which the term Hindu comes. It’s as much a geographical, philosophical and cultural designation as it is a religion as described by Westerners, who often try to compare it, to the detriment of Hinduism, to traditional European religious concepts such as monotheism, dogmas and denominations. Hence, Hinduism is often described as a polytheistic religious worship of idols by different sects. But that’s not right. “It’s not polytheistic, but one manifestation of an infinity of forms,” says Bryant. “There is no pope or hierarchy.”Explains Chander, “Viewed from a certain lens, especially in the West, it can seem messy and all over the place. But there are deep complex theologies that essentially say God is a reality beyond the material limits….God is one and many, a personal, loving being we can connect with.” That sounds like something many non-Hindu Americans might relate to.That multiplicity is another reason the temple is in Robbinsville. Swaminarayan, after whom the akshardham, or temple, is named, was a yogi and ascetic who traveled around India in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, developing a reputation as a holy man and Hindu reformer. A movement grew around him after his death in 1830 and split into various branches. At the same time, Swaminarayan was elevated to godhead status, a manifestation of Vishnu, “akin to the avatars Krishna or Rama, the fullest depiction of divinity,” as Chander puts it.Most Hindus don’t ascribe to that, he notes. But another novel thing about Hinduism is that such a grand claim for one line of the tradition is not cause to wage a holy war to shun the Swaminarayan Akshardham. “It is not grounds for theological debate; no one would find it offensive. The temple is something everybody would be proud of, not as a tourist attraction, but as a holy space,” he says.[caption id="attachment_341264" align="alignnone" width="1024"] The pool and fountains at the temple include water brought over from sacred rivers in India, as well as from 300 bodies of water around the United States. Photo: Courtesy of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham[/caption]If the larger story about the Robbinsville temple is the mainstreaming of Hinduism in American life, the inside story is about the mainstreaming of Swaminarayan lineage into Hinduism. “It’s brand-new by Indian standards, the new kid on the block,” says Bryant, of Rutgers. In Hinduism, newcomers do two things to establish their bona fides, Bryant says: “You write a commentary on the Vedanta Sutras”—Hindu sacred texts—“which they did. Then you want a big, huge temple, and you have arrived theologically.”Mission accomplished.Hindus in America and beyond are flocking to the Robbinsville temple, and everyone else is getting at least a sense of what this ancient religion, this culture, and above all, this aesthetic, are all about. There are bells and incense, food and chants, the sculpted sanctuary and statuary of Hindu deities, and even busts of Albert Einstein and Martin Luther King Jr. A free chamber performance dedicated to music of India will take place Friday, August 2, courtesy of New Jersey Symphony and Kulture Kool. “It’s the Indian community being part of the fabric of American society,” says Darshan Patel. “It’s all about the atmosphere here.”To schedule a visit to the temple, go to usa.akshardham.org/visit/reservations.David Gibson, director of the Center on Religion and Culture at Fordham University, is a longtime religion writer who worked at The Star-Ledger and The Record.
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Jeni Mendez watched closely as chef Eric Dantis stirred a pot of rice. Dantis was making mujadara, an Arabic lentil and rice dish, as part of a cooking class called Rice, Rice Baby at Heirloom Kitchen in Old Bridge. He began by caramelizing aromatics, then added rice to toast it, and then some water. “Don’t stir too often,” Dantis advised, “because you’re putting something cool onto something hot and bringing the temperature down.” Mendez and the 13 other students in the class looked eager to stir. They learned to resist.“What kind of rice are you using?” Mendez asked.“Jasmine,” Dantis said. “We’re using jasmine for everything tonight. It’s my favorite.”“My kids eat rice, like, four times a week,” said Mendez, a mom of two who lives in Marlboro. “They were getting tired of what I make.”About two hours later, Mendez had several new dishes to add to her repertoire. “I like to make things for dinner that I can pack in a thermos for the next day’s lunch,” she says, adding that the class inspired her.[RELATED: Just Like on 'The Bear': NJ Chefs’ Real-Life Tales of Passion and Pain]
“Rice making speaks to the soul of the chef,” says Heirloom Kitchen’s executive chef, David Viana, noting that it requires minimal ingredients (“rice, butter, salt, water”) but careful technique. “The diameter of the pot has a say; how much water goes above the rice has a say.”Heirloom Kitchen opened as a cooking school in 2014 and became a restaurant as well in 2017, when founder Neilly Robinson brought Viana on board as partner and chef. “What’s given the school its success is that, initially, everyone was freelance, but now, it’s a team that teaches and works in the restaurant,” Robinson says. “Everyone on the team contributes to the curriculum, whether they’re nerding out on fermentation or making pasta dough or teaching Filipino or Ukrainian or Azerbaijani cuisine.”Cooking schools throughout the state channel New Jerseyans’ love of food and restaurants into skills they can apply when feeding their families or hosting parties. For some patrons, a few hours of chopping and stirring are their own reward, an unusual date night or a girls’ night out. Others, such as Mendez, whose kids are adventurous young eaters, are there strictly to learn.Children’s classes are offered at some schools. Linda Cashan, owner of Kitchen 19 in Hammonton, enjoys the enthusiasm of the kids who attend her kitchen camps. “They’ll cook at home what they’ve made in class and then send me pictures of it,” she says.For adults, hands-on pasta-making classes are especially popular at Kitchen 19, but Cashan also finds students interested in classic French cooking; hence, a demonstration class that featured souffles this spring. “Not a lot of people can do that, because the techniques are more sophisticated,” she says, “and the best way to learn is to pay attention, pull stools up to the table, and talk in detail about it.”“Food allows you to connect with people on a primal level,” says chef Karan Fischer of Montclair Culinary Academy. “I educate them on knife skills, how to use which salt or which oil, how to use parchment rather than aluminum foil, when to add liquid in a risotto. It’s always hands-on. Muscle has memory, and I want them to keep these skills.”Although primarily designed as a degree-granting program for the lucrative restaurant and hospitality markets of the Atlantic City and Cape May regions, Atlantic Cape Community College’s campus in Mays Landing also offers hands-on and demonstration workshops known as enthusiast classes, according to Joe Sheridan, culinary arts director. “We’ve done themes like an evening in Provence, or a class on the Feast of the Seven Fishes,” Sheridan says. “Other times, it’s about one-pan meals or cast-iron cooking. It’s all for people who are re-discovering cooking or want to be better at it.”Most cooking schools for the general public offer single classes on a theme rather than a course with multiple sessions. Costs vary, ranging from about $65 to $175 per person for a two- or three-hour class, and they often sell out well in advance. “With so many people still working from home after Covid, people want experiences,” Cashan says.The Cooking School at Natirar, located on a 90-acre estate in Somerset County, offers classes in several settings, including outdoors. Natirar has classes such as Amazing Appetizers, with Asian dumplings, wild-mushroom tartlets and other tidbits for fancy parties, and Bakeshop, in which the secrets of black-and-white cookies and New York-style crumb cake are revealed.“We do a lot of steak and Stanley Tucci-style Italian,” says Randi Jeddis, manager of the cooking school. “We are all about entertainment. We have a full bar, and you can order a drink in class. You learn a lot, but it’s entertaining.” That’s not to say the classes are not skill oriented. This spring, Natirar offered Open Sesame, a class on preparing shellfish. “We’ve had a 40-person butchering class,” Jeddis notes. “We brought in a whole pig, and the dishes were made from it.”At Taste and Technique in Fair Haven, chef Heather Harm offers classes for what she terms recreational chefs, people who are “sick of making the same old stuff.” She aims for her classes to offer enhanced skills, whether a class requires participation (“In a hands-on class, you see how measuring flour in different ways affects the outcome,” Harm says) or keen observation, such as demonstration classes with renowned Jersey chefs such as Drew Araneo of Drew’s Bayshore Bistro in Keyport. “You’re not leaving here covered in flour, but you’ll still learn a thing or two,” Harm says.[RELATED: The 40 Best Restaurants in New Jersey]
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There’s no better way to spend a sultry summer night than outdoors listening to music.In Montclair, there are several venues where you can you can hear live music en plein air while relaxing with a drink and a bite to eat.Montclair Brewery (101 Walnut Street) features musical events throughout the year, but in the warmer months their large parking lot morphs into a beer garden, featuring tables, chairs and a stage. This weekend, there will be music on Friday and Saturday nights (July 19 and 20). Friday, it’s a roots band, Water Street, from northwestern New Jersey; on Saturday, it’s The Normal Living, a seven-piece indie-rock band from Manhattan. (Check the brewery website for the full summer calendar.) Jersey breweries can't serve food on site, but at Montclair Brewery you can bring takeout from any of the many eateries in town—airy-crusted pizza from NJM fave Brick & Dough, perhaps, or Thai food from Sukhumvit, right across the street. Order one of the pub’s signature beers, such as the Hava Guava IPA, or the Baobiere, made from the baobab fruit of brewmaster Leo Sawadogo’s native Burkina Faso. The $5 cover charge goes to the musicians.The Wellmont Arts Plaza, in the heart of downtown Montclair, hosts concerts throughout the summer in partnership with Jazz House Kids, the nonprofit behind the Montclair Jazz Festival. On Thursday, July 25, a “soundcheck” for the jazz festival will feature Wallace Roney Jr. and the Jason Marshall Quartet; on Saturday, July 27, a student jamfest; on Thursday, August 8, the Ries Brothers; and on Wednesday, August 14, a Prince/David Bowie tribute band. (Check out the Jazz House Kids website for the full schedule and details.) Pharmacie Bar + Kitchen serves food and drink on the plaza; you can also pick up food and non-alcoholic drinks at nearby restaurants to enjoy during the concert. Concerts are free; some seating is available, but to be safe, bring your own chair.The big outdoor musical event is the world-class Montclair Jazz Festival on Saturday, September 14, when the cars on Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair will be replaced with multiple stages, food trucks and restaurant grills. (Check the Jazz House website for details.)The new owners of The Kitchen on Forest (171 Forest Street), which has replaced the beloved neighborhood joint Ruthie’s Bar-B-Q & Pizza, plan to continue Ruthie’s tradition of hosting backyard bands. Jazz/rock/folk band Doug Hall and Friends, a local favorite that played the restaurant’s first stint last month, play again on Friday, July 19, from 7-9 pm. The BYO restaurant offers many of the same comfort-food items that Ruthie’s did: ribs, pizza, mac and cheese, and red cabbage slaw. Manager Sibel Ozsays she plans to host the Doug Hall band again, along with other groups, into September and October. (Check their website and Instagram page, @kitchenonforest, for future details.) There is no cover charge, but a bucket is passed for donations, which go to the musicians.[RELATED: The Best Restaurants in Montclair]
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[caption id="attachment_338060" align="alignnone" width="778"] At The Hook in Atlantic City, scantily clad performers elicit gasps and laughs galore. Photo: Courtesy of Spiegelworld[/caption]If you have come to see The Hook via Superfrico—the fantabulous Italian-inspired eatery that adjoins it at Caesar’s—you’ve had a glimpse of the naughty, playful raunch the show imparts with sexy dancing lobsters, pants-less jugglers, and head-scratching magic tricks. If you've skipped the dining-venue warmup, sit back and relax—maybe with a cocktail; there's a cash bar in the back of the theater—and prepare for scintillating ride.Celebrating its second season at Caesar’s Atlantic City, the Hook—produced by entertainment theater company Spiegelworld—has the feel of an old-fashioned carnival show filled with modern-day, adults-only winks and nods.The venue’s setting at the restored Warner Theatre, a 1929 movie house, hints at the madcap, vaudevillian presentation you're in for, with its lush drapes and eye-catching set design (cut-outs of ocean waves; the bow of a ship smashed into the stage).A zany crew of performers are led by a hawker-style MC complete with a saucy sidekick, dressed in sailor whites. Much of the dramatically lit, 75-minute show is Cirque Du Soleil-style acrobatics, which are stunningly up-close and personal in the 414-seat venue. From your seats, the impressive physical prowess of the performers is magical as they spin and flip and seemingly float before your eyes.[caption id="attachment_338059" align="alignnone" width="778"] A juggler keeps his cool. Photo: Courtesy of Spiegelworld[/caption]Be prepared for lots of scantily clad performers that mostly eschew traditional leotards for spangly, sparkly, barely-there, gender-bending outfits. There’s a reason this show is not PG; the sexual innuendos are laid on thick. While some may shy from the risqué undertones, the acts are top-notch, and their execution—on poles, on strings, and on the very swinging anchor from which the show derives its name—is worthy of the uproarious standing ovation at the end.Tickets, available for ages 18+, are available on Spiegelworld's website.
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Sitting in the captain’s cabin of the River Queen riverboat, high above the Manasquan River, Captain Tony Bogan calmly steers his craft through the treacherous channel. Occasionally, he picks up his mic to inform his passengers about the verities of the Point Pleasant Canal or how Nienstedt Island came to be associated with Jersey Shore visitor and novelist Robert Louis Stevenson of Treasure Island fame.Like generations before them, Bogan and many of his family members have spent their lives catering to fishermen, partygoers, and those seeking a leisurely afternoon or evening on the river or the ocean. When the Army Corps of Engineers reopened the Manasquan Inlet by dredging sand and building jetties in 1931, Bogan’s great-grandfather moved the family boat business to Brielle and Point Pleasant Beach, anticipating interest in recreational fishing. Then, in 1987, Bogan’s father expanded the business by designing a riverboat modeled after 19th-century paddle wheelers equipped for day-trippers rather than overnight excursions.Today, Bogan operates the River Queen. From April through New Year’s Eve, he offers 90-minute sightseeing cruises, plus holiday and monthly murder-mystery cruises, as well as private charters for weddings and other celebrations.[RELATED: One Thing You Must Do in Every Shore Town]
Fifteen miles south, an authentic reproduction paddle wheeler, the River Lady, has found its sweet spot in lunch and dinner cruises most days from May through the end of September on the Toms River. On the main level, passengers sit down for full-course meals in air-conditioned comfort, while on the second deck, sightseers can book passage without a meal.The cruise from the town of Toms River to the mouth of Barnegat Bay is particularly scenic, with a view of yacht clubs and small beaches on the south side and a captivating view of the Victorian mansions of Island Heights opposite.The newest “lady” to grace the waters of the Jersey Shore is the Navesink Queen paddle wheeler, which was “built to look pretty,” according to Captain Dan Schade of Classic Boat Rides in Atlantic Highlands. After the paddle wheeler served for many years as a tourist boat in the Chesapeake Bay near Norfolk, Captain Dan brought the vessel up north. Although his focus is mostly on private charters, starting at $2,520, the Navesink Queen does motor out most weekends for two or three live-music and sightseeing cruises.For an outing of up to 25 people, there’s one more historic option—booking a private cruise on the handsome, 50-foot Naval War College yacht that formerly plied the waters in Newport, Rhode Island (historicyachtcharter.com). About 10 years ago, when the Navy decommissioned it, the yacht was rescued from the scrap heap by Joe Ruffini of Red Bank.Now, visitors can cruise the Shrewsbury and Navesink rivers aboard a historic boat that once carried Navy dignitaries, foreign heads of states, and even Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy. While the owner can arrange for meals, passengers are welcome to bring food and drinks. The interior has been lovingly restored and is perfect for celebrating a special occasion.
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Grab your friends or family and celebrate Pride Month at one of these events around the state.Highlands Pride Fest in the Park📅: Saturday, June 1 (Noon-7 pm)📍: Huddy Park • Highlandsℹ️: Live music, food trucks and a beer garden.💸: FreeJersey Pride Parade & Festival📅: Saturday, June 2 (Noon-7 pm)📍: Asbury Parkℹ️: Jersey’s largest and oldest celebration, with a parade, rally and festival in Asbury Park. Donations appreciated.💸: Free (Donations optional)Long Branch Pride Flag Raising📅: Friday, June 7 (6 pm-8 pm)📍: West End Park • Long Branchℹ️: Featuring special guests Des & the Swagmatics.💸: FreeMontclair Pride Festival📅: Saturday, June 8 (1 pm-4 pm)📍: Bloomfield and Fullerton Avenues • Montclairℹ️: One of the largest Pride events in the state.💸: FreeRed Bank Pride in the Park📅: Saturday, June 8 (Noon-3 pm)📍: Riverside Gardens Park • Red Bankℹ️: Live music and more.💸: FreeNorth Jersey Pride Festival📅: Sunday, June 9 (Noon-6 pm)📍: Memorial Park • Maplewoodℹ️: Live music, a food court, and 150+ vendors.💸: FreeNorth Jersey Pride Run and Kids' Race📅: Sunday, June 9 (9 am)📍: Grove Park • South Orangeℹ️: Run in a 5k and show support for LGBTQ youth and families this Pride Month while raising funds for the nonprofit North Jersey Pride.💸: $5-30Toms River Pride Festival📅: Sunday, June 15 (11 am-7 pm)📍: Bundt Park • Clinton Twp.💸: $5 (kids under 5 free)Keyport Food Truck & Music FEASTival📅: Saturday, May 25 (11 am-8 pm)📍: Keyport Waterfront Park • Keyport💸: $5 (kids under 5 free)Wildwood Food Truck & Music Festival📅: Sunday, May 26 (Noon-10 pm)📍: Byrne Plaza • Wildwood💸: $5 (kids under 5 free)Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival📅: Saturday, May 25-Monday, May 27 (11 am-5 pm)📍: Monmouth Park • Oceanportℹ️: 30+ trucks with local eats, and live music all three days.💸: $6 (kids 12 and under free)
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Each summer at the Jersey Shore, the circle of life returns. Angry roosters chase wild horses. A panda bear strides alongside a zebra. And people take turns sitting on a frog, who survives to leap up and down again every year.For more than 100 years, the Shore has embraced and cherished carousels—wooden, steel and fiberglass. The legacy of these early amusement park favorites is being carried on today, with old favorites getting upgrades and new structures making their way onto boardwalks.One of the latest additions to the scene is the $3.5 million wooden Long Branch Carousel at Pier Village. Up until the 1930s, wooden carousels were the popular choice of amusement park owners. For cost reasons, most of the carousels since then have been made of fiberglass. A new, “old-fashioned” wooden carousel—one of only a handful constructed this century in America—is a rare attraction these days, even in a tourist destination like the Jersey Shore.[RELATED: One Thing You Must Do in Every Jersey Shore Town]
“For four minutes, you are bringing smiles out for people,” says Jim Walsh, who became the majority owner of the carousel in 2021, two years after it opened to a slow start due to the pandemic. He works daily to maintain the ride in partnership with his daughter, Lydia, a graduate of Moore College of Art and Design, and the artisan who regularly touches up the paint on the figures and panels.Beyond the joy and the gentle galloping of the horses, a closer study of the figures reveals whimsical touches unique to Long Branch, such as a horse with seashells ornamenting its bridle and a goose with ears of Jersey corn as part of the saddle. Most popular of all is a small green frog wearing a jeweled crown.If the temperature is above 40 degrees inside the carousel, it opens at noon. In the summer, the carousel runs well into the evening, until the crowds stop. Walsh says there is no charge for riders who are active military, veterans, and those with physical or mental disabilities.[caption id="attachment_334670" align="alignnone" width="778"] The newly restored carousel in Seaside Heights. Photo: R.C.Staab[/caption]In Seaside Heights, the carousel, a Shore favorite, is finally reopening this summer after a restoration project that began in 2019. The Dr. Floyd L. Moreland Dentzel-Looff Carousel, located in the new Seaside Heights Carousel Pavilion on the town’s boardwalk, came with a cost of $1.1 million; the entire pavilion project cost $3.6 million.One of the more ingenious touches is a chariot that has been fitted to allow a wheelchair to be slipped inside almost unseen. “The person in the wheelchair will have the experience of riding the carousel in a pure-organic way,” says Seaside Heights borough administrator Christopher Vaz, who oversees carousel operations.The carousel has survived near disasters. Thanks to the leadership of Moreland and others in the 1980s, it was saved from being sold and stayed put at Casino Pier, where it had been since 1932. It was again in danger of being sold in 2014 by privately owned Casino Pier, but the Borough of Seaside Heights stepped in to raise funds to stop the sale and engineer a land swap that included moving the carousel.After dismantling it in 2019, the borough sent the horses to Ohio for restoration. To house the Moreland carousel, a pavilion was built farther north on the boardwalk that included a new deck, new motor and a new center pole. The cleverly decorated pavilion features artwork based on vintage Seaside Heights postcards, benches from the Whistle Stop Restaurant, and a collection of miniature carousel horses.With figures that are four abreast, the ride features the handsomest collection of carousel horses and figures on the Shore racing to the music of the restored Wurlitzer organ while operators ring the bell from its former home.Another classic carousel of note is located at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier in Ocean City. The wooden carousel, built in 1926 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, features an all-white herd of horses. Pick a horse on the outer rim to grab a brass ring for a chance to win a free ride. Or take a carousel ride at the Keansburg Amusement Park, at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach, or at Fantasy Island Amusement Park in Beach Haven, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.Farther south, ride the double-decker carousel at the Steel Pier, with a panoramic view of the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Morey’s Piers in Wildwood offers not one, but two double-decker carousels, and the Cape May Zoo’s carousel features the wildest of wild figures, with a dolphin, a zebra, a gorilla and a giant hummingbird.What makes carousels endure while other ride concepts come and go? Todd Goings, owner and president of Carousels and Carvings, who has been working on carousels for almost 35 years, including the restoration in Seaside Heights, says there are elements of fantasy and romance, noting that older generations enjoy sharing a memory with younger ones. “People can still crawl up on a piece of commercial art and ride it and engage it,” Goings says.R.C. Staab is a travel writer, book author, and wildlife and Shore enthusiast.
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Robert Simek, a lifelong surfer, didn’t want anyone to be excluded from the intense feelings that riding waves can bring. So six years ago, Simek and his wife, Lisa, started Waves of Strength, a nonprofit that brings surfing to children and adults with cognitive and physical challenges in the Ocean County and Long Beach Island area.“There is this sense of freedom, there’s a sense of exhilaration, like you are on a wave of energy,” says Simek, who lives in Montville and has a vacation home on LBI.The organization’s signature event is a massive day of surfing lessons at the beach on LBI. This year’s takes place on July 14th from 8 am to 1 pm at 68th Street Beach in Long Beach Township. Get registration and volunteer details here.The benefits of surfing can be mental and physical and are shared by the participants (85 percent are under the age of 18), their families, the volunteers, and the locals who always gather to cheer on the first-time surfers. Last year, MSNBC Stephanie Ruhle, who has a home on LBI, volunteered at the event.“The kids laugh and smile...You get choked up,” says Simek. “Some of the parents are like, ‘I haven’t seen my kids smile in [so long].’ One father actually had a nonverbal child who basically became verbal for a month after the event.”[caption id="attachment_334912" align="aligncenter" width="770"] Participants, their families, volunteers and spectators all feel the benefits of Waves to Strength's big surf event. Photo: Courtesy of Aaron Karp[/caption]There are three volunteers for every participant. Two experienced surfers go out in the water with the newbie, holding onto the board and helping to navigate. One volunteer stays closer to shore, so that “as they ride the wave in, there’s someone there to catch them.”Other volunteers help with checking people in and other logistical tasks.Simek says many of the participants are not only surfing for the first time, but heading into the ocean for the first time. “Some parents tell us their kid never went into the ocean because they couldn’t handle them in a safe manner,” Simek says.That’s not a problem at the annual Waves of Strength event.After the event, the organization helps some kids continue surfing, even if they cannot afford it. In March, Waves of Strength held a wave-pool event at American Dream in East Rutherford.
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[caption id="attachment_334659" align="alignnone" width="778"] Amusements abound at the Jersey Shore! Photo: Ann Coen[/caption]For our 2024 Shore Guide, the editors at New Jersey Monthly wanted to shine a light on every beach town in our state. Not just the ones with the splashy attractions or the busy boardwalks, but every town—big, small or in-between—along the coast.Here, you’ll find at least one fun thing you must do in each town, from restaurants to natural wonders to boardwalk attractions for the whole family.Wishing you a wonderful season down the Shore!MONMOUTH COUNTYSandy HookGunnison BeachFeeling bold? Ditch your swimsuit and spend the day at Gunnison Beach, the largest clothing-optional beach in the northeastern United States and the only legal one in New Jersey, thanks to Sandy Hook’s federal land protections. If you’re a first-timer, you’ll be happy to know that Gunnison sunbathers are generally laid-back and welcoming. Don’t forget sunscreen! —Connor CarlinWANT MORE?* Visit Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the country’s oldest.Sea Bright Seawall Pedestrian WalkwayStroll up the ramp or steps to this unique pedestrian walkway atop the Sea Bright seawall. You’ll get a view of the bustling downtown on one side and the beach on the other. If you plan to hit the sand before or after your stroll, know that outdoor showers are located along the walkway, and restrooms are inside Sea Bright Pavilion. But you don’t need a beach badge to enjoy the walkway scene. —R.C. StaabMonmouth BeachMy Kitchen WitchCrumb cake is a Shore staple, but when you want something healthier for breakfast, try My Kitchen Witch. The decor is fun, the menu playful, and the food so tasty. Try a Wicked Witch of the Shore omelette, with pork roll, peppers, onions and pepper jack. There are a café, a shop and an all-organic Magic Potions juice bar. —Julia Martin29 Beach Road, 732-229 3033Long Branch Avenue Rooftop LoungeArrive before the sun goes down to get a prime spot along the outdoor terrace’s perimeter. Views overlook the beach and offer premier people watching, volleyball-spectator cheering and sunset gazing. A bar and DJ contribute to the party atmosphere, while the pool and indoor/outdoor seating give full resort vibes. Set on top of the popular Avenue Le Club, a French restaurant in the heart of Pier Village—a hub for shopping, dining and being seen—the rooftop is public, whether or not you are dining there. —Deborah P. Carter23 Ocean Avenue North, 732-759-2900WANT MORE? Shop at Pier Village; try honey wine at Beach Bee Meadery; stay at the trendy Wave Resort.*[RELATED: Inside Long Branch’s Swanky Private Beach Club]
[caption id="attachment_334501" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our June 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Ann Coen[/caption]DealHistoric MansionsIn the early 1900s, Deal saw a who’s who of famous people summering in their fabulous beachfront mansions, including Isidor and Ida Straus, who cofounded Macy’s and whose tragic love story was made famous in the film Titanic. Sadly, their mansion no longer exists, but many more still stand, including that of the A&P heir E.V. Hartford. His former estate is on the corner of Ocean and Roseld avenues and was designed by famed architect Stanford White. For more info, go to oceanmuseum.org. —Jacqueline MrozAsbury ParkMadam Marie’sBoardwalk fortune teller Madam Marie was immortalized by another Shore icon: Bruce Springsteen. The Boss used to stop by her booth and have his fortune read. Rumor has it she told him he’d someday be a huge success. (She was right!) Springsteen mentions Madam Marie in his song “4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy).” Madam Marie—whose real name was Marie Castello—died in 2008, but her family continues to give readings. —J. MrozFourth and Ocean Avenue, 908-338-5434WANT MORE?* Catch a show at the famed Stone Pony; visit Danny Clinch's Transparent Clinch Gallery; stroll Cookman Avenue. Click here for a guide to 24 hours in Asbury Park.Ocean GroveGreat AuditoriumNo matter what religion you practice, if any, you’re welcome at the Sunday morning (10:30 am) or evening (7 pm) Methodist service in Ocean Grove’s enormous and gorgeous Great Auditorium, built in 1894. There are a magnificent pipe organ and choir, stirring speakers, and nattily dressed ushers who do a coordinated march to bring up the offerings. Enormous windows funnel in the sea air. —J. Martin21 Pilgrim Pathway, 732-775-0035*WANT MORE?* Walk by the unique summer tent community; see the controversial cross-shaped pier. Click here for more on what to do, see and eat in Ocean Grove.Bradley BeachLive Music at the GazeboIn this family-friendly Shore town, a lovely way to spend your evening is to stop by the gazebo on the boardwalk at Fifth and Ocean avenues and listen to some free live music. Anyone can dance along to the sounds, which can be anything from blues to rock to standards. Go to bradleybeach.com/events for a schedule. —J. MrozWANT MORE? Eat a fabulous breakfast at the Buttered Biscuit; play 18 holes on the boardwalk at Shipwreck Island Mini Golf. Click here for a guide to 24 hours in Bradley Beach.BelmarFender Guitar/Springsteen TributeSpringsteen fans can stop by the corner of 10th Avenue and E Street and see the 8-foot Fender guitar that marks the site where his band rehearsed in the early days. The intersection, home to the Belmar Public Library, gave the E Street Band its name; E Street is where former keyboard player David Sancious lived. —J. Mroz*WANT MORE?* Sit outside on the deck at Beach Haus Brewery; sit and order fresh seafood at Klein’s Fish Market or pick some up to grill at home; enjoy dinner and views at Marina Grille; go parasailing with Belmar Parasail.Spring LakeThunder Road BooksConveniently located to provide your beach reads, Thunder Road also hosts summer book clubs on the third Wednesday of each month and author visits. Best-selling author Jodi Picoult will visit town on August 19, sponsored by Thunder Road. They’re happy to give recommendations, too, in person and on the website. —J.Martin1108 Third Avenue, 973-436-0914*WANT MORE?* Explore the charming downtown; stop by the lake; stay at the Breakers on the Ocean.Sea GirtThe Parker HouseIn a quiet neighborhood sits a stately building that is, surprisingly, home to one of the most raucous summer nightclubs around. The Parker House, built as a seasonal hotel more than 100 years ago, is today mostly known for its wild party scene in “God’s Basement.” For a more tranquil experience, head to the main level for lunch and dinner served on the outdoor terrace with the scent of the ocean one block away. —RCS290 1st Avenue, 732-449-0442ManasquanInlet Beach[caption id="attachment_334675" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photo: Andrew Mills[/caption]Surfing in Jersey is an exercise in patience or fearlessness. When the water is warm, you’ll often wait weeks for decent breaks. When the water is cold, the waves are epic, but often beyond the skill level (and temperature threshold) of casual surfers. Inlet Beach is our most consistent surfing spot due to its enormous jetties, which corral approaching waves into long, glorious breaks. Things get interesting before storms and during late-summer swells. The spot can, however, get crowded on summer weekends.WANT MORE? Bring your pup to Doggie Beach at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area.Point Pleasant BeachJenkinson’s Aquarium[caption id="attachment_334667" align="alignnone" width="778"] The touch tank at Jenkinson’s Aquarium Photo: Courtesy of Jenkinson’s Boardwalk[/caption]Marine life typically resides outdoors at the Shore, but here, at one of the best aquariums in the state, you can get up close with fish, penguins, seals and sharks—right on the bustling Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, where the rides, games and boardwalk treats usually take center stage. The littlest visitors will love the touch tank. —Julie Gordon300 Ocean Avenue North, 732-892-0600WANT MORE? Eat at Red’s Lobster Pot (expect a wait at peak times); cool off at Hoffman’s, one of our favorite ice cream spots at the Shore.Avon-by-the-SeaThe PromenadeIn this town, a perfect blend of bustling cosmopolitan and laidback beach community, you’ll want to stop on in at the Promenade, the casual yet elegant BYO restaurant located right on the beach, with a front-row view of the sand and surf. Enjoy a scrumptious seaside meal of crispy chicken and Belgian waffles, coconut shrimp, or chicken Milanese with friends and family. —CC600 Ocean Avenue, 732-505-7770OCEAN COUNTY* Bay Head*Beach House Classic Boardshop*[caption id="attachment_334661" align="alignnone" width="778"] Beach House Classic Boardshop sells apparel, accessories and boards, like this 6-foot-8-inch Hot Potato board from Clean Ocean. Photo: Courtesy of Beach House/Eric Beyer[/caption]This is a throwback, brick-building surf shop that celebrates authentic surf culture in the heart of town. Find vintage used boards, but also new, handcrafted longboards, fish and mid-length-style boards inspired by ’60s and ’70s design with updated elements. It’s also a great spot to pick up surf accessories or check out full lines of timeless surf and Bay Head apparel. —Jon Coen**517 Main Street, 732-714-8566WANT MORE? Stay or eat at Grenville, a bubblegum-pink Victorian hotel.MantolokingCoastline AdventuresIn this teensy town, learn something new with Coastline Adventures, which offers surfing, bodyboarding and stand-up paddleboarding lessons at Brick Beach 3 and Trader’s Cove. Kids’ camps are offered most weekdays, and adult surf camps are on weekends. Adaptive surf lessons are available. Prices are $75-$400-plus. Get more info or register at njsurfschool.com. —Emily MelvinNormandy Beach Charlie’s Farm Market, Café & BakeryFor decades, the big, brown placard for Charlie’s Farm Market on Route 35 has been a welcome sign to those arriving at the Shore. Pull in from either the north or south side of 35 and stock up on watermelon, Jersey tomatoes and fresh corn. There’s a café with basics like burgers and onion rings, and a bakery where you can pick up one of their classic cheesecakes. —J. Martin491 Route 35LavallettePickleball Courts[caption id="attachment_334666" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photo: Ann Coen[/caption]Aficionados of the fastest-growing sport in America can find some friendly competition every Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to noon on the eight pickleball courts along the bay at Magee Avenue. Just stick your paddle in the fence and drop $5 in the bucket, and it’s game on. —J. MartinWANT MORE?* Visit Crab’s Claw Inn for seafood.Ortley Beach Barnacle Bill’s AmusementsBarnacle Bill’s Amusements is a vintage Shore classic that’s been around since 1963, with prizes for Skee-ball, pinball and video games—plus an 18-hole miniature golf course that’s a true Shore favorite. The iconic 1967 giant fiberglass statue of black-bearded Barnacle Bill oversees the ninth hole. —Barbara Leap1968 Route 35 North, 732-793-9345WANT MORE? Pick up fresh fish at Ortley Seafood Market.Seaside HeightsFunhouse MirrorsOn the Seaside Heights boardwalk, you get used to emptying your wallet. But there’s plenty of fun to be had for free posing in front of the fun-house mirrors in the arcade space along Ocean Terrace. Seeing everyone’s bodies stretched thinner, wider and longer by the wavy mirrors, it’s impossible not to laugh out loud. —J. Martin*WANT MORE?* Drive past the house at 1209 Ocean Avenue where the Jersey Shore cast lived.Ship Bottom (LBI)The Local Market & KitchenBlessedly just seconds from Long Beach Island’s entrance, this is a small but mighty one-stop spot for a tasty breakfast, lunch, early dinner or afternoon pick-me-up. Offerings include hearty sandwiches, sides, salads, a tantalizing array of fresh baked goods, and specialty coffees precariously piled with whipped cream and indulgent toppings. Stop in to grab sustenance on your way to the beach, or stick around to eat on the patio. —Jennifer Finn604 Central Avenue, 609-342-0061Seaside Park* Island Beach State Park[caption id="attachment_334665" align="alignnone" width="778"] Island Beach State Park is a beautiful spot for activities like kayaking. Photo: Frank Marshal[/caption]This little-known barrier-island preserve contains almost 10 miles of pristine, sandy beach, an extensive shoreline along Barnegat Bay, dense maritime forests, rolling sand dunes and tidal marshes. There’s a vehicle entry fee of $6-$20, and, when parking is full, the park is closed to additional cars. The most popular activities are swimming and surf fishing, but you can also ride your bicycle, surf, go for a hike, have a picnic, kayak, or even bring your horse. However, Island Beach State Park may be most famous as the site of former governor Chris Christie’s 2017 family beach jaunt, which they enjoyed even though he’d closed state parks and beaches during the July 4th holiday weekend due to a state-government shutdown. —J. Mroz**2401 Central AvenueWANT MORE? Stop by Betty & Nick’s Bait & Tackle, which is part luncheonette and part full-service tackle shop with rods, reels, rigs and a famous fishing report.Barnegat Light (LBI)Barnegat LighthouseThe beauty and tranquility of nature are the draw for this Long Beach Island town’s big attraction. Nicknamed Old Barney, the 19th-century lighthouse was designed by George Meade, the Union general who won the Battle of Gettysburg. Though not in operation today, visitors can enjoy the lighthouse’s majesty and learn about the history and ecology of the surrounding area at the adjacent Barnegat Lighthouse Center against the backdrop of rolling surf, sandy shores and ocean breezes. —CC208 Broadway, 609-494-2016WANT MORE?* Explore Viking Village, a commercial fishing port with great eateries and shops; tours available.Harvey Cedars (LBI)Sunset ParkWith fantastic facilities for the LBI day tripper, including ample parking, this three-block-wide public park sits on Barnegat Bay just a block from the beach. It offers a playground and ball fields, as well as a launch for kayaks and paddleboards, plus the all-important bathroom with showers. Wednesday night concerts are a tradition here. —JC1 West Salem AvenueSurf City (LBI)* Surf City 5 & 10For many LBI vacationers, no trip is complete without at least one visit to the Surf City 5 & 10. The fourth-generation, family-owned shop stocks a smorgasbord of vacation essentials—from beach gear and apparel, to souvenirs and jewelry, to housewares and barbecue supplies. Grab a handful of saltwater taffy for good measure. —JF**411 North Long Beach Boulevard, 609-494-1872Long Beach Township (LBI)*Loveladies and North BeachNorth Beach and Loveladies have some of the most exclusive real estate in New Jersey. The beaches are public, while vehicle access to them is mostly private. But anyone with an LBT beach badge and a little initiative can park in Surf City, Harvey Cedars or Barnegat Light and walk onto the same secluded beaches enjoyed by the elite. —JCBeach Haven (LBI) Fantasy Island Amusement ParkFor an afternoon or evening of nostalgic family fun, head to Fantasy Island Amusement Park, celebrating its 40th anniversary this summer. If you can handle heights, a spin on the Ferris wheel is a must for its striking bird’s-eye view of the island. In addition to rides ranging from the peaceful carousel to the towering Lighthouse Launch, there are games, an arcade and food. Trust us: Order the fried Oreos. —JF750 North Bay Avenue, 609-492-4000WANT MORE? Visit the bustling, charmingly clustered shops and eateries of Bay Village and Schooner’s Wharf. Click here for a guide to 24 hours in LBI.ATLANTIC COUNTYBrigantineSea Life Museum at Marine Mammal Stranding CenterThis free museum has educational displays about sea life, artifacts such as a sperm whale’s jawbone, an interactive exhibit for kids, and a “bone garden.” Though the stranding center isn’t open to the public, a live feed of staff caring for the seals can sometimes be viewed inside the museum. Check hours at mmsc.org before you visit. —J. Martin3625 Atlantic Brigantine BoulevardAtlantic CityBoogie NightsIn a town with a storied history of nightlife (stretching back to the Frank Sinatra days and, before that, the Prohibition era), Atlantic City still has numerous concerts, clubs and drinking establishments that draw visitors in droves. A favorite club right now is the retro Boogie Nights at Tropicana Resort & Casino. Disco the night away on the colorful dance floor to hits from the 1970s through early 2000s. The club often has performers, impersonators and themes. —EM2831 Boardwalk, 888-940-7080WANT MORE? Stroll the Boardwalk, the country’s first; visit Island Waterpark at Showboat hotel; take in stunning ocean views from the decks at Ocean Casino Resort; eat at Café 2825 (what one NJM reviewer deemed AC's best Italian restaurant) or the legendary White House Sub Shop. Click here for a guide to more great restaurants in Atlantic City.VentnorVentnor City Fishing PierLove to fish? Love to watch people fish? Just want to take a stroll 1,000 feet out from the beach on the longest fishing pier in New Jersey? You’ve come to the right place. This impressive municipal pier attracts pros and novices alike, and you can stop by Ventnor’s fishing store, Ship Shop, just down the road to get all the bait and tackle you can handle. —Victor FiorilloSouth Cambridge Avenue and the BoardwalkMargateLucy the ElephantSeeing a six-story-high elephant isn’t a typical activity at the Shore—unless you’re in Margate. Lucy the Elephant is America’s oldest roadside attraction, built in 1881, and she is quite the sight to see. Lucy underwent her latest round of renovations in recent years to the tune of $2 million. Visitors can tour the interior, take photos of the exterior, and witness a slice of New Jersey roadside history. —JG9200 Atlantic Avenue, 609-823-6473*WANT MORE?* Eat dinner at Tomatoe’s.LongportOzzie’sOf all the sleepy Jersey Shore beach towns, Longport is one of the sleepiest. But one place that always seems to be hustling and bustling with locals and shoobies alike is this iconic luncheonette, which serves breakfast and lunch seven days a week. For the early risers, the banana-nut pancakes are all the rage. And at lunchtime, we find it hard to resist the towering turkey-bacon-avocado club sandwich and the hearty salads. —VF2401 Atlantic Avenue, 609-487-0575CAPE MAY COUNTYOcean City Asbury AvenueIn this dry town (and family favorite), spend some time shopping along Asbury Avenue, where unique shops include Sun Rose Words and Music (an indie book, music and art supply store), White Lotus (a chic, metaphysical boutique), Ashore Fit (a new fitness and athleisure shop), and Mia’s Christmas Gallery (a store that is filled with beachy Christmas-themed items galore.) —EM*WANT MORE?* Cool off with Polish Water Ice on the boardwalk; indulge in crispy goodness at Jilly’s French Fry Factory; go on the rides and be prepared for thrilling fun at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier.StrathmereThe Deauville InnThis historic Shore restaurant has been on the Strathmere bayside in one form or another since the 1800s. As such, it has a loyal crowd whose families have been coming for generations. The restaurant underwent a massive renovation and rebranding in recent years, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. The food and drinks are good, but the sunset views are even better. You’ve got to show up early if you want the best seats, which are on the deck. —VF201 Willard Road, 609-263-2080*WANT MORE?* Hit the sand and surf; it’s one of NJM’s favorite hidden beaches.Sea Isle CityLaCosta Lounge & Deck BarIf you’re staying in Sea Isle City and wondering what all that noise is at 11 pm, it’s undoubtedly this long-standing bar, whose booming outdoor summer dance parties are the stuff of legend. People travel from miles around (hopefully, via rideshare) to take in what is most certainly a scene, imbibe maybe a little more than they should, and bump and grind well into the night. If you’re single and looking to mingle, this is the spot. —VF4000 Landis Avenue, 609-263-3611*WANT MORE?* Visit Fish Alley for seafood eateries and markets (faves include Mike’s Seafood and Marie’s Lobster House).AvalonPirate Island GolfHitting the mini greens is always fun, and Pirate Island makes for a lively night out in this Shore town that is low on bustle and high on chic residents and guests. The 18-hole course is peppered with challenges and theme-park-style waterfalls, pirate ships and bridges. Pirate Island also has locations in Sea Isle and Ocean City. —DPC2738 Dune Drive, 609-368-8344Stone HarborSalt SpaGet away on your getaway by booking a treatment in the Turkish Bath at the Salt Spa in Stone Harbor. When you step into the retreat room, floor-to-ceiling tiles sparkle in dim light while Swarovski crystals on the ceiling mimic stars. Steamy and dreamy, there is relaxing music playing and a mood-enhancing play of lights designed to lift your spirits. Options include a detox mud treatment or the body-nourishing, fruit-based scrub. —DPC9628 Third Avenue, 609-961-3009WANT MORE? Visit the retro-look Harbor Square movie theater.The WildwoodsThe Beach[caption id="attachment_334662" align="alignnone" width="778"] Beach access in the Wildwoods is free. Photo: Courtesy of Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement & Development Authority/Chris Lo Bue[/caption]Clearly, going to the beach is a huge part of going down the Shore. In most Shore towns, beach badges cost anywhere from $6 and up, daily. But in the Wildwoods, access is always free. Also of note: The Wildwoods have the widest beaches at the Shore, 1,500 feet in some spots, so you can get your steps in before chilling on the sand. —JG*WANT MORE?* Splash around at Morey’s Piers water parks, Raging Waters and Ocean Oasis; visit the Doo Wop Experience Museum (one of NJM's must-visit Jersey museums) and take a local tour of retro Doo Wop architecture run by the establishment; get a hoagie at the retro Wawa on Rio Grande.[RELATED: Inside New Jersey’s Love Affair with Wawa]*
Cape May Golf CartsWhile it may be true that nothing beats a stroll, wheels cover more ground, and tootling around in a rented golf cart may count as a compromise. At a max speed of 15 mph, the wonderful variety of Victorian colors and architecture on the famed strip of Painted Ladies on Gurney and other streets, is more than just a blur from the car window. Choose a two- or four-seater; either will fit into tight parking. And don’t forget the sensation of whizzing down Beach Avenue with the sun just over your shoulder—it’s worth the price of admission. —DPCWANT MORE? Hunt for Cape May “diamonds” (quartz pebbles); visit Beach Plum Farm for a day trip or overnight stay (an item on NJM's list of 52 things you must do in New Jersey); enjoy some of the best birding in the country. Click here for a guide to 24 hours in Cape May.
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There’s a new café in Montclair, but the draw isn’t the food or beverages; people come for the cats.The feline-friendly gathering place, called Catfé Montclair, joins a trend begun in Tokyo in 1998 that has since spread internationally; there are three other cat cafés in New Jersey. While self-serve coffee is available, and there are occasional yoga, guided-meditation and sound-bath sessions, the café’s simple aim is to be a place where people and cats can relax together.“It’s a great way for people to interact with cats and learn about them,” says owner Tara Ford. “We believe in the therapeutic power of the bond between humans and their feline companions, and the joy that cats bring to our lives.”Ford also hopes that the cats wandering around the café, which are all rescues from local animal shelters, will find a home through Catfé patrons. When rescue cats have a chance to get used to being around people, it increases their chances of being adopted, she says.Reservations for visits, available Friday through Sunday, are recommended; time slots are half-hour ($12) or hour ($24). Kids aged 7 and up can join sessions, and there are “Mommy or Daddy & Me and the Cats” events for kids 5 and up.“Some people come in and just watch, others get down on the floor,” Ford said. And if they fall in love, visitors can sign up to adopt or foster a furry friend right on catfemontclair.com.
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Into anything witchy or weird?Well, about 10 to 15 times a year, you can spend the night wandering Lunar Faire, a mystical night market that travels throughout the Garden State between spring and fall.“This is a place where anyone can be who they are, and it's cool,” says co-founder Kelly Dagila. “People in this world just want to be accepted as they are, and I want other people to be in a place where we can all feel that together.”[caption id="attachment_334272" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Lunar Faire has something for all ages. Photo: Mattie Cameron Rosen[/caption]At Lunar Faire events, large, outdoor fairgrounds fill up with more than 200 local vendors, featuring everything from art, crafts, clothes and wellness products to tarot readings and DIY spell jars. “Ninety to ninety-five percent of our vendors are women, non-binary, non-white male [or] disadvantaged businesses, and I’m grateful that we can support [them],” says co-founder Tiffany Casey.Food trucks, tasty non-alcoholic “potions,” glimmering lights, drum circles, drag queens and fire dancers are also part of the fairs. Guests of all ages don whimsical apparel and accessories (think: flower crowns, angel wings, capes, gowns and fairy ears). It’s a fascinating spectacle—part Halloween, part Renaissance Faire, part fantasy wonderland.Dagila and Casey, from Bloomingdale and Boonton respectively, held their first Lunar Faire event in 2021 in North Jersey. Three years later, the fair has grown significantly, receiving requests to host from counties all over New Jersey and adding hundreds of vendor applicants to a waitlist.The fairs typically run from 5 to 10 pm under glowing new or full moons. The first Lunar Faire of 2024 on Saturday, April 28, was held in South Jersey in Mullica Hill and jointly celebrated the pink moon (which was full on April 23) as well as Beltane (a Gaelic May Day festival that indicates the start of summer). It brought in a weekend crowd of well over 3,000 people.[RELATED: NJ Moon Rituals Illuminate Intentions for the New Year]
[caption id="attachment_334274" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Wander through 200+ vendors at Lunar Faire's outdoor Night Market. Photo: Mattie Cameron Rosen[/caption]This Tuesday, May 7, the market will celebrate the new moon in Taurus at the Burlington County Fairgrounds in Columbus. It’ll be back up north in West Milford on Friday, May 24, for a '70s garden disco to celebrate the Flower Moon. And on Thursday, June 6, Lunar Faire will celebrate its anniversary with a prom-themed fair in Augusta. Fair tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door.Check out Lunar Faire’s website and Instagram for more information.
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Here are some of the hottest concerts happening in New Jersey this May. Find more arts and entertainment events here, and browse our gigantic events calendar for hundreds more things to do.Please note that all schedules are subject to change; visit each venue’s website for more information.Kelly Clarkson📅: Friday, May 10-Saturday, May 11 (8 pm)📍: Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena • Atlantic Cityℹ️: The original American Idol, multiple Grammy winner and talk show host brings her signature powerhouse pop sound to New Jersey.💸: $199+Sum 41: Tour of the Setting Sum📅: Saturday, May 4 (5:30 pm)📍: The Stone Pony • Asbury Parkℹ️: The Grammy-nominated skate punk/rock band is playing its farewell tour.💸: $86+Richie Furay📅: Saturday, May 4 (7:30 pm)📍: South Orange Performing Arts Center • South Orangeℹ️: The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and cofounder of Buffalo Springfield bids adieu to touring with a final string of shows in celebration of his 80th birthday.💸: $75+Diana Ross📅: Friday, May 17 (8 pm)📍: NJPAC • Newarkℹ️: From lead singer of the Supremes to Oscar nominee and beyond, Diana Ross is a living legend.💸: $59+The Rolling Stones📅: Thursday, May 23-Sunday, May 26 (8 pm)📍: MetLife Stadium • East Rutherfordℹ️: One of the most iconic and best-selling bands of all time, the English rock group is bringing their Hackney Diamonds tour to MetLife Stadium.💸: $99+
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For a front-row vantage point to one of the world’s most stupendous views—the New York City skyline—head to the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, which stretches along the western shore of the Hudson River. On sunny days, the Hudson River sparkles. On overcast days, it radiates a steely gray.Walking or running along the river, you hear the insistent cries of gulls and the waves lapping against the shore. Watch ferries glide quickly across the water from Weehawken to midtown Manhattan. Pick out landmarks: the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, the Statue of Liberty.“It’s tranquil and it’s energizing at the same time,” says Melissa Yanurian, 36, of Edgewater, a pharmacist who likes to push her infant son’s stroller along the path. “The view itself is calming, but the city skyline is energizing.”[RELATED: The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey]
The walkway runs from Bayonne to Fort Lee, with some gaps. On the New Jersey side, you’ll pass townhouses, apartments, condos, businesses and parks. Memorials in Jersey City, Hoboken and Weehawken honor 9/11 victims.In Liberty State Park in Jersey City, the path goes past the historic 1889 terminal of the Central Railroad of New Jersey. Other Jersey City landmarks include the old Colgate factory clock; a statue honoring 22,000 Polish victims killed by the Soviets in the 1940 Katyn Massacre; and an 80-foot-tall sculpture of a head, called Water’s Soul.In Hoboken, the walkway slices straight between the train shed and the waiting room at the Hoboken rail terminal.The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway traces its beginnings to the mid-1980s, when the state Legislature passed a law requiring waterfront property owners to build a section of public walkway any time there was a change in a property’s use.“As more and more industries closed and more developers came in to develop what is now called the Gold Coast, the walkway has appeared,” says Don Stitzenberg, president of the Hudson River Waterfront Conservancy, a nonprofit that monitors the pathway’s construction and maintenance.He says the walkway is “largely complete from Port Liberte in Jersey City to the George Washington Bridge,” and it will “hopefully” be finished in the “next few years.”Beyond walking and running, there is plenty to do. The Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse, a nonprofit public boathouse located at at 1100 Frank Sinatra Drive North, offers free use of kayaks, paddleboards and outrigger canoes. The season runs May 25 to mid-September. Urban Paddle in Jersey City, located at Liberty Harbor Marina, offers kayak and standup paddleboarding lessons and tours. They are available from May 11 to early October.You can also rent a bike at one of the 82 Citi Bike stations in Jersey City or Hoboken, both of which have great options to stop for a drink or a meal.You could even try your hand at fishing, though, in Stitzenberg’s words, “Whether or not you’re going to eat fish out of the Hudson River is a whole other question.”The walkway includes a small segment in Bayonne, where the waterfront is still largely industrial. But Stitzenberg says that if, as expected, the waterfront is ultimately redeveloped there, it will be finished through Bayonne and will cover 18.5 miles from the George Washington Bridge to the Bayonne Bridge.GETTING THEREParking and public transit can be a challenge. Try these access points:Edgewater Harbor55 River Road, EdgewaterA small parking lot behind the stores has some spots designated for the walkway. However, you can’t walk north along the waterfront here without detouring inland.Guttenberg/North Bergen Waterfront ParkRiver Road on the border of North Bergen and Guttenberg, a little south of Hackensack Meridian Palisades Medical CenterThere are 15 parking spots here.Port Imperial4800 Avenue, WeehawkenPaid parking is available in decks near the NY Waterway ferry terminal.HobokenMunicipal parking decks are a few blocks from the waterfront. Or travel by NJ Transit train or bus, or the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail.Exchange PlaceJersey CityNear parking lots and some street parking, it can also be reached on the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and via PATH.Liberty State Park1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey CityEnjoy free parking. It’s also on the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail. Kathleen Lynn lives in northern New Jersey and is a contributing writer to New Jersey Monthly.
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[caption id="attachment_332687" align="alignnone" width="778"] Sharrott Winery in Hammonton serves enticing wines and gastropub-style food. Photo: Courtesy of Sharrott Winery[/caption]Maybe you already know South Jersey’s Hammonton as the blueberry capital of the world—or as first lady Jill Biden’s birthplace. But this farm-encircled Pinelands town of 15,000 has come into its own as a day-trip or getaway destination. It has a thriving wine culture, intriguing eating, a vintage downtown, and an aura of welcome. “Visitor or resident, Hammonton just draws you in,” says local Kelly Perone. “My family tore ourselves away from Montclair to start up Blueberry Rascal Distillery and encountered this friendly, creative, inclusive community. Hammonton has incredible spirit.”A half-hour from Philly’s Jersey suburbs and Atlantic City, Hammonton is a stop on the NJ Transit train connecting them. But it has never been a mere stopover. For decades, visitors have descended upon Hammonton to pick blueberries in June and July. Others drop into town after adventures in the adjacent Wharton State Forest, which offers 123,000 acres of nature’s magic.Now, visitors to Hammonton are also driven by its boutique wineries’ tasting rooms.Overall, New Jersey wine has reached critical mass, garnering oenophile buzz, impressive ratings and national awards. Hammonton has emerged as a Jersey-wine superstar with its own official grape-growing region, Outer Coastal Plain. Here, rich soil and Atlantic-gentled seasons nourish robust vines of red and white grapes: Old World, New World and French-American hybrids. But what ultimately raises Hammonton’s wine game is its committed, inspired winery owners and masterful winemakers.MORE ROAD TRIPS*:On Washington’s Trail: A Road Trip for the History BuffNew Jersey Road Trips for the Animal LoverNew Jersey’s Top Pizza ToursRetro Road Trips to Take Through New Jersey*
Visitors experience the fruits of their labor while swirling, sipping, and dipping into food pairings in country-chic winery tasting rooms. The Hammonton-centric Wine and Ale Trail of South Jersey, whether self driven or on low-priced jitney tours, conveniently links local wineries and craft breweries.White Horse Winery, run by father and son Brock and BJ Vinton, is a must-visit for Parisian brasserie eats, refined Bordeaux blends aged in French oak, and mellow chambourçin red. Over at Sharrott Winery, founder Larry Sharrott says visitors “come for the bottle and stay for the food.” That bottle could be a lip-licking vignoles white or Tango, a lively cabernet blend. And the food? Enticing gastropub-style bites.The Wine and Ale Trail includes Hammonton’s trio of high-quality craft breweries, known as the Brewmuda Triangle. Jersey breweries cannot provide food service, so food trucks roll up on weekends, and patrons are encouraged to bring their own grub. At the convivial Three 3’s microbrewery, taps dispense 14 frothy house lagers and ales. Vinyl Brewing Company is bouncy and social, and its gutsy, small-batch beers wink-wink with monikers like Adult Party and Low Life. Smack downtown, Chimney Rustic Ales’s tasting room and sidewalk tables prove handsome settings for flights and pints.Curtis and Kelly Perone’s Blue Rascal Distillery is embraced by cocktail connoisseurs. Distiller Veronica Townsend’s spirits highlight Hammonton blueberries, some grown on Curtis’s family farm. Six fruit liqueurs showcase South Jersey berries and cherries. Tipplers can opt for tastings, shots, full pours, or sophisticated cocktails with “zero junk ingredients,” says Kelly.Hammonton’s dining is as vibrant as its drinking. El Nuevo Mariachi Loco delivers fun, flavor and name-dropping; the premises of this authentic Mexican cantina once housed the ornate drugstore and soda fountain owned by the first lady’s paternal grandparents. The accent is Italian at Bagliani’s, a fourth-generation specialty market. Waffles are the way at the laid-back Funky Cow. Since 1972, Evelyn Penza has run Penza’s Pies at the Red Barn, slinging breakfast, lunch and hefty berry pies. Annata Wine Bar, a modern bistro, uncorks 125 wines (some from Hammonton), and Rocco’s Town House proffers an appealing, something-for-everyone menu and a downstairs speakeasy, Rock Bottom.“There’s so much to love about Hammonton, but six words say it,” says local entrepreneur Jim Donio, founder of the Eagle Theatre. “Small-town feel, big-city appeal.”KT Harrison, a career journalist on the lifestyle beat, is a longtime New Jersey Monthly dining critic and the magazine’s online Eat & Drink columnist.
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George Washington was in a fix. The British had chased Washington and his ragged Continental Army off Manhattan Island and across the Hudson River to what is now Fort Lee. Enlistments were ending, and there was little money to feed and clothe what remained of Washington’s fighting force.Washington needed a victory, and he needed it fast. For that, he looked to New Jersey.On the night of Christmas Day, 1776, Washington, who had retreated all the way to Pennsylvania, led his troops on their fateful crossing of the Delaware River, landing on the Jersey side just south of Lambertville. What followed were what historians call the Ten Crucial Days. Without Washington’s surprising series of successful engagements with the British and their Hessian mercenaries during those 10 days, we might all still be English subjects.[caption id="attachment_332695" align="alignnone" width="778"] Artist John Cameron’s 1876 painting of Washington crossing the Delaware. Painting: Library of Congress/John Cameron[/caption]Washington’s men traveled mostly on foot—some with feet wrapped in rags—for those 10 frigid days. Today, you can tour the key locations on their trek in the comfort of your family car in less than a day, including stops at three museums, two impressive monuments and several battle sites. You can use this story as your guide or join a tour.Our journey starts at Washington Crossing State Park (along Route 29 in Titusville). From the parking lot alongside the Delaware, you can sense the heroic effort required for Washington to float 2,400 troops across the rushing waters in the dead of night. Now, factor in the ice floes that pocked the river that Christmas and the brutal nor’easter that roiled the waters, driving rain, sleet and snow into the faces of the ill-clad soldiers. (The same night, two other planned crossings of 3,000 additional troops farther down the river failed.)MORE ROAD TRIPS*:New Jersey Road Trips for the Animal LoverRetro Road Trips to Take Through New JerseyNew Jersey’s Top Pizza ToursWhy You Must Wine and Dine in Hammonton*
After viewing the riverfront, drive up the hill to the visitor center museum (open daily, 9-11:30 am and 12:30-4 pm; admission free; 609-737-0623). The museum has two rooms of period artifacts, including an original letter from Washington to Colonel Richard Humpton directing him to gather the sturdy Durham boats the army needed for the crossing. You can also watch a 27-minute film on the Ten Crucial Days (admission $1). If you care to linger, visit the 18th-century Johnson Ferry House (open Wednesday-Sunday) or stretch your legs on one of the park’s many walking trails.From the state park, we head east on Washington Crossing-Pennington Road and south on Bear Tavern Road (Route 579), following Washington’s actual march toward Trenton, 9.5 miles away. (Watch for the Victory Trail signs.) For Washington’s men, this was a brutal slog along a rocky, rutted, icy trail. The troops struggled with ropes to haul heavy artillery pieces up and down the steep ravines.Turn left at Upper Ferry Road onto Route 634 (watch for the Dunkin’ Donuts). This is the very intersection where Washington divided his army for a two-pronged attack on the force of about 1,500 Hessians (paid soldiers from Germany) encamped in Trenton. According to local historian and volunteer tour guide Roger Williams (our guide for this day), it was here, just before sunrise, that Washington told his generals, “Synchronize your watches.” His goal: to ensure that the two divisions reached the initial Hessian outposts at the same time.[caption id="attachment_332719" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our May 2024 issue here. Cover illustration: Mary Kate McDevitt[/caption]Follow Route 634 (Parkway Avenue) all the way to Route 31 (Pennington Avenue). Turn right (there’s yet another Dunkin’ Donuts) and you’ll reach the Trenton Battle Monument, which towers above the busy confluence of five main streets. There’s no dedicated parking here, but you can park a few blocks away at the Greater Mount Zion AMA Church (42 Pennington Avenue) or pull into the gravel lot on your left as you reach the monument.When it opened in 1893, visitors could enter the base of the 150-foot-tall monument—constructed at a cost of $60,000—and ride to the top in the world’s first Otis elevator. These days, the interior is closed, so the best visitors can do is gaze up at the monument and imagine the scene that unfolded at this spot in 1776.That’s Washington in bronze signaling the attack atop the fluted column, but he wasn’t the only historically significant figure on the scene. Picture, to your left, a battery commanded by Alexander Hamilton firing on the Hessian positions along King Street (now Warren Street). Several hundred feet down King Street, a young lieutenant (and future president) named James Monroe led his third Virginia Regiment against the Hessians. In a moment that could have changed history, Monroe suffered a near-fatal neck wound in close combat with the enemy.Much as Washington envisioned, the Continentals engaged the Hessians from multiple directions that morning of December 26, 1776—a mere 4.5 hours after crossing the Delaware. The street fighting was chaotic. Outmanned by about 2-to-1, the surprised Hessians fell back. Washington’s army captured 900 prisoners and, satisfied that they had won the day, slipped back across the river to regroup.For your next stop, head down Warren Street to West Front Street for a visit to one of NJM's favorite museums, Old Barracks Museum (101 Barrack Street; open 10 am-5 pm, Wednesday-Saturday; adults, $10; students and seniors, $8; children under 5 and active military, free; 609-396-1776).Built in 1758 to shelter British soldiers during the French and Indian War, the Old Barracks housed British and Hessian troops at the time Washington captured Trenton. Having taken Trenton, the Continentals used the barracks as a prison and, later, as a military hospital. Today, the Old Barracks serves as a museum of Colonial times, with a collection of around 2,000 objects.From the museum, head about three blocks south to Mill Hill Park (at the corner of East Front and South Broad streets), which commemorates the Battle of Assunpink Creek (aka the Second Battle of Trenton). It was here, on January 2, 1777, that Washington’s troops held off three assaults by a larger British and Hessian force, which had just marched from Princeton. These were fresh troops under the command of Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis, who was bent on reclaiming Trenton for the Crown.Washington had stationed his troops on the high ground south of the creek. Today, you can stand astride the creek on Mill Hill Park’s black-iron footbridge and visualize Washington’s forces on the neighboring hillside, repelling the British and Hessians as they repeatedly attempted to cross the nearby Queen Street Bridge (now the Broad Street Bridge).At the far end of the park stands the yellow clapboard Alexander Douglas House, where Washington held a council of war with his regimental commanders to determine his next move. (At the time of the battle, the house was on the south side of the creek, where Washington’s troops held sway.)Rather than engage the enemy again the next day, Washington, content with his pair of morale-boosting triumphs at Trenton, slipped away in the night, leading his army to Princeton on today’s Quaker Bridge Road. To confound Cornwallis, Washington left behind a small detachment to lob shells across the river and keep fires burning, as if the full army were encamped for the night. By morning, as the British prepared to attack, all of Washington’s troops were gone.On today’s Quaker Bridge Road, 12 small, granite obelisks (placed in 1914 by the Sons of the Revolution) represent Washington’s 12-mile march to Princeton. You can follow that road, or take the more direct Route 1 north to the Province Line Road exit onto Route 533 north. Cross the bridge over the Delaware & Raritan Canal and turn right. Just ahead, you can spot obelisk number 11 at the edge of a broad field. Your next stop is the Princeton Battlefield (500 Mercer Road).[caption id="attachment_332684" align="alignnone" width="778"] A reenactment at Princeton Battlefield State Park. Photo: Al Pochek[/caption]Approaching Princeton, Washington and his army of about 6,000 men finally had the advantage of a larger force. Cornwallis had taken most of his troops to Trenton, leaving behind only about 1,200 soldiers to defend Princeton. Again, Washington divided his forces for a multipronged attack.Things did not go as planned. Early on January 3, as Washington’s force marched toward Princeton, a small brigade led by Brigadier General Hugh Mercer (namesake of Mercer County) encountered a British column. The Battle of Princeton was on.Before touring the battlefield, drive up the adjacent road to the Thomas Clarke House, the only remaining structure from the era. Inside the white clapboard farmhouse museum, two rooms display artifacts of Colonial times (open 10 am-4 pm, Wednesday-Saturday; 1-4 pm Sunday; admission and battlefield tours free; 609-921-0074).The battle actually broke out down the hill. The opposing forces faced off less than 50 yards apart. As musket balls whizzed through the air, the British fixed bayonets and charged. As the fighting intensified, Mercer’s horse was shot out from under him. The general drew his sword, but fell to multiple bayonet wounds.The fight was raging when Washington arrived at the scene, ordering his troops to attack the British left flank. As the battlefield filled with blinding smoke, the seemingly invincible Washington, tall in the saddle, rode between the lines and rallied the Americans, famously calling out, “Parade with me, my brave fellows.”It was an iconic, death-defying moment, which, says battlefield interpreter Will Krakower, “catapulted George Washington to mythical status.” Indeed, it was the turning point of the battle. The Americans counterattacked and overwhelmed the British, capturing more than 250 enemy soldiers. Washington’s army proceeded into Princeton, where the last of the British troops had barricaded themselves in Nassau Hall. An American artillery barrage forced their surrender.The Battle of Princeton lasted less than two hours, but turned the tide of the war. After the battle, Washington led his tired army to Morristown, where it would encamp for the rest of the winter.After touring the battlefield, you can continue into downtown Princeton and stroll among the town’s numerous Revolutionan-era sites, including Nassau Hall (on the university campus); Morven Museum & Garden (home to Richard Stockton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence); the 50-foot-tall Princeton Battle Monument (which depicts Washington on horseback and the death of Mercer); and the Princeton Cemetery (final resting place for many key figures from the Colonial era).The Battle of Princeton marked the climactic end of the Ten Crucial Days. At the start of that span, Washington’s army had been on the run. His earlier force of 20,000 men had been reduced to fewer than 8,000. What’s more, he was losing the support of the citizenry and the Continental Congress. But the swift succession of victories at Trenton and Princeton were game-changers. Enlistments rose, Congress changed its tune, and the British never fully occupied New Jersey again. Overseas, the French responded to the good news by opening discussions on an alliance with the Americans that proved indispensable.The war dragged on for six more years, but few battles were as pivotal as those frigid engagements in central New Jersey. “If we lose, that’s it,” says Krakower. “If we win, the sky’s the limit. And we win.”Ken Schlager is the former editor of New Jersey Monthly and a frequent contributor.
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There are so many things to love about New Jersey—beaches, quaint main streets, mountains and rivers. But when it comes to planning drives around the state, I always jump to, “What are we going to eat?” And since I have young kids, it’s most likely, “Where are we stopping for pizza?”The pizza tour is a natural extension of that idea. It doesn’t hurt that New Jersey is, arguably, the pizza capital of the world. All styles of pies can be found here, from wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas to only-in-Jersey pies slicked with mustard, not to mention perhaps the most iconic Jersey style of all: the bar pie.I chose three counties where some of my favorite pizzerias are located, and which have other points of interest as well. Heading to the Great Swamp or points farther west? Swing through Morris County. If a visit to Grounds for Sculpture or Princeton is on your agenda (and it should be), Mercer County has great pizza. Or if you’re hitting the northern part of the Shore, Monmouth County has top options.Or just go on a pizza tour without any other agenda. No judgment!MORE ROAD TRIPS*:On Washington’s Trail: A Road Trip for the History BuffNew Jersey Road Trips for the Animal LoverWhy You Must Wine and Dine in HammontonRetro Road Trips to Take Through New Jersey*
MORRIS COUNTYConiglio’s Old Fashioned, MorristownA lot has been said about Nino Coniglio, the Jersey native who opened a bunch of pizzerias in New York City before coming home in 2022. He is very particular about flour—what he uses in his naturally leavened dough is from a few New Jersey producers or Italy. He is also a true pizzaiolo, having won numerous awards. Besides adoring pizza, Coniglio loves life here. “Morristown checks all the boxes,” he says.11 South StreetReservoir Tavern, BoontonOpen since 1936, this delightfully old-school restaurant serves Italian classics with some creative twists, but the bar-style, thin-crust pizza is renowned. I like to keep it simple, but you can’t go wrong with hot cherry peppers and sausage.92 Parsippany BoulevardColumbia Inn, MontvilleFor ultra-thin crust, hit up Columbia Inn. This stuff practically shatters like a cracker, yet it’s stable enough to support any toppings you like.29 Main Road[caption id="attachment_332719" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our May 2024 issue here. Cover illustration: Mary Kate McDevitt[/caption]MERCER COUNTYPapa’s Tomato Pies, RobbinsvillePapa’s was established in 1912 in Trenton and is the oldest continuously family-owned pizza restaurant in the country. (It moved to its current location in 2013.) It’s also famous for tomato pies (sauce on top) and for the mustard pie, which is just what it sounds like: Mustard is smeared on the dough, followed by cheese and sauce on top. As OG pizza fans know, it’s downright tasty.19 Robbinsville Allentown RoadDeLorenzo’s Tomato Pies, RobbinsvilleLike Papa’s, DeLorenzo’s is a tomato-pie spot with a mustard pie on the menu and roots in Trenton. It’s been open since 1947.2350 Route 33Conte’s Pizza, PrincetonA constant in an ever-shifting college town, Conte’s has been selling pizza since 1950. (It was Witherspoon Bar first, which opened in 1936.) Be prepared for thin-crust bar pies, real toppings and zesty sauce. Perfect.339 Witherspoon StreetMONMOUTH COUNTYBrooklyn Square, ManalapanPeter Grippo makes upside-down pizza Sicilian style (square, cheese under the sauce), similar to the way they do it at the famous L&B Spumoni Gardens in Brooklyn, which coincidentally is near where he was raised. At Brooklyn Square, that’s the pie to try. Note: The flagship is in Jackson.73 Wilson AvenueTalula’s, Asbury ParkNeapolitan-style pies with farm-to-table toppings can be found at this spot—one of NJM's favorite eateries in Asbury Park!—with decidedly cool vibes and sourdough-fermented dough. The Sausage Party, topped with fennel sausage, miso-creamed kale and pickled cherry peppers, is delicious.550 Cookman Avenue, #108Vic’s, Bradley BeachOld-school, bar-style, New Jersey cred up the wazoo. Need I say more? Get a classic pizza, and eat it hot. Vic’s has been doing this since 1947.60 Main StreetRosie’s, Middletown (coming soon)The original Rosie’s is just over the Ocean County border in Point Pleasant, but a Monmouth County location will open soon in Middletown. I love their blistered-to-perfection pies, made with natural sourdough. “When you’ve eaten a slice down to the end, and all you have left is that folded piece of crust with no sauce or cheese left…you should want to finish it because that last bite of crust tastes so damn good,” says owner Mike Mercuro.Georgia Kral is a professor of journalism and communications at Saint Peter’s University.
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There’s nothing quite as humbling as having a wolf dog jump up to lick your face or feeling a giraffe grab a leaf from your outstretched hand. Before summer is in full swing at the Jersey Shore, commune with exotic and extraordinary animals in places close to or along the Garden State Parkway.[caption id="attachment_332719" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our May 2024 issue here. Cover illustration: Mary Kate McDevitt[/caption]Near the geographic center of the state, in Jackson Township, Mike Hodanish bought a 10-acre former chicken farm to raise his two wolf dogs, rather than suffer complaints from his neighbors in suburban Bordentown. With his love of these furry animals—which are part dog, part wolf, and can be kept as pets in New Jersey—as well as requests from people to rehome their overly active wolf dogs, he created a nonprofit education center, which has been offering tours since 2012.Before the one-hour tour starts, there’s an orientation with instructions on how to interact with the 12 wolf dogs who make Howling Woods Farm their permanent home. Some of these mixed breed animals have as much as 95 percent wolf in their DNA, and they are surprisingly friendly, playful and even shy. Before entering the pens, guides ask visitors to remove anything with an odor from their pockets.MORE ROAD TRIPS*:On Washington’s Trail: A Road Trip for the History BuffRetro Road Trips to Take Through New JerseyNew Jersey’s Top Pizza ToursWhy You Must Wine and Dine in Hammonton*
At the first stop inside the pens, two or three wolf dogs typically come over to sniff visitors, lick them, or ask for head scratches. Selfies are permitted at some stops on the visit.At one point during the tour, which includes three or four pens, visitors are prompted to shed their inhibitions and howl loudly—which usually triggers a howling chorus of wolf dogs throughout the property.In addition to the permanent residents at Howling Woods, Hodanish always has other wolf dogs that he actively tries to rehome to new owners. More than 300 wolf dogs have been rescued and rehomed since he started the center.Because New Jersey permits wolf dog ownership and interaction but surrounding states do not, this is the only such attraction within hundreds of miles. Tours are Wednesday and Friday afternoons and one weekend day. Private tours are available. Be sure to call, not email, to make reservations.Less than 10 minutes from Howling Woods is Six Flags Great Adventure, where visitors can get up close and personal with more than 1,200 animals at the property’s 350-acre Wild Safari park. Hop into a tour vehicle to experience an off-road adventure, where you’ll see giraffes, elephants and more. (Guests can no longer drive their own cars through the park.) During the ride, animals roam free. Be on the lookout for friendly giraffes. Admission is included with an amusement park ticket, or costs $25 per person without going into the amusement park.[caption id="attachment_332690" align="alignnone" width="778"] At Six Flags Great Adventure’s Safari Park, visitors can enjoy animals in exciting off-road vehicle tours. Photo: Courtesy of Six Flags Great Adventure Resort[/caption]Starting in June, visitors can “glamp” right in Wild Safari. A two-night minimum reservation is required to stay at the Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa in one of 20 luxury tents that fit up to six people. The price includes breakfast, evening events, a giraffe experience, and more. Even at the starting rate of $600 a night, plus a $100 resort fee, accommodations are likely to sell out.[RELATED: Where to Go Glamping in New Jersey]
[caption id="attachment_332681" align="alignnone" width="778"] Admission to the Cape May Zoo is always free, though visitors can pay a fee to enjoy a private tour or an animal encounter. Photo: Courtesy of cmczoo.com[/caption]Farther south at the Shore, head to the Cape May Zoo. Admission is always free, but private tours, which we highly recommend, cost extra. You can experience encounters with animals such as the newly popular capybaras, the world’s largest rodents. It’s one of the few places in the country to interact with capybaras, so book well in advance.To round out a weekend road trip, navigate to Galloway Township, just off the Parkway, to visit the 8-mile Wildlife Drive of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Spring migration will be in full splendor, with shorebirds swooping and nesting. There is a modest $4 admission charge per car.R.C. Staab is a travel writer, book author, and wildlife and Jersey Shore enthusiast.
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[caption id="attachment_332682" align="alignnone" width="778"] Retro Roadmap author Beth “Mod Betty” Lennon says people need to get out and explore more. “Overcome the inertia of the internet and go create some memories instead of regrets,” she says. Photo: Courtesy of Retro Roadmap[/caption]How many of us wish we could time travel back to a less stressful, more playful era? Well, here’s your chance. Mod Betty (born Beth Lennon), a day-tripper with decidedly old-fashioned tastes, has written five books detailing vintage venues she enthusiastically recommends to those who revel in all things retro. Two of her Retro Roadmap books aim the spotlight solely on New Jersey, where she spent hundreds of hours tooling along Garden State roads in search of funky destinations.She found plenty. “Without these charming vintage landmarks, which unfortunately keep disappearing, the United States would be one boring, beige box store after another from town to town, coast to coast,” she says.With those recommendations in mind, here are three road-trip itineraries guaranteed to deliver nostalgic fun. Now rev up that engine and enjoy!NORTH AND CENTRAL JERSEY[caption id="attachment_332691" align="alignnone" width="778"] The classic Summit Diner, built in 1938. Photo: Courtesy of Retro Roadmap[/caption]Nothing says New Jersey like breakfast at a diner. We are the diner capital of the world, after all! Start your day at a classic spot, like the Dumont Crystal Diner, built in the 1920s and thought to be Jersey’s oldest. Other options include the Roadside Diner in Wall Township (1932), the Summit Diner (1938), and the Bendix Diner in Hasbrouck Heights (1947). Want to breakfast like the Boss? Bruce Springsteen is known to visit Roberto’s Freehold Grill (formerly Tony’s) on occasion.[RELATED: Meet the Couple on an Epic Mission to Try Every Single Jersey Diner]
[caption id="attachment_332697" align="alignnone" width="778"] The family-owned Wild West City amusement park in Stanhope. Photo: Courtesy of Retro Roadmap[/caption]Then buck up for an adventure at Wild West City, a family-owned Western-heritage theme park in Stanhope founded in 1957. Or, if you’re not in a rootin’ tootin’ mood, shop in downtown Closter, where a visit to Ward’s 5 & 10, open since 1960, is a must. If you’re closer to charming Lambertville, you’d be remiss to miss Finkle’s Hardware, more than a century old.Dinner and a show are on tap for your evening. Dinner choices include Kinchley’s Tavern in Ramsey, which has been there since 1937 (you can’t miss the giant Clydesdale horse statue out front), or Chick & Nello’s Homestead Inn in Trenton. Finally, take in a show at one of our state’s historic theaters, like State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick or Brook Arts Center in Bound Brook.SOUTH JERSEY[caption id="attachment_332683" align="alignnone" width="778"] The 18-foot Nitro Girl statue in Blackwood. Photo: Courtesy of Retro Roadmap[/caption]Visit McMillan’s Bakery, in Haddon Township since 1939, for a take-along breakfast. If you have kids with you, it’s off to Storybook Land, a family-owned amusement park featuring fairy-tale characters and buildings, built in Egg Harbor Township in 1955.[RELATED: A Nostalgic Ride Through New Jersey’s Family-Owned Amusement Parks]
[caption id="attachment_332696" align="alignnone" width="778"] Weber’s Drive-In in Pennsauken. Photo: Courtesy of Retro Roadmap[/caption]With or without children in tow, feed your sweet tooth at Damask’s Candies, in Swedesboro since 1906, or Aunt Charlotte’s Candies, founded in 1920 in Merchantville. Next, head to lunch at Weber’s Drive-In, built in 1954 in Pennsauken, just a few miles from Aunt Charlotte’s. This seasonal spot, with its homemade root beer and spinning lollipop sign, is one of the last old-fashioned drive-in eateries still standing.Be sure to make a pit stop to check out a roadside attraction unlike any other you’ll see in this area: the 18-foot Nitro Girl fiberglass statue that makes her home at Werbany Tire Town in Blackwood.[caption id="attachment_332680" align="alignnone" width="778"] The Landis Theater in Vineland, which has been in operation since 1937. Photo: Courtesy of Retro Roadmap[/caption]End your day with a play at one of South Jersey’s vintage theaters, all listed on the National Register of Historic Places: the Levoy (1908) in Millville, the Broadway (1926) in Pitman, or the Landis (1937) in Vineland. Before stepping inside, be wowed by their lit-up marquees. Or watch a double feature at Vineland’s Delsea Drive-In, the Garden State’s only remaining drive-in theater (open weekends only, seasonally through early September). It was built in 1949. The concession stand offers a range of dinner foods.[caption id="attachment_332719" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our May 2024 issue here. Cover illustration: Mary Kate McDevitt[/caption]Another choice for your evening entertainment is a concert at Collingswood’s Scottish Rite Auditorium. Be sure to look up at the unique ceiling.SOUTH JERSEY SHOREStart your adventure with breakfast at the Forked River Diner, or order a to-go lunch for later.Head south to Margate for an interior tour of Lucy the Elephant. The six-story-high pachyderm was constructed in 1881 of tin-covered wood (nearly a million boards) as a tourist attraction. A National Historic Landmark, Lucy is the oldest surviving roadside attraction in America.Then it’s off to the Harbor Square Theater in Stone Harbor for a movie. The four-screen theater projects current and classic films—and is a classic itself, built in 1947. Don’t scarf down too much popcorn, as your next stop is dinner at Atlantic City’s Knife and Fork Inn, a 1912 restaurant where political boss Enoch “Nucky” Johnson (the inspiration for HBO’s Boardwalk Empire) downed many a meal during Prohibition. Later guests included Frank Sinatra. While in AC, don’t forget to take a walk on the city’s Boardwalk, the country’s oldest.[caption id="attachment_332678" align="alignnone" width="778"] Wildwood Crest’s Caribbean Motel is on the National Register of Historic Places. Photo: Courtesy of Retro Roadmap[/caption]Want to make your road trip a weekend getaway? Check into Wildwood Crest’s 1957 Caribbean Motel. After breakfast the next morning at Larkin’s Restaurant, check out the Doo Wop Experience Museum—one of NJM's favorite museums in the state!—which features vintage signs and memorabilia in the the Doo-Wop architectural style Wildwood is famous for.Then head to the Ocean City boardwalk, constructed in 1880, where you can choose your steed on the 1926 carousel at Gillian’s Wonderland Amusement Pier. Take home goodies from Shriver’s Candies, established in 1898. What could be sweeter?For more information on Mod Betty and her books, visit retroroadmap.com.MORE ROAD TRIPS*:On Washington’s Trail: A Road Trip for the History BuffNew Jersey Road Trips for the Animal LoverNew Jersey’s Top Pizza ToursWhy You Must Wine and Dine in Hammonton*
Barbara Leap, turning 74 while writing this article, realized she’s retro herself.
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Festival of Tulips📅: Opens Saturday, March 30📍: Dalton Farms, Swedesboroℹ️: Explore fields of tulips and daffodils at this annual festival, where you can pick your own blooms. Live music, food vendors, a beer garden and a farmers market are on-site on weekends.💸: $13-$18, plus $2/stem or 10 for $10Cherry Blossom Festival📅: Saturday, April 6-Sunday, April 14📍: Branch Brook Park, Essex Countyℹ️: Branch Brook Park (not Washington, DC!) has the largest collection of cherry blossoms in the world and hosts an annual festival with a bike race, family day, and more activities to be enjoyed alongside the breathtaking display.💸: FreeOpen Days Gardens📅: Saturday, April 13 & Saturday, May 4📍: The Garden Conservancy, Garrisonℹ️: The Garden Conservancy allows visitors to explore gardens at private homes in the state.💸: $5-$10Daffodil Day📅: Sunday, April 14 (11 am-3 pm)📍: Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summitℹ️: See one of the largest daffodil collections in the state, alongside music, games, crafts and more.💸: Free for arboretum members and children under 3; for nonmembers, $10 per personMargate's Cherry Blossom Festival📅: Sunday, April 14 (noon-4 pm)📍: Margate Community Church, Margateℹ️: The community’s inaugural festival celebrates spring with cherry blossoms, music, crafts, food and more.💸: FreeU-Pick Tulips: Spring Spectacular📅: Opens mid-April📍: Holland Ridge Farms, Cream Ridgeℹ️: Stroll fields of tulips and pick your own blooms from Jersey’s largest tulip display. There are food trucks daily, plus live music and a farmers market on weekends.💸: $15-$30, plus $1/stem (ages 2 and under free)Earth Day Weekend Celebration📅: Monday, April 22-Tuesday, April 23📍: New Jersey Botanical Garden, Ringwoodℹ️: Celebrate Earth Day and all that nature has to offer.💸: Free
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Day-trippers and locals flock to Shoppons Run Flower Farm in Stockton not only for its burgeoning blossoms, but to share sparkling conversation with proprietor and master gardener Peter McCrohan.“I work with all kinds of customers—the floral designers who order large quantities of just one or two fancy varieties, as well as locals who prefer a humble bouquet wrapped in a rubber band,” says McCrohan, who grew up in Princeton.His goal is to plant just enough each season to meet market demand. “I find a home for mostly everything I grow,” he adds. Quince blooms in March and April; then come peonies in May and June. In August through October, the dahlia crop, for which McCrohan is best known, is at its most vigorous and colorful. The farm also raises lilacs, tiger lilies, nerines, bittersweet, spider lilies and trumpet-shaped crinums.[caption id="attachment_331489" align="aligncenter" width="778"] A field of dahlias appears as if imagined by Monet himself. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]Shoppons Run took off in 2021 when a New York Times real estate-section article raved about Delaware Township. One of the images showed McCrohan, in his signature cowboy hat, cutting flowers in his bucolic field. Soon after, he was featured in Princeton-area publications and even snagged a magazine-cover photo, making him a bit of a local celebrity.[RELATED: The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey]
McCrohan is the real deal. He graduated from Cook College at Rutgers with a degree in horticulture, then farmed in Arizona and California for 20 years. Tired of the dry climate, he moved back to the East Coast in 2010 to put down roots on the tract of preserved land that is now his farm. “I bought this property when I was 60 years old and now I’m 73. I grew flowers out west, but had never raised dahlias,” says McCrohan.[caption id="attachment_331490" align="aligncenter" width="778"] The striped Tartan dahlia is a show-off in the field as well as the vase. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]Today, he tends the 14-acre Hunterdon County parcel with his cat, Leo, a good mouser and an ambassador of goodwill at the farm. He employs no staff, but a legion of loyal volunteers helps plant dahlias in spring and digs up the heavy tubers in fall.“I operate the rototiller and tractor, but personally don’t plant or lift,” McCrohan admits. “We have it down to a science. On four separate mornings, I lay about 600 dahlia pots (2,400 total) in rows four feet apart. The volunteers come right behind me to plant them. We work up an appetite for a nice lunch in one of my five outdoor salons.” His salons are vignettes assembled with a quirky collection of well-loved outdoor furniture that McCrohan snagged at local garage sales.[caption id="attachment_331491" align="aligncenter" width="778"] A bouquet of Karma Chocolate, Cafe au Lait, Castle Drive and pompoms is simply elegant. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]Among his volunteers are a retired dentist and an English professor. “Volunteers experience the whole process from seed to blossom, so they feel a part of it,” he says.McCrohan is passionate about the science of farming. “These days, there’s an inability for young farmers to own land. But in Delaware Township, there’s a lot of farmland available, with great support from New Jersey conservation groups. It’s a statewide revitalization of agriculture, because our loamy soil offers so many exciting opportunities for young people to grow flowers, fruit and vegetables.”[caption id="attachment_331493" align="aligncenter" width="778"] A Karma Chocolate blossom is popular among floral designers, as well as bees. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]Meanwhile, back on the farm, McCrohan is on the lookout for new colors and varieties of dahlias. He keeps a nucleus of 25 varieties and tries three to five new types each season.“I like to swap dahlia tubers with other gardeners. Some like tiny pompom dahlias, while others prefer huge dinnerplate dahlias that grow 7 feet tall.”Later this year, he will begin taking orders for already-started dahlias in 4-inch pots.[caption id="attachment_331495" align="aligncenter" width="778"] A close-up of a Cafe au Lait dahlia in full bloom. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]After each busy season, how does McCrohan relax?“I own a vintage BMW motorcycle and like to visit Riegelsville, Pennsylvania, riding up one side of the Delaware River and back down the other. That’s my idea of a half-day vacation. Then I come right back to the farm.”[caption id="attachment_331496" align="aligncenter" width="778"] At the end of the day, even the gardener himself can’t resist cutting a bouquet. Photo: Laura Moss[/caption]This passionate gardener and proponent of local agriculture sums up his love of flower farming like this: “Growing dahlias is like cooking scallops. They are good not because the chef is good, but simply because they are naturally good.”Shoppons Run Flower Farm (87 Worman Road, Stockton) is open most weekends, but it is best to call first: 520-850-3226.Follow our home & style editor on Instagram (@susanbrierlybush).
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Situated beyond New Jersey’s city streets and suburban sprawl is a bounty of natural beauty. Our forests, lakes, rivers and Shore are assets to residents and visitors alike.Many of our state’s natural wonders, and access to them, would not exist without the work of the New Jersey chapter of The Nature Conservancy (TNC), a nonprofit established in 1951 that works to conserve land and water, improve life, and address climate change and biodiversity in more than 70 countries.[RELATED: The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey]
TNC began its work in New Jersey in 1955, and its priorities continue to be our coasts, rivers, land and cities, which all benefit nature, critters and human life. Some of TNC’s biggest projects include working to plant more trees in Newark, which helps to reduce urban heat, and building and maintaining Bobcat Alley to provide a protected wildlife corridor for endangered bobcats to move safely between the Kittatinny and Highlands ridges within the Appalachian Mountains in New Jersey.Year-round, TNC works across the state to “ensure that we don’t lose some of the characteristics of New Jersey that are so important,” says New Jersey state director Barbara Brummer, who has been leading New Jersey’s team for 20 years. TNC is a 501c3 nonprofit that is funded by private donors, foundations and public grants. TNC in New Jersey currently has more than 25,000 members.But the best way to get involved, Brummer says, is to get outside and experience nature for yourself, which can also be a great way to improve personal health.[caption id="attachment_330464" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our April 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]Brummer recommends visiting any of New Jersey’s flagship preserves, which are run by TNC and offer a wonderful chance for residents to get out in nature. They are South Cape May Meadows Preserve, Garrett Family Preserve at Cape Island Creek in Lower Township, Lizard Tail Swamp Preserve in Middle Township, Maurice River Bluffs Preserve in Millville, Johnsonburg Swamp Preserve in Warren and Sussex counties, Blair Creek Preserve in Stillwater and Hardwick townships, and High Mountain Park Preserve in Wayne and Passaic counties.Special features and experiences abound at the preserves. At the Garrett Family Preserve, a haven for migrating birds, raptors, bumble bees and butterflies; there’s even a monarch-butterfly statue people can pose in front of to look like a butterfly with big, orange wings. From the top of the Summit Trail at High Mountain Park Preserve, there are incredible views of the New York City skyline and North Jersey.TNC is working on improving accessibility at all of its preserves, including South Cape May Meadows, an internationally known birding spot and the most visited preserve in New Jersey. A fully ADA-compliant, wheelchair- and stroller-accessible boardwalk trail will allow all visitors further access when it opens within the year.“I want people to appreciate the natural wonders that we have in New Jersey,” Brummer says. “One way to do that is to take a look at the kinds of work we’re doing and support our efforts to protect this wonderful state we’ve all chosen to live in.”Visit nature.org to learn more.
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Ready to make the most of the Garden State's great outdoors? We've got guides to unique hiking spots, the best biking trails, glamping destinations, wild and scenic rivers, a magical hidden gem nestled in South Mountain Reservation, and more. Happy exploring! South Mountain Reservation Fairy Trail: A Magical Place to VisitThe enchanting half-mile trail, dotted with dozens of tiny homes made from items found outside, sparks a reverence for nature among visitors of all ages. READ MORE Hike and Hang! These Scenic NJ Spots Have It AllHit the trails—then slow down, take a stroll and stop to smell the roses. READ MORE[caption id="attachment_330464" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our April 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption] NJ’s Best Biking Trails: A Passionate Cyclist Shares His SecretsForget the Turnpike! Biking is the best way to explore New Jersey. READ MORE Where to Go Glamping in NJ: Sleep Under the Stars in StyleSpending the night in the woods never looked so luxurious. Amenities include beds, personal lawns, Wi-Fi and even hip design elements. READ MORE How to Enjoy NJ’s Wild and Scenic RiversProtected by Congress, these three rivers offer "rare beauty"—and exceptional boating, birding, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, tubing and camping. READ MORE Fun Things to Do Outside in NJ This SpringEnjoy the beauty and fun of NJ's outdoors. READ MORE
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[caption id="attachment_331097" align="alignnone" width="778"] The Maurice River is one of many beautiful places to visit in New Jersey. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]One day in 2006, while boating with his grandson on South Jersey’s Maurice River, Dave Scherer was struck by the realization that Millville, his hometown, was harboring a secret that cried out to be shared.“It occurred to me that, because the river is unspoiled, offering rare beauty in our overdeveloped world, more people should get to enjoy it,” he recalls. “I asked myself what I could do to make that happen.”Scherer was aware that, on December 1, 1993, Congress had officially designated 35.4 miles of the Maurice River and its tributaries, the Manumuskin River and Menantico and Muskee creeks, as wild and scenic. This designation is significant, forever keeping any river that receives it primitive, free-flowing, and protected from commercialism and overdevelopment.The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created in 1968, ultimately protecting nearly 14,000 miles of 226 rivers in 41 states and Puerto Rico.[caption id="attachment_331096" align="alignnone" width="778"] The Musconetcong River is a tributary of the Delaware. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]The Garden State is home to three such rivers. Two of them, the Maurice and the Great Egg Harbor rivers, are nestled in the 1.1 million-acre New Jersey Pinelands, with its unique, protected ecosystem. The third is the Delaware. Sections of the Musconetcong River, a tributary of the Delaware in the Highlands region of North Jersey, are included as wild and scenic: the 3.5-mile segment from Saxton Falls to the Route 46 Bridge, the 20.7-mile segment from the King’s Highway Bridge to the railroad tunnels at Musconetcong Gorge, and the 4.3-mile segment from Hughesville Mill to the confluence with the Delaware River.[RELATED: The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey]
So what became of Scherer’s dream of sharing the natural beauty of the Maurice River? He purchased a hurricane-damaged pontoon boat in Florida, had it transported to Millville, and rehabbed it with the help of his grandson David Enright. They added a canopy, 18 seats, a long table for onboard dining, and a tiny bathroom.[caption id="attachment_331085" align="alignnone" width="778"] The Great Egg Harbor River is located in the Pinelands. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Scherer had earned his master captain’s license in 1996, so he was all set to start offering environmental rides on the river in a new business he christened Maurice River Cruises. As Captain Dave, he takes passengers on two-hour, 20-mile, round-trip rides launched from Millville.The boat gets as close as a couple of hundred yards from wildlife. Bring binoculars or use a pair provided onboard for close-up views of turtles and the occasional otter, beaver, fox, muskrat or deer, plus numerous osprey, egrets, bald eagles and their nests in this primitive watershed.Captain Dave, now 80 and a great-grandfather, guarantees eagle sightings, or passengers get a future ride for free. “The Maurice River area has the largest concentration of bald eagles in South Jersey,” he points out, adding that, of all the trips he’s captained in nearly two decades, only one was eagle-less.Starting May 17 and running through October, Captain Dave is once again offering Friday and Saturday daytime cruises and Wednesday sunset cruises. Charters can also be arranged. He narrates each voyage, pointing out historic riverside structures and offering entertaining stories about colorful local residents and Millville’s vibrant glass-manufacturing history. Reservations can be made by calling 856-327-1530.[caption id="attachment_330464" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our April 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]Nature and water lovers can enjoy all three wild and scenic rivers and their environs in a variety of ways besides boating. Birders and hikers can experience stunning vistas of the Maurice River at the Maurice River Estuary Trail (1 Strawberry Avenue, Port Norris), Maurice River Bluffs Trail (1200 Silver Run Road, Millville), and Harold N. Peek Preserve (1400 S. Second Street, Millville).Want to get your feet wet? Kayaking, canoeing and tubing can’t be beat for tranquility, escape and contemplation. Two Mays Landing businesses rent equipment and arrange rides along the Great Egg Harbor River. Palace Restaurant & Outfitters (6924 E. Black Horse Pike; 609-625-8552) is open starting at 9 am, Tuesday-Sunday, from early May through late September, and also offers riverside dining. The last van carrying adventurers (age 5 and up) to the river entranceway leaves the Palace at 3 pm. Bring insect repellent.Those wishing to stay overnight just feet from the Great Egg Harbor River can rent one of three pet-friendly cabins offered by Palace Outfitters. The Winding River Campground (6752 Weymouth Road), also pet friendly, offers campsites for RVs and tents, plus two cabins and amenities such as a pool. For kayaking, canoeing and tubing, it opens at 9 am daily (last launch leaving at 2 pm) from May 1 through October 15. Paddlers and tubers are driven to the historic Weymouth Furnace site and finish up at the campground’s backyard.[RELATED: Where to Go Glamping in New Jersey: Sleep Under the Stars in Style]
Historic spots to be explored near the Musconetcong River are Waterloo Village, Stanhope, Asbury and Finesville. Those with canoes, kayaks and tubes can put in at numerous points along the wild and scenic sections of the Delaware. Recommendation for tubers: Bring a short paddle to help you escape impediments like fallen tree trunks.One thing explorers of New Jersey’s wild and scenic rivers are sure to discover: They are quite a contrast to the Turnpike!Barbara Leap enjoys reading a book while blissfully tubing on the wild and scenic Great Egg Harbor River.
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Before I ever lived in New Jersey, I was riding bikes in New Jersey.Back when I was living in Brooklyn, I would often find myself on weekends at my in-laws’ house in Sparta’s Lake Mohawk community. As a keen cyclist, I soon discovered that Sussex County, once you got away from routes 15 and 206, was surprisingly ideal for riding. Whizzing past knee-high corn; stopping for an egg sandwich at the quaint little country store in Tranquility; riding down quiet roads with names like Shades of Death (which, eerily, would take you to Ghost Lake); rolling past ponds and fields on the crunchy gravel of the Sussex Branch Trail—I sometimes felt like I could have been in Vermont.Early on, in 2015, a local rider named Connor Sokol pinged me on Strava, the running and cycling app. We chatted briefly, and, on the principle that it’s always better to ride in a group, we started heading out together. Much to my surprise, he was in high school (I am his father’s age—well, even a bit older). But he seemed wiser than his years, and he knew a lot about bikes—and the local landscape. My secret training base, as I jokingly called it, kept getting bigger as we occasionally banged out 100-mile rides up into the Delaware Water Gap and over the toll bridge (cyclists cross free) into Pennsylvania.[RELATED: The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey]
Fast-forward nearly a decade, and I’m sitting over a steaming bowl at Cranky Noodles, a little ramen shop housed within Gears n’ Grinds, a bike shop in Sparta founded three years ago by none other than Connor Sokol. “From the beginning, I wanted to do more than a bike shop,” he tells me at the mechanic’s stand, clad in an apron and holding a wrench. “I wanted to create a community hub.”So he partnered with chef Andre de Waal (who helms Andre’s Lakeside in Sparta) on what was at first going to just be a pop-up, but evolved into a permanent fixture. Sokol gets a flow of locals who come in to kibbitz over bikes and coffee, but also sees customers from the downhill bike park at Mountain Creek—“like a guy from South Jersey who drove all the way up, and he’s on his third run of the day on a $65 lift pass, and he destroys his rear wheel.” As Sokol notes, “We got him sorted and saved his day.”My own life has come full circle, in its own way, and now that I’m a resident of New Jersey, my conviction has only deepened that the Garden State, despite its famous density—and all the cliches about turnpikes and traffic—can be an incredible place to ride a bike. Sure, there are monster highways lined with Jersey barriers and seemingly endless permutations of nails, bagel and tanning outposts. But there are also quiet, family-friendly trails that run for miles along quaint rivers; Belgian-style races (the Hell of Hunterdon) on little-traveled back roads; dewy hilltop meadows where you might come across a black bear; even epic single-track mountain biking in a defunct 1970s wildlife theme park known as Jungle Habitat. As someone who is down for pretty much anything on two wheels—I’ve even ridden a “Sno-Go bike” at American Dream’s Big Snow—I can confidently say that New Jersey provides choices.[caption id="attachment_331084" align="alignnone" width="778"] A trail through Bedminster. Photo: Courtesy of Tom Vanderbilt[/caption]Curiously, when I moved to Madison in 2021, I didn’t have cycling on my mind at all—we picked the town mostly because we knew it a bit, my wife having gone to high school in nearby Chatham in the 1980s. But fate seemed to intervene. A few months before we arrived, I met, via a mutual friend in Vermont, a local resident named Paul Rosica who, as it turned out, had a cycling club that met almost every day at 6 am in the parking lot of a local Starbucks for a prework (and often predawn) ride.It didn’t take me long to become fully ensconced. Now, most mornings, we typically roll through the Great Swamp or Jockey Hollow, sometimes competing for sprints. On weekends, there are longer jaunts, over thickly wooded hills and through rolling horse country, to places like CocoLuxe Fine Pastries in Peapack-Gladstone, Bex in Califon, Chez Alice in Princeton, or King’s Gambit in Belvidere (good coffee and pastries, in my opinion, are as essential to cycling as wheels and brakes). Weather permitting—and New Jersey winters are statistically getting milder—we ride in all four seasons.Cycling, of course, is about more than scenery or exercise; it’s about community. One of the benefits of living in the country’s most densely populated state is the opportunity to meet and ride with many other cyclists. Madison, like many towns, has its local bike shop (Hilltop Bicycles, 973-822-2453) and a shop ride.Murat Koksel, a native of Turkey who works in the maritime industry and has lived in Madison for ten years—and who will do 100-mile ultra runs for either fun, punishment, or some combination of the two—leads the Saturday expedition, sending out a route (often named for a Pink Floyd or Metallica song) the night before. He has become so attached to these rituals that, a few years ago, when he received a few job offers that would have taken him out of the country, he eventually turned them down.[caption id="attachment_330464" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our April 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]“I thought about what really makes me happy and what I look forward to every day,” he tells me. “I thought about these roads and the friends I’ve made—I wasn’t ready to give that up for another place.”It’s not just road cycling, of course. I routinely take my daughter, who doesn’t feel entirely comfortable riding next to the occasional car (or maybe it’s me who feels uncomfortable), for a ride on one of the state’s many rail trails. Owing to its industrial heritage (and, again, its density), the state is blessed, according to the Rails to Trails Conservancy, with more than 50 trails, covering some 326 miles (with more on the way), converted from former train lines. These trails, apart from being scenic—and flat—places to ride, are historically significant, from the Sussex Branch, on which mule-drawn trains hauled iron ore, to the Delaware and Raritan Canal, once a vital 19th-century conduit for transporting goods from New York City to Philadelphia. At more than 70 miles, it’s one of the country’s longest rail trails.When we want something more challenging, we head even farther off-road, taking advantage of the state’s impressive array of mountain biking trails. Tom Hennigan, CEO of the Jersey Off-Road Bike Association, notes that, while the state doesn’t have a single concentration of professionally built mountain biking infrastructure like such hotspots as Vermont’s Kingdom Trails or Bentonville, Arkansas, he thinks the state is getting closer to becoming a destination.Hennigan says, “When people start thinking, Should I drive six hours up to Kingdom Trails or bop on over to Jersey?, we want to get to the point where people say, ‘It’s not worth the drive when I could ride here.’” Trail riding, particularly in North Jersey—in spots like Wawayanda, Ringwood or Allamuchy—tends toward the steep, rooty and rocky, and is often not for the fainthearted.“It’s either talus or till,” Hennigan says, referring to rocks that have broken off of hillsides or been dumped by glaciers.Moving south, the trails become sandier, more sinuous—a personal favorite is Franklin Township’s Six Mile Run, which, while mildly challenging in sections, is more beginner friendly.Not all is perfect, of course. The League of American Bicyclists ranked the state 16th out of 50 in its annual Bicycle Friendly State chart in 2022 (dropping a bit from the year before), noting that “New Jersey has a bicycle fatality rate worse than the national average” and that the state “spends a very low amount of federal funding on biking and walking per capita.”There are signs of improvement, however. Jersey City, for example, reached its Vision Zero goal of having no traffic fatalities in 2022, even as it saw a rise in cycling thanks to new infrastructure—like 20 miles of new, protected bike lanes—and expansion in the CitiBike system. (In what’s often called a “safety-in-numbers effect,” cycling tends to get safer when more people are cycling).On the horizon are projects like LINK, a 34-mile, multiuse trail that will connect 17 communities in Camden County; and the nine-mile Essex-Hudson Greenway—New Jersey’s version of Manhattan’s High Line—which, when completed, will allow cyclists to travel easily and safely from Montclair to Jersey City.Whether you’re imagining you’re in the Tour de France as you climb to High Point, the state’s most elevated peak, or taking a sunset ride on a beach cruiser at the Jersey Shore, two wheels can take you to places you’ve never been in the Garden State.Tom Vanderbilt is the author, most recently, of Beginners: The Joy and Transformative Power of Lifelong Learning. He lives in Madison.
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[caption id="attachment_331089" align="alignnone" width="778"] Illustration: John R. Holmes[/caption]The thing I like best about hiking is stopping—or, more accurately, slowing down in a trail-adjacent spot that encourages less strenuous activities like strolling, taking in the sights or tossing a ball around. In the Garden State, there’s no better place for hikers seeking occasional respite than the Skylands area, the region that comprises much of northwestern New Jersey, and is home to Ringwood State Park and nearby Norvin Green State Forest. Each offers the opportunity to hit the trails and then press pause.Streams, views and a hidden graveyard[caption id="attachment_331098" align="alignnone" width="778"] Illustration: John R. Holmes[/caption]Ringwood State Park sprawls over more than 4,000 acres straddling the New York-New Jersey border, and many of its 18 blazed trails lead to spectacular vistas, including the glittering Wanaque Reservoir and the New York City skyline. The park also offers two extraordinary strolls, both of them anchored by large, historic houses.One of my favorite hikes, known as the Manor Trail, begins and ends at the parking lot of Ringwood Manor, a rambling mansion built over the course of a century, from 1810 to 1910, and home, most famously, to the Cooper and Hewitt families. The approximately 3-mile, blue-blazed loop around the manor takes you past and across streams (waterproof footwear recommended) and offers views of a valley that was once home to several of the iron mines that flourished in the area in the 18th and 19th centuries. Before returning to the manor, you’ll pass Sally’s Pond, named for one of the Hewitt daughters. The reward for your exertions (and damp feet) will be a delightful ramble around the home and its environs.[RELATED: The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey]
The manor itself is an impressive bit of architecture, but what I love best about Ringwood are its grounds, gardens and outbuildings, which look like they could use just a tiny bit of TLC, but are, in fact, all the more wonderful for their lack. An air of mystery permeates the site, as you wander past its scattered treasures, which include sphinxes, oversized urns, marble columns holding up nothing but air, and an almost-hidden graveyard whose stones are eroding into eternity.Ponds, blooms and a balancing boulderAnother hike, also in Ringwood State Park, is longer and a little more challenging. The 5-mile, pink-on-white-blazed Five Ponds Loop, beginning and ending at Skylands Manor, leads you past the bodies of water for which the trail is named. No matter how many times you’ve hiked the loop, each of the ponds feels like a fresh discovery as it comes into view. Approaching Gatun Pond, look for the balancing rock, a large boulder that appears to defy gravity as it teeters atop a pile of smaller stones. The hike also affords two splendid views, one from the crest of Mt. Defiance (take a brief detour onto the Ringwood-Ramapo Trail to get there), the other overlooking the densely forested hills of Tranquility Ridge County Park.When you’ve returned, stop and smell the flowers—literally. You’ll certainly want to gawk at Skylands Manor, the striking, Jacobean-style mansion built in the late 1920s for financier Clarence McKenzie Lewis. But once you’ve finished taking in its stained-glass windows and crenellated towers, make your way to Magnolia Walk, a broad, grassy path between two long rows of sweet bay magnolia trees, whose blooms fill the spring air with a heady fragrance.The Walk is just one small section of the New Jersey Botanical Garden, where you can also stroll past azaleas, peonies, rhododendrons, a profusion of lilacs, a shady wildflower garden, and too many other blooms to list here.Water, water everywhere[caption id="attachment_331088" align="alignnone" width="778"] Illustration: John R. Holmes[/caption]About a mile’s drive from Ringwood State Park is Norvin Green State Forest, an undulating landscape of undisturbed woods and waterways whose 18 blazed trails range from rugged to moderately challenging. I like to hike the loop around the Highlands Natural Pool, which takes you along a brook, across a footbridge and past a quarry (no longer accessible to hikers). From the trail, you’ll get a good look at the pool itself, a man-made marvel carved out of the rocky hillside in the 1930s by a group of outdoors enthusiasts calling themselves the Nature Friends.[caption id="attachment_330464" align="alignright" width="349"] Buy our April 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]On three sides, it’s a basic concrete swimming pool (albeit Olympic size and surrounded by dense forest), but on its far side, it butts up against rock and woods, where understory plants dip delicately into the water. The loop also connects you to other trails. For a short side trip, follow the Hewitt-Butler Trail to Wyanokie High Point, which offers a dramatic view of the Wanaque Reservoir.Depending on the season and the weather, you can end your trek with a leisurely game of Frisbee or flag football on the large field adjacent to the New Weis Center for Education, Arts and Recreation or, if it’s swimming season, a dip in the bracing, spring-fed waters of the natural pool. If you opt for the latter, don’t be surprised if you find yourself doing laps with the odd frog or friendly water snake—there’s a reason natural is part of the name.The field, just steps from the pool, is open year-round, but check the Weis Center’s website first to make sure there’s no event there that day. The pool is open weekends from Memorial Day weekend through June and during September and daily from the first weekend in July through Labor Day. Swimming is permitted only when lifeguards are on duty.Leslie Garisto Pfaff is a self-avowed lazy hiker and a frequent contributor to New Jersey Monthly.
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New Jersey has great camping, but sometimes it’s nicer to have some comforts of home while out in nature. So why not try glamping, a more luxurious alternative to sleeping under the stars?Glamping has become more popular in recent years, with sites offering tents that include amenities like beds, personal lawns, Wi-Fi and even hip design elements. For your next trip into the great outdoors, try one of these glampsites.[RELATED: The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey]
Moon Valley Campground in Vernon[caption id="attachment_330342" align="alignnone" width="778"] Inside a hip, yurt-style bell tent Photo: Courtesy of Moon Valley Campground/Dominic Giello[/caption]Perfect for a weekend trip with friends or a romantic getaway, Moon Valley is located right off the steps of the Appalachian Trail and offers a variety of glammed-up accommodations with sturdy wood paneling, warm, earth-tone interiors, and chic decor elements. The most spacious option is the Lookout, a yurt-style bell tent complete with a queen-size bed (with bedding) and a scenic view to the horizon. A private fire pit and picnic table are outside. Tents go for $150-$275 per night (two-night minimum).Six Flags Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa in JacksonStarting in June (and taking reservations now), animal lovers can glamp right in the middle of Six Flags Great Adventure’s Wild Safari. Twenty luxury tents fit up to six people each. A stay includes breakfast, evening events, close-up experience with the giraffe herd, a multi-park ticket, and the opportunity to book a VIP tour. Cost is $600 per night (two-night minimum). —R.C. Staab[caption id="attachment_330464" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our April 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]Sun Outdoors in Cape MayThis camping resort offers 16-by-20-foot safari-style tents and vacation rentals, along with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, coffee makers, outdoor charcoal grills and more amenities. What’s more, Sun Outdoors in within driving distance of beaches like Wildwood and Cape May. Rentals start at $49 per night.Sea Pirate Campground in West CreekAccommodations range from basic cabins to Captain’s Cottages, which fit six to eight people and come with a kitchen, granite countertops, an enclosed, screened porch with a dining set, air conditioning, and more. A playground and arcade are on the grounds. Sea Pirate is located next to the Westecunk Creek, where you can observe wildlife and kayak. Rentals start at $279 per night (2-night minimum).Tip Tam Camping Resort in JacksonLooking for an upscale camping experience with several options for keeping the kids busy? Tip Tam has mini-golf, matchbox derbies, karaoke nights and more. Cabin and RV rentals feature full kitchens, smart TVs, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and one or two bedrooms. Rentals go for $79-$89 per night.
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Just steps away from the bustle and charm of downtown Millburn lies an unexpected and magical world, where tiny houses, some decorated with shells or rocks, others covered in moss or acorns, dot the South Mountain Reservation Fairy Trail and, if you believe in the lore, provide a haven for the fairies who live there. But for the New Jerseyans who care for the trail and the visitors who frequent it, the area is much more than a fairy tale come to life. It’s a place that inspires curiosity, awe and, in the case of the littlest visitors, the start of an important relationship with the natural world around us.“If I go down the trail, I tend to talk to the kids and just ask them, ‘Have you seen any fairies?’ says Beth Kelly, co-coordinator of the Fairy Trail. “And we try to bring them into, ‘Did you see the sun? Did you see the clouds? Did you see any wildlife?’ We try to bring them into nature because they’re so enthralled with the whole piece of the fairies.”The half-mile trail, which is part of Essex County’s expansive, 2,000-plus-acre South Mountain Reservation, is an enchanting place to visit. It inspires squeals from visitors of all ages when they discover the next tiny marvel along the path.[caption id="attachment_330350" align="alignnone" width="778"] The homes on the Fairy Trail are made entirely from items that can be found on the forest floor or in someone's backyard. Photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]Although it can feel like the homes appeared on the trail by magic, that’s certainly not the case. More than a decade ago, the structures began mysteriously popping up along what is now known as the Fairy Trail, a half-mile portion of the Rahway Trail, starting at the Locust Grove picnic area. They turned out to be the work of local special education teacher and artist Therese Ojibway, a lifelong fan of fairy tales who spent a lot of time at the South Mountain Reservation when her own son was a child.[RELATED: The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey]
Ojibway moved out of state in 2022, so the South Mountain Conservancy, a nonprofit that works to preserve, protect and advocate for the South Mountain Reservation, brought in two trail coordinators, local school administrator Beth Kelly and business owner Julie Gould, so that the magic could continue.[caption id="attachment_330352" align="alignnone" width="778"] The tiny houses are meant to blend in with their environment and avoid detection from predators. Photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]A handful of Ojibway’s original houses still stand, but Kelly, Gould and, on occasion, members of the community, build new houses to replace ones that have been destroyed by vandals or damaged. Last year, the trail lost 20 structures. “We call them ‘trolls’ that come by every once in a while,” says Gould. “It’s unfortunate.”[caption id="attachment_330464" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our April 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]Today, 80 houses stand along the trail. The goal is to reach 100.The attention to detail on the homes is exquisite—from tiny shutters made of acorns and twigs, to teensy doors that really open, to minuscule beds, chairs, tables and even cereal bowls constructed from items that can be found on the forest floor or in someone’s backyard.Only natural materials are used so that the houses enhance rather than hinder the experience in nature. They include scavenged acorns, pine cones, dried reeds and grasses, seashells, dried flowers, natural vines, and tree bark. Visitors may also notice that the houses don’t have bright colors or flashy details; they are meant to blend in with their environment and avoid detection from predators.Visitors are encouraged to look at the houses, but to maintain a respectful distance. People are asked to not leave a trace on the Fairy Trail (which includes displaying their own fairy-house creations). Visitors can carefully open the houses’ small doors, but are asked to otherwise refrain from touching the structures or taking any items from them.[caption id="attachment_330348" align="alignnone" width="778"] Visitors are asked to refrain from touching the Fairy Trail structures, with the exception of carefully opening their small doors. Photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]Kelly remembers once finding a house along the trail that someone had made out of popsicle sticks and regular glue—instead of nature-friendly outdoor glue. “It must have rained. I had a thousand multicolored popsicle sticks all over the trail,” she says. “So I spent an hour just trying to get the popsicle sticks.” Kelly and Gould maintain the trail, walking with trash bags and tool kits in hand.On occasion, community members can create houses to be displayed along the Fairy Trail—if they work with Kelly and Gould and follow a set of fairy house-building guidelines. (The guidelines are also helpful for anyone who wants to build a fairy house in their own backyard.) Scout troops and school groups have also helped fix up and even build houses. (Anyone who is interested can email smrfairytrail@aol.com.)[caption id="attachment_330349" align="alignnone" width="778"] There are currently 80 homes on the Fairy Trail; the goal is to reach 100. Photo: Bryan Anselm[/caption]As well as adding more fairy houses to the trail, the South Mountain Conservancy has a master plan to implement improvements such as benches and a covered pavilion. Leaders are also considering making the trail a loop—right now, it is hike in, hike out. The group estimates its plan will cost more than $200,000.On May 4, the trail is hosting its second annual Fairy Day, an event filled with activities that families are sure to love—whether its their first, fifth or 15th visit to the trail. “You see the joy on [kids’] faces, you watch them engage with the magic, and the trail just becomes a part of your heart,” Kelly says.Find the Fairy Trail: Enter Locust Grove Parking or 197 Glen Avenue, Millburn, into your GPS. If the parking lot is full, park across the street. The trailhead begins to the left of the parking area along the Rahway Trail. You will see a welcome sign.
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BAR CRAWLS & MOREHoboken Bar Crawls📅: Saturday, March 2-Sunday, March 17 (times vary)📍: Madd Hatter Hoboken • HobokenMorristown St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl📅: Saturday, March 16 (1-9 pm)📍: Multiple Bars • MorristownCarney's Cares St. Patrick's Day Weekend Extravaganza📅: Friday, March 15-Sunday, March 17 (times vary)📍: Carney's • Cape Mayℹ️: A 5K run, polar plunge, food and beer make this a cant-miss event.💸: Prices varyPARADESAtlantic City📅: Saturday, March 9 (1 pm)📍: Atlantic City BoardwalkBayonne📅: Sunday, March 17 (1 pm)📍: Begins on Broadway & 5th StreetBergen County📅: Sunday, March 10 (2 pm)📍: Washington Avenue in BergenfieldHackettstown📅: Sunday, March 10 (3:30 pm)📍: 120 Grand AvenueJersey City📅: Sunday, March 10 (1 pm)📍: Dickinson High SchoolMorris County📅: Saturday, March 9 (noon)📍: South Street in MorristownNewark📅: Friday, March 15 (1 pm)📍: Prudential Center on Mulberry StreetNutley📅: Saturday, March 2 (1 pm)📍: Franklin Avenue inRingwood📅: Saturday, March 23 (1 pm)📍: Skyline DriveSussex County📅: Saturday, March 16 (11 am)📍: Spring Street in NewtonUnion County📅: Saturday, March 9 (1 pm)📍: Morris Avenue in Union TownshipWest Orange Morning Mass & Parade📅: Sunday, March 10 (9 am)📍: St Joseph's Church CENTRAL JERSEYAsbury Park📅: Sunday, March 10 (1 pm)📍: 4th & Ocean AvenuesBelmar/Lake Como📅: Sunday, March 3 (12:30 pm)📍: North Boulevard and F StreetClinton📅: Sunday, March 10 (3 pm)📍: Main StreetFreehold Borough📅: Sunday, March 17 (12:30 pm)📍: West Main StreetHamilton📅: Saturday, March 9 (1 pm)📍: Nottingham Fire House, 200 Mercer StreetHighlands📅: Saturday, March 23 (2 pm)📍: Huddy Park, Waterwitch AvenueKeyport📅: Saturday, March 23 (1 pm)📍: Maple PlaceRumson📅: Sunday, March 10 (1 pm)📍: Allen Street and River RoadSomerville📅: Sunday, March 10 (1:30 pm)📍: East Main Street, at Grove Street intersection, in front of Somerset HotelSouth Amboy📅: Sunday, March 17 (2 pm)📍: South Pine AvenueWoodbridge Parade📅: Sunday, March 10 (1:30 pm)📍: Woodbridge High SchoolSOUTH JERSEYBrigantine📅: Saturday, March 16 (1 pm)📍: St. Thomas the Apostle Church Gloucester📅: Sunday, March 3 (1 pm)📍: Martin’s Lake (Johnson Blvd. and Francis St.)Mount Holly📅: Saturday, March 2 (1 pm)📍: High StreetSea Isle City📅: Saturday, March 16 (2 pm)📍: 83rd & East Landis AvenuesSeaside Heights📅: Saturday, March 9 (noon)📍: The BoulevardNorth Wildwood📅: Saturday, March 16 (noon)📍: North Wildwood City Hall (9th & Atlantic Avenues)
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[caption id="attachment_327671" align="alignnone" width="778"] A climber learns the ropes at Hoboken's Gravity Vault gym. Photo: Courtesy of Jahn Anderson[/caption]Indoor climbing in New Jersey is booming in popularity, especially among young people. Unfortunately, the cost of gym fees and equipment has made the sport out of reach for many.But a new collaboration between the Boys & Girls Club of Hudson County and the nonprofit Climbing for Community is bringing youngsters who could not otherwise afford it to Hoboken’s Gravity Vault climbing gym at greatly reduced rates.There, guided by high schoolers on the gym’s climbing team, they learn to scale 40-foot walls via brightly colored holds of all shapes and sizes, boosting their physical and mental fitness.The initiative is the brainchild of team co-captain Mila Huang, a sophomore at Montclair Kimberley Academy. Huang founded Climbing for Community after learning about the positive effects of climbing on mental health while researching a school project.[RELATED: This Jersey City Camp Is an Arts-Centric Safe Space for Kids]
The new monthly clinics are so popular that Boys & Girls Club director Shyam Martinez has to rotate climbers, since sessions are capped at 15.“Besides the physical aspect, it raises kids’ self-esteem,” he says, watching Chris Fields, 8, as he’s slowly lowered to the floor, a big grin on his face. “A lot of times the kids say, ‘There’s no way I can do that.’ Twenty minutes later, they’re like, ‘Wow!’ It was achievable.”More opportunities may be afoot. Gravity Vault has eight gyms in New Jersey, and its management hopes to bring the program to other locations. Meantime, the gym’s walls are anything but barriers to the cohort of students Huang and her teammates are mentoring, such as seventh-graders Tyrone Johnson and Emiliano Atenco. Good friends from Jersey City, they race to the top, then whoop and high-five on the ground. They will likely be quieter on the ride home, Martinez says. “It’s almost like a blanket of calm poured over them.”Donations to the nonprofit can be made on Climbing for Community’s GoFundMe page.
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[caption id="attachment_328121" align="alignnone" width="778"] Tierney Miller, head of Adult Services at Cherry Hill Public Library, shows off an autoharp from the library’s musical instrument collection. Photo: Courtesy of Cherry Hill Public Library[/caption]Need to borrow a WiFi hotspot? A projector and screen for a neighborhood movie night? Or maybe you want to learn to play an instrument but aren’t sure whether you’re ready to spend the money.Your local library can probably help.More and more New Jersey libraries offer a Library of Things—borrowable items you might not expect to find at these institutions.At the Morristown and Morris Township Public Library, patrons can check out, among other things, snowshoes, a ukulele, or a metal detector, one of the most popular items. “People check it out all the time—it’s funny,” says director Chad Leinaweiver.He says many patrons aren’t aware of everything the library has to offer.The Ridgewood Public Library, too, has a metal detector in its Library of Things; one patron used it to find a lost ring, says assistant director Roberta Panjwani.In the summer of 2023, Ridgewood held an open house to show the public everything the library had in its collection, from gardening kits to a sewing machine, and demonstrated how everything worked.“The library’s always building these bridges,” Panjwani said.One item, a portable air-quality meter, got some use due to the smoke drifting down from the Canadian wildfires. Families can also check out nature backpacks for adults and kids to take on hikes.The Princeton Public Library places a lot of emphasis on its technology items, says assistant director Erica Bess. “Ours is mostly focused on tech because we feel we can make the biggest impact in removing barriers” to technology access, she says. In its Library of Things, patrons can check out hotspots, Chromebooks, or a smartphone media kit. The Princeton Public Library also has low-tech items, such as binoculars, on offer.The library received a grant from LibraryLinkNJ to purchase special Little Thinkers kits, which include Toniebox audio systems that children can use to listen to songs and stories, or act them out. Those items have been extremely popular with families, she says, adding that they are almost always on loan and have a long waiting list.At the Cherry Hill Public Library, patrons can borrow a wide range of musical instruments like guitars, ukuleles, and violins. Youth services supervisor Erica Moon says the violins are almost always checked out. Gardeners can take advantage of Cherry Hill’s extensive seed library of flower and vegetable seeds. Younger children and their families can check out jigsaw puzzles, or even an American Girl doll in the library’s collection. Each of the dolls comes with something extra: a journal for kids to fill in and a historical fact sheet about life in Cherry Hill corresponding with the doll’s time period.“It’s just another way to be creative in the way libraries have always been,” says library director Laverne Mann.
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Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with a significant other or good friends, or simply practicing some self-care, there are plenty of ways to make the day special. Get creative with a pastry-, painting- or cocktail-making class, run a 5K, enjoy live music, or get happy at a comedy show. Plus, check out statewide Valentine's Day restaurant specials as well as more Galentine's Day fun.NORTH JERSEYA Night of Love[caption id="attachment_327487" align="alignnone" width="778"] Get in the groove with R&B singers like Trey Songz. Photo: Courtesy of NJPAC Photos[/caption]📅: Friday, February 9 (7 pm)📍: Prudential Center • Newarkℹ️: Featuring R&B artists Keysheia Cole, Trey Songz, Jaheim, and K. Michelle.💸: $75-$155Cupid's Chase 5kℹ️: A Valentine's Day themed 5k that benefits Community Options Inc., which supports people with disabilities.📅: Saturday, February 10 (8 am)📍: The Daily Plan It • Morristown💸: $45📅: Saturday, February 10 (8 am)📍: Glen Rock Municipal Pool • Glen Rock💸: $45📅: Saturday, February 10 (8 am)📍: Tamaques Park • Westfield💸: $45Valentine's Day All-Star Comedy Show[caption id="attachment_327488" align="alignnone" width="778"] Bill Belamy will be joining an all-star comedic lineup. Photo: Courtesy of NJPAC[/caption]📅: Saturday, February 10 (7 & 9:45 pm)📍: NJPAC • Newarkℹ️: Spread love and laughter at this comedy show, featuring Bill Bellamy, Luenell, Capone, Bruce Bruce and Radio Big Mac.💸: $50.50-$100.50Rose City Chocolate Walk[caption id="attachment_327916" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photo: Shutterstock/Brenda Carson[/caption]📅: Saturday, February 10 (1 pm)📍: Madison Community Center • Madisonℹ️: Wander through Madison’s charming downtown as local businesses open their doors to share sweet treats and showcase chocolate-inspired goods.💸: Free (Purchases on the walk)Galentine's Paint and Sip[caption id="attachment_327489" align="alignnone" width="778"] Fusion Paint Event for Galentine's Day. Courtesy of The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts[/caption]📅: Thursday, February 15 (6 pm)📍: Museum of Early Trades & Crafts • Madisonℹ️: Grab your pals for a BYO evening of wood-sign painting, bonding and fun.💸: $40-$50NY/NJ/CT Uganda Community Valentine's and Cultural Gala📅: Saturday, February 17 (6:30 pm)📍: Hilton Hasbrouck Heights • Hasbrouck Heightsℹ️: An upscale celebration celebrating the Ugandan community.💸: $75-$155CENTRAL JERSEYJust in Time for Valentine’s Vendor & Craft Fair📅: Sunday, February 4 (11 am-4 pm)📍: Old Bridge High School • Matawanℹ️: Check out crafts, activities, a Photo Booth and a host of small businesses.💸: More Info on FacebookValentine’s Day Cocktail Class📅: Thursday, February 8 (6:30 pm-8:30 pm)📍: 618 Restaurant • Freeholdℹ️: Learn to craft three new cocktails.💸: $129Cupid's Chase 5k[caption id="attachment_327501" align="alignnone" width="778"] Run a 5k for a good cause. Courtesy of Community Options Inc[/caption]ℹ️: A Valentine's Day themed 5k that benefits Community Options Inc., which supports people with disabilities.📅: Saturday, February 10 (8 am)📍: Duke Island Park • Bridgewater💸: $45📅: Saturday, February 10 (8 am)📍: Lake Como • Lake Como💸: $45📅: Saturday, February 10 (8 am)📍: Performing Arts Center at Princeton High School • Princeton💸: $45"Night Forms" Light Show[caption id="attachment_327492" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Dazzling light show display for this Valentine's Day. Courtesy of DMH Photography[/caption]📅: Thru Sunday, April 7 (5 pm-9 pm)📍: Grounds for Sculpture • Hamiltonℹ️: Inspired by Greek mythology with futuristic sound design, this captivating light show is perfect for a romantic evening out.💸: $24-$30SOUTH JERSEYRock Spa & Salon Couples Experiences[caption id="attachment_327493" align="alignnone" width="778"] Rock Spa & Salon is offering a number of couples experiences. Photo: Courtesy of Hard Rock Casino[/caption]📅: Thru Thursday, February 29 (11 am-4 pm)📍: Hard Rock Casino • Atlantic Cityℹ️: Experience pure bliss with that special someone, getting a full body couple's massage, exploring the wonders of aromatherapy, or a relaxing soak with a glass of champagne.💸: $279-$939Galentine's Crafts & Cocktails Party📅: Thursday, February 8 (6 pm-8 pm)📍: Used To Be's • Mantolokingℹ️: Get creative alongside your pals, choosing from a range of wood designs to paint at your leisure.💸: $38Sweet Art in Disguise📅: Saturday, February 10 (10 am-Noon)📍: John F. Peto Studio Museum • Island Heightsℹ️: A hands-on pastry class, perfect for a romantic date or a good time with friends.💸: $25Cupid's Chase 5k[caption id="attachment_327498" align="alignnone" width="778"] Run a 5k for a good cause. Courtesy of Community Options Inc.[/caption]ℹ️: A Valentine's Day themed 5k that benefits Community Options Inc., which supports people with disabilities.📅: Saturday, February 10 (8 am)📍: Green Acres Park • Burlington💸: $45📅: Saturday, February 10 (8 am)📍: Seaside Heights Boardwalk • Seaside Heights💸: $45Galentine's Day Party📅: Saturday, February 10 (11 am-3 pm)📍: Moda Boutique Lounge • Haddonfieldℹ️: Enjoy a swag bag and get some permanent jewelry with your gal pals.💸: $25
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Looking to enjoy some delicious food and cold drinks when the San Francisco 49ers take on the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII on Sunday, February 11? These Garden State spots have you covered like an All-Pro cornerback.NORTH JERSEYThe Ashford • Jersey CityGame-day specials include $30 High Noon & White Claw buckets, $15 domestic buckets, $15 pitchers, $5 green/white tea shots and many more drink options. As for food, $25 wing platters and sampler platters are available; the sampler includes pretzel bites, pigs in a blanket, egg rolls, chicken tenders and crispy calamari.145 Newark Avenue, Jersey City; 201-356-9956Carnegie Diner & Cafe • SecaucusCarnegie is showing the game—with sound—throughout the restaurant. Specials will include half a dozen wings for $9.95 and a bucket of beers for $20.700 Plaza Drive, Secaucus; 201-267-6111Chevys Fresh Mex • Clifton & LindenIt wouldn't be a Super Bowl without chips, dip and wings! Chevys has those covered with Big Game Fiesta platters of Mexican favorites, like First & Goal Flauta ($45), Wild Card Wings ($45 for 30 wings; $85 for 60 wings), and Tailgater Tacos ($45). Chevys is also offering sides like picadillo, shrimp and carnitas. Guacamole or salsa with chips will be offered for $10.365 NJ-3, Clifton; 973-777-62771150 South Stiles Street, Linden; 908-862-9800Piast Meats & Provisions • GarfieldThis Polish meat shop is offering a special menu for game day. Plates include Buffalo chicken pierogis, kielbasa in a blanket, potato pancakes, dessert platters, baby back ribs and more. Piast offers pickup and delivery, and can provision parties ranging from 30 to 80 guests.1 Passaic Street, Garfield; 973-614-1315800 River Drive, Garfield; 973-340-4722The Shannon Rose Irish Pub • Clifton & Ramsey[caption id="attachment_327560" align="alignnone" width="1024"] May the luck of the Irish be with you this Super Bowl Sunday. Photo: Courtesy of Doherty Enterprises[/caption]Football festivities at the Shannon Rose begin at 6 pm on Super Bowl Sunday. For $45-$70, enjoy trays of classic sliders, pulled pork sliders, and bone-in or boneless wings (each serves 6-8 peoples) during the game. Both pub locations are also doing giveaways, raffles and a shot wheel.98 Kingsland Road, Clifton; 973-284-02001200 NJ-17, Ramsey; 201-962-7602South + Pine • MorristownSurprise your guests with South + Pine's to-go meals. Their Super Bowl catering menu, with small trays (serving 3-4 people) and larger ones (serving 6-8 people), includes chicken lollipops, mac and cheese, pork spring rolls, duck confit arancini, polenta fries, cheeseburger sliders, shrimp cocktail, and fried chicken and waffles. Pick up orders on Super Bowl Sunday, between 11 am and 3 pm.90 South Street, Morristown; 862-260-9700WorldFLATS • Montclair, Paramus & Ridgewood[caption id="attachment_327563" align="alignnone" width="778"] Enjoy vegetarian nuggets on game day at WorldFLATS. Photo: Courtesy of Nvair Beylerian/WorldFLATS[/caption]Don’t fret, plant lovers! WorldFLATS has you covered on Super Bowl Sunday with a special meal package: three orders of vegetarian "chicken" nuggets and potato croquettes, three dipping sauces, one gluten-free cauliflower-crust personal pizza, and four drinks.58 Church Street, Montclair; 973-433-5900193 Route 17 South, Paramus; 201-654-4488134 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood; 201-797-0134CENTRAL JERSEYEdison Pizza & Italian Restaurant • EdisonWhether you're dining in or ordering out, choose from several Football Party Platters (which serve 8-10 people), including Buffalo wings (50 wings for $58), garlic-knot pizza bites ($56), hot sandwiches ($58) and much more.2303 Woodbridge Avenue, Edison; 732-985-1733Ellery’s • MiddlesexInterested in a free half-time buffet? Ellery's will be serving just that, along with a draft beer selection for $3 and craft drafts and hard drinks for $5. The buffet will also come with giveaways and prizes for you and your friends.701 Lincoln Boulevard, Middlesex; 732-356-2444La Bon Bake Shoppes • Edison, Somerset, Woodbridge & South PlainfieldChow down on this bakery's delectable dessert and savory bread offerings. Included in its specials are Super Bowl cakes and cupcakes, pepperoni bread, Jersey-themed cookies, football eclairs, and more; prices range from $2 to $22. Orders must be placed by Friday, February 9, at 8 pm.2062 New Jersey 27, Edison; 732-287-1313456 Elizabeth Avenue, Somerset; 732-564-1313356 Amboy Avenue, Woodbridge; 732-636-01216101a Hadley Road, South Plainfield; 908-753-1818SOUTH JERSEYDooney's Pub • Voorhees & DelranOfferings include the "I'm Here for the Commercials" cocktail, Buffalo chicken dip, cheesesteak nachos, wings, pepperoni stromboli, $20 Miller Lite buckets, and more. Book your tables or place pickup orders online soon!1361 Fairview Boulevard, Delran; 856-461-9100154 NJ-73, Voorhees; 856-210-6274Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa• Atlantic CityLooking to up your watch-party game this year? Head to the Borgata's Premier Nightclub, B-Bar or Gypsy Bar for a luxurious array of liquors, refreshments and snacks. Book your reservations online.1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City; 609-317-1000The Boiler Room • Cape MayHead to Jersey's southern tip for a championship-worthy feast. Food specials include wings, Buffalo chicken dip, and the 2017 Super Bowl Champs pizza. Drink specials include half-priced drafts during the game and other exclusive cocktails.200 Congress Place, Cape May; 609-884-6507
The Roost Pub & Grill at Harbor Pines Golf Club • Egg HarborHoping for a less hectic vibe for the biggest game of the year? This cozy venue is set to host a laid-back yet energetic Super Bowl soirée. Enjoy $10 draft pitchers and $3.50 bottled beers, plus discounted appetizers and flatbreads.500 St. Andrews Drive, Egg Harbor; 609-927-0006Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall• Atlantic CityEnjoy a plethora of game-day specials, including 75-cent wings, $2.50 PBRs, a $5 burger, $10 Miller Lite pitchers, an $8 Miller Lite draft and whiskey shot combo, and much more. You can even snag a free pizza during halftime.133 South Tennessee Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-541-4099MULTIPLE LOCATIONSMiller's Ale House • Multiple locations[caption id="attachment_327561" align="alignnone" width="778"] Try some of Miller's Ale's finest beers and wings. Photo: Courtesy of Miller's Ale House[/caption]Stop in at any Miller's Ale House in NJ for a winning experience. They'll have three specials for game day, including the Mountain Melt Madness with three appetizers for $24.99, the MAD Captain's Triple Treasure with three desserts for $19.99, and the Make it "Miller's Size" for $9.99.
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[caption id="attachment_326055" align="alignnone" width="778"] Illustration: Daniel Guidera[/caption]The day New Jersey started to feel like home was the day a 75-year-old woman named Phyllis shouted at me for a half-hour straight. She told me I was standing in the wrong place, and not moving fast enough, but also moving way too much. I was at my first pickleball round-robin at Brookdale Park. I showed up out of the blue to learn a new game and get smoked by people of all ages. It was tough love from Phyllis. She was direct in a way that felt familiar to me as a longtime New Yorker. And yet there was also a neighborly aspect to her: She took the time to give me some pointers, and was patient and friendly enough to show me just how badly I was doing. I came home that morning and told my wife, “I think I might like it here.”Three months later I lunged for a ball and felt a pop! in my calf. I crumbled to the ground, howling. Way too dramatically, in retrospect. But in New Jersey, it seems, you just might be lucky enough to have a physical-therapist-slash-standup-comedian playing on the next court. Dr. Rob helped me to my feet, walked me to my car, and told me if I came to his office the next day he’d get me back on the court in two weeks. Sure enough, two weeks later, I’m back in action and someone shouts at me from across the courts, “Hey, Calf Boy! How ya feelin’?” I shout back, “Feelin’ great, Doc!” I had two thoughts. One: It’s a good thing he’s not a urologist. Two: ...I think I might really like it here.I’m not sure what feels so New Jersey about pickleball, or what feels so pickleball about New Jersey, but the two are completely fused in my mind. I started playing when I moved to the state two years ago with my wife and daughter. Between work relocation and the pandemic, we had lived in three states in just over two years and wanted to finally settle in somewhere. We took a chance on New Jersey, having spent a total of maybe five days in the state previously. It seemed like a great place for our daughter to grow up in. But would it be great for a middle-aged writer to grow up in? I didn't want the view of my new state to be my laptop screen and home office wall. I wanted to meet real people, breathe fresh air, and see what made the Garden State so...gardeny.[RELATED: How the Pandemic Got Me Into a Garden State of Mind]
Enter pickleball. Within months, my phone contacts expanded. There were Josie Pickleball and Scott Pickleball and Julia Pickleball—dozens of new local friends, all with the same last name! We played at 3 pm on 90-degree days and at 7 am on 30-degree days. We toweled off wet courts, swept up leafy courts and shoveled snowy courts. The feel of the games has always been relaxed, friendly, loose. At times a bit boisterous, at others more focused, but never too serious. So is that more New Jersey, or more pickleball? Would playing, say, polo in New Jersey feel the same way? I kind of doubt it. Or what about playing pickleball in Peoria or Tampa or Greenwich? I have a hunch that the vibe just wouldn’t be the same.Recently there was a major disruption to my pickleball life. The courts in Brookdale Park were temporarily shut down so they could be moved to a spot in the park where the piercing noise won't ruin the lives of surrounding residents. So my people, the pickleballers of Brookdale Park, scattered to courts in Clifton, Bloomfield, Roseland and beyond.[RELATED: New Jersey Embraces Pickleball Craze With Biggest Club in Northeast]
Turns out it's been a good thing, widening my view of my new(ish) state. One day I drove to a town where I don’t know a soul. I ambled onto the courts and somebody said, "Beginners play over there—this area is for advanced players." I said, "I think I can hang here," which I regretted immediately as I saw balls flying back and forth, fast and furious. I was paired with a very athletic and tall young fellow who must have sensed my unease. He kept saying things like, "This side serves," and, "We play to eleven." I expected him to also say, "This round yellow thing is the ball."I started out playing very tight. But after falling behind 6-3, something flashed through my mind. It was Phyllis, from that first day, shouting at me to stop moving so much. I've been here before, I thought. I belong on this court! I'm a New Jersey pickleball player, damn it! So I planted my feet, settled in, and we came back to win the game. Afterwards, my partner and I exchanged numbers. Add Utkarsh Pickleball to the ever-widening list of contacts.As I walked through the park back to my car, it occurred to me that Phyllis's sage advice was even wiser than I had realized: Stop moving so much! You're right, Phyllis. We should stick around for a while. New Jersey is home now, and I think I might kind of love it here.When not working on his third-shot drop, Adam Peltzman writes and produces children's television shows such as Wallykazam!, Odd Squad and Go, Dog. Go!
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Sure, winter activities like outdoor ice-skating and cross-country skiing are an invigorating way to enjoy the season. But sometimes warming up inside is more preferable to chilling outside. So this winter, when you're looking to take a break from the cold, check out one of these indoor places in New Jersey—from spas to museums to cozy restaurants and bars—that offer good times without the need to bundle up.
Relax and Unwind at Sojo Spa ClubWhen Sojo Spa Club opened in 2017 in Edgewater, the buzz was mostly about its zen-looking outdoor space with 10 different pools and baths (open year-round) overlooking Manhattan, but the indoor treatments are equally therapeutic. There are infrared and Himalayan-salt saunas, whirlpools and a myriad of body treatments in this oasis of relaxation, where it is easy to spend a day—or even a night, as there’s a hotel and restaurant. —Deborah P. Carter660 River Road, Edgewater
Get Artsy at Tipsy Tie Dye or ReWax & UnWineCraft a fun night out with a unique twist on the classic paint-and-sip experience. Jersey City’s ReWax & UnWine is a BYO candle-making studio with special events like ladies’ nights. The coolest part? After designing your candle, a karaoke party begins! Meanwhile, at Hoboken’s Tipsy Tie Dye, you can select merch to dye with custom colors. There is fun for all ages during the day, but after 5:30 pm it’s adults only and BYO. —Emily MelvinRewax & Unwine, 2 Division Street, Jersey City; Tipsy Tie Dye, 155 First Street, Hoboken
Get Your Game On at Morristown Game Vault or Silverball Morristown Game Vault, located in an old bank, is a veritable playground for retro-game enthusiasts, with more than 100 arcade games and pinball machines. If you’re farther south, pinball is king at Silverball Museum Arcade in Asbury Park. A bonus? Morristown and Asbury Park are both great restaurant towns, so grab a bite at Morristown’s buzzy pizza spot Coniglio’s, Asbury’s Black Swan Public House, or another eatery after playing. —Julie GordonMorristown Game Vault, 22 South Street, Morristown; Silverball Museum Arcade, 1000 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park
Warm Up With Hot Chocolate at VestaNot only is Vesta worth a stop if you are strolling the Upper Montclair’s shopping district, this chocolate haven is worthy of a dedicated trip. Chockful of handmade treats—including the limited-edition Amethyst Holiday bean-to-jewel bonbons that earned a spot on Oprah’s Favorite Things list in 2023—the hot chocolate is also to die for! Come in from the cold, sit and sip the dreamy, creamy beverage made by the husband (a self-taught chocolatier)-and-wife (a pastry chef and food stylist) team behind Vesta. —DPC598 Valley Road (Suite 2), Montclair
Embrace Classic Cape May at Brown Room Lounge Tucked into the lower level of Congress Hall, which is widely consider the country’s oldest beach resort, the Brown Room lounge is as classic as the building that houses it. Leather chairs, comfy sofas, a large, handsome bar, and a crackling fireplace set a relaxing tone in this cocktail bar, where the soft hum of conversation and music (often live) are as welcoming as a hot toddy on a cold day. —DPC200 Congress Place, Cape May
Crawl Through the Newly Reopened Liberty Science Center Touch Tunnel [caption id="attachment_322105" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Photo: Courtesy of Liberty Science Center[/caption]The Liberty Science Center’s iconic Touch Tunnel reopened in late 2023 after a pandemic-induced hiatus. A favorite since first opening in 1993, the Touch Tunnel is a pitch-black, 80-foot tunnel that visitors crawl through with the objective of finding their way out. While at Liberty Science Center, also check out the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium and exhibits like “The Science Behind Pixar,” running through May 5. —JG222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City
Visit an Under-the-Radar MuseumThere's always something to discover in New Jersey—and our many museums highlight that sentiment perfectly. This winter, check out one of our state's quirkier, more under-the-radar museums. They specialize in everything from art to pop culture to cars to history to, yes, even bugs. Check out New Jersey Monthly's guide to under-the-radar museums for the full list—and have fun exploring!Play Pickleball Indoors at Mercer Bucks Pickleball ClubLike millions of others, Becky and Frank Gabriele and Sharon and Bob Voelzke discovered a love for pickleball after the pandemic started, playing the mix of tennis, table tennis and badminton in their cul-de-sac almost daily. Last year, the couples opened Mercer Bucks Pickleball Club in Ewing. The 26,000-square-foot indoor space is the Northeast’s largest pickleball facility. It boasts nine courts and hosts open play, tournaments, lessons and more. —Gary Phillips370 Sullivan Way, Ewing
[RELATED: Playing Pickleball Helped Me Feel Like a Real New Jerseyan]
Kick Back at the Stellar Wine Cellar at Lambertville Station [caption id="attachment_324647" align="alignnone" width="778"] Photo: Courtesy of Michael Russo/Genesis Global Group[/caption]The Wine Cellar at Lambertville Station is an ideal spot for a respite from winter. Located in the basement of the hotel on the banks of the Delaware River, it features circa-1800s stone walls and exposed beams and, of course, a fireplace. With 50 small-label wines on tap plus cocktails and bites like a charcuterie board, it is easy to settle in and forget the cold. —DPC11 Bridge Street, Lambertville
Tee Up for Indoor Mini Golf If you thought miniature golf was just for spring or summer, think again. There are several indoor options around the state. Monster Mini Golf has 18-hole, glow-in-the-dark courses under black lights in locations from Cherry Hill to Paramus. Blacklight Mini Golf at American Dream offers a space-themed adventure under black lights (Shop or explore the massive mall’s other attractions, like the aquarium, afterward). Haunted Golf on the Ocean City boardwalk offers 5,000 square feet of creepy fun; during the off-season, it’s open only on weekends. —Connor Carlin
Check Out NJ's Best Thrift and Consignment Stores For those shoppers who love a bargain and one-of-a-kind finds, check out our list of the top thrift and consignment stores in the state. Know the lingo before you go: Consignment stores usually carry pre-owned designer items while thrift stores carry all sorts of pre-owned merchandise, from home goods to clothes, at a deep discount.Spend the Day at Island Waterpark at ShowboatHaving made its premiere splash over the summer, the 103,000-square-foot, tropical-themed Island Waterpark at Showboat features more than a dozen slides, a 1,000-square-foot surf simulator, and a 11,000-linear-foot lazy river. The year-round attraction features a retractable roof. A zip line and the Cloud Coaster roller coaster offer ocean and Boardwalk views. After dark, a section of the venue becomes an adults-only zone with music and cocktails. —DPC801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City
Find a Book Nook at Collective Bookstore [caption id="attachment_324637" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Photo: Jacqueline Mroz[/caption]What could be cozier than curling up with a good book in front of a fireplace? At the new Collective Bookstore in Verona, you can get suggestions from staff and take a book for a test drive in a comfy leather chair next to an electric fireplace. —Julia Martin460 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona
Try an Escape Room and Hatchet Throwing—in the Same AfternoonNeed a workout for your mind and body? Look no further than Amazing Escape Room and Bury the Hatchet in Bloomfield. Get into detective mode at this escape room, then cross the street and try axe-throwing. A package deal of one hour at each place costs $61.58 per person. —CCAmazing Escape Room, 281 Liberty Street, Bloomfield; Bury the Hatchet, 672 Bloomfield Avenue, Bloomfield
OUTDOOR WINTER FUN*:Join NJ's Curling CrazeQuirky Places to Go Ice-Skating**Yes, There’s Dog Sledding in NJ: ‘It’s a Lifestyle’*Where to Cross-Country Ski in NJPolar Plunges at the Shore Make Learning Fun With the Kids at Morris Museum's SparkLab!Education has long been a mission of Smithsonian affiliate Morris Museum. In addition to bringing the kids to visit the museum's dinosaur-fossil collection in the Earth Science Gallery (where you can touch a real dinosaur egg) and the mega model-train gallery, make sure to stop into Spark!Lab, an interactive children’s room geared toward inventing and project-based discovery. Volunteers work and play right alongside the kids, encouraging them and fostering a love of learning. —JG6 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown [caption id="attachment_324619" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our January 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Ronald Gray[/caption]Embrace a Need for Speed at RPM Raceway Race over to Jersey City’s RPM Raceway, where the longest go-kart track in the world opened a year ago. the multilevel, 2,200-foot track features a 72-second lap time that speed demons will love. Once drivers are done tearing up the track, they can check out the venue’s virtual reality experiences, bowling and more. There’s also the RPM Bar & Grill—just don’t drink and drive! —GP99 Caven Point Road, Jersey City
Dine at one of NJ's Best Restaurants Every year, New Jersey Monthly puts together its list of the 30 Best Restaurants in New Jersey. This year's list features a wonderful mix of long-standing classics and newbies to the scene that span cuisines including include Indian, Japanese, American and, of course, Italian—the most popular type of restaurant in New Jersey. Pick your favorite on the list, make plans for a lunch or dinner out, and enjoy!Indulge at a SteakhouseSteakhouses and winter just seem to go together. Check out our list of New Jersey's top steakhouses, and get ready for a sublime dining experience. The list includes restaurants all over the state.
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The soft sounds of nature—rustling leaves and birds chirping—engulf me as I enter Brendan T. Byrne State Forest. About three miles in, a cacophony of excited barks and howls begins. I arrive at the meeting spot for the Jersey Sands Sled Dog Racing Association (JSSDRA), and the calls of two dozen dogs are piercing. On this mid-February day, it’s a brisk 32 degrees and sunny—ideal conditions for dry-land mushing, or non-snow dog sledding.About 15 dog owners from New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland and their canines are here for an informal training session coordinated by Bryan Freeman, president of the JSSDRA. He’s accompanied by his seven dogs: five Siberian huskies and two Labs. “These are my pets. I do this for fun. It’s a hobby,” he says. His license plate, which reads SLEDOGZ, indicates it’s something more. “It’s a lifestyle,” he adds.It is a lifestyle he’s been practicing for 30 years. Freeman was introduced to dog sledding by a stranger in a park. “He said, ‘We meet up in the woods. We have equipment you can borrow,’” explains Freeman. “I came out, got hooked, and have been doing it ever since.”[caption id="attachment_324115" align="alignnone" width="778"] Bryan Freeman is the president of the Jersey Sands Sled Dog Racing Association (JSSDRA). Photo: Joe Polillio[/caption]Now, Freeman, an electrician who lives in Clayton, is the one coordinating practices in the New Jersey Pinelands.Everyone from experienced mushers to first-timers is welcome to join the trainings, but you must bring your own dog to participate. Freeman spreads the word about these gatherings on the association’s Facebook page with the location coordinates, date and time.While some members view it as a recreational sport and a way to bond with their dogs and fellow animal lovers, others take it more seriously, participating in racing circuits throughout the country. The JSSDRA collaborates with a Pennsylvania club to run a few races per year, and members train together at the race sites, weather permitting.This year, their season runs until March.“We’re a training-learning club. We’ll teach people, and they’ll go however high a level they want to take it—to race [or] to just be out here with their dog,” Freeman explains.Although Freeman acknowledges dog sledding is “an expensive hobby and not a popular sport in New Jersey,” he says the club works to promote it and “try to keep the interest alive.”MORE WINTER FUN*:Join NJ's Curling Craze*Quirky Places to Go Ice-Skating*Where to Cross-Country Ski in NJPolar Plunges at the Shore*Beat the Cold with Cozy Indoor Activities After a few minutes, I adjust to the deafening sounds of the eager canines. They are champing at the bit to hit the sandy trail.[caption id="attachment_324619" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our January 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Ronald Gray[/caption]The first pack, a team of six Eurohounds, poke their heads out of the back window of their owner’s car. They’ll pull my chariot, or rig—think a metal cart with bicycle-like tires—that’s currently fastened to a tree. A seasoned musher will guide the dogs on my ride.I sign a waiver and strap on a helmet. As this group is hooked up to the rope stretched out in front of the rig—a minimum two-person job—the other dogs who have to wait their turns get louder. They seem jealous that they’re not the ones about to embark on the 3.8-mile trail.The front dogs are harnessed first so the line is pulled taut. This makes it easier to strap in the rest. They stare straight forward, fixated on the trail. I plop down on a small pillow on the front of the rig, directly behind the dogs. I have a front-row seat.The musher stands behind me on the cart. She makes sure I’m comfortable, and off we go on this dog-powered adventure. Seconds in, I get my first mouthful of sand that the dogs kick up from the trail. I get used to having debris in my face and begin to marvel at the endurance of these six canines.For about 15 minutes, they run in unison at about 20 miles per hour. Pulling two people is not easy for the pack, but they seem motivated by the musher’s encouragement. “Good dogs, good dogs,” she yells every few minutes, especially when we veer around tighter corners, traverse a puddle, and maneuver through piles of deeper sand. Ears pressed to their heads and tongues wagging in the wind, each dog fulfills a role in the pack. The front dogs, called lead dogs, are the most intelligent on the team. The middle two hounds are known as team dogs; they steer the pack. The back pair, positioned closest to the rig, are the strongest, known as wheel dogs.As we partake in this exhilarating form of forest bathing, I feel as though I am on a small roller coaster, sans stomach drops. I can’t help but smile as the cold breeze makes my eyes tear.I can tell we’re nearing the end of the trail as the dogs slow to a trot.When we’re back at home base, the dogs are immediately given big bowls of water. That’s it for the day for this team. Soon, another team will get in formation to hit the trail.[caption id="attachment_324111" align="alignnone" width="778"] JSSDRA members are wilderness enthusiasts, thrill seekers and, above all, dog lovers. Photo: Joe Polillio[/caption]The joyride is thrilling, but a lot of preparation is required. As a rule of thumb, the temperature plus the humidity should equal about 110. “We typically don’t want to go out above 50 degrees,” explains Freeman.As far as terrain, dirt or sand is best for the dogs when snow isn’t available. When the snow is deep enough, the group breaks out sleds instead of rigs and trains, though, as Freeman says, “we don’t have the snow we used to get in years past.”The correct gear is essential. The ropes have bungees in them to help with shock absorption. Special mushing harnesses are needed so the dogs are protected.Typically, once dogs are about a year old, they can try the sport. Fitness is also a main factor. “These guys are athletes,” says Freeman.The newer dogs in today’s session are slower and zigzag across the trail. Sometimes, Freeman will pair a novice with a more seasoned dog to help them learn. On average, once they’re about 10 years old, the dogs stop running. When it’s time to retire, “we’ll see signs,” says Freeman.While it’s true that Alaskan malamutes and Siberian huskies are bred to sled, and hounds, with their speed and short coats, are also good candidates, any dog breed can participate in this sport. Musher Meredith Michener of Collegeville, Pennsylvania, for example, started out with her boxer, Leo. “He self-selected as a sled dog,” she says. Now, Michener competes with Kona, a 6-year-old pointer-greyhound mix.When asked if the dogs, who are clearly excited, actually enjoy mushing, many handlers explain a core philosophy of the sport: you can’t push a rope. In other words, you can’t force the dogs to participate.What does Freeman say to critics? “The only proof in positivity is to come out and experience it,” he says. “We invite people to watch and see that we’re here for the sheer enjoyment of the dogs, to see how happy the dogs are. These dogs were born to run.”“I can see both sides,” he adds about those who feel dog sledding is not humane. But, he explains, the stigma may come more from dog sledding that takes place farther north, where canines in larger kennels are trained for long-distance races that last multiple days and have high-dollar purses. Dogs in JSSDRA are “sprint racers,” running short distances.[RELATED: NJ’s Christmas Bird Count Is Humane Alternative to Holiday Hunting Tradition]
Bundled in layers, with chapped faces and dirt under their fingernails, dog sledding folk, or at least, this group that welcomed me into their culture for a few hours, are a cross between wilderness lovers, thrill seekers and dog enthusiasts.Take Kirsti LaVoy. She and her husband drove three hours from Mt. Airy, Maryland, with seven of their 11 malamutes. Her team mainly trains with a rig, but they’ve also traversed snow in the Midwest. “The sled is magical,” she says.Dawna Eddinger of Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania, became involved in mushing while searching for a way to exercise her malamutes. “Since they’re working dogs, walking them is not enough,” she says. Eddinger, her husband and their pooches, Ketchikan and Kora, also enjoy the quality time in nature that dog sledding offers. “It’s just so peaceful,” she says.Michener has taken mushing from a recreational hobby to a competitive sport, but says there is still a real feeling of togetherness among enthusiasts.“A lot of us, when we’re on a race circuit, we camp, too. It’s a lot of fun,” she says. “It’s been a great community. We’re all dog people. We’re all outdoor people.”Jacqueline Larcara is the editor of New Jersey Bride and a former associate editor for New Jersey Monthly.
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Winter may be the off-season at the Jersey Shore, but that doesn’t stop thousands of people from spending a day on the beach every January or February. Polar plunges in the icy Atlantic Ocean have become beloved, annual fundraising events for New Jerseyans with big hearts—and thick skins. Like a charity run, participants can register individually or as a team, all with a fundraising goal. The only difference? Everyone here is wearing bathing suits or costumes and is dashing into the chilly water instead of along a trail.
Special Olympics New Jersey, a nonprofit that gives children and adults with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to train and compete in 24 different sports for free, hosts the largest events in the Garden State, known as the Polar Bear Plunges, in Seaside Heights and Wildwood. Families like the Tobins of Brick Township, who describe their annual dive as “another Christmas Day,” have participated for 14 years and counting.
Colin Tobin is one of 22,000 Special Olympic athletes supported by events like these. Colin, who has Down syndrome, trains and competes year-round in soccer, basketball, and track, and a large group of his family and friends take the annual plunge in Seaside Heights with his team, CAT Crew. In 14 years, they have raised just under $600,000.
“It’s really just the idea of bringing people together that kind of takes the sting or the edge off of what you’re about to do,” says Colin’s mother, Kelli. “I can’t really put into words what the atmosphere there on plunge day [is like]. There’s just so many people, and it’s just such an excitement for [Colin’s dad] Chris and I, knowing that all of these people are coming together in support of our family and, especially, Colin.”
MORE WINTER FUN*:Join NJ's Curling CrazeQuirky Places to Go Ice-Skating**Yes, There’s Dog Sledding in NJ: ‘It’s a Lifestyle’*Where to Cross-Country Ski in NJBeat the Cold with Cozy Indoor Activities [caption id="attachment_324619" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our January 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Ronald Gray[/caption]New Jersey’s Polar Bear Plunges have been taking place for more than three decades, beginning in 1993 at Point Pleasant Beach. They soon shifted to Seaside Heights, as the crowd outgrew the size of the original location. A second, smaller plunge began in Wildwood in 2006, and continues to host hundreds of participants each January.
In 2023, more than 7,500 plungers on 567 teams raised $2.6 million at the Seaside Heights event. In Wildwood, nearly 900 plungers gathered in 2023, raising over $281,000.
To register for either event, each plunger must meet the required minimum fundraising goal.
If plunging into the ocean in the middle of winter isn’t your thing, you can show support by cheering from the shoreline or making a donation. However, dedicated plungers believe everyone should try it out.
“Once you do it once, you’ll always look forward to going back year after year,”says Rob Sickles of Milltown, a Seaside Heights plunger of 20 years “It’s just an all-around great feeling, like you’re doing a good deed for the world.”
UPCOMING POLAR PLUNGESMONDAY, JANUARY 1Sons of Ireland Polar Bear Plunge • Long BranchThe event fundraises for No Limits Cafe in Red Bank, which employs adults with intellectual disabilities, and Shore House in Long Branch, which supports adults with mental illness.
Brigantine Polar Bears Million Dollar Milestone Plunge •Brigantine This plunge benefits wounded members of the military and their families through the Fisher House Foundation.
Atlantic City Polar Bear Plunge • Atlantic CityThis plunge benefits the Cancer Support Community New Jersey at Gilda’s Club.
1st Day at the Beach • Ocean CityA fun, non-charitable plunge with a 5k on the boardwalk an hour before.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 13Polar Bear Plunge • WildwoodProceeds benefit Special Olympics New Jersey athletes.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3Sea Girt Polar Plunge • Sea GirtProceeds benefit the L.I.F.T. Fund for Veterans at Habitat for Humanity.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10Valentine Plunge • ManasquanFeel the love at this Valentine's event, which benefits ALS patients. Read about the couple who got engaged at last year's event here.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24Polar Bear Plunge • Seaside HeightsSpecial Olympics New Jersey’s biggest Polar Bear Plunge fills Seaside Heights with thousands of plungers. Proceeds benefit the athletes.
SATURDAY, MARCH 16Stone Harbor Shiver • Stone HarborParticipants are encouraged to attend wearing their wackiest outfits for the event's costume contest.
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When it comes to winter sports, skiing, snowboarding and ice-skating typically win the popularity contest here in New Jersey. But curling? It’s a sport that many people saw during the 2022 Winter Olympics, but not one that most of us have tried.To those who have watched curling, it can seem like an approachable sport. It doesn’t require a lot of new, fancy equipment—or the ability to balance on skates or skis. Simply put, it looks easy enough—at least to try out.That’s how I end up at Pennsauken Skate Zone for an intro-to-curling class hosted by the Jersey Pinelands Curling Club, one of two such clubs in the Garden State (the other is in Plainfield).“It usually seems accessible to people when they watch the Olympics,” says my instructor Katie Kelly, vice president of the Jersey Pinelands Curling Club. “They think, I could do that!” Curling has been around since the 16th century in Scotland and has been an Olympic sport since 1998.I start my lesson by learning what exactly curling is. Simply put, two teams of four people strategically slide rocks—either by hand or with disability-friendly sticks—across a sheet of ice into a target, called the house, on the other side. After one player releases a rock, two other teammates run alongside the stone and sweep the ice with brooms in order to move the stone farther along the sheet.[caption id="attachment_324080" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Curling makes for a great date or group activity. Photo: Jennifer Pottheiser[/caption]Points are awarded according to where the stones land in the target—but they often don’t stay there for long, since they are at risk of being knocked out. That’s why the strategy-driven sport is often called chess on ice.Etiquette and hospitality reign supreme in this social sport, which, above all, values camaraderie. It can also be played in mixed doubles, making it a great date or group activity.While the twenty-some people in my class vary in age, gender and ability, all are enthusiastic and eager to take a shot at this peculiar pastime. We are given plastic grippers to put on the soles of our shoes and guided onto the rink, where club members are already out on the ice warming up.MORE WINTER FUN*:Quirky Places to Go Ice-SkatingYes, There’s Dog Sledding in NJ: ‘It’s a Lifestyle’**Where to Cross-Country Ski in NJPolar Plunges at the ShoreBeat the Cold with Cozy Indoor Activities* I watch in awe as Mary Alice Cleve, a club member with eight years of experience, effortlessly pushes off and lunges just above the ground, gracefully sliding her 42-pound stone across the sheet.
Cleve sports a jacket covered in curling-club pins from all over the world, which she’s collected at bonspiels, or tournaments. She whizzes over and shows me her pins, fondly recalling her travels, during which she’s met teams from as far away as Ukraine and Kenya.[caption id="attachment_324125" align="alignright" width="350"] Mary Alice Cleeve wears a jacket with curling-club pins she's collected from tournaments all over the world. Photo: Jennifer Pottheiser[/caption]While New Jersey isn’t the most popular place in America to curl—that would be Minnesota and Wisconsin, followed by Massachusetts and New York—it is growing in popularity here. Our premier club, the Plainfield Curling Club, has been open since 1963 and boasts about 230 members, including Dean Gemmell, the new CEO of USA Curling and a Short Hills resident. Jersey Pinelands Curling Club, open since 2014, has around 60 members. This year, Garden State curling will be in the spotlight as we host the National Curling Championship for the first time ever, at East Rutherford’s American Dream mall January 29-February 4.At Pennsauken Skate Zone, my classmates and I gather into a huddle, and our instructors inform us of the game plan. The first half of the class will consist of basic skills training, as well as lessons in strategy, rules and etiquette. Then we’ll get to play. “Within 45 minutes, you can learn all the skills you need to play a game—we will get you curling quickly,” says Kelly, adding that the club is a “pretty friendly” one.As it turns out, curling is not as easy as it seems. However, most of us find ourselves picking it up more quickly than expected, and everyone maintains a sense of camaraderie that keeps us smiling and laughing for two straight hours. What started as a group of strangers begins to feel like a tight-knit team. “At this level, it’s all about fun,” says Amanda Fabian, the club’s president. “You always want to improve yourself, but it’s more so about having a good time.”[caption id="attachment_324082" align="alignnone" width="778"] NJM writer Falyn Stempler tries out curling for the first time. Photo: Jennifer Pottheiser[/caption]When it’s my turn to throw, I feel overwhelmed by all the steps it takes just to get into position. I move at a snail’s pace, putting one foot in front of the other while angling my rock at the 10 o’clock position with one hand and grabbing my stabilizer with the other. Uncomfortably hunched over in a runner’s push-off position, I look ahead at my target. Without thinking too much, I say, “Screw it!” and use my leg strength to push off and throw my rock.[caption id="attachment_324619" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our January 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Ronald Gray[/caption]I come crashing down seconds later, which I’m able to laugh off—and my rock makes it across the ice, so I’m impressed with myself. “Take it slow and don’t worry about messing up, because everybody does,” Cleve’s husband, Jeff, an experienced curler, tells me. “Don’t throw your rock with your arm. Release it. It’s a common rookie mistake.”I get back up and do just that, which makes a night-and-day difference. Feeling more balanced, I lunge forward and slide my stone with confidence. After a few shots, I find my rhythm and also feel pleasantly surprised by the stress relief and serotonin boost I get.Later, we get into strategy, rules and etiquette, which are far more complicated than the skill-learning portion of the class.Playing the game makes it obvious that none of us knows what the heck we are doing, but we sure are having fun trying. “At this level, luck has a lot more to do with it,” says Jeff Cleve. “That’s one of the great things about curling—it is a sport you can play and enjoy while you’re learning to do it. You’re all kind of in the same boat.” Some other classmates compare curling to popular recreational sports like pickleball in terms of the (lack of) experience needed to start playing.I am disappointed when we don’t break into broomstacking, the traditional after-party at competitions that many players call the best part of curling. However, it could be just the right incentive for me to return to the ice.CURLING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS:* Etiquette is everything. Greet your opponents with a handshake and wish them “good curling.” Compliment good shots. Shake hands at the end. * Curling is a social sport, so be ready to meet new people. * Dress in warm layers, thick socks and clean sneakers. Wear clothes that allow for movement. * Take position quickly when it’s your turn to throw. Delays are considered distracting and disrespectful. * Angle your rock at either the 10 or 2 o’clock position. Twist it toward the 12 o’clock position upon release. * Hold the stabilizer at the top of the rod with your non-dominant hand for optimal balance.
Falyn Stempler is a freelance journalist based in Jersey City who writes about topics including news, culture and food.
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Cross-country skiing is great exercise, easy to learn, and a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors without dealing with ski lifts, expensive lift tickets and crowds.
If you’re searching for the perfect place to do some cross-country skiing in New Jersey, High Point Cross Country Ski Center is the obvious choice.
At more than 1,600 feet in elevation—the highest point in the state—High Point is considered the snowiest spot in the metropolitan area. Located at the very northern tip of New Jersey, this beautiful setting is akin to a New England ski resort, with an alpine hollow of lakes, trees, wildlife and sweeping vistas.
High Point requires a trail pass for the use of its groomed trails, starting at $22 for adults on weekdays and $25 on weekends. It also offers ski rentals and lessons; group lessons are offered on weekends and holidays, and private lessons are also available. High Point also has a Youth Ski League program for children 12 and under.
MORE WINTER FUN*:Join NJ's Curling CrazeQuirky Places to Go Ice-Skating**Yes, There’s Dog Sledding in NJ: ‘It’s a Lifestyle’*Polar Plunges at the ShoreBeat the Cold with Cozy Indoor Activities [caption id="attachment_324619" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our January 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Ronald Gray[/caption]Other places to cross-country ski in New Jersey include Palisades Interstate Park in Bergen County; Wawayanda State Park in Passaic County, South Mountain Reservation in Essex County and Lewis Morris County Park in Morris County. Be aware that these locations don’t offer rentals, but there are ski shops around the state that rent cross-country skis (and snowshoes), such as Big Bear Gear in Lambertville, where there are also places to go nearby for cross-country skiing.
In the event of a big snowstorm, you can even try cross-country skiing in your local park—if there’s enough snow. Brookdale Park in Essex County has plenty of flat, ungroomed places to ski, along with a few small hills.
The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, a volunteer organization that builds, maintains and protects public trails, also has information on where to cross-country ski in the area. Before you leave for the trail, be sure to check that the park is not closed due to severe weather. High Point posts a trail report on its website in the winter; it also lists nearby restaurants and lodging.
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You don’t need to travel to Philadelphia, or 1959, to enjoy a night of timeless jazz and blues at Emerson’s Bar and Grill: Just head to Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair.For this off-Broadway production of 2014 Tony Award-winning musical Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill, the Vanguard Theater is transformed into an intimate jazz club. Tracey Conyer Lee becomes the iconic Billie Holiday during one of the late singer's final performances.In the 90-minute show, running through December 17, Conyer Lee channels Holiday, also known as Lady Day, performing Holiday classics such as “When a Woman Loves a Man,” “Baby Doll” and “Strange Fruit,” and telling stories about her life. The only other actor is Holiday’s pianist and love interest, Jimmy Powers. (The show also features a bass player, drummer and a little dog as Holiday’s pup, Pepi.) [caption id="attachment_323887" align="alignnone" width="778"] The Vanguard Theater is transformed into an intimate jazz club through December 17. Photo: Courtesy of Emily Melvin[/caption]Wearing a glamorous white dress, long silk gloves and white flowers in her hair, Conyer Lee gives a breathtaking, intensely realistic performance. She’s played the role in multiple regional theaters across the country, and it’s clear that Holiday is in her blood. Her breathy vocals pay tribute to the jazz icon’s distinctive sound, and she wonderfully balances Holiday’s playful and painful demeanor. Her monologues follow Holiday's heart-wrenching life stories of racism, sexism, grief, love, violence, alcohol and drug abuse, music-industry challenges and lost dreams.Audience members are part of the set, sitting at round, red-clothed candlelit tables surrounded by brick walls decked with portraits of jazz and blues greats like Louis Armstrong and Nat King Cole. For a further immersive experience, a soul-food meal catered by Vauxhall’s Mama’s Southern Style BBQ II is served and eaten at the table before the show, for $30. (There's a $25 food-and-drink minimum purchase per person.)[caption id="attachment_323881" align="alignnone" width="778"] Patrons can purchase dinner catered by Mama’s Southern Style BBQ II to enjoy before the show. Photo: Courtesy of Emily Melvin[/caption]The cozy set honors Holiday’s fondness for small clubs and aversion to the large venues where she was pushed to perform during her 30-year career. Emerson’s was one of her favorite clubs, despite being located in Philadelphia, where her conviction for drug possession led to the revocation of her cabaret card, limiting the number of venues at which she could perform.Lady Day marks the start of Vanguard’s 2023-24 season. Janeece Freeman Clark, the company’s founder and artistic director, says it fits the season’s theme of “finding your place.” “Billie spent her whole life trying to find home,” says Freeman Clark. “She never had it when she was growing up, and spent much of her adult life trying to find a home with different men who were always, as she says in the play, 'the worst apples of the bunch.'” Freeman Clark, a former Broadway actor who has performed with Conyer Lee, says that an actor’s familiarity with a story doesn’t necessarily make playing the role easier. “In some ways it's more challenging, because you have to see the story [from a new] director's vision,” Freeman Clark says. “At times that was a struggle for Tracey, because she did it recently , and [that] director's vision was completely different [from mine].”One of the most enjoyable parts of the Vanguard is the enthusiasm of its audiences. The 175-seat nonprofit theater has a devoted following of locals, and students in its theater-education program, who laugh, cry and cheer during performances. At a recent show, some women wore white flowers pinned in their hair in the style of Holiday. Many wiped tears from their eyes, passed tissues and reached out to each other. Lady Day may immerse us in a story of hardship, but there’s comfort in her music and in sharing a story well-told.Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through December 17. Vanguard Theater, 180 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair. Tickets start at $25. $25 food and drink minimum per person. Recommended for ages 13+.
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There’s nothing like the freedom and fun of pond skating. Generations of New Jerseyans have grabbed their skates and headed out to the local pond in the winter. In recent years, though, temperatures have rarely been consistently cold enough to freeze ponds sufficiently for safe skating.
One exception is towns that flood fields or meadows. These makeshift outdoor ice rinks freeze more quickly than ponds because the water is still and shallow.
In Essex Fells, the fire department floods a meadow when temperatures drop, creating a scene out of a Norman Rockwell painting. There’s a big area for general skating, a smaller one for hockey, a bonfire, a warming hut, and lights for night skating.
“It’s really sublime,” says Richard Satran, who grew up playing hockey on northern Wisconsin ponds and has been lacing up his skates at the Essex Fells rink since his now adult sons were small. “You catch up with other townies and maybe get into a pickup hockey game. Outdoor skating is amazing; you generate so much heat that you only need a sweater.”
MORE WINTER FUN*:Join NJ's Curling Craze*Yes, There’s Dog Sledding in NJ: ‘It’s a Lifestyle’Where to Cross-Country Ski in NJPolar Plunges at the ShoreBeat the Cold with Cozy Indoor Activities [caption id="attachment_324619" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our January 2024 issue here. Cover photo: Ronald Gray[/caption]In Madison, the Department of Public Works (DPW) floods a soccer field, which becomes the Rosedale Skating Pond. “It’s a clever use of the field; just when the soccer season is over, the field becomes a rink,” says Michael Pellessier, communications director for the borough of Madison.
For decades, Harding has been flooding a section of Bayne Park to create an ice rink, says DPW superintendent Tracy Toribio. A slight depression in the field was created long ago for the purpose. Once the ground is frozen, it acts as the liner that holds the water, Toribio says. Water is added, a fraction of an inch at a time, until it’s at least 3 inches thick. Once the rink opens, it’s sprayed with water dozens of times a day to keep it smooth.
To Toribino, it’s a labor of love. “We have a hundred people there some nights,” he says. “Seeing people skating and smiling is what makes me happy.”
With warming temperatures, though, even these outdoor town rinks are in danger of extinction. Their seasons have been starting later and ending earlier. “Last year was the shortest season we’ve ever had,” says Pellessier. It was the same in Harding, with only five days of skating, December 25-30. “After that it got warm, and that was it,” says Toribio. By contrast, in 2010-2011, the rink was open for 37 days.
[caption id="attachment_323839" align="alignnone" width="778"] Montclair resident Dave Levy built a backyard rink atop his patio—a boon to his hockey-playing sons. Photo: Courtesy of Dave Levy[/caption]Some outdoor skating devotees go the DIY route. Fifteen years ago, Dave Levy of Montclair made a backyard rink out of lumber, PVC pipe and a liner from Home Depot, with the help of YouTube videos. Levy labeled the 2x4s for easy reassembly each year. The rink, which sits atop his patio, has been a boon to his hockey-playing sons, not just to practice their skills, but as a learning experience. One son even devised a Zamboni-like device for smoothing the ice.
But even backyard rinks are on borrowed time. “You need two to three days of well below freezing to get a nice, solid block of ice,” Levy says. “That way, even if it gets above freezing during the day, it will stay frozen. But the amount of freezing days is much less, and the temperature goes up and down. When that happens, you end up with the world’s largest bird bath in the middle of your backyard.”
To find out if town rinks are open, call the town, check the town website, or better yet, drive by to see for yourself.
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A holiday tradition that originated in New Jersey at the turn of the last century will return with the 124th Christmas Bird Count, set for December 14-January 5.Bird enthusiasts from Sussex to Salem counties will keep track of how many species of birds they see or hear in a designated counting circle over a 24-hour period. “The Christmas Bird Count is a pioneering activity in citizen science,” says Rick Wright, a birder for 45 years and author of the American Birding Association Field Guide to the Birds of New Jersey.
Frank Chapman, an ornithologist from Englewood, is credited with starting the bird count in 1900 as an alternative to the hunting of birds on Christmas, which was popular in the 19th century. The count, a program of the National Audubon Society, has spread to other countries.
[RELATED: Where to See Holiday Light Shows in New Jersey]
In 2022-23, more than 1,100 people in the state participated in the count at 29 sites, according to William Boyle, who compiles count statistics for New Jersey. He says that the total number of species seen in last year’s counts in New Jersey was 202. But climate change is affecting the numbers and types of birds seen in New Jersey.
“Birds associated with open country are not doing well,” says Wright.
Sign up for the Christmas Bird Count here.
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There's nothing like heading to a farm and picking out your own Christmas tree. Here are ten spots in New Jersey we recommend checking out; some only sell trees, while others make for a festive afternoon outing with snacks, hot chocolate and Christmas lights. (Since hours and availability vary by day and depending on weather, we recommend calling farms before visiting or checking out their social media pages.)NORTH JERSEYGiamarese Farm • East BrunswickThrough Sunday, December 24: Enjoy a free bag of pick-your-own apples with the purchase of your tree, while supplies last. Arrive to the farm one hour before closing time.155 Fresh Ponds Road • 732-821-9494Hidden Pond Tree Farm • MendhamThrough Saturday, December 23: To fuel up for your tree hunt, toast marshmallows over a bonfire (weather permitting) or head to the snack bar for hot chocolate and snacks. Families can purchase advance tickets online to ride the evening Christmas Train, an experience that includes a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.4 Westfield Road • 973-865-6362Perfect Christmas Tree Farm • PhillipsburgThrough Saturday, December 23: These trees "hold their needles until the new year," this farm guarantees. More than 15 varieties are available this year, including rare species not commonly grown in the Garden State. Peruse vintage and antique ornaments at the gift shop.999 US-22 • 908-387-1225Wyckoff's Christmas Tree Farm • BelvidereUntil supplies last: Have you heard about Wyckoff's colored trees, in startling shades of pink, purple, blue, black and white? (Tree purists need not fret—plenty of traditional firs and spruces are available, too.)246 County Road • 519 908-475-4508[RELATED: Where to See Holiday Light Shows in New Jersey]
CENTRAL JERSEYAnne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm • ManalapanThrough Monday, January 1: Choose your tree, browse the generously stocked holiday-decor shop and, through Saturday, December 30, visit the Village at Anne Ellen, which is one of our favorite holiday light shows in the state.114 Daum Road • 732-786-9277Barclay's Tree Farm • CranburyUntil supplies last: Trees range from $75 to $150; cash and checks are accepted. Looking for a local gift for your out-of-town holiday visitors? Local honey is available for purchase.35 Orchardside Drive • 609-799-1855McLaughlin Tree Farm • RobbinsvilleThrough Saturday, December 23: Walk or take a hayride to find your tree, then head to the barn to defrost by the fire and enjoy a free cup of fresh hot chocolate or spiced cider. Kids can enjoy complimentary coloring books and candy canes. Also available for purchase: handmade wreaths, garland, grave blankets and fresh baked goods. Pets on leashes are welcome.1312 Old York Road • 609-259-8122SOUTH JERSEYPonderosa Tree Farm • Egg Harbor CityThrough Thursday, December 21: Pick out a sustainably grown tree at this family-owned farm. Wreaths and garlands—and fresh garlic, to jazz up all your special holiday meals—are also available.111 South Mannheim Avenue • 609-965-4646Spruce Goose Christmas Tree Farm • ChesterfieldThrough Sunday, December 17: Once you've chosen your tree, stop by the Spruce Goose Shop to browse Christmas decorations, ornaments, greenery and tree necessities like waterers and stands. You can also watch wreaths being made.194 Bordentown-Georgetown Road • 609-298-2498Yuletide Tree Farm • New EgyptThrough Saturday, December 23: A giant inflatable Frosty the Snowman welcomes visitors to this farm, where fives species of trees are available. PSA: No pets are allowed in the field.138 Evergreen Road • 732-349-2705
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Looking for some festive fun? These holiday light shows happening around the state are a wondrous sight to see this season.NORTH JERSEYLet It Glow! at the Bergen County Zoo📅: Thursday, November 16-Sunday, January 14; (Thursdays & Sundays, 4-8 pm; Fridays & Saturdays 4-9 pm)📍: 216 Forest Avenue, Paramusℹ️: Take a walk and train ride throughout the zoo to experience larger-than-life lanterns of animals in more than 30 scenes. Fire pits and s'mores are also available, and the gift shop will be open.💸: $9-$18 (kids ages 2 and under, free)Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular📅: Friday, November 17-Sunday, November 19; Friday, November 24-Sunday, November 26; Friday, December 1-Sunday, December 3; Nightly from Friday, December 8-Sunday, December 31 (closed December 24-25); 5-9 pm📍: 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange ℹ️: It's a real treat to walk through the grounds of the zoo at night while taking in a lovely display of sparkling lights depicting 50 winter and animal characters. The train, carousel , reptile house, Essex farm, and pony rides are set to be open.💸: Free (Please consider bringing a donation of non-perishable food items, new unwrapped toys, and/or gently used coatsOrchard of Lights at Demarest Farms📅: Wednesday, November 22; Friday, November 24-Sunday, November 26; Friday, December 1-Sunday, December 3; Friday, December 8-Sunday, December 10; Wednesday, December 13-Friday, December 29 (closed December 24-25); 5-9 pm📍: 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdaleℹ️: Take a guided tour from the comfort of your car through 32 acres of magical holiday light displays. While at the farm, cozy up by the fire pit, make your own s'mores, take photos with Santa, and purchase hot cocoa and treats from the market.💸: $35 per vehicleChristmas Light Show & Village at Skylands Stadium📅: Friday, November 22-Saturday, December 30 (various dates and times) 📍: 94 Championship Place, Augusta ℹ️: Take a 30-minute drive to see a true spectacle of holiday lights, then enjoy time in the Christmas Village.💸: $29 per vehicleCENTRAL JERSEYVillage at Anne Ellen📅: Wednesday, November 15-Sunday, November 19; Wednesday, November 22; Friday, November 25-Sunday, November 26; Wednesday, November 29-Sunday, December 3; Wednesday, December 6-Sunday, December 10; Tuesday, December 12-Sunday, December 17; Tuesday, December 19-Saturday, December 23; Wednesday, December 27-Saturday, December 30; 5-9 pm📍: 114 Daum Road, Manalapanℹ️: Arrive to the Christmas Village on a hayride through a field of trees. Then, walk down winding trails to explore the lights, a life size igloo and gingerbread house, a candy cane factory, Santa's house, and so much more. There are plenty of photo opportunities and sweet treats to enjoy, too.💸: $12-$22 per person (kids ages 2 and under, free), tickets can only be purchased online.[RELATED: Drink and Be Merry at NJ's Most Festive Holiday Pop-Up Bars]
Magic of Lights at PNC Bank Arts Center📅: Friday, November 17-Saturday, December 30 (Sunday-Thursday, 5-10 pm; Friday-Saturday 5-11 pm)📍: 116 Garden State Pkwy, Holmdelℹ️: Drive though magical light displays featuring multiple holiday scenes, including a toy land, snowflake tunnel, Nativity scene, and so many Santas and elves.💸: $30-$35 per vehicle; $60 per limo; $80 per busWinter WonderLights📅: Friday, November 24-Sunday, December 31 (open daily); 5:30-10 pm 📍: 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswickℹ️: With over 1.5 million lights animated to twinkle to classic holiday songs, this is the state's largest animated holiday light show. This half-mile-long drive celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali and Kwanza.💸: $30 per vehicleSOUTH JERSEYDiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express📅: Friday, November 17-Saturday, December 23 (Sunday-Thursday, 4:45-8 pm; Friday-Saturday, 4:45-8:45 pm)📍: 1151 S. White Horse Pike, Hammontonℹ️: Enjoy the magic of the holiday season aboard a train ride through millions of Christmas lights. You'll also get to explore the holiday village, meet Santa and his elves, enjoy Santa's favorite treat (a cookie) and enjoy more spirited fun.💸: Starting at $19.95-$24.95 per person (kids 12 months and under, free)Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show at Diggerland USA📅: Friday, November 17-Sunday, November 19; Wednesday, November 22-Sunday, November 26; Wednesday, November 29-Monday, January 1; Saturday, January 6-Sunday, January 7; 5:30-9:30 pm📍: 100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlinℹ️: Set in the country's only construction theme and water park, Diggerland USA has fun light displays, tunnels, and a radio station to tune into during your drive.💸: $34.95 per vehicleLight Show on the Lake in Historic Smithville📅: Thursday, November 23-Sunday, January 7; 5:30-9 pm📍: 615 E. Moss Mill Road, Smithvilleℹ️: More than 120 Christmas trees made from 50,000 Christmas lights cover the beautiful Lake Meone in the center of Historic Smithville, a quaint village filled with more than 60 shops and eateries. The lights dance across the lake to orchestrated holiday music, and the light show runs in loops every 30 minutes.💸: FreeCreamy Acre Farms Light Show Extravaganza📅: Friday, November 24-Saturday, December 23 (closed Sundays); 5:30-8 pm📍: 448 Lincoln Mill Road, Mullica Hill ℹ️: Creamy Acres Dairy Farm gets transformed into a winter wonderland at this drive-thru event. Cars drive the one-and-a-half-mile route through a bevy of beautiful light displays. A private radio station offers Christmas tunes. Afterward, visitors can purchase food and hang out at the fire pits.💸: $35 per vehicle in advance, $40 per vehicle at the gateWinter Wonderland Walking Trail at Indian Acres Tree Farm📅: Friday, November 24-Sunday, November 26; Thursday, November 30-Sunday, December 3; Thursday, December 7-Sunday, December 10; Thursday, December 14-Saturday, December 23; Tuesday, December 26-Saturday, December 30 (Friday-Saturday 5-9 pm; any other night, 5-8pm)📍: 111 Tuckerton Road, Medfordℹ️: Bundle up and take a stroll through this South Jersey Christmas tree farm and experience large, colorful light displays and miniature scenes. There are opportunities to pose with Santa, relax at bonfires with s'mores and hot cocoa, and check out the gift shop. This trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible, weather permitting.💸: $12-$16 per personHoliday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure📅: Friday, November 24-Sunday, November 26; Friday, December 1-Sunday, December 3; Saturday, December 9-Sunday, December 10; Saturday, December 16-Sunday, December 17; Friday, December 22-Monday, January 1 (closed December 25) (Friday, 12-9 pm or 4-9 pm; Saturday, 12-9 pm; Christmas Eve, 12-7 pm; all other days, 12-8 pm)📍: 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson Townshipℹ️: Celebrate the holidays at Six Flags! Many rollercoasters and attractions are still open and covered in lights. Other festive entertainment across the park includes dazzling light shows a displays, Santa stationed at the North Pole, story time with Mrs. Claus, and plenty of delicious treats.💸: $45-$50 per personHoliday Lights Trolley Ride📅: Friday, November 24; Sunday, November 26-Wednesday, November 29; Sunday, December 3-Friday, December 8; Sunday, December 10-Friday, December 15; Sunday, December 17; Tuesday, December 19-Sunday, December 31 (closed December 24-25); 5:30-9 pm📍: Trolly stop on Ocean Street, Cape Mayℹ️: Bundle up in coats and blankets on this 3o minute trolly ride throughout historic Cape May to see Victorian homes decked out for the holidays.💸: $20 per person, $15 for children ages 3-12
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Forget Miracle on 34th Street. This holiday season, there are Christmas miracles aplenty this side of the Hudson.
From mid-November through January 1, with the help of Manhattan-based franchisor Miracle Pop-Up Bar, seven Garden State bar/restaurants transform into holiday wonderlands, with festive decor, whimsical drinks menus and even new names.
Cowan’s Public in Nutley (called Miracle on Centre through January 1) was first in the state to jump on the Miracle Pop-Up bandwagon in 2018. Dean Maroulakos, creative director of Skopos Hospitality Group, which owns Cowan’s and three other Jersey restaurants that become Miracle pop-ups—Franklin Social in Jersey City, the Parkside Social in Verona, and Gus’ Last Word in Wood-Ridge—describes the decor style as “Christmas kitsch.”
“We joke that it’s like the feeling you get on Christmas morning when you were a kid, if you celebrate, coming downstairs and seeing all the toys,” says Maroulakos. “It’s the adult version of that, but with alcohol.”
[RELATED: Where to See Holiday Light Shows in NJ]
Skopos also has a Christmas-themed pop-up at the Vanguard in Harrison called Sippin’ Santa, with tiki-bar-style rum-based cocktails, also through the Miracle Pop-Up Bar group. And there are two other non-Skopos Miracle Pop-Ups in New Jersey: Catherine Lombardi in New Brunswick and the Loaded Spoon in Freehold.
Restaurants buy franchises from Miracle Pop-Up Bar that include cocktail recipes and menus, glassware, and decorating advice; franchisees do their own decorating. At Cowan’s, when it comes to Christmas, there’s no such thing as too big or too much. There’s a huge indoor tree, an oversized Santa statue, and lighting, greenery and decorative paneling that create the feeling of being in a snow globe in one corner and Santa’s workshop in another.
The staff wear their ugliest Christmas sweaters, and candles evoke holiday scents. The drink menus, designed by a different artist every year to resemble Christmas cards, open to a list of inventive cocktails with names like the Christmapolitan, Jingle Bells Nog and Christmas Cricket, served in vintage-style glassware.
At some Skopos locations, there’s also a nod to other holidays, with a Hanukkah Hideaway and decorations like a menorah and Chinese food boxes. “There’s no religious tie-in to this pop-up; we have believers and nonbelievers coming in,” Maroulakos says.
[caption id="attachment_322477" align="alignnone" width="778"] Gus’ Last Word in Wood-Ridge Photo: Courtesy of Skopos Hospitality Group[/caption]The Miracle Pop-Up concept was created in 2014 by Greg Boehm, owner of the then unfinished East Village cocktail bar Mace, and his manager, Joann Spiegel, as a stopgap decorating ploy. It quickly spread; 154 locations in the United States and Canada (201, if you include Sippin’ Santas) now hold franchises entitling them to the drink recipes, as well as holiday mugs and glassware that patrons can also purchase as gifts.
The drinks, which range from $13-$16, combine humor and whimsy with sophisticated ingredients and curation. Take the Christmapolitan, a blend of vodka, elderflower, dry vermouth, spiced cranberry, rosemary, lime and absinthe mist, or the Christmas Cricket, with blanco tequila, vanilla liqueur, minty amaro, coco pandan, cream, mole bitters and dark cherry liqueur.
The Snowball Old-Fashioned, which adds gingerbread spice to the classic drink, is served with a tiny snowball, made from packed shaved ice, as garnish. The Nice Shot (rye whiskey with gingerbread spice) is joined this year by the Naughty Shot, a spicy mix of tequila, habanero, ginger and hibiscus. While the Nice Shot comes in a shot glass depicting a winking traditional Santa, the Naughty Shot Santa sports a black hat and choker with studs.
[caption id="attachment_322470" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Cowan’s Public in Nutley becomes Miracle on Centre during the holiday season. Photo: Courtesy of Skopos Hospitality Group[/caption]The barware is part of the fun: glasses with festive designs or vintage-like frosting, and signature mugs such as Santa’s Head, Santa Pants and SantaRex. Franchisees buy the glassware from Miracle Pop-Up and offer boxed glasses to patrons for sale.
The kitschy Christmas formula has been a boon to Skopos. Weekend dinner reservations for their pop-ups fill up soon after they go online in October; closer to the holidays, lines form outside for a spot at the bar. (A helpful elf brings hot cocoa to those waiting in the cold.) During the holidays, they see triple their usual number of customers, Maroukolos says.
The business boost can extend beyond the holidays. Skopos’s newest restaurant, Parkside Social in Verona, had a steadily growing business after it opened in April 2022. But starting in November, when it morphed into Miracle on Bloomfield, “we were just insane,” Maroulakos says, adding, “Without the pop-up, it might have taken another six or eight months before we built up that demand.”
The phenomenal appeal of his Christmas-themed bars still surprises Maroulakos—and his patrons as well. One December, a customer in front of Cowan’s told him, “I can’t believe I’m standing in line to get into a bar in Nutley, New Jersey.”
Says Maroulakos, “That’s the power of Christmas and cocktails when you put them together.”
For a full list of each Miracle Pop-Up's dates and hours, click here.
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C’mon, Barbie fans—let’s go shopping!The Barbie Dreamhouse Living Tour will make its final Garden State stop at the Cherry Hill Mall this Saturday, October 14.The 2023 Barbie Truck Tour began this summer at the National Barbie Doll Collectors Convention in Orlando, Florida, days before Greta Gerwig’s record-breaking Barbie movie hit theaters in July. The tour has been bringing colorful, whimsical merchandise to Barbie aficionados across the country since—including at the Garden State Plaza in Paramus and Menlo Park Mall in Edison. Prior Barbie-themed tours took place in 2019 and 2021.[caption id="attachment_317795" align="alignnone" width="1280"] The Barbie Truck Tour has been traveling across the country since July. Photo: Courtesy of Barbie Truck Dreamhouse Living Tour[/caption]The tour celebrates the 60th anniversary of Barbie’s first Dreamhouse, released in 1962. Barbie-themed home accessories available for purchase include drink coasters, purple glass accessory cups with gold lids, and light pink throw blankets printed with groovy purple flowers.Merchandise includes a lavender denim jacket with Barbie embroidery and a light pink corduroy baseball cap. Other fun accessories: A pink thermal water bottle and glass tumbler with Barbie straw toppers, travel pouches, a pink corduroy tote with lavender handles, a gold necklace with various Barbie charms, a glass mug with pops of pink and orange, and a set of patches (perfect for affixing to the tote or jacket!).[caption id="attachment_317794" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Choose from an array of colorful Barbie-themed merchandise and accessories. Photo: Courtesy of Barbie Truck Dreamhouse Living Tour[/caption]Adult-sized apparel ranges from $20 to $75, accessories $15 to $35, drinkware $24 to $35, housewares $15 to $40, and ceramics $15 to $30. Only credit cards are accepted (no cash).Catch the Barbie Truck Tour at the Cherry Hill Mall near the food-court entrance from 10 am-7 pm on Saturday, October 14. Follow or partake in Barbie’s cross-country adventure with the hashtag #BarbieTruckTour on all social media platforms.
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The 102nd running of the Far Hills Race Meeting takes place on October 21, and the event is expected to attract thousands of spectators coming to watch steeplechase and reconnect with family and friends.Last year, 30,000 people attended the steeplechase, a distance horse race in which competitors jump fences and ditch obstacles. But the event is not all about watching the races; people also come to take part in extravagant tailgates at Moorland Farm, check out the lineup of food trucks, and raise money for a good cause.“We’re looking forward to another great day of racing, with nice, large crowds to support our racing and our charities,” says Guy Torsilieri, one of the chairs of the event.Over the years, the Far Hills Race Meeting has raised more than $20 million to support local health care organizations, including Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Crossroads4Hope and the Arc of Somerset County. Jockeys have competed for purses totaling $575,000.This year, there is a new, all-inclusive tent called the Hunt Club, which is set to feature food, alcoholic beverages, a DJ and lawn games, says Torsilieri.The event organizers are also working with Verizon on upgrading Wi-Fi in order to facilitate pari-mutuel wagering, which allows attendees to bet on races using their cell phones. In this method of wagering (from the French term meaning “amongst ourselves”), the public bets against each other and not against the racetrack.The Far Hills Race Meeting traces its origins to the Essex Hunt, a fox-hunting event founded in Montclair in 1870. The club established an event to thank the farmers and landowners who allowed them to hunt on their property, and the Farmer’s Day Race Meeting eventually became part of the Far Hills Race Meeting. The event moved to Moorland Farm in 1916.The races are being broadcast on Fox Sports. For more information, visit farhillsrace.org.
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Jon Bon Jovi is not just a famous rocker from New Jersey.He’s also a philanthropist who has been helping feed the hungry in the Garden State for years now with his JBJ Soul Kitchen restaurants, where diners pay what they can.This Saturday, October 7, the eighth annual JBJ Soul Kitchen Chili Cookoff will be held at nonprofit's Toms River restaurant. First responders from all over will compete in the fundraiser by cooking up their favorite chili recipes.Bon Jovi and his wife, Dorothea, usually serve as unannounced judges at the event—so if you’re a fan, it’s potentially a chance to catch a sighting.[caption id="attachment_317320" align="alignnone" width="778"] Jon Bon Jovi greets members of the Toms River Fire Department, Company #1, as he tastes their chili. Photo: Courtesy of Chris Brittain/@Brittain Studios[/caption]To date, JBJ Soul Kitchen has provided 173,870 meals to the hungry. The organization's community restaurants, run by the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, serve both paying and in-need customers. Individuals and families can enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal with dignity, in a warm, welcoming setting. Reservations are not necessary.The restaurants are operated on a “pay it forward” model, where those who are unable to pay are encouraged to join the Soul Kitchen community to learn about resources and volunteer opportunities.For those who can pay, they are asked to pay a suggested donation for their meal ($20 for lunch/$30 for dinner in Red Bank and $20 for lunch/dinner in Toms River), and “pay it forward” $20 to cover someone’s meal who is unable to afford it.The restaurants are located in Toms River and Red Bank, at Rutgers University-Newark, and at New Jersey City University in Jersey City."Our Chili Cookoff is my favorite event of the year," says Joanne Gwin, community coordinator of JBJ Soul Kitchen in Toms River. "It is a wonderful opportunity to bring the community together. Attendees have the chance to support and thank our first responders for their service, along with supporting JBJ Soul Kitchen."Fire, EMS and police departments, as well as first-aid squads, compete for first-, second- and third-place honors in the annual event. Last year’s winner was Union Beach PBA Local 291.[caption id="attachment_317321" align="alignnone" width="778"] Guests enjoy last year's Chili Cookoff at JBJ Soul Kitchen in Toms River. Photo: Courtesy of Chris Brittain/@Brittain Studios[/caption]Presale admission is $20; tickets purchased at the door are $30. Children 12 and younger can enter free of charge.This year, JBJ Soul Kitchen will also be selling beautiful ceramic bowls, crafted by students throughout New Jersey, for $20. Funds will support people who are battling food insecurity.In addition, local food bank People’s Pantry will be collecting nonperishable food items.The fundraiser will take place at 1769 Hooper Avenue in Toms River on October 7, from 1 to 4 pm.For more info, go to jbjsoulkitchen.org/chili-cook-off-2023.
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During the pandemic, Erika Bleiberg, a public relations professional who lives in Glen Ridge, had time to indulge her passion for painting. On 5-by-7- or 8-by-10-inch canvases in bright acrylics, she painted Impressionist-style portraits of journalists’ pets, both to relieve stress and to give back to those who, she says, “keep our democracy going.”Since then, the self-described “journalist fangirl” has painted hundreds of pet portraits for media figures, including Soledad O'Brien, Matt Katz, Sarah McCammon, Sean Sullivan and Dave Jorgenson, first reaching out to them via the platform formerly known as Twitter (now called X) with the hashtag #JournalismMatters. Local subjects include the dog owned by Dale Russakoff (a former Washington Post reporter) and her husband Matt Purdy (New York Times editor at large), plus dozens of reporters for NorthJersey.com. For author and political analyst Jonathan Alter, who doesn’t have a pet, Bleiberg loosened the rules and painted his goat sculpture. Bleiberg was accustomed to a relatively small canvas, but it shrunk even further when Montclair's Francesca Castagnoli asked if she'd like to exhibit at Tiny Gallery, the miniature art display she founded on the front lawn of her home. (Think: Little Free Library—but instead of books inside the display box, there’s an arrangement of Lilliputian artworks.) [caption id="attachment_316915" align="aligncenter" width="778"] Bleiberg, left, an artist who paints portraits of journalists' pets, has an exhibit at Tiny Gallery in front of the home of Montclair's Francesca Castagnoli. Photo: Julia Martin[/caption]Bleiberg didn’t hesitate; she’d been enchanted by Castagnoli's gallery when a friend exhibited there. She set to work on a dozen 2.5-by-3.5-inch pet portraits, using super-fine brushes and the tips of sharpened pencils for detail. She quickly adapted to the smaller scale—and found that she actually prefers it. "I've always been drawn to miniature things," she says. "As a small child, my pockets were always full of small found objects like little stones, shells, etc. Now 5-by-7, let alone 8-by-10 canvases, feel big to me!" At the exhibit's opening earlier this month, local journalists, many with their dogs, mingled in front of Castagnoli’s home, sipping wine and admiring Bleiberg’s mini-renderings of their beloved pets. Guests whose pets' portraits were on display included Liz George, editor-publisher of the Montclair Local; Jay Lustig, founding editor of NJArts.net; Debbie Galant, former New York Times columnist and founder of Baristanet; Diane Herbst, a reporter for the Messenger; and John Mooney, founding editor of NJ Spotlight News.Castagnoli, a copy director for Amazon Fashion who works remotely, gets a kick out of sharing art with passersby."I work for the biggest company; today, everything's big and overwhelming," she says. "It’s a beautiful thing to see someone stopping by to look at tiny art. Nothing makes me happier.” Bleiberg's exhibit can be viewed in front of Castagnoli’s home on Stanford Place, near Grove Street, until October 13. Next up for the gallery: miniature paper-collage landscapes by local artist Paula Stark.
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Named for the indigenous people who once inhabited northern New Jersey, the 36-mile Lenape Trail links 18 parks and 11 municipalities as it carves its way in a horseshoe shape through Essex County.The trail—which follows dirt or gravel paths and paved walkways—reveals an Essex County that’s more than urban downtowns and leafy suburban enclaves. At its eastern end, the trail passes through beautifully manicured parks, often along effervescent rivers and brooks. After turning west, it rises up and over two parallel thickly wooded ridges, First Watchung Mountain and Second Watchung Mountain.In the fall, the leaf-peeping seems to get better with every step, especially atop the Watchung Mountain ridges. First Mountain in particular provides incomparable, foliage-framed views of Manhattan to the east.[RELATED: Leaf-Peeping Reaches New Heights in High Point State Park]
This being a suburban trail, it occasionally requires long walks through local neighborhoods, often on busy streets. For my trail walk, I broke the hike into five segments that stayed almost exclusively in park or forested areas, while skipping most of the stretches on local streets. The longest segment is 7 miles one way.Throughout its length, the trail is marked with yellow blazes (rectangular patches) on trees and posts. These painted markings and the trail itself are maintained by volunteers from the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, in partnership with local park conservancies (such as the Hilltop Conservancy and the South Mountain Conservancy) and the Essex County Park System.For any segment of the trail, make sure to carry sufficient water, and consider downloading the free Avenza app, which helps keep you on track. Additionally, a trail guide (with map) is available to download free at nynjtc.org. It’s always smart to walk with a friend. Pro tip: Head out with two cars and park one at the end of that day’s segment, turning each segment into a one-way hike. In the forested areas, expect to cover about two to three miles in an hour, with plenty of refreshment breaks.[RELATED: The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey]
Branch Brook Park to Yanticaw Park[caption id="attachment_316389" align="alignnone" width="778"] Branch Brook Park's seasonal foliage is spectacular. Photo: Ron Wyatt[/caption]Our hike starts at Branch Brook Park, the nation’s first county park, esteemed for its nearly 100-year-old collection of cherry trees. You won’t see their fabulous pink blossoms in the fall, but there will be plenty of seasonal foliage to admire.Enter the park by car at the Clifton Avenue entrance, just south of Newark’s magnificent Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart (89 Ridge Street). Drive across the overpass and park along the road, with Branch Brook Lake to your right. You begin the hike with a dramatic view of the cathedral across the lake.The paved path follows the lake north through the park, a popular urban oasis for walkers, joggers and cyclists. Use the crosswalk over Heller Parkway; after 3 miles, you’ll reach the Cherry Blossom Welcome Center. Past the welcome center, the trail turns left into a wooded, secluded section. You can avoid this diversion by following several paths up the hill and to the left, toward Belleville Park.So far, you’ve gone about 4.5 miles, mostly on flat, paved ground. You can end this segment here or continue onto Belleville Avenue. From here, the trail goes through local streets for about 2 miles (map or app essential) before reaching Booth Park at Harrison Street in Nutley. As you enter, there’s a park house with clean restrooms.The trail proceeds for another mile through Booth Park and Yanticaw Park, a swathe of green along the tree-lined Third River. This leg of the walk ends at Chestnut Street in downtown Nutley. You’ve walked an easy 7 miles from the Branch Brook entrance. (The trail continues on local streets for almost 3 miles through Nutley and Bloomfield, including a footbridge over the Garden State Parkway, all the way to Brookdale Park.)Brookdale Park to Mills Reservation[caption id="attachment_316398" align="alignnone" width="778"] Brookdale Park Photo: Laura Baer[/caption]Enter Brookdale Park at Watchung Avenue, just west of Broad Street in Bloomfield. Once in the park, you can deposit your car along the roadway or in the lot halfway up the park’s eastern edge. Look back and find the trailhead—it’s well marked—at the southern end of the park. Follow the paved trail up the hill into the woodsy stretch along the park’s west side. Along the way, you’ll pass numerous fitness stations, where you can add a workout to your walk if you're so inclined. You’ll also pass the county dog park and the hilltop rose garden, which still sports plenty of color in the fall.The trail curves down toward the archery field (top archers from all over practice here), then turns left at the archery house, exiting the park. Cross Bellevue Avenue and turn left and then right onto Glenside Terrace. It’s about a one-block walk to the entrance of Montclair’s Yantacaw Brook Park, with its rolling lawns and pretty little pond.[caption id="attachment_316397" align="alignnone" width="778"] Yantacaw Brook Park Photo: Laura Baer[/caption]Exiting the park at Club Road, continue straight on Yantacaw Brook Road to Alexander Avenue. It’s about a 1.5-mile walk on local streets to Presby Memorial Iris Gardens. (The irises bloom in late spring, typically around Memorial Day weekend.)If you turn back here, you’ve covered about 3.5 miles. To continue into Mills Reservation, walk up the hill behind the Iris Gardens and turn left on Highland Avenue (you can park here, too). Turn right on Windsor Place, walk up the steep hill, and turn right at Warfield, which dead-ends at the Mills entrance.[caption id="attachment_316393" align="alignnone" width="778"] Quarry Point, Mills Reservation Photo: Ron Wyatt[/caption]Throughout Mills, the trail is dirt and gravel. Follow the yellow blazes up to the Quarry Point lookout, which offers a dramatic view over Montclair and beyond. You can now say you’ve scaled First Watchung Mountain. Leaving Quarry Point, follow the yellow blazes another mile to the Normal Avenue parking lot, which marks the end of this leg of the hike. You’ve covered 5 miles. (If you're walking with a friend, you can leave a second car in the Normal Avenue lot to avoid doubling back.)[caption id="attachment_316447" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our October 2023 issue here. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Cedar Grove Park to Hilltop ReservationFrom Normal Avenue, it’s a 4-mile walk around Cedar Grove Reservoir and on local streets (plus a short section of the West Essex rail trail) to reach Cedar Grove Park. Instead, we’re starting this leg of the walk by parking at Cedar Grove’s Robert J. O’Toole Community Center (199 Fairview Avenue). The park entrance is across the street. This section of the trail is only about 2 miles, but it includes a strenuous ascent to the top of Second Watchung Mountain (elevation 675 feet).Once you enter Cedar Grove Park, the yellow blazes direct you to the right, over a footbridge and then in an arc to the left around the northern edge of the park. As the paved path straightens, watch for the yellow blaze directing you into the woods to the right. The trail here is not easy to discern. Head uphill, then swing to the right and up to the left until you spot a yellow blaze toward the top of the hill. Next, two right turns deliver you to a paved section of the trail. Now, watch for a quick turn to the left onto a narrow, wood-chipped path.The narrow path leads you to one of the highlights of the trail: an open grassland meadow sprawling across a plateau atop the ridge. The evergreens bordering the meadow suggest Colorado—but no, we’re still in Essex County. Waves of tall grass, milkweed and all manner of wildflowers make this a sanctuary for bees and butterflies. A slice of local history hides here, too. Although it has returned to its natural state, the meadow was once the site of the Essex Mountain Sanatorium, where tuberculosis patients were housed for much of the last century. A water tower at the edge of the meadow hints that civilization is nearby.Leaving the meadow, watch for a left turn back onto a wood-chip path leading into thick woods. There are two unmarked forks ahead; turn right at the first, left at the second. The trail gets rocky here as it tunnels beneath the overhanging branches and heads uphill. The trail curves left and reveals the edge of a neighboring town house development, then swings back into the woods and down a winding path. Finally, you emerge on an open ridge with a panoramic view of First Watchung Mountain to the east.From here, the path heads downhill, ending at a football complex. You can turn back here or continue down the rocky trail to the left until you reach the Verona Community Center (880 Bloomfield Avenue). This is a good place to deposit a car if you are hiking with others and prefer a one-way hike. If you want to continue to the next section, turn left on Bloomfield Avenue and walk a half-mile downhill to Verona Park.Verona Park to Eagle Rock Reservation[caption id="attachment_316396" align="alignnone" width="778"] Verona Park Photo: Ron Wyatt[/caption]Enter Verona Park at the corner of Bloomfield and Lakeside avenues. There’s plenty of street parking on Lakeside. Walk on the paved path along the western edge of this popular neighborhood park. Loop around Verona Lake past the boathouse until you reach the Children’s Garden. Here, the trail heads out of the park toward Manor Road and Sunset Avenue. Follow Sunset across Propect Avenue to Glen Road and uphill to Gordon Place.Just south of the intersection of Gordon Place and Afterglow Avenue, you’ll see the northern entrance to Eagle Rock Reservation. You’ve walked a bit more than 2 miles. Alternatively, you can park on Afterglow and start this segment of the hike at the reservation entrance.The Eagle Rock section of the trail is unpaved and, at points, rugged and rocky. The trail rises steeply to the North Lookout—where you get a great view of Manhattan through the foliage—before flattening out along the ridge.After a little more than a mile, you emerge at the Highlawn, the elegant restaurant pavilion in the southeast corner of Eagle Rock. Follow the cobblestone sidewalk past the Highlawn to Essex County’s much-visited September 11th Memorial. The Eagle Rock monument and memorial wall comprise one of the Garden State’s most moving tributes to the lives lost in the World Trade Center attack.Although no traces remain, a lot of history was made at Eagle Rock. During the American Revolution, George Washington’s lookouts perched here to monitor British troop movements across the Hudson River. Fast-forward to 1901, and automobile races tested the ability of early motorized vehicles to climb what was then known as First Orange Mountain (but is actually a section of First Watchung Mountain).From the memorial, walk west toward the parking lot beyond the gazebo. Turn right and reenter the yellow-blazed trail to the left, at the end of the lot. There’s an immediate fork; take the trail to the left. This is a pleasant, woodsy stretch. After about 10 minutes, turn right at the unmarked T intersection. At the bottom of the hill, a left turn takes you to the busy corner of Eagle Rock and Prospect avenues. You’ve walked 2 miles from the northern entrance. From here the trail follows busy streets through West Orange for about 4 miles to the next segment in South Mountain Reservation.Alternatively, turn right at the bottom of the hill and follow the red-blazed trail along the western edge of the Reservation back to the northern entrance where you came in. This turns the segment into a loop of about 4 miles.South Mountain ReservationWelcome to the most challenging part of the Lenape Trail. It has some long ascents, but nothing that should scare you away. You can start this section at the Mayapple Hill Picnic Area off Cedar Lane in West Orange for a hike of about 6 miles. I shortened the trek by starting at the Tulip Springs Picnic Area, south of Orange Reservoir. Turn into the Tulip Springs area off Cherry Lane and make an immediate right to reach the picnic area parking lot. At the end of the lot, you reenter the trail on the left at the yellow-blazed steps. Soon, a right turn leads to a footbridge over South Orange Avenue.[RELATED: Get Lost in South Mountain Reservation]
Follow the yellow blazes to the base of Hemlock Falls, a popular spot for picture taking. Take a break here and watch the water cascade between the sheer, lichen-covered cliff walls into Hemlock Brook. Feeling energetic? Climb the steep flight of slate steps to the left for the view from the top of the falls.Return to the trail and carefully walk up the narrow ledge opposite the falls. Wet leaves can render this spot tricky; trekking poles will help. Continue deep into the woods and be prepared for a long, well-marked ascent. At the Ball’s Bluff kiosk, turn left onto the gravel path, then quickly right onto the narrow dirt trail and up the hill to a circle of stone ruins.The trail continues uphill for a considerable distance before flattening out along the top of a ridge. About an hour into the hike, you start heading downhill to Beech Brook Cascade (it was just a trickle when I passed through) and up a short hill to Lilliput Knob, which provides a nice, 360-degree prospect of the surrounding woods. Your next landmark is the tumble of boulders known as Maple Falls Cascade. Again, it was barely a trickle.Finally, you reach Washington’s Rock. Climb up the rocky steps, past the tattered American flag, and read the plaques explaining this promontory’s role in the Revolutionary War. From here, Washington’s scouts (and possibly Washington himself) kept an eye on Hobart’s Gap, a potential British route to Washington’s 1780 encampment in Morristown. Today, Washington’s Rock provides a view of downtown Millburn; and provides a picnic pavilion and a port-a-john.The trail continues on the paved road to the right of the pavilion. Watch for the right turn back onto the dirt trail, which descends to the Locust Grove Picnic Area and parking lot. You’ve done it! That’s the end of the trail. (For a one-way walk, leave a second car in the Locust Grove lot. Alternatively, you can check the trail map and pick one of several routes to loop back to Hemlock Falls.)Ken Schlager is the former longtime editor of New Jersey Monthly.
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Even though summer is behind us, the desire to be out in nature near water hasn’t subsided.This fall, visit New Jersey’s breathtaking waterfalls, which are mainly found in the northern part of the state, where elevations are greater.The majestic Great Falls in Paterson has the highest profile as New Jersey’s largest waterfall by volume and its newest national park (since 2011); Buttermilk Falls, in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, is the state’s tallest at 85 feet.But scores of lesser-known natural waterfalls dot the landscape, along with a few created by dams; these engineering marvels are arguably no less stunning.Any of these falls would be the start of a beautiful autumn day trip.[RELATED: The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey]
Apshawa FallsApshawa Preserve, West MilfordIf you’re seeking a waterfall destination that doesn’t require advanced hiking skills, Apshawa, in the heart of northern New Jersey’s Highlands region, is a top choice. The falls are located within the 576-acre Apshawa Preserve, accessible via a beginner-level hike along 3.5 miles of mostly flat trails (marked with blue blazes) through a lovely forest of oak and sugar-maple trees. The cascade comes from Apshawa Brook, a tributary of the Pequannock River that spills over a wide dam 40 feet high; the visible drop averages a healthy 25 feet, depending on the water level in the brook below.From above the falls, a few dozen feet back along the trail, the widening brook creates an optical illusion similar to an infinity pool, a phenomenon common on dammed waterways. Other interesting features worth noting inside the preserve, which is open year-round and jointly managed by the New Jersey Conservation Foundation and Passaic County, are the ruins of several old stone buildings from a century-old water collection/purification project, and a half-dozen enormous metal water tanks nearby, which seem frozen in time. The preserve is located at 4 Northwood Drive (off Macopin Road) in West Milford. Park in the small lot, enter through a gate in the deer-proof fence, and hit the blue trail. Seeing a set of natural falls in the preserve requires a much steeper hike. (Apshawa means “upon the mountain” in Lenape.) Take the orange trail where it forks left off the blue, then right at its junction with the green trail, and descend via a series of switchbacks that hug the brook before it reaches the dam.Van Campens GlenHardwick Township, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area[caption id="attachment_316387" align="alignnone" width="778"] Van Campens Glen Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]At this Warren County destination, considered one of New Jersey’s loveliest outdoor spots, a pair of waterfalls bookends a 2.2-mile out-and-back hike along Van Campens Brook. Take Old Mine Road past the upper Van Campens parking lot (right side of the road) to the lower lot (left side). Follow the path to wooden steps ending at a railed overlook above the first set of falls. Work your way upstream via the trail until you come to a fork. Take a left away from the water, descend another set of stairs, cross the pedestrian bridge over the brook, and head uphill again for a few minutes, emerging at a rocky beach. Yet more steps run adjacent to the ravine surrounding the steep upper falls, the crown jewel of Van Campens Glen, which is punctuated by a series of pools. (Swimming is strictly prohibited; Turtle Beach, the only legal swimming hole on the Water Gap’s New Jersey side, is 3.5 miles west along Old Mine Road.) Then reverse your steps to complete the trip. Or, if you prefer a mostly downhill hike—starting with the more dramatic waterfall—park in the upper lot, cross Old Mine Road to the clearly marked trailhead, and head across a bridge to the top of the falls. Both parking areas have bathrooms. Also nearby: Millbrook Village, a living-history site operated by volunteers. Old Mine Road is closed in the winter.[RELATED: Fall Festivals and Fairs]
Little FallsTownship of Little Falls[caption id="attachment_316384" align="alignnone" width="778"] Little Falls Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]So named to distinguish itself from Paterson’s Great Falls, Little Falls is really not that little. Stunning in its own right, Little Falls has a rich history that underscores the complex interplay of nature and commerce in the eponymous community along the Passaic River. The waterfall was created by the construction of Beatties Dam in the 1840s by a carpet manufacturer in need of power for a nearby mill. It remains the anchor of the township, easily visible from the bridge over Union Boulevard. Or walk along the Morris Canal greenway, accessible from Main Street, for a view of the falls from below. (The canal itself ran through a huge stone aqueduct above the falls that was demolished in the 1920s.) The current dam, a concrete structure dating to 1932, produces a substantial cascade that fueled far more than a floor-coverings factory: Water-flow control and flood prevention had an enormous impact on real estate values. The Beattie Carpet Mill closed in 1982, long after its namesake had become the richest man in Passaic County. But some buildings remain, converted into a luxury condominium complex called the Mill at Little Falls. Parking there is for residents; Montclair Avenue, a side street parallel to Union Boulevard, has plenty of spots to leave your car.Laurel Falls and Waterfalls at Dunnfield CreekWorthington State Forest[caption id="attachment_316388" align="alignnone" width="778"] Worthington State Forest Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]South and slightly west of Van Campens Glen, and just half a mile from Turtle Beach, waterfall-rich Worthington State Forest is a can’t-miss for cascade seekers. The forest’s tallest falls, Laurel, comprise three separate sections of a stream that runs from Sunfish Pond directly into the Delaware River. The 41-acre rock-basin lake atop Kittatinny Ridge boasts multiple spectacular scenic overlooks and is considered one of New Jersey’s seven natural wonders, carved by glacial forces during the last ice age. Laurel’s middle and lower falls are the most impressive, though like all waterfalls, their volume is dependent on recent rainstorms. Leave your car at the Douglas Trail parking lot and cross Old Mine Road; the lower section is accessible by a short climb up an unmarked path directly opposite the lot. Swimming is prohibited in the forest. The Douglas Trail parking lot is 4 miles from the last exit off Route 80 West (Millbrook/Flatbrookville).Visitors to Worthington should not miss the Dunnfield Creek Natural Area and its impressive series of falls. Descending from the southern end of Sunfish Pond, the Dunnfield waterway has a few large drops and several smaller ones. Take the Dunnfield Creek Trail (moderately steep and marked by light-green blazes) straight up to the pond to see them all. Or get your waterfall fix while notching an Appalachian Trail experience on the portion of the storied trail, in a dense forest of mature hemlock and other hardwoods, that weaves its way through the forest. Follow the Appalachian Trail’s white blazes until you reach a fork, then bear right to pick up the Dunnfield Creek Trail. The first set of falls is less than a mile from the Tammany parking area, which sits just east of the Millbrook/Flatbrookville exit. The Tammany lot leads right to the Dunnfield Creek Natural Area, with both trailheads clearly marked.[RELATED: Explore NJ's 36-Mile Lenape Trail]
[caption id="attachment_316447" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our October 2023 issue here. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Lake SolitudeHigh Bridge, Hunterdon CountyA dam that Preservation New Jersey once listed among the state’s most threatened historic sites is the source of a popular waterfall destination in Hunterdon County. The falls from the stone spillway over the Raritan River’s South Branch, reconstructed a decade ago, produce a breathtaking spray just a mile from downtown High Bridge. Like the dam that forms Apshawa Falls, the majority of 42-foot-high Lake Solitude Dam rises above the lake it created, making for a 25-foot cascade even when the water level is particularly high. Take in the sights from the observation deck above the dam. The levee was originally built to furnish electric power for the Taylor-Wharton Iron and Steel Company, which produced munitions for American forces from Revolutionary times through the early 1970s; some officials hope to see it revived as a hydroelectric plant. Off River Road/Route 639, the parking lot holds only a half-dozen cars.Lockatong FallsLockatong Wildlife Management Area, Stockton[caption id="attachment_316390" align="alignnone" width="778"] Lockatong Falls Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Deep in Hunterdon County, this wildlife preserve boasts a deep pool fed by a multi-tiered waterfall that is easily accessible from the road. Park in the Lockatong WMA lot off Route 519/Hog Hollow Road and take the trail into the woods to the left of the lot (not the one through tall grass to the right). There’s no map at the trailhead, but a 25-minute walk along the mostly flat path ends at the best view of the main drop, 10 feet above a cliff, and several smaller ones along the same ridge. Meander upstream along Lockatong Creek and you’ll see a few more pretty falls. The charming village of Frenchtown is 10 miles north of the preserve, and worth visiting after you are finished enjoying nature.Pamela Weber-Leaf has covered the environment beat at two daily newspapers. She was formerly an environmental lawyer.
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Tasting rooms in New Jersey run the gamut. You can find them tucked away in warehouses, in small airport complexes, and behind shopping centers. While there’s nothing wrong with these locations or the beverages they serve, fall weekends call for something more scenic.For views of rolling vineyards, orchard rows and fields of grain to accompany your seasonal sips, seek out these farm-based tasting rooms, where some of the ingredients needed to produce the wine, cider, beer or liquor are grown, and where winemakers, cidermakers, brewers and distillers deeply believe in the value of crafting beverages from the Garden State’s own bountiful harvests.[RELATED: The Best Fall Day Trips in New Jersey]
BREWERIESReadington Brewery & Hop FarmReadington TownshipIn 2019, former home brewers Braun Kiess and Dan Aron turned a stretch of commercial farmland into this expansive, 25-acre farm brewery. One of the largest hop farms in the state, Readington Brewery & Hop Farm also grows wheat, barley and fruits that are used to brew a range of craft beers on-site. Take in the entire farm-to-glass process during your visit to the tasting room, a space that features cathedral ceilings, exposed wooden beams and plenty of relaxed seating options.937 US Highway 202 SouthScreamin’ Hill BreweryCream RidgeA rustic, 19th-century, red barn turned tasting room is the beating heart of Screamin’ Hill Brewery, which sits on the 170-acre Bullock Farms that has operated as a family farm since 1860. To help ensure the future of the farm, Brett Bullock opened the brewery in 2016 with brother-in-law Patrick Jones and friend Ryan Cole. The goal has always been to grow as many beer ingredients as possible on-site, including barley, wheat, rye, hops, and natural flavorings such as habanero peppers, raspberries and even tomatoes.83 Emleys Hill RoadSource Farmhouse BreweryColts Neck[caption id="attachment_316386" align="alignnone" width="778"] Philip Petracca, left, and Greg Taylor, co-owners of Source Farmhouse Brewery, enjoy the property’s inviting outdoor area. Photo: James J. Connolly[/caption]Located on an old dairy farm next to the beloved Delicious Orchards, Source Brewing stays true to Colts Neck’s long-standing commitment to agriculture, growing and sourcing local ingredients for their brews. The brewery and taproom are housed in the farm’s 130-year-old barn, which was renovated prior to opening in 2019 to accommodate stainless steel tanks, more than 20 taplines, and plenty of tables. The outside area is just as inviting, complete with Adirondack chairs, a beer garden and games.300 Route 34[RELATED: The 30 Best Restaurants in New Jersey of 2023]
WINERIESAlba VineyardMilfordNestled in the rolling hills of Warren County, Alba Vineyard sits a stone’s throw from the Delaware River, making it an ideal spot for fall leaf peeping. Find a cozy spot on the outdoor stone patio overlooking the 93-acre estate (originally a dairy farm that dates to the 1700s) and its many vineyards.269 Riegelsville Road[caption id="attachment_316447" align="alignright" width="350"] Buy our October 2023 issue here. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions[/caption]Beneduce VineyardsPittstownThe Beneduce farming family got its start growing roses for New York City flower markets, eventually expanding into a large garden center and nursery. Fourth-generation farmer Mike Beneduce now carries on the agricultural tradition at Beneduce Vineyards, a bucolic winery that has gained acclaim in Jersey and beyond. Try the estate-grown wines (especially the blaufränkisch, a red grape from Austria) in the welcoming tasting room, which got a lively refresh last year. Then bring your favorite bottle out to a table overlooking 25 rolling acres of vineyards.1 Jeremiah LaneSharrott WineryHammontonSharrott Winery’s elegant tasting room, with indoor seating as well as tables outside on a heated patio, is the kind of place you’ll want to spend a long, wine-soaked afternoon. With vaulted ceilings, large windows, and a stellar kitchen complete with a pizza oven, it’s an ideal fall day-trip destination. The South Jersey winery, opened in 2008, makes dry and sweet wines—and some bubbly.370 South Egg Harbor RoadDISTILLERIESNauti Spirits DistilleryCape MayDiscover a new way of drinking down the Shore on this 60-acre coastal-farm distillery. Showcasing the agricultural side of spirits, Nauti Spirits sources Jersey-grown ingredients to craft vodkas, gins and whiskeys. No matter the season, there’s always a lively crowd to be found in the nautical-inspired tasting room and its adjoining patio, where you’re be surrounded by the very fields where your cocktails originated.916 Shunpike RoadPine Tavern DistilleryMonroevilleThis family farm turned family-owned-and-operated distillery got started in 2016, when it became the first (legal) distillery to open in Salem County since Prohibition. That’s when Bob Schmid fired up his first still in the old horse barn, where Pine Tavern Distillery’s moonshine, whiskey, rum and brandy are still produced and aged. There is now a second barn structure that houses tables, chairs and a small stage, where a rotating crew of local musicians perform. While you’re at Pine Tavern, don’t miss out on exploring the rest of the property, too, on which the family still grows corn to feed the stills.149A Pine Tavern RoadCIDERIESBurnt Mills CiderBedminster[caption id="attachment_316395" align="alignright" width="350"] Savor some cider at Burnt Mills Cider in Bedminster. Photo: Courtesy of Burnt Mills Cider[/caption]When John Coates opened his cidery during the pandemic in 2020, he wasn’t sure what to expect. Unable to welcome guests into the new tasting room, he invited them to picnic on the 8-acre property instead. The cidery became a quick favorite. Taste flights inside the barn-inspired tasting room, then bring your glass outside for a picnic.3540 Route 206Ironbound FarmAsburyThis Hunterdon County cidery is a dream destination for any locavore. The 108-acre regenerative farm is home to Ironbound Hard Cider, but expect to see more than just apples. Grab a seat in the outdoor cider garden and dig into a flame-cooked meal featuring meats, cheeses and vegetables that are all grown on-site or sourced locally.360 County Road 579Shelby Vittek writes frequently about food, wine and agriculture, and is the Libations columnist for New Jersey Monthly.
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On a cloudy June day by the Passaic River, with car sounds from Route 21 audible across the narrow waterway, a group has gathered at the Nereid Boat Club in Rutherford for a National Learn to Row Day open house. Kids and adults are in sculling boats on the river, while others try out rowing machines on the club’s outdoor grounds, groups of teens carry long boats over their heads, and adults mill about with drinks and burgers.
Competitive rowing, which has existed in New Jersey since the mid-1800s, is fiercely popular among its followers but has remained more under the radar for the general public.
National Learn to Row Day, organized by USRowing, the sport’s Princeton-based national governing body, aims to change that by exposing non-rowers to the sport and, hopefully, sparking their interest in getting involved.
When people think of rowing (also referred to as “crew”), some picture it as an elite pastime for Ivy Leaguers. While Princeton University does have a long-established program, rowing is also offered at other colleges, public and private high schools, a few middle schools, and numerous rowing clubs all over the Garden State.
Rowing clubs are a vital part of the rowing scene in New Jersey and are found most anywhere there’s a suitable river, lake or inlet. According to USRowing, there are 88 rowing clubs in New Jersey. They offer members the use of boats and other equipment, training, the chance to join competitive teams, and the opportunity to row recreationally. Typically, clubs charge an annual fee similar to a gym membership.
In addition to Nereid on the Passaic, notable clubs include the Viking Rowing Club in the Atlantic City area, Row New Jersey on Lake Hopatcong, the South Jersey Rowing Club in Mt. Laurel, and the Delaware River Rowing Club in Burlington. In most parts of the state, you can find a rowing club within a reasonable driving distance.
[caption id="attachment_315811" align="alignnone" width="778"] Rowing is great for groups and families. Photo: Laura Baer[/caption]
ROW, ROW, ROW! The sport of rowing can be divided into two distinct types. One is sculling, where each rowers has a left and right oar. The other is sweep, in which each rower has a single oar. The rowers in a sweep boat are deployed in an alternating left-right pattern to keep the energy even on both sides. In both rowing styles, the boats (called shells) are long, thin, and made of lightweight kevlar or carbon fiber.
In both sculling and sweep, competitive meets, called regattas, feature a variety of sprints and distance races organized by boat size and type. Sprints are typically 2,000 meters, and distance races can be as long as 6,000 meters.
Regattas usually feature separate men’s and women’s sweep and sculling events as well as mixed races. Overall, the sport is pretty well-balanced between male and female participants.
Rowing is a quintessential team sport, where each boat crew is only as good as its weakest link. “If you have one person in the boat who is subpar,” says Stan Bergman, who has coached the successful Holy Spirit High School rowing team in Absecon and the Penn rowing team, “it doesn’t matter how good the other ones are—it’s going to drag them down somewhat.”
That said, rowing doesn’t require the same level of athleticism or hand-eye coordination as many other sports. “You don’t have to be an incredible athlete to be a good rower,” says Alex Del Sordo, a longtime rower who hosts the Rowers Choice podcast and runs a boat-repair business. “You just have to be dedicated.”
[caption id="attachment_315808" align="alignnone" width="778"] "It gave me a new group of friends; it gave me a sport that I love and want to do in college now," says Alisha Raja, a rower who started this year. "I couldn't imagine my life without it." Photo: Laura Baer[/caption]
To ensure fair competition, boat lengths in sculling and sweep are standardized based on the number of rowers they hold. Sculling boats hold one, two or four people and include the 26-foot- long single, 31-foot-long double, and 40-foot-long quad.
Sweep boats hold two, four, five or eight people. They include the 31-foot-long pair; the 41-foot-long four with coxswain; the 40-foot-long four without coxswain; and the 60-62-foot-long eight with coxswain.
One rower steers in a sculling boat using a foot-operated rudder pedal. Sweep boats carry one non-rower, called the coxswain (pronounced “cox’n”), who steers the boat and acts as the onboard coach.
Another important aspect of rowing is that it can accommodate people with various disabilities through adaptive rowing programs. Not only is rowing an Olympic sport, but a Paralympic one, too.
Some school programs and clubs offer adaptive rowing. “For anyone with a disability who’s interested in getting involved—if they can’t find an adaptive rowing program nearby—they could absolutely reach out to us,” says Jennie Trayes, the chief community engagement officer at USRowing.
[caption id="attachment_315810" align="alignnone" width="778"] Boats stored at Nereid. Their lengths vary based on the number of rowers. Photo: Laura Baer[/caption]
BOATLOAD OF BENEFITS The competitive aspect of rowing is a significant part of the sport’s appeal, but it’s not the only one. Among adults (anyone over 27 is considered a “master” in the rowing world), it’s also a noncompetitive recreational and fitness activity.
You can row by yourself in a single sculling boat. If you’re an adult rowing-club member and have learned how to row—which typically takes four to six sessions over two weeks—you can take out a single boat.
Although it’s repetitive, the sculling motion provides you with an excellent workout. Not only do you use both arms, but you push off with your feet on every stroke, giving your legs an excellent workout.
On its website, USRowing states that rowing burns more calories than biking for equivalent effort. It provides both strength and aerobic conditioning and is entirely impact free. Rowing exercises all major muscle groups and provides aerobic and strength training.
Dr. Glenn Gero is a 76-year-old naturopathic doctor and medical exercise specialist who rows three times a week at Nereid. Like many master rowers, he no longer competes. Instead, rowing is a vital part of his fitness regimen.
“Rowing is probably the premier exercise because you’re engaging almost 80 percent of your muscles simultaneously,” Gero says. “Essentially, you’re doing repetition—leg presses—every time you do a stroke. And the arms and the upper body come in after that.”
[caption id="attachment_315855" align="alignnone" width="778"] Jessica Eiffert-Spitzer, a former NCAA championship rower, is a coach at Nereid Boat Club in Rutherford. Photo: Laura Baer[/caption]
Besides the fitness aspect, rowers often find being on the water a zen-like experience. “You can almost get in a meditative state when you’re out there,” says Jessica Eiffert-Spitzer, who’s the head of athlete development and head varsity girls coach at Nereid—and a former NCAA championship rower. “The idea of becoming one with the water and the boat, and then just doing it, whether it’s by yourself or with your team.”
“The motion is nice and soothing,” says Briant Canha, a master rower in charge of membership at Nereid. “I try to row every day. If I’m not on the water, I’m on the rowing machine.”
EXPLORING THE STATE Besides rivers and lakes, people row in coastal waters off the Shore. Coastal Rowing is an offshoot of flat-water rowing, but requires larger boats to handle the waves and ocean currents. Coastal rowing is expected to be added as an Olympic sport starting with the 2028 games.
One of the advantages of coastal rowing is that it provides a more dramatic natural setting than a river or lake. “One of the things that I love is how close you can get to wildlife,” says Elinor Comlay, who often rows in the bay near Atlantic City. “Osprey nesting stations are close to our boathouse and along the bay. We regularly see blue herons, egrets and dolphins.”
Spring and fall are the prime seasons for competitive rowing, but there are also regattas in the summer. Summer is also an excellent time to partake in rowing camps, learn-to-row programs, and individual rowing opportunities at clubs.
It’s not safe or practical to row outdoors in New Jersey during the winter. To keep fit and continue to hone their skills during those months, people use rowing machines—called ergometers or ergs— available in rowing clubs, school rowing facilities and many gyms.
For those who want to keep competing through the winter, there are even indoor rowing tournaments using ergs, where the fastest rowers win. US Rowing sponsors the Indoor Rowing Championships every year in Atlantic City.
Whether you’re looking for competition, fitness, a new way to enjoy the outdoors, or just a chance to watch exciting amateur sporting events, New Jersey offers plenty of opportunities to get involved in rowing.
Mike Levine is a writer, editor and content producer who lives in Bloomfield.
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The post Everything You Need to Know About Rowing in New Jersey appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Friday Night Fireworks on the Beach September 1: Kick off the long weekend with some pyrotechnics. Fireworks will light up the sky behind the famous Wildwoods sign. Rio Grande Avenue Beach; 10 pm. FREE.
Jr. Clamshell Pitching Tournament September 1: The Rich Reinhart Junior Clamshell Pitching Tournament, named for the founder of the International Clamshell Pitching Club of Cape May, is open to kids ages 6 to 17. Each player tosses a clamshell about 25 feet towards a small hole in the sand. Shells are provided, or kids can bring their own lucky clamshells. Windsor Beach (across from Congress Hall); noon. FREE.
AirFest 2023 September 1-4: It’s a bird ... no, it’s a plane—and lots of them! This year’s AirFest from the NASW Aviation Museum in Cape May will feature aircraft performing aerial acrobatics. Attendees can also enjoy live music, food and more. 500 Forrestal Road; 10 am–4 pm. $14–$18; children under three, FREE.
Labor Day Concert and Fireworks September 2 (rain date: September 3): Spend Saturday night on the beaches of Manasquan listening to music and watching fireworks light up the evening sky. Main Beach; 7:30-10 pm. FREE.
World Championship Skee-Ball Tournament September 2: At Ed’s Funcade in Wildwood, players vie for skee-ball glory, a trophy and a $1,000 Amazon gift card. Lincoln Ave and Boardwalk; 7-10 pm. FREE.
Fireworks at the Tropicana September 2: End summer with a bang in Atlantic City with a mesmerizing fireworks display. Tropicana beachfront; 10 pm. FREE.
BBQ & NJ Craft Beer Festival September 2-4: Sample brews and barbecue at this annual three-day festival at the Monmouth Park Racetrack in Oceanport. Offerings include tender pulled pork, juicy brisket, smoky ribs and more. Wash it all down with an ice-cold craft beer from a selection of more than 40 options. Live music and free parking make this festival even more of a must. 175 Oceanport Avenue; 11 am–5 pm. $6 per day.
End of Summer Block Party
September 3: This festival will be rocking the block in Wildwood’s Fox Park. Visitors can enjoy crafts, games, rides, food and live entertainment. Ocean Avenue, directly across from the Wildwoods Convention Center; 1-10 pm. FREE.
Viking Village Art & Craft Shows
September 3: Head to LBI's Barnegat Light for a shopping spree, where more than 70 vendors will sell handmade wares. This event will be held rain or shine. 19th Street and Bayview Avenue; 10 am-4:30 pm. FREE.
Labor Day Race
September 4: Lace up your sneaks and get your heart pumping in Ocean City. Participate in the five-mile or one-mile run/walk to benefit local recreation scholarships and programs. 23rd Street Beach; race starts at 9 am. $15-$35.
The post Where to Celebrate Labor Day Weekend at the Jersey Shore appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Jerseyans, whether or not their heritage is Italian, know and love Italian food. And judging by its popularity and ecstatic online reviews, Nunzio by Chef Michael DeLone in Collingswood is molto Italiano. A master of the cuisine, DeLone has perfected recipes from every region of Italy's boot. The restaurant resembles an Italian palazzo, with soaring ceilings and hand-painted frescoes on terracotta walls. Tote some Italian wine to this BYO, and presto—you’re in Italia.
And this summer, Wednesdays are even more Italian. There’s live music—romantic, rousing and everything in between—sung in Italian and other languages (sometimes ours) by Shanley Horvitz, who's been singing since childhood.
[caption id="attachment_312683" align="alignright" width="350"] On Wednesdays at Nunzio this summer, Horvitz sings operas, romantic ballads and folk songs from various cultures. Photo: Courtesy of Shanley Horvitz[/caption]
“There must be something in the water,” Horvitz says of her native Vorhees Township, “because the community is passionate about music and the performing arts, and kids have every chance to learn and perform. [...] There was no question about my becoming a professional singer.
“I went to Westminster Choir College in Princeton, now part of Ryder University. I trained as an operatic mezzo soprano and moved to Genoa in northwestern Italy for its many opportunities for singers. I performed frequently and became known for playing the title role in the beloved [Bizet] opera, Carmen.
'Then the pandemic came and the doors closed on singing in public. I came home to Voorhees, and kept up singing lessons and practice.
“When things started to reopen, I made the rounds at restaurants. It was natural for me. I’ve been singing in restaurants since before I could drive myself to them. As a teen, I sang in Beach Haven at The Show Place Ice Cream Parlour, [part of the] Surflight Theatre, which they call Broadway at the Beach. There," she adds with a laugh, "trained vocalists sing as they scoop.
“Singing for customers isn’t Carnegie Hall—where, later, I actually performed a well-received concert. But these local gigs keep your voice in shape, and diners enjoy the change of pace. I was so pleased that Nunzio’s was open to my proposal.”
Affirms Nunzio general manager Anthony Masapollo: “When Shanley knocked on our door, we loved the idea. We like to keep things exciting, and to be an Italian dining destination for multiple reasons. Shanley has a beautiful voice, and adds major entertainment and cultural value. She has brought in a lot of new customers."
“When I perform at Nunzio,” Horvitz says, “nostalgia and joy fill the room. I sing lovely operas full of feeling, plus romantic ballads and folk songs from all over.
“South Jersey is so diverse; there’s usually someone who approaches me after the show to say something like, 'Thank you for making me cry. My grandparents from Sicily—or Ireland, Portugal, Czechoslovakia, Greece, Cuba—played that record.'
“All in all, it’s incredibly rewarding to sing in a sophisticated, multicultural place like Collingswood. And talk about singing for your supper! I get to relish chef Michael’s luscious, authentic Italian dishes. They all reflect the part of Italy they’re from. Eating one dish, suddenly I’m in Napoli. Another, I'm in Tuscany.
[caption id="attachment_312685" align="alignnone" width="778"] The truffle gnocchi at Nunzio is a favorite dish of Horvitz's. Photo: Courtesy of Food Shelter PR[/caption]
"I’m especially partial to chef Michael’s gnocchi with black and white truffle cream. Plus anything with pesto, like his burrata ravioli. Pesto originated in Genoa, where I lived the operatic life,” she adds, a bit wistfully.
“From July 19 through 30, Nunzio’s Christmas in July menu spotlights the Feast of Seven Fishes, Italy’s Christmas Eve tradition,” Horvitz notes. “I’ll be singing at Nunzio every Wednesday through the end of August, and I’d love to sing for you.”
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Find more info and upcoming events on Shanley Horvitz's website, and check out her YouTube channel here.
Nunzio’s BYOB, 706 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood; 856-858-9840. Reservations are recommended for Horvitz's Wednesday appearances.
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The post She’ll Sing for Your Supper: Opera Songstress Brings Her Chops to Nunzio in Collingswood appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
[caption id="attachment_310744" align="alignnone" width="778"] Patty Barber manages daily operations at Silverball Retro Arcade in Asbury Park. Photo: Krista Schlueter[/caption]
Pings, clicks and boings fill the Silverball Retro Arcade in Asbury Park. The satisfying clunk of Skee-Ball and the electro-melodies of Pac-Man mingle with the thwack and jangle of pinball. These are the sounds of fun.
First and foremost, Silverball Retro Arcade is a place to play games. New Jersey has its share of well-stocked arcades, from Game Vault in Morristown to the Yestercades locations in Westfield, Somerville and Red Bank, Lucky Snake in Atlantic City, Jilly’s Arcade in Ocean City, and Retro Arcade & Fascination in Wildwood. But with its scholarly emphasis on rare and vintage pinball machines, Silverball is also a lively museum, as well as a year-round destination on the boardwalk in Asbury Park. Silverball highlights about 200 pinball machines from a rotating collection of about 600. This is where the pinball cognoscenti go to play games.
“All year, people come here from across the country and the U.K.,” says Patty Barber. The senior vice president of Silverball, she manages the daily operations in Asbury Park. “We have one guy who comes up from Philly every week. We also host tournaments through the International Flipper Pinball Association every other month in the offseason.”
[caption id="attachment_310697" align="alignnone" width="778"] Silverball is a pinball lover's paradise, highlighting about 200 pinball machines from its rotating collection of about 600. Photo: Krista Schlueter[/caption]
In 2015, Silverball opened a second location in Delray Beach, Florida, where founder Rob Ilvento lives in the offseason. His pinball empire has humble origins, going back to its 2009 opening in the basement below Groovy Graveyard, a record store on Cookman Avenue in Asbury Park. It was a place to showcase his pinball collection. But Ilvento, a West Long Branch native who dropped out of Rutgers and founded Cluck U Chicken in New Brunswick in 1985, had a knack for knowing what would take off. When his elder daughter took a liking to pinball, Ilvento sensed the potential for a new audience for a game familiar to Baby Boomers and Gen X’ers.
In 2010, Silverball moved to the boardwalk, where it became popular with tourists and beachgoers. (“If you go to Asbury Park, you’ve gotta go there,” Ilvento says.) It cultivated a following of serious players through its VIP membership, which offered a discount on admission and other benefits for subscribers. Paul Rubin, a pinball aficionado who lives in the Laurence Harbor section of Old Bridge, hits the arcade at least once a week. “The attitude at Silverball is wonderful,” Rubin says. “They’re very friendly, they’re happy to see you, and they have some very, very rare machines.”
[caption id="attachment_310751" align="alignnone" width="778"] People come to play games at Silverball from across the country and the U.K. Photo: Krista Schlueter[/caption]
Among those rarities, Ilvento is proud to include a Kiss machine, which Bally introduced in 1979 in tribute to the hard rock band with the painted faces. Among the oldest machines at Silverball is Knockout, a 1950 boxing-themed game by Gottlieb. Ilvento himself loves the Bally machines from the 1960s, along with a favorite from childhood: Evel Knievel, Bally’s 1977 tribute to the daredevil stuntman.
Rubin, 72, has been playing pinball since childhood. “My great-grandfather lived in the Asbury Park area, and he’d give us handfuls of pennies and nickels for the arcade,” Rubin says. “In 1967, I was a lifeguard in Belmar, and there was an arcade in town where I’d play. When pinball took off again with Silverball, I decided to start playing in tournaments.”
Rubin advises newcomers to the game to start slowly and keep practicing. “You can even go to YouTube and learn and practice basic moves,” Rubin says. “It’s like learning to play an instrument.”
[caption id="attachment_310698" align="alignnone" width="778"] Game design delivers an eyeful, whatever the score. Photo: Krista Schlueter[/caption]
At Silverball, a placard hangs above each pinball machine extolling its particular virtues and putting it in historical context. The placard for Melody, a 1966 pinball game by Gottlieb, credits Ed Krynski as the designer and Art Sternholm as the artist, explaining, “This game parallels the classic Gottlieb game Kings and Queens, which is in the museum,” and adding helpful hints: “If you hit the four numbers in one color sequence, the matching eject hole randomly lights to score an extra ball. A lot of points will be awarded if you land in the left hole as the ball is advanced to the right and then ejected to the flipper.”
“I knew people would appreciate the beauty of these machines,” Ilvento says. “It’s art that you can interact with.”
Of course, there’s a difference between the way someone like Rubin interacts with the art and the way your average 10-year-old smacks the flippers and yanks on the plunger. Commercial pinball machines take a lot of abuse and, therefore, need a lot of upkeep. That’s where Tim Sullivan, a 28-year-old from Keansburg, comes in. As operations manager for Silverball, he is in charge of keeping the tech in working order. Tasks include vacuuming the interior of the pinball cabinet, the box-like body that holds the play field, to reduce damage from dust, as well as performing minor repairs such as replacing the coil on a plunger or tightening a flipper.
[caption id="attachment_310694" align="alignnone" width="778"] Some machines are older than ace technician Tim Sullivan, 28. Photo: Krista Schlueter[/caption]
Sullivan also fully restores pinball machines for Silverball. When necessary, a part can be cannibalized from a machine that is beyond repair, but, he says, most parts are commercially available. Working on a 300-pound pinball machine is a lot like being an auto mechanic, he says.
“It’s fun to restore a pinball machine, remove the filth, and bring it back to life,” Sullivan says. He is mostly self-taught. “I’ve been around pinball all my life,” says Sullivan, whose father repairs pinball machines, slot machines and jukeboxes. “I used to go on service calls with my dad.” The younger Sullivan can rattle off arcane details about pinball machines: “There is a mile of wire in a typical game.”
Barber considers Sullivan a wunderkind. “He can hear a strange noise from across the building, know what’s wrong and on which machine,” she says. As a player, Sullivan favors pinball games from the 1990s, such as Getaway, by Williams, and Creature From the Black Lagoon, by Bally, both released in 1992. He holds the high score on many machines at Silverball. Among modern games, he is intrigued by anything made by Jersey Jack, founded in 2011 in Lakewood and now a competitor to Stern, the last of the classic American pinball companies. Jersey Jack designed and manufactured its games in Lakewood, but moved to Elk Grove Village, Illinois, in 2020 to be closer to Chicago, long the center of the industry.
[caption id="attachment_310695" align="alignnone" width="778"] “It’s art that you can interact with,” Silverball founder Rob Ilvento says of the arcade's game machinery. Photo: Krista Schlueter[/caption]
Rubin has a soft spot for the pinball machines of his youth, but he also eagerly follows new releases by Jersey Jack. In Rubin’s opinion, Stern games are overrated. “Jersey Jack is like a Cadillac,” Rubin says. “Stern is like a Chevy.”
Reached by phone while at a pinball event in Paris, Jack “Jersey Jack” Guarnieri likened his company’s mission to a Broadway production. “You want to tell a story of what the game is,” says Guarnieri, who lives in Toms River. “We need to write a whole script for the speech calls. For Toy Story 4 [2022], we hired Tim Allen and Tom Hanks’s brother to record them: ‘Shoot the ramp!’ and ‘Multi-ball!’ and so on. And we need to hire good artists. It’s sensory overload.”
Jersey Jack releases a new game about every year. The first was Wizard of Oz in 2013, the theme of which Guarnieri hoped would appeal to women and young people. The guitarist Slash has purchased Jersey Jack pinball machines for his home, so Guarnieri approached him about creating a Guns N’ Roses machine, which was released in 2020. “We licensed 22 songs for that,” Guarnieri says.
Jersey Jack machines are known for innovations such as LCD screens on both the play field and the upright panel called the back box. There are headphone jacks for full immersion and cameras in the back box to take selfies.
Silverball does not arrange its machines chronologically: Gottlieb’s Melody from 1966 stands next to Jersey Jack’s Pirates of the Caribbean from 2018. But the arcade makes sure that the games most sought by patrons are on the floor. Among the most popular this year is Jersey Jack’s latest release, The Godfather 50 Years, released in 2023 to commemorate the classic 1972 Francis Ford Coppola film. “It’s important to have places like Silverball,” Guarnieri says. “It’s important to have physical public locations to play games. That’s how interest in the games will grow.”
[caption id="attachment_310693" align="alignnone" width="778"] Patty Barber rarely gets to sit down on the job. Photo: Krista Schlueter[/caption]
Anticipating growth, the arcade expanded in 2022, adding about 500 square feet, for a total of about 4,500 square feet, by taking over the adjacent space that had previously housed the restaurant Pop’s Garage. “We took the kitchen out of the game area to make more room for games and to space things out,” Barber says. Silverball also moved the private-party area from the middle of the game floor to its own separate area.
Ilvento would like Silverball to grow even more. He has his eye on the Fourth Avenue pavilion. “That building has 16,000 square feet on the ground level and 16,000 square feet upstairs,” he says. “That would make us the biggest arcade in the world. And we can handle it! Some of our winter weeks are even busier than the first few weeks of summer.”
Kelly-Jane Cotter is a veteran journalist who grew up grooving on the arcades of Asbury Park and Beach Haven.
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The post Silverball Retro Arcade in Asbury Park: A Treasure Trove of Classic and Rare Games appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Even lifelong New Jerseyans can still be surprised by our state: the beauty of a sunset at the Shore, the sight of sea life off the coast, the architecture of a building. Then there are the interesting pieces of forgotten history, the shocking factoids and the attractions you wouldn’t expect to find here.
Here you’ll find New Jersey Monthly’s extensive list of things that even the most seasoned and knowledgeable New Jerseyans might not know about our home. It’s a must-read for Garden State newbies and longtime residents alike.
SURF SCENE, USA [caption id="attachment_310149" align="alignnone" width="778"] 34-year-old Ben Graeff, better known as Ben Gravy, is one of New Jersey's most famous surfers. Photo: Dave Moser[/caption]
Maybe you’ve seen someone trying to ride waves on a summer afternoon at the Shore, attempting to stand on small, poorly formed Atlantic chop. You might get the impression that real surfing only happens in Hawaii or California. But you didn’t witness an October day with a hurricane offshore, or the frosty barrels from a February blizzard, or even a warm August morning with perfect little peeling waves. Very few Jerseyans know our state has a thriving surf scene. “I think that the average waves in New Jersey aren’t as good as the average waves in California or Florida. And a lot of the time our best conditions are in the off season or very early in the morning, so the general beach-going public doesn’t see it,” says surf industry veteran Kevin Morris, the buyer and manager of Heritage Surf in Margate and a surfer for 43 years. “But when our waves get good, they are world-class. And they can be very technical and powerful.” Read more here. —Jon Coen
BY DESIGN Dating from 1853, Llewellyn Park in West Orange is America’s first planned residential community. Comprising nearly 422 acres, the suburban park has a mountainside setting with the ambience of a country estate, with wooded, communal grounds. Today’s residents, including famous names like Whoopi Goldberg, continue to enjoy easy access to Manhattan. Llewellyn Park established the concept of a commuter suburb. —Fred B. Adelson
WHO'S NEXT DOOR? They’re creepy and they’re kooky, they’re altogether ooky—and have Jersey roots. America’s oddest brood, the Addams Family, is the brainchild of Westfield cartoonist Charles Addams, whose 1940s and ’50s illustrations for the New Yorker became the basis for movies, a Broadway musical and TV shows, including the 2022 Netflix hit Wednesday, where eagle-eyed viewers spied Jersey plates on the family’s hearse. (Past Addams Family works have had New Jersey mentions, too.) Every October, Westfield hosts AddamsFest, with events like a masquerade ball, cemetery tours and a house-decorating contest. —Julie Gordon
[RELATED: New Jersey’s Famous Firsts: Baseball Games, M&M’s and More]
HOME GROWN Abraham Browning of Camden, the former state attorney general, gave the Garden State its nickname. While speaking at the Philadelphia Centennial exhibition on New Jersey Day in 1876, Browning coined the phrase while comparing the state to an immense barrel filled with good things to eat—that are grabbed by New Yorkers at one end and Pennsylvanians at the other. The name stuck. In fact, food and agriculture are the state’s third largest industries. As of 2017, more than 10,000 farms generated over $1 billion in cash receipts from more than 100 different crops. While the state is known for its tomatoes, its most valuable crops are blueberries and cranberries, followed by apples, peaches and strawberries. Salem County has the most farmland in the state, with Hunterdon and Burlington counties close behind. —Jacqueline Mroz
OPEN SPACE If you’ve ever driven down the New Jersey Turnpike, it may be hard to believe that this state has more undeveloped than developed land. As of 2019, around 53 percent of the Garden State’s total land area—some 2.48 million acres—was protected from development, according to New Jersey Future, a nonprofit organization that promotes sensible and equitable development in the state. —JM
CLOTHING OPTIONAL If you’re looking to partake in the nudist or naturist lifestyle, you may be surprised to learn that the state is home to quite a few nudist clubs. The Rock Lodge Club in Stockholm is one of the oldest nudist clubs in the country, founded in 1932. The Goodland Country Club and Spa in Hackettstown and Sky Farm in Basking Ridge have also been around for decades, located on large grounds with multiple recreational activities for members. —Thomas Neira
NOT MOUNT VESUVIUS But, yup, there is a volcano located in New Jersey. Don’t worry—experts estimate that Rutan Hill, in Sussex County’s Beemerville, has been dormant for hundreds of millions of years. Scientists say that erosion following its last eruptions destroyed its volcanic cone, obscuring the typically pointed mound. Though it is located on private, residential property, its rocky remnants are said to be visible from hikes in High Point State Park (which is the highest point in New Jersey). —Jennifer Finn
OUR SUMMER OF LOVE [caption id="attachment_310153" align="alignnone" width="778"] Two weeks before Woodstock, Jersey had its own massive festival in Atlantic City. Photo: David Weitz[/caption]
Woodstock wasn’t the only three-day music festival during August of 1969. The Atlantic City Pop Festival, which was held two weeks before music fans camped out at Max Yasgur’s farm, somehow slipped through the cracks of history despite hosting an incredible array of talent. Janis Joplin, the Byrds, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Jefferson Airplane and B.B. King were just some of the legends who performed August 1-3 at the Atlantic City Racecourse in Hamilton Township for more than 100,000 fans. A ticket for the entire weekend was $15, and it was $6 per day. Read more here. —Ed Condran
A PIECE OF THE WEST Picture this: You pile into open-air bleachers on a Saturday night to watch bull riding, barrel racing and steer wrestling. Is this Texas? Wyoming? No! It’s Cowtown Rodeo right here in New Jersey—Pilestown to be precise. Even more surprising, Cowtown, which has been in operation since 1929, is believed to be the longest-running professional rodeo in the United States. One of NJM's 52 Things You Must Do in New Jersey, Cowtown is open Saturdays from Memorial Day weekend through September, as well as for special events, so head there this summer. —Olivia Bardo
INDIA TO THE SHORE Some of the earliest Asian American immigrants to New Jersey came from the Bengal region of India in the 1880s. Many settled in Shore destinations such as Asbury Park and Long Branch, where they sold handicrafts to tourists. At the time, there was a craze for trinkets and other goods from India. —JM
[RELATED: Some of America’s Favorite Toy Brands Originated in New Jersey]
WHITMAN'S LAST DAYS Walt Whitman lived in Camden for the last eight years of his life but spent the summers of 1876-1881 at the farm of his friends, the Staffords. Sometimes he slept in an upstairs bedroom of the farmhouse, at other times in an outbuilding. He spent his days exploring the woods, taking mud baths in the creek, and, not surprisingly, writing. The Whitman Stafford House is now a museum honoring the poet. In 1891, incorrectly assuming that Whitman was dead, workmen constructing the tomb the poet had designed for himself in Camden’s Harleigh Cemetery carved that year above the tomb entrance. Upon discovering the error, Whitman had the number 1 chiseled away. The 1 was replaced with a 2 the following year (1892) after Whitman really did die. Traces of the error can still be seen today. —Barbara Leap
LANDMARKING A LEGACY [caption id="attachment_310160" align="alignnone" width="778"] The Howe House on Claremont Avenue in Montclair is an important part of Garden State history. Photo: Courtesy of Zillow[/caption]
In 1831, James Howe was deeded 6 acres and a small house on Claremont Avenue in Montclair. That house still stands. For many years, the worn clapboard house was known locally as the slave house. James Howe was owned by Nathaniel Crane. A member of one of the town’s founding families, Crane left the property to Howe (rumored to be his son) upon his death. Read more here. —Deborah P. Carter
OUR UNDERWORLD [caption id="attachment_275398" align="alignnone" width="778"] Gregory D. Lattanzi, New Jersey’s state archaeologist, says there’s evidence of humans in the region dating back 11,000 years. Photo: Rebecca McAlpin[/caption]
The majority of drivers speeding past Exit 15X on the New Jersey Turnpike have no idea they’re rolling over a fascinating archaeological site, let alone one that highlights a unique—if macabre—slice of history. When the Turnpike Authority built the interchange in 2002, giving drivers access to the Secaucus Junction train station, dozens of archaeologists were called in to join the massive effort because of what was located deep below: hundreds of bodies from a graveyard dating back to the 1880s. “If you want to go all Sopranos about it, there are bodies everywhere.…Hey, it’s Jersey!” Gregory D. Lattanzi, who is New Jersey’s state archaeologist, told New Jersey Monthly in 2021. “But seriously, you’re always walking or driving on streets built on land used by humans for thousands of years.” Read more here. —Sharon M. Goldman
PANIC IN JERSEY Everyone associates the infamous 1938 War of the Worlds radio broadcast with aliens and sheer panic. But the New Jersey connection to the event is often forgotten. Orson Welles’s radio drama, based on H.G. Wells’s sci-fi novel of the same name, caused alarm when radio listeners heard that Martians had invaded Grovers Mill, a small town located in Mercer County, and thought the fictional story was a real news report. Since the 1980s, a large, bronze monument to the broadcast has stood in Grovers Mill. —JG
HISTORIC REMAINS The Garden State is home to more than 600 battlegrounds, skirmishes and graveyard sites from the Revolutionary War—more than any other state. George Washinton’s famous crossing of the Delaware River occurred as the Continental Army traveled from Pennsylvania to Mercer County, leading to the Ten Crucial Days of important victories for Washington and his troops in Princeton, Trenton and Assunpink Creek. Washington also set up headquarters in Morristown, which history buffs can still visit today. —TN
PILE O’ PASTA A big batch of pasta in New Jersey is no surprise at all. But how about 500 pounds of the starchy stuff mysteriously appearing in the woods? Now that’s unexpected! In late April, a massive amount of spaghetti, elbow macaroni and ziti was spotted (and photographed) in the Middlesex County town of Old Bridge, causing social media users to run amok with theories as to how and why it ended up there. The answer? According to reports, a local man cleaning out his late mother’s home found a stockpile of pasta and, instead of donating or trashing it, dumped it in the woods. —JG
NJ FAULT LINE While not as common as in other states, New Jersey still gets its fair share of earthquakes. This is due to the Ramapo Fault, the longest fault in the northeastern United States. It runs from Pennsylvania to New York, cutting through Hunterdon, Somerset, Morris, Passaic and Bergen counties along the way. There is typically at least one earthquake in the state each year, ranging between 1.5 and 3 magnitude on the Richter scale. The largest earthquake in state history happened in 1783, believed to have been about a 5.3 magnitude. —TN
A JAPANESE ENCLAVE [caption id="attachment_310167" align="alignnone" width="778"] Masaru Nakawatase, 79, came to Seabrook Farms at three years old. Photo: Dave Moser[/caption]
In 1944, a farm in a quiet corner of South Jersey was looking for more workers to help with its crops. Seabrook Farms, a 57-acre farm located in Cumberland County, was a major supplier of vegetables to the military, but it faced a labor shortage due to World War II. To fill that void, Charles Franklin Seabrook began hiring Japanese Americans who were being held in internment camps during the war. By 1947, nearly 2,700 Japanese Americans were living and working on the site—the largest concentration of Japanese Americans in the country at the time. Masaru Nakawatase, 79, was born in an internment camp in Arizona and came to Seabrook at three years old. He and his family lived in dormitories on the farm property. “The hours were crazy. In the growing season, when the crops were coming in, from June until the end of summer, you had to work 12-hour shifts,” he says. Read more here. —JM
SAND GEMS [caption id="attachment_310156" align="alignnone" width="778"] Cape May diamonds are actually polished, faceted quartz. Photo: Jessica Orlowicz[/caption]
At Cape May’s Sunset Beach, water-tumbled quartz stones sparkle when they are wet, earning the name Cape May diamonds. The stones, which are most easily found by beachcombers after, can be faceted into sparkly gems that can be mounted as jewelry. The Sunset Beach gift shop sells ready-made bracelets, necklaces and more featuring the stones. —DPC
CHINESE COMMUNITY [caption id="attachment_310155" align="alignnone" width="778"] This 1876 etching captures one of Belleville’s earliest Chinese New Year celebrations. Illustration: Courtesy of Belleville Historical Society[/caption]
In 1871, Chinese immigrants to the small town of Belleville, in Essex County, celebrated the Chinese New Year—making it the first celebration of its kind and attracting revelers from across the East Coast. Most of the immigrants, who came to Belleville to escape racial violence on the West Coast, worked at Passaic Steam Laundry. They decided to settle there and were welcomed into the town, creating the first Chinese community in the area. —JM
BURIED TREASURES? There are thousands of shipwrecks off the coast of New Jersey just waiting to be explored by certified divers (an activity on NJM's Jersey Shore bucket list). The R.P. Resor, located 120 feet below the surface and 32 miles off Long Beach Island, and the Gulf Trade, which split into two dive sites at Barnegat Inlet, are two examples. Both were oil tankers torpedoed by World War II-era German U-boats. The USS Algol, meanwhile, remains intact beyond Point Pleasant, where it now serves as an artificial reef after sinking in 1991. —Gary Phillips
ELLIS ISLAND, NJ New York isn’t the only state that can claim the historic Ellis Island as its own. In 1998, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that, while the island’s National Museum of Immigration, located in the hall where 12 million immigrants were processed from 1892 to 1954, is located in New York, most additional buildings are actually part of New Jersey. A nonprofit, Save Ellis Island, is working to stabilize, restore and preserve the Ellis Island Hospital Complex on the Jersey side. —JF
NJ, WE DIG IT One of the world’s first nearly complete dinosaur skeletons was discovered in Haddonfield in 1858. The Hadrosaurus foulkii is named after William Parker Foulke, who excavated the fossils after hearing of others being found—and even given away to friends—by unsuspecting farmer John E. Hopkins 20 years prior. Replica bones cast from Foulke’s finds are on view at Philadelphia’s Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. —JF
[RELATED: Haddonfield Home Redesign Inspired by Neighboring Dinosaur Landmark]
DANCE FEVER Anyone down for a do-si-do? The square dance has been New Jersey’s official state dance since 1983. When local dancers attend events like the National Square Dance Convention, they often don green ensembles as a nod to the Garden State. If you’re interested in joining clubs or classes, consult the Northern New Jersey Square Dancers Association, which was founded in 1958 and is comprised of 13 clubs with hundreds of members. —JF
A TOWN COMES TO LIFE [caption id="attachment_310236" align="alignnone" width="778"] Zombie Wedding filmed in Vineland this past fall. Photo: Courtesy of Zombie Wedding/Jeff Harris[/caption]
Vineland, a small city in Cumberland County—once home to the Progresso soup company and the poultry industry—is on the verge of becoming a filmmaking hub in South Jersey. Greg D’Alessandro, a writer and producer who grew up in Franklin Lakes, has opened a 40,000-square-foot production studio in town. His company, Weekly World News Film (yes, that Weekly World News), filmed its new movie, Zombie Wedding, there this past fall. Zombie Wedding is part of a trilogy, and WWN is also producing a documentary about the newspaper. D’Alessandro also plans to rent the studio to other production companies. “We want people to use the building and help Vineland,” he says, noting his crew spent more than $800,000 in town on hotels, restaurants and bars during a recent filming. They also used residents as crew members and extras. Read more here. —JM
PHONEY FARM [caption id="attachment_310295" align="alignnone" width="778"] Highlands Ridge Park in Chester was a testing facility for AT&T. Photo: Courtesy of Terence McKenna[/caption]
There is something curious at Chester’s Highlands Ridge Park: nearly 700 abandoned telephone poles standing like trees. For almost 50 years, the park, often called the telephone pole farm, served as a testing facility for AT&T. The story of this unusual park begins in 1928, when 15 acres of farmland were rented by the phone company and set up to test the durability of its telephone poles. By 1930, the company purchased an additional 85 acres to expand their research. The farm was abandoned in the 1980s as advancements discovered at the testing facility made it continued operation obsolete. Read more here. —OB
ALL ABOUT THE BUZZ [caption id="attachment_310150" align="alignnone" width="778"] Frank Mortimer says he became a beekeeper out of a pure love for being around stinging insects. Photo: Dave Moser[/caption]
New Jersey is the Garden State, but our state insect since 1974, the honeybee, is crucial for us to keep that moniker. “We have some significant crops that are pollinated by honeybees and rely upon the honeybee to maintain [them], specifically, cranberries and blueberries,” explains Frank Mortimer, certified master beekeeper and former president of the Northeast New Jersey Beekeepers Association. Though Ridgewood-based Mortimer makes and sells honey and other products, from beeswax candles to lip balm and hand cream, his interest stems from a desire to simply “be around stinging insects” and the wildlife they inhabit. Read more here. —JF
DRONE SCHOOL The drone craze burst onto the scene as a mainstream trend in the 2010s, but learning how to fly and operate one can prove very challenging. Luckily, there are a number of organizations in the state dedicated to teaching students of all ages the ins and outs of flying a drone. The first Drone Academy opened in 2015. —TN
WE'RE TREE LOVERS The Tree City USA program recognizes cities and towns across the country that work on planting and taking care of their trees, and awards grants to help maintain and further tree growth. Over 160 municipalities in Jersey have been recognized as Tree Cities USA since the program started in 1976. Paramus and Parsippany lead the way for most years recognized by the program at 46, with Kearny and Morris Plains following closely at 45 each. —OB
WATER EVERYWHERE Jutting into the Atlantic, curving around Delaware Bay and up the Delaware River, South Jersey is surrounded by water, which makes New Jersey flanked by more water than any state except Florida. California has a longer coastline, but is exposed to the sea on only one side. —Eric Levin
[RELATED: Iconic Candy Brands Born, Bred and Made in New Jersey]
TRAILBLAZERS Did you know the Appalachian Trail winds through New Jersey? The 2,190-mile trail, which spans from Maine to Georgia, includes 72 miles of trailway in the northwestern part of the Garden State. Beginner and expert hikers alike can enjoy the trail. Pochuck Boardwalk in Glenwood is a great choice for easy hiking on a scenic pathway. For a bit more of a challenge, give Stairway to Heaven in Vernon a try. The view from the summit makes the scrambles worth it. Whatever your preference, the Appalachian Trail is a great way to escape for a day, and maybe spot Jersey’s state bird, the eastern goldfinch. —OB
WOMEN'S RIGHTS In 1776, New Jersey’s first constitution allowed female property owners to vote (in fact, it allowed all property owners to vote, including African Americans). Sadly, by 1807, that right was revoked, and the right to vote was only granted to free white men. These voting restrictions remained in place until 1920, when the 19th Amendment was ratified, giving white women the right to vote. —DPC
MYSTERIOUS DEVIL The legendary creature known as the Jersey Devil is said to roam the Pine Barrens at night. While variations of the creature’s origin story have been told for over 250 years, the most popular account claims that the creature is the 13th child of a poor woman called Mother Leeds, who gave birth in 1735. The myth holds that the baby transformed into a beast—said to have a horse’s head, wings, hooves and red eyes—flew up the chimney (or out the window, or to the basement) and headed for the marshy parts of the Pine Barrens. People have reported seeing this curious figure in the Pine Barrens after sundown, some say they have even heard the Jersey Devil screeching. —OB
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Cape May Music FestivalMay 25–June 22: This festival presents classical, jazz and more. Most concerts will take place outdoors at the Episcopal Church of the Advent. The series kicks off with a performance by OkCello on May 25 and a free performance by the Atlantic Brass Band at the Rotary Bandstand on May 28. $20–$50 per concert. Wildwoods International Kite FestivalMay 26–29: Head to the beach at Rio Grande Avenue for this free annual spectacle. Weekend festivities will begin with the Unlocking of the Beach ceremony on Friday and end with the World Indoor Kite Competition and Performance on Monday.Memorial Beach Challenge for 31 HeroesMay 27: The sand course features Navy SEAL–approved obstacles. The main competition is followed by a kids’ fun run. All proceeds benefit 31 Heroes, an organization that supports service members, veterans and their families.Beach Ball DropMay 27: All weekend long, the Atlantic City Boardwalk will buzz with contests, games, giveaways and music. Don’t miss the main event: the annual Beach Ball Drop. On Friday at 5 pm in front of Resorts Casino, more than 5,000 colorful beach balls pour out of giant nets over the Boardwalk.Bradley Beach Memorial Day FestMay 27–29: Tunes from bands and deejays fill the air, hundreds of craft vendors set up shop, food vendors sell fare and kids have fun with sand art and water slides. Saturday’s parade begins at 10 am. Events will happen at Ocean Avenue and Riley Park.Viking Village Arts & Craft ShowMay 28: Head to Barnegat Light to browse more than 70 vendors selling fine art, photography, ceramics, clothing and accessories. 10 am–4:30 pm; free admission. Rain or shine.Stone Harbor Turtle Trot 2023May 28: Come out of your shell and join the 23rd annual event. The name of the race is inspired by the Diamondback Terrapins that cross Stone Harbor roads in search of a nesting area. A portion of proceeds benefits the Terrapin Conservation Project at the Wetlands Institute. 8 am; $25–$35. 95th Street Beach.Margate Mothers’ Association Annual Memorial Day ParadeMay 29: Uniformed groups and decorated bikes/strollers will march in this short procession, stepping off at the corner of Ventnor and Union Avenues and ending at War Memorial Park, where a ceremony will follow.Wildwood Memorial Day Parade and CeremonyMay 29: The parade steps off at 10 am in front of Wildwood High School and ends at Memorial Park. A wreath-laying ceremony will follow.Highlands Craft ShowMay 30: Find a delightful array of handmade crafts at this rain-or-shine bazaar at Huddy Park. More than 50 artisans will sell their works from 10 am to 5 pm.
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“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” This horticulturist’s adage is especially applicable to the imagination and determination that created 172-year-old Van Vorst Park from the ground up.
With more than 65 different species of trees, 275 types of perennials, and thousands of tulip, daffodil and iris bulbs, the Jersey City park is blossoming in a big way these days. In March, it was awarded level 1 arboretum status—a coveted accreditation granted only to educationally focused parks with numerous and diverse flora.
“Here, you’ll find unusual plantings like a rare Franklin tree, a pair of 100-foot-tall dawn redwoods and a valuable copper beech tree,” says master gardener Marc Wesson, president of the nonprofit Friends of Van Vorst Park.
A new, brightly colored playground was funded by the Jersey City Open Space Trust Fund. Photo by Laura Moss
Stroll through the 1.8-acre parcel, deeded by Cornelius Van Vorst in 1835, and you’ll experience a family-friendly venue surrounded by ornate brick and brownstone row houses. The area was expertly landscaped by florist and horticulturist Peter Henderson in 1851 when it became a formal Victorian city park, which led the way for unprecedented local growth. However, the park’s history hasn’t been a bed of roses. In 1906, after a tornado ripped out most of the plantings, the area languished for 80 years.
[RELATED: Fun Things to Do Outside in New Jersey This Spring]
“When we first moved here in 1987, my kids couldn’t play in the park because it was drug-infested, full of mud and hypodermic needles,” says Wesson, who lives right across the street and has helped maintain the park for the last 23 years. “For a few years, some of us from the neighborhood tried to bring the park back, but people kept stealing the plants,” he says.
Surrounded by ornate row houses, historic Van Vorst Park in Jersey City is an urban oasis for garden enthusiasts. The park also hosts seasonal events and a farmers market. Photo by Laura Moss
Things began to change in 1993, when community leader Clifford Waldeman established Friends of Van Vorst Park and then, in 2005, founded the Jersey City Parks Coalition. Working with local park advocates, Waldeman got traction that helped secure a $1.6 million Green Acres Fund grant. That seed money resulted in a fountain, gazebo, playground, sprinklers, new walkways and 19 empty gardens. A dog run, sprayground and pet-free lawns were added in recent years.
“After the park’s renovation in 1999, the Friends of Van Vorst Park planted and now maintain all the gardens, contributing our own time and money,” says Wesson. “We also host weddings, summer movie nights and a Halloween event. Our farmers market is open every Saturday year-round, with 100 percent of collected fees going back into the park.”
The gazebo is a favorite gathering place for kids and wedding parties. Photo by Laura Moss
Notably, only a small group of green-thumbs comprise the Friends of Van Vorst Park. These grassroots volunteers plant, trim and prune—and also rake a whopping 400 bags of leaves each fall. While some trees have been donated by local residents and organizations, about 75 percent were funded and planted exclusively by the Friends of Van Vorst Park. Wesson himself spends 1,000 hours each year contributing labor and handling the park’s paperwork.
“We’re always looking for volunteer garden enthusiasts, from Jersey City or elsewhere, to help maintain the gardens or suggest ways we can improve our verdant oasis within this urban setting,” says Wesson. “I’m happy to say that Van Vorst Park has changed this neighborhood for the better.”
A popular attraction is the fountain and birdbath. Photo by Laura Moss
He adds, “People actually move here because of our park.”
IF YOU GO: Van Vorst Park is located at 281 Montgomery Street in Jersey City. The farmers market takes place year-round on Saturdays, 8 am–2 pm. In June, the rose garden is in full bloom. To volunteer or for information, visit fvvp.org or follow @vanvorstparkJC on Instagram.
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Once upon a time, a king lived in Bordentown.
Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon’s older brother and the ex-king of Naples and Spain, fled Europe after the Battle of Waterloo and improbably settled in New Jersey, just south of Trenton in Burlington County.
Between 1816 and 1839, the former monarch, known as the Count de Survilliers, built a sumptuous home overlooking the confluence of the Delaware River and Crosswicks Creek at Bordentown. His estate, named Point Breeze, became a center of social life, where he entertained such dignitaries as Henry Clay, the Marquis de Lafayette and Daniel Webster.
After more than 175 years, the Bonaparte property is set to open to the public this spring, bringing renewed interest to a landscape that will now be preserved. There will be public recreational access to the historic site, renamed Delaware and Raritan Canal Park at Point Breeze. The property was purchased in October 2020 by the State Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Acres Program, the City of Bordentown, and the Delaware & Raritan Greenway Land Trust.
Unfortunately, Bonaparte’s first residence was destroyed by fire in 1820; however, locals saved most of his personal possessions, including furniture, paintings and jewels. Bonaparte publicly thanked his honest, courageous neighbors. He quickly constructed an imposing second home with grounds modeled on his Mortefontaine chateau and the adjacent park at Ermenonville in France. It was razed around 1850.
Bonaparte (1768-1844) created a picturesque compound that anticipated later 19th-century American landscape design. Winding carriage paths, charming stone bridges, and vestiges of subterranean tunnels still survive. Bonaparte’s residential buildings are long gone, but the gardener’s house and approximately 60 acres of its picturesque park remain, with trees that are remnants of Bonaparte’s design.
The D&R Greenway Land Trust now oversees the gardener’s house. Linda Mead, president and CEO of this land-preservation organization, says the renovated building will open on May 20 as the Discovery Center at Point Breeze. Its mission will be to spotlight the area’s history, and it will include exhibits about Bonaparte and a recreated kitchen garden.
The Bordentown Historical Society is showcasing a special exhibition celebrating the city’s royal resident that will run until the end of the year. On view is an array of artifacts including Bonaparte’s traveling library of miniature books, a gaming table, prints and paintings. Also notable is the rare public display of the ornate gold chalice from Bonaparte’s private chapel at Point Breeze, which he gifted to Mary, Mother of the Church Parish in Bordentown.
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The first annual Newark LGBTQ Film Festival—the first of its kind in New Jersey—is coming to its namesake city from April 14-16.
Beatrice Simpkins, the Newark LGBTQ Community Center executive director—one of the organizers of the event—says her goal is for “the folks of Newark to really own this festival.”
The festival received more than 80 film submissions, including feature-length movies, short films, documentaries and experimental flicks that celebrate the history and future of art from the LGBTQ + BIPOC community in Newark and beyond.
The festival kicks off April 14 with a cocktail reception and a screening of the film The Inspection, followed by a panel featuring Elegance Bratton, the film’s director. The festival is also screening the 2008 documentary Dreams Deferred, which tells the story of Newark’s Sakia Gunn, a member of the LGBTQ+ community who was murdered in 2003. That movie’s director will participate in a panel at the festival, too.
The festival follows the tradition of the center, which opened in response to Gunn’s murder and violence against the queer community. The center is honoring Gunn’s legacy and family members, who are set to attend the festival.
Simpkins says the festival is for the entire community, adding that it will provide opportunities for workshops and networking. She hopes those in attendance will come away feeling visible and celebrated.
Festival organizers also include the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and other community sponsors.
Tickets for the festival are $7-$15, and the public can make donations to the community center and the festival at newarklgbtqcenter.org.
If “people come away from this festival feeling positive about who they are as LGBTQ + BIPOC people in the city and what that represents,” then the festival will be a success, Simpkins says.
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The chill is subsiding, and New Jerseyans are ready to step out from the shadow of winter into the sunny embrace of spring. Here’s how to enjoy the outdoors all over the Garden State.
North JerseyVisit an Oasis in the Meadowlands
Richard W. DeKorte Park (Lyndhurst)
In the heart of the industrial Meadowlands, within sight of the Turnpike and the Manhattan skyline, DeKorte Park is an unexpected oasis of marshlands and estuarial waters attracting hundreds of bird species, from herons to harriers. On the paths and boardwalks that undulate through the marsh, spring visitors can welcome back returning migrants like sandpipers and tree swallows. —Leslie Garisto Pfaff
See the beauty of the cherry blossoms at Branch Brook Park. Photo: Shutterstock/George Wirt
Bask in the Cherry Blossoms
Branch Brook Park (Newark, Belleville)
While many people think Washington, DC, has the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the United States, it’s actually Branch Brook Park. Each April, more than 5,000 trees bloom, creating a spectacular sight—and landing the Cherry Blossom Festival a place in New Jersey Monthly‘s Book of Records. The 2023 festivities run from April 1-16 and feature a bike race (April 1), 10K run (April 2), one-mile run (April 15), family day (April 15) and Bloomfest (April 16). —Julie Gordon
Central JerseyExperience Larger-than-Life Art
Grounds for Sculpture (Hamilton Twp.)
Grounds for Sculpture is a glorious place to experience spring in Jersey, with 42 acres of parkland punctuated by massive sculptures from artists including founder Seward Johnson. Enjoy the art and then picnic, or dine at the Grounds’ lovely, Monet-inspired Rat’s restaurant; just be sure to make a reservation. —JG
Enjoy the beauty of tulips this spring at Holland Ridge Farms. Photo: Courtesy of Holland Ridge Farms
See NJ’s Biggest Tulip Display
Holland Ridge Farms (Cream Ridge)
In mid-April, millions of tulips burst to life at Holland Ridge Farms. Stroll through fields of bright yellow, bubblegum pink and creamsicle orange. Have fun with photo props, and pick blooms to take home as temporary souvenirs from this 300-acre paradise. —Jacqueline Larcara
Take a Trip Back in Time
Renaissance Faire (Southampton Twp.)
Don period garb and head to the New Jersey Renaissance Faire for non-stop outdoor entertainment on May 20-21, May 27-28, and June 3-4. At this rain-or-shine affair in a wooded area, experience jousting, sword fighting, aerial acrobatics, music and more. —JL
South JerseyIn its heyday, Point Breeze, Joseph Bonaparte’s estate, was the center of social life in Bordentown. Photo courtesy of the Art Institute of Chicago
Visit a Historic Estate
BordentownScenic grounds that belonged to Joseph Bonaparte—Napoleon’s older brother and the ex-king of Naples and Spain—are set to open this spring after almost two centuries. Click here for the full scoop. —Fred B. Adelson
Go ‘Ice Swimming’ in Batsto
Washington Twp.
Granted, the ponds in Batsto are no longer covered by ice, but they are still damn cold. Search out the Ice Women of South Jersey on social media and join them for their chilly minutes-long soaks in some of the cleanest freshwater in the region. They say it’s good for inflammation, the mind and the soul. —VF
Walk the Bridge
Ben Franklin Bridge Walkway (Camden)
The Benjamin Franklin Bridge Pedestrian Walkway offers a bird’s-eye view of the Delaware River and Camden and Philadelphia waterfronts. Bring binoculars to view ship traffic and river landmarks, including the Betsy Ross Bridge. A round-trip walk from Camden is nearly 3 miles and reaches an elevation of 165 feet. —Tom Wilk
Stay in a Cabin in the Pine Barrens
Bass River State Forest (Bass River Twp.)
For just $75 per night, you get a cozy 1930s-era cabin on the shore of Lake Absegami deep in the Pine Barrens, complete with a fireplace, full kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping for six. Mosquito haters will love the screened-in porch. Not exactly roughing it. And that’s perfectly OK with us. —VF
Hike the Batona Trail
Burlington County
Covering around 50 miles, the Batona Trail showcases the natural world of the Pinelands. The blazed trail is easy to follow and passes through the Wharton, Brendan T. Byrne and Bass River state forests. The trail can be hiked in segments and features relatively flat terrain. —TW
See a Flick Outside
Delsea Drive-In (Vineland)
Travel back to the 1950s as you watch a double feature under the stars at the classic Delsea Drive-In Theatre in Vineland, open since 1949. Beginning in late May, trade in the couch for the car as you curl up with a bucket of popcorn on a cool spring night. Open through Labor Day. —JL
See Unusual Plants
Linwood Arboretum (Linwood)
This triangular acre of rare and uncommon flowers, woody shrubs and trees offers visitors the chance to see plants they likely won’t find elsewhere in New Jersey. Home gardeners will appreciate that curators make a point of encouraging visitors to try growing some of these unusual plants. A bike path runs alongside. —Barbara Leap
Spend a serene day observing feathered friends. Photo: Unsplash/Karo Kujanpaa
Go Birding by Boat
Stone Harbor, Cape May
Shore birds like pelicans and herons are rarely seen up close except from small boats cruising salt marshes. Birding By Boat (starting April 15) and Salt Marsh Safari (starting in May) offer two-hour, narrated daytime and sunset eco-cruises providing such intimate encounters. —BL
Keep your eyes peeled for a meteor shower at this astronomy event. Photo: Unsplash/Peter Brejassou
Reach for the Stars
Cape May Science Center (Cape May)
On April 22 at 8 pm, bring a blanket or lawn chair and sit beneath the stars in the courtyard of the Cape May Point Science Center. Amateur astronomer Kevin Beare will present the first of a six-part astronomy program. With luck, you may see one of the oldest known meteor showers. —Monica Cardoza
Multiple LocationsCatch a Trout
Trout is some of the tastiest freshwater fish in the United States, and fortunately, New Jersey is home to plenty. The season opens in April, and all you need to do is stick a line in the water. Well, and be patient. Some of the best angling can be found in the Round Valley and Merrill Creek reservoirs. —Victor Fiorillo
Hop on a Boozy Beer Trail
With over 130 craft breweries and more bubbling up in New Jersey, thirsty patrons can enjoy beer trails running throughout the state. Don’t like beer? Jersey is also home to over 50 wineries and a handful of distilleries with options for imbibing al fresco. —Gary Phillips
Stroll Through Private Gardens
Every year, the Garden Conservancy invites private homeowners around the country to open their gardens to the public for a day or more during Open Garden Days. The first New Jersey garden this year is open on April 1 in Nutley—a strolling garden with thousands of early spring flowering bulbs. Next up is a naturalistic garden in Far Hills on April 29. —MC
Catch a Minor League Game
Jersey doesn’t have a Major League Baseball team, but there are plenty of minor league clubs—and their prices are a lot cheaper! Fans of the Yankees can see prospects play for the Somerset Patriots, while Phillies fanatics can enjoy a similar experience at a Jersey Shore BlueClaws game. Then there’s the New Jersey Jackals, who now call historic Hinchliffe Stadium home. Jersey’s other MiLB teams include the Trenton Thunder and Sussex County Miners. —GP
Visit a Secret Garden
When you live in the Garden State, checking out a garden or two has to be on your spring to-do list. Some of our favorite out-of-the-way spots are Avis Campbell Gardens in Montclair, the Gables in Beach Haven, and Cross Estate Gardens in Bernardsville. —JG
Take Your Pooch to the Shore
Pre-Memorial Day is a great time to bring your dog to the Shore, as many beaches, including those in Asbury Park, Brigantine and Ocean City, allow leashed dogs in the off-season. Check with individual beaches before heading out; rules vary. —JG
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The post Fun Things to Do Outside in New Jersey This Spring appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Every two years, designers and home décor enthusiasts from New Jersey and New York make their pilgrimage to the Mansion in May Designer Showhouse and Gardens. This year, the big event happens at the Three Fields country residence in the heart of bucolic Mendham.
Set on 36 acres of rolling hills, the 9,000-square-foot, stone, très-chic French manor-style home was designed by New York architect Greville Rickard and completed in 1930. Visitors will notice romantic architectural elements such as a steeply pitched tile roof and French doors that open to the formal gardens, ponds and fields.
The Women’s Association for Morristown Medical Center’s elaborate fundraising event, which celebrates architectural history and daring design, will benefit the expansion and modernization of Morristown Medical Center’s Institute of Bioskills Training and Innovation. This year’s mansion involves 29 interior designers, 14 landscape designers and more than 1,000 volunteers contributing 15,000 hours.
Three Fields is open to the public daily from May 1 to May 31.
Mansion in May typically attracts more than 20,000 visitors, so head to mansioninmay.org now to order your tickets ($50 for general admission) or to book a private tour.
On-site parking is not available, but free off-site parking and shuttle service are included in the ticket price.
“Mansion in May always attracts prestigious designers, and this year is no exception,” says Alexandra Elliott, Mansion in May design co-chair. Adds Lisa Overley, design co-chair: “We received an impressive number of proposals from a multitude of well-known design firms in the New Jersey/New York area and their creativity, vision and inventiveness was outstanding.”
The post Mansion in May 2023: Get Tickets Now to Tour This Stunning Showhouse appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Illustration by John S. Dykes
New Jersey’s tallest building, biggest restaurant appetizer, youngest member of the high-IQ society Mensa—New Jersey Monthly’s new Book of Records, which we are excited to present to you, has all of that and so much more.
To create this comprehensive list, the editors at NJM scoured the state for the biggest, boldest and one-of-a-kind wonders and feats among our state’s people and places.
We hope you enjoy reading our Book of Records as much as we enjoyed putting it together!
FOOD & DRINKMOST MASSIVE APPETIZERAt the Brookdale in Bloomfield, the staggering mozzarella stick weighs one full pound. Photo by Georgia Kral
The Big Cheese isn’t your diner standby. This mozzarella stick is more like a log, weighing in at 1 pound and requiring a fork and knife to eat. But when you encounter the crispy, cheesy, hilariously out-of-proportion item on the menu at the Brookdale in Bloomfield, order it—health concerns be damned. More than anything, it’s fun and intended to garner gasps and social media shares. The bonus, of course, is that it’s delicious. Then again, how could a pound of fried cheese not be? —Georgia Kral
LONGEST STRAND OF PASTAWhen he worked on the Ligurian coast of Italy, chef Joseph Voller learned to make mugnaia, a single strand of sauced pasta curled into a mound weighing about half a pound. “I use a mix of three flours, from soft to hard wheat, so it’s stretchable but keeps its bite,” he says. “It’s handmade, time-consuming, tough on the hands and forearms, but sauced with different peppers, it’s delicious.” Voller is making the dish at his new post at the Jasper Stone Italian Steakhouse in Monroe. —Eric Levin
DEEPEST WINE LISTThe subterranean wine-storage area at Restaurant Latour measures almost a square acre. Photo courtesy of Restaurant Latour
Serving NJM Top 30-listed Restaurant Latour and the rest of the sprawling Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, a subterranean wine-storage area measures almost a square acre and contains about 45,000 bottles. “Our list is known for French—white and red Burgundy, Bordeaux, the Rhone, the Loire and champagne,” says wine director Susanne Wagner, who conducts lively tastings for guests. “But we’re also excellent in Italian and domestic, the Finger Lakes, and New Jersey. Ventimiglia in Wantage makes an excellent cabernet franc—balanced, elegant, classic.” The most expensive bottle is an $82,500 magnum of red Château Latour from 1900 (a magnum equals two standard bottles). The oldest bottle, meanwhile, is a Château Latour from 1888, which costs $15,000 for a standard bottle. —EL
BOOZIEST CITYIt’s not hard to find a good bar in Hoboken. The Mile Square City, as it has been nicknamed, actually occupies 1.25 square miles and is home to more than 120 drinking establishments. From Irish pubs like Finnegan’s and Mulligan’s to sophisticated cocktail bars like the Sinatra Room Speakeasy and the Stingray Lounge, there’s a drinking establishment for everyone. —Shelby Vittek
OLDEST EATERY STILL SERVINGIn 1742, when Ebenezer Byram built Mendham’s Black Horse Tavern & Pub, the tavern served the likes of George Washington, while what is now the pub was used as stables. These days, cars have replaced horses, but good service and reliable chow remain for the state’s oldest continuously-serving restaurant. (The upscale tavern is currently only open for private events, while the family-friendly pub serves everything from burgers to fried chicken.) “Being a small town, you look for something significant or unique that puts you on the map,” says Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner. “So to have this building still in existence continues to tell…that historic story for Mendham.” —Julie Gordon
MOST EXCLUSIVE DINNER Somewhere in Ridgefield, Bergen County—that’s your only clue to where the state’s most exclusive dining experience, Sushi By Sea, is. Only 12 people are invited to each seating of this 16-course omakase dinner. Those wanting to enter the secret sushi club can register online at sushibysea.com (and cross their fingers for an invite!). Once selected, you will be given the exact address of the dinner. But remember, no one likes a tattletale. —Maggie Leenas
Buy our March 2023 issue here. Cover illustration by Mary Kate McDevitt
BIGGEST COCKTAILFor the biggest and booziest, find your way to Cellar 335 in Jersey City—and bring a few friends. Full of rum, absinthe, cinnamon and Angostura bitters, the Zombie Priest Punch (serves 2-3, $40) is elaborately garnished with a pineapple top and comes in a bowl, not a glass. And that’s not the only multiple-straw concoction the modern tiki bar offers. There’s also the Oaxacan Tiki Hut, served in a conch shell-shaped glass and featuring mezcal, rum and amaro, as well as the rum- and Cognac-ridden Scorpion’s Tail—each designed to be shared. —SV
MOST INTENSE COOKIEThe Jersey mini-chain Cookie Connect concocts some intense cookies—cinnamon roll (topped with Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal), salted caramel pretzel, apple pie—but the most inspired is the stuffed peanut butter cup. Yes, a Reese’s is stuffed inside cookie dough, and it’s as gooey, delicious and over-the-top as it sounds. —GK
MOST SECLUDED RESTAURANTWith its closest neighbor a pet cemetery about a half-mile east, Lucille’s Luncheonette in Warren Grove, deep in the Pine Barrens, has been serving hearty breakfasts and lunches since 1975. After founder Lucille Bates died in 2016, her daughter, Karen Flynn, took over with her sister, Diane Brown. “We’ve had a lot of retirees, truckers and widowers who meet here every day for brunch,” says Brown. “We lost a number of them over Covid, but we’re hanging in there.” —Jill P. Capuzzo
PEOPLECHEESIEST RESIDENTTelina Cuppari’s pizza-centric collection includes books, toys, mugs, jewelry, clothing, dolls and much, much more. Photo by Chris Buck
To say that Telina Cuppari of Kenilworth loves pizza is an understatement. Cuppari is so into slices that she has filled her home with more than 800 pizza collectibles—and even holds the Guinness World Record for the most pizza-related items. “My husband said, ‘I lost my garage, I lost my attic; our dining room is a pizza-themed dining room,’” the mom of two says with a laugh. Some of her favorite pieces include a gown by Union designer ModMara by Faraj Couture, a pizza-shaped eyeshadow palette, and a shower curtain that features a sloth, dinosaur and pizza. Read more about Cuppari here. —JG
YOUNGEST SMARTY-PANTS At 7 years old, Amogh Banagere of Millburn is the youngest member of Mensa in New Jersey. But the youngster is an old pro in the lauded high-IQ society, having joined at age 5 with an IQ of 148. His mother, Swathi Jayanth, says Mensa allows him to “harness his high intelligence for the betterment of society” and meet like-minded peers. Some of Bangere’s hobbies are chess, guitar and reading. He read 135 books last year alone! —Thomas Neira
MOST DECORATED OLYMPIAN Carl Lewis, 61, is arguably the greatest track-and-field athlete to ever grace the Olympic stage, but many seem to forget about his Garden State origins. The “Olympian of the Century” first competed for Willingboro High School, and his nine gold medals and one silver medal in the ’90s make him the most decorated Olympian in Jersey history. —TN
LONGEST BOOK DRIVEIn 2015, Marley Dias campaigned to collect 1,000 books with a Black girl as the protagonist. Today, Marley has collected nearly 14,000 books. Photo by Erin O’Brien
Kudos for the longest book drive ever go to Marley Dias. In November 2015, as a pre-teen, this West Orange resident made an offhand remark to her mom about how few books she read in school that featured Black girls as the protagonist. In response to Marley’s frequently quoted remark, “I’m tired of reading books about white boys and their dogs,” Marley’s mom, Janice Johnson Dias, who runs a public health and social action nonprofit, challenged her with, “What are you going to do about it?” What she did was set an ambitious goal to collect 1,000 books featuring Black girls by February 2016. Marley’s efforts went viral, and she neatly exceeded her goal. Today, thanks to her website, the initiative has collected more than 14,000 books. Read more about Dias here. —Deborah P. Carter
MOST TONGUE PIERCINGSFrank Vacca has the sharpest tongue in Jersey. He broke the Guinness World Record for tongue piercings in 2012 with a whopping 16 piercings, then beat that record by increasing his tally to 20 in 2017. Vacca plans to break his record yet again this year at Invisibleself Body Art in Lyndhurst. “From time to time, I like to test the boundaries on how many I can fit,” he says. —TN
MOST OSCAR NOMSAs the saying goes, it’s an honor just to be nominated for an Oscar. For Meryl Streep, that’s been true—21 times. America’s most celebrated actress caught the bug playing a robot in a fifth-grade play, then starred in musicals at Bernardsville’s Bernards High School. Fast-forward 50 years, and this Jersey girl has earned the most Oscar noms of any actor ever. She’s won three times, as has New Jersey native Jack Nicholson of Neptune City; Katharine Hepburn holds the record for most acting Oscars with four. —JG
OLDEST MAYORWorld War II veteran Vito Perillo, 98, who was reelected mayor of Tinton Falls in 2021, is thought to be the oldest person in Jersey history ever to hold the position of mayor. And when he turns 100 in September 2024, he’ll break the same record for U.S. history. Perillo has said that his current four-year term will be his final one. —Jennifer Finn
FUN & ATTRACTIONSMOST EXCLUSIVE GOLF COURSEMembership in Pine Valley, in the sandy pine barrens southeast of Collingswood, is by invitation only. Only members (including women, since late 2021) and their guests can play. Be careful what you wish for. Pine Valley is considered one of the most difficult courses in the world: gaping bunkers everywhere, fiendish greens, and no carts. You’re walking, mostly up and down hills. Have a nice day. —EL
LONGEST GO-KART TRACKJersey City’s RPM Raceway recently unveiled a multimillion-dollar renovation. Photo courtesy of RPM Raceway
Race over to Jersey City’s RPM Raceway, where the longest go-kart track in the world is ready after a six-month, multimillion-dollar renovation. Unveiled in January, the multilevel, 2,200-foot track features a 72-second lap time that speed demons will love. Once drivers are done tearing up the track, they can check out the venue’s virtual reality experiences, bowling and more. There’s also the RPM Bar & Grill—just don’t drink and drive! —Gary Phillips
SWANKIEST MALL Shop until you drop in Short Hills. Photo courtesy of the Mall at Short Hills
The Mall at Short Hills is home to a seemingly endless row of high-end department stores and designer boutiques, including Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Gucci and Chanel. Even the food court is gourmet (called Primo Mercato, it features Italian artisanal food stations and cocktails). Of course, valet parking is available. The mall is so tony that, in the past, the ATM only gave $50 bills. If the prices are too high, window shop or people watch. —Jacqueline Mroz
WIDEST BEACHWhoever heard of taking a shuttle bus to get from one end of the beach to the ocean? But that’s what some people do in Wildwood—the widest beach in New Jersey at 500 yards (or five football fields). Wildwood is the state’s only beach that isn’t threatened with shoreline retreat, giving beachgoers more room to spread out. That means no jockeying for the perfect spot. —JM
BIGGEST STADIUMThe home of the Jets and Giants since 2010, East Rutherford’s MetLife Stadium is not just the biggest stadium in New Jersey, it’s the biggest of all NFL venues, with capacity for 82,500 people on game days. The 2.1 million-square-foot outdoor stadium, which cost $1.6 billion, can also accommodate 50,000 people for most concerts. No doubt aided by its size, the stadium is a finalist to host soccer matches for the FIFA World Cup 2026; MetLife also hosted the first outdoor, cold-weather Super Bowl in 2014. —GP
LONGEST MODEL RAILROADLocated in Flemington, Northlandz features the world’s largest model railroad, which measures over 8 miles long and occupies a spot in Guinness World Records. With perfectly replicated trains chugging by mini-mountains, forests, tunnels, bridges, towns and more, patrons can immerse themselves in an entire world that’s been scaled down more than a few sizes, yet is realistic and detailed. —GP
BIGGEST PLANETARIUM In 2017, the Liberty Science Center entered the big leagues with the addition of the $5 million Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium—not only the largest planetarium in New Jersey, but the biggest in the entire United States. Stargazers experience the state-of-the-art, 89-foot full-dome view of the night sky, distant galaxies and themed laser shows from the Jersey City-based interactive museum (which made NJM’s 52 Things You Must Do in New Jersey list). —Jacqueline Larcara
LARGEST PICKLEBALL CLUBLike millions of others, Becky and Frank Gabriele and Sharon and Bob Voelzke discovered a love for pickleball after the pandemic started, playing the mix of tennis, table tennis and badminton in their cul-de-sac almost daily. Last year, the couples opened Mercer Bucks Pickleball Club in Ewing. The 26,000-square-foot space is the Northeast’s largest pickleball facility. It boasts nine courts and hosts open play, tournaments, lessons and more. “Pickleball is not and should not be an intimidating sport,” says Becky. “It’s a very social sport.” —GP
MOST SHARK-FILLED WATERSAdventure Aquarium’s Shark Realm exhibit, which mostly features sandbar and sand tiger sharks, holds 550,000 gallons of water. Photo courtesy of Adventure Aquarium
Camden’s Adventure Aquarium boasts more than 15,000 aquatic animals and the largest collection of sharks in New Jerseyand the entire Northeast. Multiple exhibits, including the aptly named Shark Realm, feature the creatures. Kids can also get acquainted with small bamboo sharks in the touch tank, while the more daring patrons aged 12 and up can swim with sandbar and sand tiger sharks (and some stingrays) during a $190 encounter. —GP
TALLEST ROLLER COASTER Located at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, Kingda Ka is the tallest roller coaster in the world. With a maximum height of 456 feet—or 45 stories—plus the ability to go from 0 to 128 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds, as well as a 270-degree spiral, this 3,118-foot-long, 50-second ride has never been for the faint of heart since opening in 2005. And if the king of coasters isn’t enough, Six Flags unveiled the Jersey Devil, the world’s tallest, fastest and longest single-rail coaster, in 2021. Read more about Jersey roller coasters here. —GP
PLACES TALLEST BUILDING At 900 feet, Jersey City’s 99 Hudson Street is the tallest building in New Jersey and one of the tallest in the country. The 79-story luxury high-rise on the waterfront, which began construction in 2016, replaced the 781-foot-tall Goldman Sachs Tower, also in Jersey City, as the Garden State’s tallest. Opulent condos look out at the Manhattan skyline, and the area below features 7,500 square feet of plazas and more. —GP
OLDEST BOARDWALK With the goal of keeping sand out of rail cars and hotel lobbies, construction of the Atlantic City Boardwalk began in 1870. The raised, wood-planked structure became a popular place to see and be seen in the Victorian era. Over the years, the Boardwalk has undergone five reconstructions to address damage and development. Originally, it was 8 feet wide and 1 mile long; now the iconic structure spans just over 4 miles and is 60 feet wide. Walking it scored a spot on our Jersey Shore bucket list.—DPC
SNOWIEST AND RAINIEST SPOTSnow and rain are expected parts of life here in New Jersey, but which area gets the most of the white and the wet each year? The Newark region, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Average annual snowfall is 31.5 inches, and average annual precipitation is 46.6 inches. —TN
MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE LOCALEClinton’s Red Mill Museum Village, which has graced the cover of New Jersey Monthly, is said to be the most photographed place in New Jersey—and for good reason. The historic building, dating back to 1810, is set on the banks of the Raritan River, with sweeping views of a waterfall, nature and beautiful old buildings providing a picture-perfect backdrop. We’re particularly fond of the area at holiday time, when the Festival of Trees turns it into a winter wonderland. —JG
WORST TRAFFIC BOTTLENECK As we once memorably declared on our cover, “Traffic is endless. Potholes devour tires. Bridges are crumbling. Dollars for repairs are scarce. And that’s just part of why NJ roads suck.” So it is no surprise that Jersey’s worst traffic bottleneck is the country’s worst, per the American Transportation Research Institute. The location? The intersection of I-95 and Route 4 just west of the George Washington Bridge. —JG
FIRST SEASIDE RESORTSince 1816, Congress Hall in Cape May has been welcoming guests at the block-long resort on Beach Avenue. A favorite getaway of several United States presidents, including Ulysses S. Grant, the original structure burned to the ground in 1878, only to be rebuilt in brick one year later. It still stands and is operating today. —DPC
ARTSIEST SHORE TOWNAsbury Park, known as a music center, is anchored by the legendary Stone Pony. Beyond music, the city by the sea is crawling with culture. Dozens of vibrant murals (one of which appeared on our December 2022 cover!) line the boardwalk. Noteworthy art galleries include rock ‘n’ roll photographer Danny Clinch’s Transparent Clinch Gallery. Festivals like Sea.Hear.Now (which takes place every September) celebrate creativity of all kinds. —JL
OLDEST LIGHTHOUSE Thanks to an act of the New York Assembly and a subsequent lottery, a building with a lantern on top beamed across the southern half of New York Harbor for the first time in 1764. The Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the nation’s oldest in continuous operation, guides ships through the shoals at the northernmost tip of the Jersey Shore, even though it now stands a mile and a half from the ocean’s waves. —RC Staab
OLDEST BUILDINGConstructed between 1638 and 1643, the C. A. Nothnagle Log House is believed to be the oldest log cabin in the country and the oldest surviving building in New Jersey. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, the Gibbstown house was built by Finnish settlers in what was once the New Sweden colony. No nails were used in the original construction, yet the log house remains to this day. Interested in owning a piece of New Jersey history? The three-bedroom, one-bath cabin is listed for sale at $375,000. —GP
QUIRKYBIGGEST ZOMBIE GATHERING Grh. Graagh. Mrh? These are actual zombie expressions, and they might come in handy at the next New Jersey Zombie Walk event. Twice in three years, this group took the Guinness World Record for largest gathering of zombies. They had 9,592 people dressed up as walking-dead creatures on the boardwalk in Asbury Park in 2013. Will 2023 see a new record? —JM
MOST GIGANTIC GLASS BOTTLE The world’s largest hand-blown glass bottle was crafted at WheatonArts in Millville (which is on display there; WheatonArts reopens on April 1), not far from Alloway Creek, where American glassmaking first began in 1739. Steve Tobin, a sculptor with a lot of hot air, led a five-person team to blow the record-breaking, 100-pound, clear-glass bottle, which is almost 8 feet tall. Made in 1992, the impressive creation retains its Guinness World Records status. And its 188-gallon volume can accommodate an awesome quantity of Guinness. —Fred B. Adelson
BIGGEST BOAT PARADELast August, New Jersey took the Guinness World Record for the largest parade of canoes and kayaks after 1,105 paddlers filled Toms River in Ocean County, easily surpassing the previous record of 329, which had been set in Poland. The Garden State boaters floated through a one-mile course to break the record. —JM
LONGEST CRAPS ROLLAnyone who has ever hit the craps table in Atlantic City knows just how wild this record is: New Jerseyan Patricia Demauro had a 4-hour-and-18-minute craps roll at the Borgata back in 2009, during which she threw the dice a record 154 times. The odds of the feat are 1.56 trillion to one. She never revealed her winnings. —JG
BIGGEST MIRRORThe mammoth glass-box exterior of Bell Works in Holmdel is either a vision of our dystopian future—it’s the office featured in Severance on Apple TV+—or a wonder of modernist architecture. Dubbed “the biggest mirror ever” by Architectural Forum magazine, the building is roughly a quarter of a mile long and six stories high. —RCS
ARTS & POP CULTUREMOST POPULAR FILM LOCALESWith an influx of studios and location shoots for film and TV, New Jersey is embracing its reputation as Hollywood East. At present, the most popular filming locations are Newark (Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story remake), Jersey City (The Union with Halle Berry and Mark Wahlberg), Montclair (Maybe I Do) and Cranford (Mother’s Instinct), says Steven Gorelick, head of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission. —JG and JM
STARRIEST HIGH SCHOOLMost New Jersey high schools have a few or even a handful of famous alumni, but Columbia High School in Maplewood has a whole yearbook’s worth. Celebri-grads of the school, which serves both Maplewood and South Orange, include actor/director Zach Braff (who shot his flicks Garden State and the new A Good Person locally), singers Lauryn Hill and SZA, actors/siblings Elisabeth and Andrew Shue, author Paul Auster, style expert Robert Verdi and more. —JG
MOST SOPRANOS SCREEN TIME From 1999-2007, Jerseyans not only tuned into tuned into The Sopranos each week for compelling story lines and award-winning acting, but also to see which local businesses and backdrops were featured. But which towns got the most airtime? Per the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, that distinction goes to North Caldwell, the location of Tony Soprano’s house in the opening credits; Kearny, the home of fictitious Satriale’s Pork Store; and Lodi, where the fictional Bada Bing club was. —JG and JM
LARGEST INSTRUMENT The circa-1930 pipe organ at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City is the biggest instrument in the world (dubbed the sonic Mount Rushmore). Fifty-three percent of the organ—which is made up of more than 33,000 pipes—is fully functioning; in 2014, that number was 10 percent. On certain days, visitors are invited to hear an organist play and then take a tour to see the pipes, which are hidden inside the walls. It’s free, but donations are welcome. —GK
OLDEST THEATER GROUPThe Civil War Drill Hall Theater, built in 1859, has been home to the Players Guild of Leonia since 1919. The Bergen County enclave was once home to a popular artists’ colony. The troupe, a product of the community’s creative spirit, has been offering a continuous repertoire of performances ever since—including online shows during the pandemic. —DPC
BIGGEST GIFTTrenton history captured in a painting by master artist N.C. Wyeth became the largest gift ever receieved by Thomas Edison State University. Valued at $4 million, the 17-by-12-foot-wide mural, donated by Wells Fargo, depicts George Washington riding through Jersey’s capital city on his way to be inaugurated in 1789. —DPC
HIGHEST-PAID ENTERTAINER Bruce Springsteen raked in $435 million in 2022, making him the highest-paid Jersey entertainer of the year (and the second-highest-paid entertainer overall, behind director Peter Jackson), according to Forbes. That influx of cash came mostly from Springsteen selling his music catalog to his record label, Sony Music. —JG
NATURE & OUTDOORSLARGEST WATERFALLThe Great Falls in Paterson is the largest waterfall, by volume, in New Jersey and the second largest, by volume, on the East Coast, after Niagara Falls. Located in the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, the cascades, which are 77 feet high, are the reason the city of Paterson exists. Alexander Hamilton came upon the falls in the 1700s and had the idea to harness their power and create an industrial center. The views are spectacular. A new visitor’s center is in the works. —JM
LONGEST HIKING TRAIL With 311 out of 383 miles completed as of mid-January, the NJ State Long Trail is and will remain the longest trail in New Jersey. “We are continuing to make slow forward progress,” says Dave Matek, the NJ Sierra Club’s trails issues coordinator. Already, hikers and explorers can experience every terrain the Garden State has to offer on a trail that will link the north end of the state (High Point) with its sea-level southern end (Cape May Point). The lengthy path intersects with numerous other trails, including the Appalachian Trail. —GP
MOST BUTTERFLIESCape May Point is the best place in New Jersey to see monarch butterflies migrating each September through November, when thousands use the area to rest and refuel on their long trip from Canada to Mexico. Though these stunning creatures can be seen at other spots in New Jersey during this period (especially at monarch waystations), there is nothing quite like the spectacular sight in Cape May. —JG
HIGHEST POINTHigh Point, appropriately, is the highest point in the state, with a peak elevation of 1,803 feet. The mountain peak is located within High Point State Park, bordering Wantage Township and Montague Township in Sussex County. This beautiful park is located in the area known as the Skylands and features gorgeous foliage in fall, cross-country skiing in winter and hiking year-round. —JM
OLDEST BLOOMSAs many as 100,000 flowers reach for the sun at the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens in Montclair during blooming season, mid-May through early June. Now in its 96th year, the garden boasts more than 3,000 varieties of rhizomes, bulbs and rooted plants across the garden’s 6.5 acres. Founded in 1927, the 99 original irises have been propagated to produce more and healthier blooms every year. —DPC
TOP SPOT FOR BIRDINGOne shorebird species, the red knot, travels 9,000 miles from South America to the Arctic each spring, stopping in Cape May on the way. Photo courtesy of Gregory Gard/Alamy Stock Photo
There is no better place for birding than Cape May, which is known as the birding capital of North America. Between late August and early November, more than a million birds stop in Cape May as they fly south for the winter. Then, at the beginning of each spring season, more than 460 species of birds return to the the Garden State, including hawks, falcons and scoters. —TN
BIGGEST FORESTChalk it up to poor soil. That’s why, even by 1978, Congress was able to carve out more than 1 million acres of largely undeveloped land as a national reserve in the nation’s most densely populated state. The Pinelands is the biggest surviving forest on the Eastern Seaboard south of Maine’s North Woods. The Pinelands stretch almost the state’s entire width. —RCS
LARGEST LAKEWhile the Shore inevitably comes to mind when most people think about New Jersey’s waters, beauty and fun abound at our lakes, too. The biggest (and one of our favorites) is Lake Hopatcong, located in Hopatcong State Park, at 9 miles long, with 2,500 acres of freshwater. Hang out at the small beach and swim, picnic or take a private boat ride. Area restaurants offer a nice end to a day in the sun. —JG
MOST CHERRY BLOSSOMSYou may think Washington, DC, has the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the United States, but it’s actually New Jersey. Each April, more than 5,000 trees bloom in shades of pink at Branch Brook Park in Newark and Belleville, creating a sight like no other. This year’s festivities take place from April 1-16. —JG
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The post New Jersey Monthly’s Book of Records appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Romance comes and goes, but female friendship is forever! Galentine’s Day, celebrated on or around February 13 each year, has become an increasingly popular holiday during a month that traditionally honors romantic love.
Check out these fun events happening throughout the state.
Sip & Sparkle Galentines PopupFebruary 8, 5-9 pm • Luxe45 in MaplewoodIndulge in some chocolate and bubbly while browsing local jewelry by Lasirene Designs at Luxe45.
Après-Ski Experience February 9-11 • Auburn Road Vineyard & Winery in PilesgroveBraving the cold is a blast when there are fire pits, tableside s’mores kits, cocktails and hot chocolate, live music, open mic nights and, from 7–9 pm, outdoor movies playing. Find more details here.
Galentine’s Day Night OutFebruary 10, 5:30-8 pm • MarketFair in PrincetonGear up for an evening of shopping, crafting and eating. Learn how to make your own charcuterie board, sip complimentary mocktails at Williams Sonoma and enjoy mini-desserts at Seasons 52. The event also includes an exclusive shopping experience at Williams Sonoma, Pottery Barn or West Elm, where attendees will receive a gift with their purchase. Find more details here.
Galentine’s Day Wine TastingFebruary 11, 11 am • Tomasello Winery in Lambertville Sample wine and gourmet chocolate truffles at Tomasello Winery. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Find more details here.
Southside Johnny & the Asbury JukesFebruary 11, 7 pm • The Stone Pony in Asbury ParkGot the fever for a girls’ night out? Head to Asbury Park to hear one of Jersey’s most iconic bar bands. Find more details here.
Love Stinks PartyFebruary 11, 9 pm • Shannon Rose Irish Pub in RamseyFed up with matters of the heart? Unwind at this anti–Valentine’s Day party. Find more details here.
Galentine’s Paint & Sip EventFebruary 12, 2 pm • Montclair BrewerySpend two hours unleashing your inner artist with your best pals. Tickets to this 21+-event include paint supplies and a special beer flight. Register in advance, as seating is limited. Find more details here.
Galentine’s NightFebruary 13, 6:30-9:30 pm • La Taverna Lounge in CaldwellIn addition to an all-night-long happy hour, La Taverna’s event includes tarot card readings, food and drink specials, raffles and a DJ. Reservations are required. Find more details here.
The post Where to Celebrate Galentine’s Day in NJ appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Valentine’s Day is almost here, which means it’s time to square away those reservations for an evening with that special someone in your life. Plenty of New Jersey restaurants (and bars!) are offering specials that you and yours are sure to adore.
And for even more dining ideas, check out our annual list of Jersey’s best restaurants!
Amalfi’s • Lawrence TownshipFrom February 11-14, guests can enjoy a special Valentine’s Day menu. Dishes include tortellini, bacon-potato soup, pan-seared scallops, raspberry soufflé and more. Reservations can be made via phone.
146 Lawrenceville Pennington Road, Lawrence Township; 609-912-1599
Auburn Road Vineyard & Winery • PilesgroveEnjoy a wine flight (four 2-oz glasses) and four chocolates for $27. The vineyard’s traditional s’mores is getting a pink, heart-shaped marshmallow twist.
117 Sharptown-Auburn Road, Pilesgrove; 856-769-9463
Enjoy an elegant Valentine’s meal at B2 Bistro + Bar. Photo courtesy of Foxtrot Media
B2 Bistro + Bar• Multiple locationsThis bistro is offering V-Day specials from February 10-14 at all of its locations. Lobster ravioli, surf and turf for two, chocolate covered cherry martinis and more are going to be available at the Point Pleasant location. A full menu is going to be available at all locations as well.
125 Bayview Avenue, Bayville; 732-269-30001250 Hooper Avenue, Toms River; 732-797-2570230 Washington Place, North Brunswick; 732-297-3803141 Shrewsbury Avenue, Red Bank; 732-268-8555709 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant; 732-295-0709
The Bonney Read • Asbury ParkFrom 4-10 pm on Valentine’s Day, the Bonney Read is offering couples a $75 Bubbles & Pearls special that includes a dozen oysters with 1 oz of caviar. It also comes with two glasses of Prosecco.
525 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park; 732-455-3352
Brook Hollow Winery • ColumbiaA special menu is going to be available Valentine’s Day starting at 7 pm. Options include roast salmon, seared duck, stuffed pork loin and chicken cordon bleu with sides of tomato bruschetta, autumn salad, fingerling potatoes, veggies and dinner rolls. And don’t forget dessert!
594 NJ-94, Columbia; 908-496-8200
Cree Wine Company • HamptonWith seatings from 4-8 pm, Cree Wine is offering a prix fixe menu. With scallops, cacio e pepe, sausage lasagna, salmon and more, the menu includes a wine recommendation with each dish. $90 per person.
167 Perryville Road, Hampton; 908-200-7772
Crystal Springs restaurants • Vernon & HamburgThis resort has Valentine’s specials across its on-site restaurants. A special three-course menu is being served at Kites Restaurant (charcuterie, chocolate covered strawberries and more), while a four-course at Crystal Tavern includes rack of lamb, red velvet creme brûlée and more). Five new dishes can be found at Springs Bistro, including venison loin, swordfish and more. Reservations are recommended at each location. All items are priced by the course.
Kites Restaurant, 2 Charmonix Drive, Vernon; 844-217-7100Crystal Tavern, 1 Wild Turkey Way, Hamburg; 844-225-4953Springs Bistro, 3 WIld Turkey Way, Hamburg; 973-862-4351
David Burke’s restaurants • Multiple locationsChef David Burke is ready to honor amour. Three course, prix fixe menus are being offered at Drifthouse in Sea Bright ($85 per person), Red Horse in Rumson ($135), Orchard Park in East Brunswick ($110), and The Goat in Union Beach ($75 per person). Each location is going to present Burke’s signature special heart-shaped tin can cake topped with whipped cream and raspberry sauce. A la carte options are available at each spot. Reservations recommended.
Drifthouse, 1485 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright; 732-530-9760Red Horse, 26 Ridge Road, Rumson; 732-576-3400Orchard Park, 670 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick; 732-554-5714The Goat, 1411 NJ-36, Union Beach; 732-264-5222
Esty Street • Park RidgeThis eclectic American restaurant is presenting a special Valentine’s Day menu. Dishes include champagne-cured salmon, roast Chilean sea bass, lobster Bolognese and more. Esty Street has new desserts this year, including pear upside-down cake.
86 Spring Valley Road, Park Ridge; 201-307-1515
Exit Zero Filling Station & Ferry Station • Cape MayValentine’ specials are being offered from February 10 to 14. At the Filling Station, guests can reserve dining trailers for a private experience. For an additional $30, they’ll receive a bottle of champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries. Holiday cocktails include the Love Potion, Honeymoon Avenue, Spicy Lover and 7 Minutes in Heaven. The Ferry Station is also offering themed cocktails. A complimentary heart-shaped cookie also comes with any purchase.
Exit Zero Filling Station, 110 Sunset Boulevard, Cape May; 609-770-8479Exit Zero Ferry Station, 1200 Lincoln Boulevard, Cape May; 609-551-4208
Garden State Wine Growers Association Wine & Chocolate Trails • Multiple locationsChocolate and wine make perfect V-Day buddies. From February 10-12 and February 17-19, wineries around the state are offering chocolate and wine samplings for the weekend. For example, Jessie Creek Winery in Cape May is offering tastings of five wines and five local chocolates for $35 per person.
Girasole • Atlantic CityFrom February 11-18, Girasole is celebrating with a three-course dinner menu. Dishes include calamari, carpaccio girasole (filet mignon with asparagus, artichokes and truffle oil), tagliatelle Bolognese and branzino. A surprise dessert is complimentary; dinner is $65 per person.
3108 Pacific Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-345-5554
Golden Nugget Hotel • Atlantic CityVic & Anthony’s Steakhouse has a $65 prix fixe menu on February 13 and 14, which is accompanied by wine, champagne and cocktails. Grotto is celebrating on February 12 with a $75 four-course dinner. Lillie’s Asian Cuisine is celebrating February 9-12 with a $60 pre-fixe menu that includes complimentary champagne and surf and turf dishes.
600 Huron Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-441-2000
Halifax • HobokenCatch a Hudson River waterfront view of New York City this Valentine’s Day. Halifax’s three-course menu includes scallop ceviche, yellowtail poke, filet mignon and more. For dessert, the Kyss includes raspberry cremeux, chocolate sponge cake, raspberry meringue and white chocolate. Dinner is $99 per person and can be paired with a special wine menu for an additional $51.
225 River Street, Hoboken; 201-253-2500
Harbor Pines Golf Club • Egg Harbor TownshipEnjoy a romantic dinner a la carte on Valentine’s Day. Choices include lamb lollipops, cowboy ribeye, scallops and shrimp, champagne chicken, and more—plus live music throughout the night. Seatings are available from 5-9 pm, and reservations are required.
500 Saint Andrews Drive, Egg Harbor Township; 609-927-0006
Kirshenbaum’s pies make for the perfect Valentine’s dessert. Photo courtesy of Kirshenbaum Baking Co
Kirshenbaum Baking Co. • WestfieldThis new bakery brings new flavors for heartthrobs. The mini-pie collection includes key lime, mud pie, raspberry cheesecake and strawberry rhubarb. Red velvet cookies, blackberry doughnuts and strawberry chocolate croissants are also available this month— and decked out in red and pink.
62 Elm Street, Westfield; 908-228-5134
The Pier House (La Mer Beachfront Resort) • Cape MayThis waterfront restaurant is holding a four-course Valentine’s Day dinner from 5-9 pm on February 10 and 11. The $85 per person dinner includes asparagus bisque, surf and turf, beef short rib and more. Brunch is being offered on those days, along with more Valentine’s specials.
1317 Beach Avenue, Cape May; 609-770-4810
Nunzio by Chef Michael DeLone • CollingswoodThe BYO is offering a four-course menu this holiday. Choices include crispy pork belly, black and white truffle gnocchi, butternut squash risotto, New York strip, chocolate custard with mixed berry jam, and more. Dinner is $80 per person.
706 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood; 856-858-9840
Occasionette • CollingswoodCelebrate Galentine’s Day at this woman-owned gifts-and-goods shop. On February 11, customers are invited to make their own Valentine’s bouquets while enjoying complimentary Prosecco and snacks. Tickets are $46 per person. Occasionette is also offering Valentine’s bouquets for pre-order at the store.
724 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood; 856-854-0111
Osteria Morini • BernardsvilleWhile usually closed on Tuesdays, Osteria Morini is staying open for Valentine’s Day. A four-course, pre-fixe menu is going to include dishes such as tuna tartare, braised eggplant, gnocchi, surf and turf, halibut, desserts and more. Dinner is $65 per person; reservations are recommended.
107 Morristown Road, Bernardsville; 908-221-0040
Paulo’s BBQ Steakhouse• South PlainfieldGo prix-fixe on Valentine’s Day at this lovely BBQ spot. Shrimp in garlic sauce, Picanha steak, grilled salmon, flan and more are on the menu.
2341 Plainfield Avenue, South Plainfield; 908-753-5252
Piccola Italia • OceanEnjoy four courses of Valentine’s Day specials. The menu includes caramelized pear and Brie strudel, oysters, truffle-and-duck pate, slow-braised veal, filet mignon, burrata ravioli, and lemon cheesecake. Reservations are required and can be made by phone.
837 West Park Avenue, Ocean; 732-493-3090
Rat’s Restaurant • HamiltonAt this romantic French destination, Valentine’s specials include smoked lobster ceviche, escargot, roasted duck breast, scallops, roasted eggplant, and lobster tails. After dinner, stroll through the Grounds for Sculpture campus, on which Rat’s is located, for sound and light installations.
16 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton; 609-584-7800
Resorts Casino Hotel • Atlantic CityInside the hotel, Bar One is hosting a special pop-up through the end of the month. The XO Bar, decked out in Valentine’s Day décor, is offering drink specials like Cupid’s Cosmo and the Heartbreak Hotel Manhattan. The bar also plays bingo every Sunday and is hosting a Galentine’s party on February 13.
1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City; 609-340-6300
Rhythm & Spirits • Atlantic CityDiners can celebrate with pre-fixe menus the Friday and Saturday before Valentine’s Day, as well as on February 14. Offerings on the four-course, $100 per person menu include shrimp tartare, pesto pasta, filet mignon and dessert. A two-course option is also available for $50 per person. Reservations are required.
129 South Tennessee Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-350-6852
Rooftop at Exchange Place • Jersey CityCelebrate Galentine’s Day and Valentine’s Day at this rooftop bar. From February 11-13, all Galentines can enjoy 40 percent off select cocktails and bites. Terrace, the restaurant at Exchange Place, is offering a three-course dinner from 5-10 pm on February 14 for $85 per person.
1 Exchange Place, Jersey City; 551-256-7850
Ryfe AC • Atlantic CityThe $89 “That’s Amoré” dinner package on Valentine’s Day includes seafood bisque or wedge salad, surf and turf, asparagus or spinach, and a red velvet cupcake or New York-style cheesecake. Dinner comes with a choice of Cabernet Sauvignon or Chateau de Berne Romance Rosé.
4101 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-428-6993
Salt Creek Grille • RumsonValentine’s Day starts early here. Salt Creek Grille’s “Love is in the Air” four-course menu is available February 10-11 and 13-14. It includes crispy Brussels sprouts, lobster bisque, baby-back ribs, citrus brown-butter salmon, coffee-crusted New York strip, butter cake and more.
4 Bingham Avenue, Rumson; 732-933-9272
Samba • MontclairThis restaurant, certified entirely gluten-free, offers specials for V-Day weekend. Skirt steak with parmesan truffle fries, duck croquetas, and grilled octopus are some of the new dishes. Specials are available February 10-19.
7 Park Street, Montclair; 973-744-6764
Seaview Hotel & Golf Club • GallowayChoices in the four-course Valentine’s Day dinner prix-fixe include red snapper, chicken piccata, raspberry mousse in a chocolate cup and more for $64.95 per person. Wine selections and lobster tails can be added for an additional cost. Reservations required.
401 South New York Road, Galloway; 609-652-1800
Showboat • Atlantic CityStop by the casino’s Atlantic City Eatery (ACE) for a heart-shaped pizza and a complimentary bottle of wine for $21.99 (dine-in only). Handcrafted V-Day cocktails are being served at all bars on the property from 5-7 pm on February 14.
801 Boardwalk, Atlantic City; 609-487-4600
Sugar Factory • Atlantic CityThrough February 28, guests can try Sugar Factory’s newest special, the Crazy For You milkshake. Made with strawberry ice cream and New York cheesecake, it’s topped with whipped cream, cherry gummy hearts, M&M’s, chocolate hearts and gumdrops. The creation is served in a red chocolate mug with two straws, so it’s perfect for sharing.
1000 Boardwalk Avenue (Hard Rock Hotel & Casino), Atlantic City; 609-428-7283
Vine & Oak • CranfordFrom 4-10 pm on Valentine’s Day, a special three-course menu includes sesame ginger calamari and burrata for appetizers, local dayboat scallops, and Mediterranean branzino. Nutella panna cotta is among the desserts. Dinner is $95 per person.
100 S Avenue East, Cranford; 908-967-6058
801 Craft Kitchen & Spirits • BelmarA three-course dinner is available on Valentine’s Day at this new restaurant. Starting at 6 pm, guests can enjoy appetizers, entrées and dessert, in addition to a beer or wine pairing for each course. Tickets are $100 per person.
801 Main Street, Belmar; 732-202-7783
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Effie, the terrier mix who was rescued by South Jersey’s Match Dog Rescue, will be playing on Team Ruff in the Puppy Bowl XIX on February 12. Photo courtesy of Animal Planet
The Puppy Bowl is billed as a feel-good TV sports special—but there’s more to it than meets the eye. All of the daring dogs on the field were given a second chance by rescue organizations, three of which are in New Jersey.
“It’s cute to watch but then when you actually reflect on where they came from, it means a lot more,” says Nina Marcos, a representative of Match Dog Rescue, a South Jersey nonprofit that rescued three dogs participating in this year’s match.
Celebrating its 16th anniversary this year, the Puppy Bowl XIX is a three-hour-long soppy sports competition that aims to raise awareness about the rescue shelters across the country fighting to save animals’ lives. Around 122 puppies from 67 different shelters across 34 states will be wagging their tails on the field to fight for the Wayfair “Lombarky” trophy.
While some of the rescued animals are freed from neglectful and abusive homes, others are saved from wandering the streets. However, overpopulation in shelters has contributed to a rise in pets at risk for euthanasia, which is where rescue organizations step in to find forever homes for those animals desperately in need.
“Thinking about the resiliency of these dogs, it really does make you proud,” Marcos says.
Take Effie (@yourbfeffie on Instagram) the terrier mix. Her pregnant mother was saved by Match Dog Rescue from Texas, where the homeless animal population is exceedingly high, in part because of its relaxed spay and neuter laws. Effie was born in a foster home on Garden State soil, and shortly after was adopted by a dog-loving couple across the Hudson River.
Wondering which team to root for? Well, New Jersey will have pups playing for both teams. On Team Ruff, Effie will be joined by her Match Dog Rescue mate Barnaby, as well as Poe and Walker from Chatham’s shelter, A Second Chance for Ziva. On Team Fluff, Myrtle of Match Dog Rescue will partner up with Asiago of South Jersey’s Tri-State Basset Hound Rescue.
Rescue organizations near and far hope that viewers will be inspired to adopt when considering finding a furry friend to join the family.
“We do a lot of the work in the middle, but then it’s really up to the adopters to take them in and really make them their forever companion,” says Erin Camporin, president of A Second Chance for Ziva.
The Puppy Bowl XIX will be available to stream February 12 at 2 pm on Animal Planet with Discovery+.
And if you’re looking for some Super Bowl fun and food, check out our roundup of great parties and specials.
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The post Puppy Bowl XIX: Dogs Saved by Jersey Shelters Will Compete appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Newark’s Bill Bellamy is hosting NJPAC’s Valentine’s comedy show. Photo courtesy of NJPAC
As a student at Rutgers in the mid-1980s, Bill Bellamy received a trial-by-fire education in comedy.
When small campus collectives put on talent or fashion shows, he was always the first call for hosting duties—a golden opportunity to practice his stand-up and establish his Newark-born-and-raised voice in front of captive classmates. “I was hosting little café nights telling my five-cent jokes,” he says. “I ended up being the Rutgers comedian.”
Upon graduating, Bellamy began his professional career by playing now-defunct local spots in East Orange such as Club 88 and the Peppermint Lounge, “the number 1 place for entertainment on a Thursday night,” he says. Comics like Bernie Mac, Chris Rock and Steve Harvey also got started there. “We were all coming up in the game—young guys trying to make our mark, trying to get on TV,” Bellamy says. “We didn’t know that all these jokes would pay off.”
More than 30 years later, after making his mark in Hollywood and performing all over the country, Bellamy is returning to his old haunts and duties. On February 11, he and four other comics—Eddie Griffin, Adele Givens, Tommy Davidson and Smokey Suarez—will take the stage at Newark’s NJPAC for the Valentine’s All-Star Comedy Show. The star-studded lineup performs at 7 and 9:30 pm. Tickets range from $50.50–$100.50.
The event represents a nostalgic, full-circle moment for Bellamy. Though he has played this show before, Bellamy’s enhanced hosting role lets him show off his personality and engage more with the Newark crowd. “It’s a home-court advantage,” he says. “I know all the Jersey jokes, I know all the funny stuff about Jersey, so I’ve got the cheat code.” Hosting also allowed him to hand-pick a diverse comic ensemble; Bellamy is eager to see the reactions to his group of “super friends.”
Bellamy broke out in the early 1990s on MTV and continued to find roles in television and movies—most notably Def Comedy Jam, Any Given Sunday and Insecure. But the comedian, 57, has remained loyal to his roots, visiting his home state to see family a few times a year and exuding Jersey’s underdog spirit. “That’s the beauty of my perspective,” he says. “I always want to show my fans that I never forget where I come from, and I’m very proud of where I come from. And now that I’m in a position to bring entertainment to my city, why wouldn’t I do that?”
Considering Bellamy coined the phrase booty call early in his career, NJPAC attendees can also expect some Valentine’s Day humor. “It’s obviously a date night and it’s a love weekend—people are trying to step their game up,” he jokes, before providing this advice for the evening: “Show up and show out.”
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The post Bill Bellamy Reflects on Being ‘The Rutgers Comedian’ Before Big Break appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Looking to enjoy some delicious food and cold drinks when the Philadelphia Eagles takes on the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII on February 12? These Garden State spots have you covered like an All-Pro cornerback.
The Ashford • Jersey CityGame-day specials include $30 High Noon buckets, $25 domestic buckets, $15 pitchers, $5 green tea shots and many more drink options. As for food, a sample platter is available for $25. It includes pretzel bites, pigs in a blanket, egg rolls, chicken tenders and crispy calamari.
145 Newark Avenue, Jersey City; 201-356-9956
Carnegie Diner & Cafe • SecaucusCarnegie is showing the game—with sound—throughout the restaurant. Specials will include half a dozen wings for $9.95 and a bucket of beers for $20.
700 Plaza Drive, Secaucus; 201-267-6111
Chevys Fresh Mex • Clifton & LindenMunch on Mexican favorites like build-your-own tacos, burrito boxes, enchiladas, fajitas and more on Super Bowl Sunday. Chevys is also offering dessert trays and sides like rice and refried beans. Guacamole comes with purchases over $60.
365 NJ-3, Clifton; 973-777-62771150 South Stiles Street, Linden; 908-862-9800
Heavenly BBQ • Woodbridge TownshipCelebrate with soul food! Heavenly BBQ’s Sunday special includes a half tray of chicken, a half tray of mac and cheese, and a tray of collard greens for $99. It’s available for takeout and delivery.
689 Florida Grove Road, Woodbridge Township; 732-750-88866
Ellery’s • MiddlesexWant wings during the Big Game? Specials at Ellery’s will include 50 pieces for $45 and 100 for $75. The menu also includes sandwiches, burgers, pizza and more pub favorites.
701 Lincoln Boulevard, Middlesex; 732-356-2444
Mochinut (Ani Ramen) • Montclair, Princeton & SummitAni Ramen’s Mochinut locations are creating game-day donuts for the Eagles and Chiefs. Customers can vote for who they want to win by purchasing the corresponding donuts. Mochinut will track the scores and announce updates via social media.
349 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair; 973-707-7544
140 Nassau Street B, Princeton; 609-423-2532427B Springfield Avenue, Summit; 908-473-9194
Piast Meats & Provisions • GarfieldThis Polish meat shop is offering a special menu for game day. Plates include Buffalo chicken pierogis, kielbasa in a blanket, potato pancakes, dessert platters, baby back ribs and more. Piast offers pick-up and delivery, and can provision parties ranging from 30 to 80 guests.
1 Passaic Street, Garfield; 973-614-1315800 River Drive, Garfield; 973-340-4722
The Shannon Rose Irish Pub • Clifton & RamseyFootball festivities begin at 6 pm on Super Bowl Sunday. For $75, enjoy an unlimited buffet and drink package during the game. Both pub locations are also doing giveaways, raffles and a shot wheel.
98 Kingsland Road, Clifton; 973-284-02001200 NJ-17, Ramsey; 201-962-7602
South + Pine • MorristownSurprise your guests with South + Pine’s to-go meals. Their Super Bowl catering menu includes chicken lollipops, spicy lamb meatballs, crispy rice, fried chicken, sliders, short ribs and polenta fries. Each order serves 10 people. Orders must be placed by 9 pm on February 8. Orders can be picked up from 3–6 pm on Super Bowl Sunday.
90 South Street, Morristown; 862-260-9700
Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, Atlantic CityLet this AC spot do all the work for you on Super Bowl Sunday. Cheeseburger sliders ($75), chicken sliders ($75), crab cake sliders ($90), lobster minis ($105) and wings ($60) are available for takeout. Orders must be placed by 4 pm on February 10.
133 South Tennessee Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-541-4099
WorldFLATS • Montclair, Paramus & RidgewoodDon’t fret, plant lovers! WorldFLATS has you covered on Super Bowl Sunday with 40 vegetarian wings for $50. Three flavors—barbecue, teriyaki and sriracha mayo—are available.
58 Church Street, Montclair; 973-433-5900
193 Route 17 South, Paramus; 201-654-4488134 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood; 201-797-0134
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Enjoy February in New Jersey with this delicious assortment dining and drinking events.
Black History Month Beer Series Fundraiser, Montclair Brewery • MontclairAll month longDenise and Leo Sawadogo, owners of Montclair Brewery, are celebrating Black History Month with a month-long fundraiser to preserve the home of James Howe, the first African-American homeowner in Montclair. They are releasing their new Howe House Belgian Ale mid-month. A portion of taproom sales are being donated to Friends of the Howe House.
101 Walnut Street, Montclair; 973-850-0541
Meet the Winemaker Tasting, Teresa’s Pizza & Wine Bar • PrincetonFebruary 6, 4:30 pmThird-generation winemaker Maria Paola Sorrentino will take guests through wines from her family winery, Sorrentino Vesuvio, located in the Vesuvius region of Italy. All wines available for sampling are produced using indigenous grape varietals. Tickets are $25.
23 Palmer Square East, Princeton; 609-921-1974
Brewsology Beer Festival, Liberty Science Center • Jersey CityFebruary 11, 7-11 pmThis festival takes place at one of NJ’s most popular museums. More than 150 local and domestic beers will be available to sample. Tickets ($50-$65) must be purchased before the event.
222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City; 201-200-1000
Super Bowl Tailgate Party, Dock’s Oyster House • Atlantic CityFebruary 12, 2-6 pmThe Chief Arthur R. Brown Jr. Memorial Scholarship Foundation is hosting its 31st annual tailgate. The Super Bowl pregame includes a buffet, door prizes and a free mug with $1 refills. Tickets, $20, can be purchased at the door.
2405 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-345-0092
Big Game Sunday, Gin Rickey’s • Atlantic CityFebruary 12Watch the Big Game while enjoying a bottomless buffet and draft beers. During Super Bowl hours, the buffet includes ribs, chicken wings, pulled pork, corn dogs, churros and, for the bottomless draft-beer option, 12 brews to choose from. Enter to win giveaways and prizes during halftime. Tickets are $49 per person.
2801 Pacific Avenue (Tropicana), Atlantic City; 640-696-8535
Bourbon Pairing Dinner, The Pier House at La Mer Beachfront Resort • Cape MayFebruary 17, 6 pmSip sophisticated spirits at this resort’s first pairing dinner of the year. The four-course tasting menu includes fried oysters, jalapeños stuffed with cheddar and bacon, pepper-crusted filet mignon and praline cheesecake. Each dish is paired with a complementary bourbon. The dinner is $95 per person.
1317 Beach Avenue, Cape May; 609-898-2244
Mixology Class, Bar 32 • Atlantic CityFebruary 18, 3-4 pmLearn a little mixology with cocktail expert Lee Sanchez, who will guide guests to craft their own signature drink. The class costs $30 per person.
129 South Tennessee Avenue, Atlantic City; 609-350-6852
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The post The Best Food Events in New Jersey This February appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Looking for fun this February? Check out these events and activities happening all over New Jersey.
Please note that all schedules are subject to change; visit each venue’s website for more information.
ArtAbelardo Morell: Projecting ItalyThrough February 12
Cuban-born photographer Abelardo Morell is renowned for his work with camera obscura technology, projecting upside-down images into dark rooms. This exhibition sees Morrell projecting 12 photographs of sites in Italy. $6-$15. Montclair Art Museum, Montclair. montclairartmuseum.org
Federico Solmi is an Italian-American artist known for combining traditional and digital art elements. Photo courtesy of Morris Museum
Federico Solmi: Joie De VivreThrough February 26
Italian and New York–based artist Federico Solmi has explored themes of colonialism, nationalism, religion, and consumerism in his unique brand of digital art. His latest exhibition, Joie De Vivre, may be his most ambitious to date, with digital canvases displaying “video-paintings” that he has animated. The exhibit even includes a virtual-reality experience which puts the user directly into the world of one of his artworks. $8-$12. Morris Museum, Morristown. morrismuseum.org
ClassicalLviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of UkraineFebruary 17
The Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine was founded 120 years ago and enjoys international acclaim. The world-touring ensemble is bringing its talents to New Brunswick with a show that features piano soloist Oksana Rapita and is led by conductor Theodore Kuchar. 7:30 pm; $17-$70. State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick. stnj.org
DanceCirque Zuma ZumaFebruary 11
Cirque Zuma Zuma, described as an African-style Cirque du Soleil, features hula-hooping, balancing, juggling, contortion, music, comedy and authentic African dancing. Over 120 cast members from 16 African countries have toured the show in Africa, North America, Europe and Australia. 3 and 7:30 pm; $19-$39. Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. mayoarts.org
FestivalsSpend a morning observing bald eagles and other raptors in Cumberland County. Photo: Shutterstock/Eric Isselee
Cumberland County Winter Eagle FestivalFebruary 4
Cumberland County boasts the most nesting bald eagles in the entire state, and at the Cumberland County Winter Eagle Festival this month, you’ll get the chance to observe them from a distance! Towns like Port Norris and Heislerville have viewing sites for South Jersey raptors such as bald eagles, falcons, hawks and owls, along with guided walks and other activities. (To read about the state’s preeminent wild-bird rehabilitation center in North Jersey, click here.) 8 am. Various towns in Cumberland County. explorecumberlandnj.com
MusicScreaming FemalesFebruary 17-18
New Brunswick punk and alternative rock band Screaming Females is returning to its home state for its annual Garden Party, a two-day show featuring guests Armand Hammer, Nina Nastasia, Truth Cult, Laura Stevenson and Catbite. Screaming Females is also be releasing its eighth studio album, Desire Pathway, on February 17. 7:30 pm; $25-$45. White Eagle Hall, Jersey City. whiteeaglehalljc.com
Carrie Underwood is touring her ninth studio album, Denim & Rhinestones*.* Photo courtesy of Randee St. Nicholas
Carrie UnderwoodFebruary 18
Country superstar Carrie Underwood is hitting the road to promote her latest album, Denim & Rhinestones. The American Idol winner is stopping at the Prudential Center along the way. 7:30 pm; $79.50-$330. Prudential Center, Newark. prucenter.com
Elvis Costello & The ImpostersFebruary 26
Legendary English rock ‘n’ roll musician Elvis Costello has been performing for audiences since the early 1970s. Now, the Grammy-winner and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer is coming to Montclair, touring his 32nd studio album, A Boy Named If, with his band, The Imposters. 8 pm; $89-$252. Wellmont Theater, Montclair. wellmonttheater.com
StageThe story of Anastasia, the Grand Duchess of Russia, comes to life in Red Bank this month. Photo courtesy of Evan Zimmerman for Murphy Made
AnastasiaFebruary 1–2
Anastasia is the stage adaptation of the 1997 animated musical film of the same name. It tells a fictional tale of what might have happened to the real Russian Grand Duchess Anastasia if she had survived and escaped her family’s assassination. The stage musical premiered on Broadway in 2017, featuring the writing of legendary playwright Terrence McNally, with music by Stephen Flaherty and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens. 7:30 pm; $49-$89. Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, Red Bank. thebasie.org
HerculesOpens February 16
The Paper Mill Playhouse is bringing a stage adaptation of the beloved Disney musical Hercules to its Millburn audience. It features the iconic music of Alan Menken and lyrics of David Zippel—and classic tunes such as “Go the Distance” and “I Won’t Say (I’m In Love).” Showtimes vary; $35-$145. Paper Mill Playhouse, Millburn. papermill.org
BenefitsDiamonds and Dice Casino NightFebruary 11
The Woman’s Club of Tewksbury Township is hosting a casino night and silent auction to raise money to support various local causes, nonprofits and scholarships. A ticket gets you into this event with appetizers and food stations, gaming tables, a DJ and auction prizes, including a lobster dinner and an oceanfront Maine vacation home. 6:30 pm; $130. Beaver Brook Country Club, Annandale. tewksburywomansclub.com
Polar Bear PlungeFebruary 25
Time for the annual Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside Heights! This yearly tradition sees thousands of people jumping into the ice-cold ocean to raise money for Special Olympics New Jersey. You can register up to the day of the event, and there’s even a virtual plunge option for those who can’t attend in person. 10 am; $100-$125. Seaside Heights Boardwalk, Seaside Heights. sonj.org
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The Jersey City artist who goes by the name Woolpunk comes from a long line of seamstresses and lacemakers, so as a child, she assumed all women knew how to knit and sew. It took her a while to realize her skills were worthy of art.
Now, her 30-foot-wide, 13-foot-long, upcycled mixed-media banner, made largely from secondhand donations from the local community, drapes over the Montclair Art Museum’s Laurie Art Stairway. The 51-year-old East Hanover native’s installation, “Sunflowers & Graffiti’d Sky in the Garden State,” is meant to encourage people to question how consumer habits contribute to excessive waste in landfills.
“That really was the point, to show that fabrics can exist in many life cycles,” Woolpunk says of her piece, which opened in September and is on display through August 2023. “I asked the community to donate and create a circular economy. They can come back and see what they did by not throwing [items] away.”
People who donated to her project “can come back and see what they did by not throwing [items] away,” Woolpunk says. Photo courtesy of Megan Maloy
The banner’s background is an enlarged image of a sunflower-filled community garden near Woolpunk’s home, which she photographed. Practicing what she preaches, the environmentally friendly artist sorted through hundreds of donations of used goods—from clothing to purses to curtains—and embroidered them with commentary about excessive consumer culture.The creation took nearly six months to complete. While some of her embroidered messages are obvious, like the phrase, “Make Things Green,” others are subtle, like the simple word shopping on top of a bug-stained tablecloth. Both stress the project’s recycling theme.
“My hope is that we could all just use that same energy to recycle in our homes every day and think about the choices we make when we are shopping,” Woolpunk says, noting that comprehensive change requires community cooperation.
Woolpunk saw landfill waste firsthand while working at Hudson County’s branch of United Way, a nonprofit that fights for health, education and financial stability in the communities it serves. United Way partners with Amazon fulfillment centers in the Garden State, receiving its surplus of unpurchased goods. “It made me really sick to my stomach because I knew where [the surplus might be] going next,” she says. “It was going to the landfill.”
Working at United Way in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy unexpectedly inspired another artwork that served as a vehicle for change. To address the rise in homelessness at the time, Woolpunk hand-made a multifunctional utilitarian blanket with pillows and waterproof tarps sown in. She said she did this to give Sandy survivors a sense of dignity.
Woolpunk always aims to create something rebellious.
“I’m not really interested in making something beautiful, even though sometimes my work does have a beauty to it,” she says. “It’s just very much about the punkness of it, the authenticity of it, and about just the spirit of being free and pushing boundaries.”
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Eating out is fun. Paying less than full price for terrific food makes it more so. Town-wide restaurant weeks are a great way to do that.
Participating eateries typically offer a three-course menu, with choices for each course, at a fixed price of $30–$40 per person. Restaurant weeks take place at different times of year.
Find more information here—and some specific weeks to keep on your radar below. (And if you want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey, check out our giant guide of tips and tricks!)
- Ridgewood: January 15–19; January 22–26
- Hudson: January 23–February 3
- Downtown Cranford: January 29–February 2
- Jersey Shore: April 21–30; November 3–12
- Morristown: April 24–28
- Passaic County: May 15–21; October 23–29
- Cape May: June 4–11
- Wildwoods: June 11–15; September 10–14
- Atlantic City: October 1–6
- Hillsborough: September 25–October 1
Before you head to a restaurant week, be sure to browse New Jersey Monthly‘s city dining guides. We have helpful roundups of the best restaurants in Morristown, Cape May and Atlantic City.
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The post NJ’s 2023 Restaurant Weeks at a Glance appeared first on New Jersey Monthly.
Haute and healthy inspiration for the new year.
GREENER ROADSOne way to live a luxurious life for less—and help the planet—is to drive an eco-friendly car. The Garden State has multiple programs that encourage and reward clean driving, including Charge Up New Jersey.
This initiative offers incentives of up to $4,000 for the purchase or lease of new, eligible zero-emission vehicles, including battery electric and plug-in hybrid electric cars. Such autos minimize dependence on costly gasoline and diesel and reduce air pollution and greenhouse-gas emissions.
Plus, manufacturers now offer environmentally conscious models that can travel extended distances, as well as options that are a lot more stylish than the traditional Prius.
Details about the state’s electric-vehicle incentive programs, including Charge Up New Jersey, can be found here.
EAT WELLCommunity Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs let consumers buy food directly from farmers, and there are lots of them in New Jersey. Here’s how it works: You buy a share, before or during the growing season, and the farmer provides fresh produce and other food, like meat, during harvest.
The advantage for consumers—aside from helping your local farmer—is the ability to lock in a price for the entire season, thus avoiding supply chain-related and other price hikes that can impact supermarkets. Plus, all your produce is super fresh—and, in some cases, organic.
SOLAR SAVINGSNew Jersey has programs that incentivize the use of renewable energy, including solar and photovoltaic panels. Like eco-friendly cars, using these panels can decrease costs and help the environment.
Perks include lower energy bills and minimal maintenance after installation. There are also various tax credits for the program. Find more info at njcleanenergy.com.
Want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey? Check out more tips and tricks for saving on everything from entertainment to your taxes in the Garden State.
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Looking for fun this January? Check out these events and activities happening all over New Jersey.
Please note that all schedules are subject to change; visit each venue’s website for more information.
ArtCristina de GennaroAll month long
The Hunterdon Art Museum is exhibiting the drawings of Cristina de Gennaro, with compositions inspired by and depicting the desert floors of New Mexico. De Gennaro says she framed her work depicting sagebrush, weeds and parched soil to be decentered, claustrophobic and uncomfortable. Wednesday-Sunday, 11 am-5 pm; General admission $5-$7. Hunterdon Art Museum, Clinton. hunterdonartmuseum.org
*Nigerian-Cameroonian artist Samuel Fosso’s current exhibition is comprised of self-portraits.* Photo courtesy of Samuel Fosso
Samuel Fosso: Affirmative ActsThru Jan 29
Samuel Fosso is a Nigerian-Cameroonian artist and photographer whose current exhibition is composed of self-portraits. Fosso makes statements on identity and consumption through fashion, makeup and visual references to pop culture and African history. Tuesday-Saturday, hours vary. Art on Hulfish, Princeton. artmuseum.princeton.edu
ComedyJimmy Shubert is performing at Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club this month. Photo courtesy of Jimmy Shubert
Jimmy ShubertJan 20-21
Jimmy Shubert is a true comedic veteran, having performed on stage since the early 1980s. He’s also had recurring roles on The King of Queens and Entourage. Now Shubert is bringing his everyman observations to Uncle Vinnie’s. 9 pm; $25-$56. Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club, Point Pleasant Beach. unclevinniescomedyclub.com
Vic DiBitettoJan 21
Vic DiBitetto, the “Donkey of Comedy,” has amassed hundreds of millions of views across his social media channels for his outlandish observational humor. He’s looking to make some more memories and share some laughs with an audience in Newton. 8 pm; $44-$59. The Newton Theatre, Newton. skypac.org
MusicEric Rachmany of Rebelution is embarking on a solo tour, with a stop in Asbury Park. Photo courtesy of the Stone Pony
Eric RachmanyJan 20
San Francisco native Eric Rachmany is best known as the lead singer and songwriter of the Grammy-nominated reggae rock band Rebelution. Now, he’s hitting the road on a solo tour to perform acoustic covers and versions of some of Rebelution’s biggest hits. 7 pm; $29-$35. The Stone Pony, Asbury Park. stoneponyonline.com
Joe BataanJan 28
Legendary New York Latin soul artist Joe Bataan was born and raised in Spanish Harlem, surrounded by diverse cultural and musical influences. His music has blended a multitude of genres for nearly 60 years, including soul, disco, funk and hip-hop. 8 pm; $25. White Eagle Hall, Jersey City. whiteeaglehalljc.com
Big Head Todd and the MonstersJan 28
Formed in Colorado in 1986, Big Head Todd and the Monsters are a rock band that combines elements of other genres such as blues, folk, country, funk and jazz. Their most well-known work is their 1993 album Sister Sweetly, which has gone platinum in the US. 8 pm; $49-$74. The Newton Theatre, Newton. skypac.org
Special EventsGlobal phenomenon Stomp is stopping in Morristown this month. Photo courtesy of Steve McNicholas
StompJan 7
Originally premiering in the United Kingdom in 1991, Stomp has since become a global phenomenon, making various TV appearances and performing at live events and celebrations all over the world. This explosive and unique show avoids conventional percussion instruments, instead using everyday objects to create rhythm. 3 and 8 pm; $49-$89. Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown. mayoarts.org
The iconic Monster Jam will put on four shows over the course of three days at the Prudential Center. Photo courtesy of Prudential Center
Monster JamJan 27-29
Prudential Center is hosting Monster Jam over the final weekend of the month. This action-packed, supersized monster-truck event features races, skill and freestyle competitions, and fearless drivers. Make a pit stop in Newark for an evening of cool tricks and sick flips! Showtimes vary; $20-$110. Prudential Center, Newark. prucenter.com
StageSee an Olivier Award–winning show in New Brunswick. Photo courtesy of State Theatre New Jersey
Dragons and Mythical BeastsJan 15
Dragons and Mythical Beasts, the magical, Olivier Award–nominated show from London’s West End, is coming to the Garden State. Bring the whole family to get up close and personal with mesmerizing creatures. 1 & 5 pm; $19-$54. State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick. stnj.org
Living & BreathingOpens Jan 28
From Texas playwright Mando Alvarado and director Rebecca Martinez, this play centers on an art piece that is a living Latino behaving as a statue. The statements behind the piece affect a diverse group of three friends. Showtimes vary; $30-$60. Two River Theater, Red Bank. tworivertheater.org
Mark EvansJan 29
Mark Evans is a Welsh actor, singer and dancer with theatrical credits like Waitress, Wicked and The Book of Mormon under his belt. Now, he’s bringing his solo cabaret show, Hide and Seek, in New Jersey. 7 pm; $30. South Orange Performing Arts Center, South Orange. sopacnow.org
BenefitsART OF Salsa and BachataJan 21
Part of the Arts Council of Princeton’s ART OF events series, this event teaches participants how to dance salsa and bachata. The event is going to have an expert instructor and a DJ for a party after the lesson to test out what you’ve learned. There’s also going to be drinks and food, and proceeds support “smART kids,” the Arts Council’s arts enrichment program for underprivileged middle school students. 7-11 pm; $125. Arts Council of Princeton, Princeton. artscouncilofprinceton.org
The Chili RunJan 29
This 2-mile run/walk in Pitman benefits the HEADstrong Foundation. Each runner receives a complimentary t-shirt, a serving of chili and a beer. Vegetarian chili is also available. The event culminates with a post-run party that includes a DJ and an ugly sweater competition. 10 am; $40. Carolina Blue, Pitman. gooddayforarun.com
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Looking for New Year’s Eve plans?
We’ve got you covered with this guide to celebrating the end of 2022. From dinners and parties to concerts and creative events for kids, there’s no shortage of festive events on December 31!
Showboat’s Off the Hook Seafood and Music Fest, Atlantic CityWhat better way to ring in the New Year than with an all-you-can-eat seafood dinner? The Off the Hook Seafood and Music Fest at the Showboat Hotel takes place from 4 pm-1 am and features live entertainment, craft cocktails, beer, wine and seafood-centric dining packages. There’s also a complimentary Champagne toast at midnight!
Kids can meet their favorite Nickelodeon characters at American Dream early in the day on New Year’s Eve. Photo courtesy of American Dream
Nickelodeon Universe’s Noon Year’s Eve Party, East RutherfordBefore parents toast champagne during the evening, they can bring their kids to American Dream’s Nickelodeon Universe for a kid-friendly countdown to noon on December 31. The inaugural party starts at 11 am and includes character meet and greets, selfies at the themed photo station, theme park rides and more.
Noon Year’s Eve at the Cherry Hill Public Library, Cherry HillThe Cherry Hill Public Library is having a decidedly different afternoon celebration, but it’s one worth reading about. Bring your toddlers by from 11:45 am-12:15 pm on December 31 for play, dancing, silly hats, noisemakers, and a countdown to a bubble blast at noon.
Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes, Red BankThis legendary Jersey Shore band is performing at 6 pm at Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre on New Year’s Eve. Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes have been a Jersey staple for nearly 50 years and have shared the stage with fellow Garden State legends Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi.
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Pier House, Cape MayA four-course New Year’s Eve Dinner is being served from 5-9 pm. Options include seared Cape May scallops, pear champagne salad, branzino, and veal medallions. The dinner also includes a glass of Prosecco.
New Year’s Eve Champagne Ball at The Reeds at Shelter Haven, Stone HarborThis party, from 7:30 pm-12:30 am, includes a champagne wall, open bar, hors d’oeuvres, a three-course dinner, midnight toast, and breakfast. Plus, there will be a DJ and lots of dancing into the new year!
New Year’s Eve at BAR 32, Atlantic CityLooking for a laid-back NYE experience? Enjoy Bar 32’s intimate evening for two, featuring cheese and charcuterie, dessert and two handcrafted cocktails.
Kids Yoga Countdown to 2023, MaplewoodHere’s a relaxing way to ring in the New Year. Bring your children to Baker Street Yoga from 2-3 pm on December 31. There, they’ll take an age-appropriate yoga class, play some games and countdown to 2023. All kids receive festive hats or glasses and a glass of sparkling cider.
New Year’s Eve Parties at Pilsener Haus, HobokenPilsener Haus is throwing not one, but two parties on the last day of the year. The fun begins with a family-friendly midday party at 3 pm. Then there’s a bash, complete with hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast, for the older crowd at 8:30 pm. The festivities end at 1 am.
Deon Cole at Music Box, Atlantic CityLooking for a laugh before the ball drops? Comedian Deon Cole has you covered with New Year’s Eve shows at 7 and 10 pm. Cole is known for Netflix’s The Harder They Fall and ABC’s black-ish, among other shows and stand-up specials.
College Hoops in The Garden State, Various locationsWatch a different kind of ball drop—and bounce—before the parties begin. Several of New Jersey’s Division I men’s and women’s college basketball programs are playing early in the day on New Year’s Eve, including Seton Hall, Princeton, Fairleigh Dickinson, NJIT, Rider and Saint Peter’s. Check out each school’s athletics site for gameday information and tickets.
New Year’s Eve at Exit Zero Ferry Station, Cape MayThis family-friendly event, from 2-7 pm, includes a photo station, face-painting, a kids’ dance party, and an early New Year’s Eve ball drop at 6 pm. The restaurant is opening at noon on New Year’s Day and offering Bloody Mary and Mimosa specials, too.
Earth, Wind & Fire, Atlantic CityThis iconic genre-blending band is ending 2022 with two shows at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on December 30 and 31. The venue is also offering a few different casino promotions on New Year’s Eve.
Lambertville Station Inn is throwing a Masquerade Ball on New Year’s Eve. Photo: Unsplash/Julio Rionaldo
Lambertville Station Inn’s Masquerade Ball, LambertvillePut on your formal attire and masquerade masks before arriving at Lambertville Station Inn’s Riverside Ballroom on New Year’s Eve. A variety of packages for the 8 pm-1 am party offer a cocktail reception, open bar, dinner, champagne toast, live music and more.
New Year’s Eve at Jockey Hollow, MorristownThis bar and kitchen is going all out for New Year’s Eve. Diners can pick from early and late seatings and three-, four- and five-course tastings. Menu items include, but are not limited to, scallop crudo, prosciutto-wrapped monkfish, braised veal, chocolate pot de creme, and pineapple upside-down cake.
Gatsby’s Penthouse NYE, HobokenHead to the W Hotel in Hoboken for a Great Gatsby-inspired New Year’s Eve Party. The Roaring 20s event includes a premium prepaid bar, four DJs, complimentary light bites, and skyline views of Manhattan.
Cash Cash at Premier Nightclub, Atlantic CityCash Cash, an electronic music group from Roseland, takes the stage at Borgata at 9 pm on New Year’s Eve. And for those looking for more fun, Premier is hosting Zedd on December 28 and Marty Rock on December 30.
The Ashford’s New Year’s Eve Met Gala Party, Jersey CityRing in the New Year from 9 pm-3 am at this Jersey City establishment’s marathon party. VIP tickets include rooftop access, an open bar, a buffet, and a champagne toast.
NYE ’22 at The Shannon Rose, Ramsey & CliftonThe Shannon Rose is throwing New Year’s Eve parties at both of its locations. The pubs’ events, which being at 9 pm, include live music, an open bar, a four-course dinner and a champagne toast at midnight. Seating is first come, first serve, and patrons must be 21 or older.
90s By Nature Dance Party, Asbury ParkTurn back the clock on New Year’s Eve by attending this 90s-themed dance party at House of Independents. Doors open at 9 pm—for those 21 and over—before a nostalgic playlist leads you into the new year.
Rhythm & Spirits, Atlantic CitySpend your New Year’s Eve feasting on a four-course Italian dinner before Rhythm & Spirits’ holiday party. With seatings from 5-10 pm, dishes include antipasto, ricotta gnocchi, shrimp fra diavolo, and hanger steak. Robert Polillo is also singing Frank Sinatra classics during dinner.
NYE Specials at MudHen Brewing Company, WildwoodThis Wildwood brewery is offering plenty to do on New Year’s Eve, including a photo booth, drink and food specials, live music and complimentary champagne at midnight. The party starts at 7:30 pm and lasts until 1 am.
Gypsy Bar, Atlantic CityThis Borgata tequila bar offers guests a place to party without a cover fee. Festivities include live music, starting at 7 pm, and a champagne toast at midnight. But the party won’t stop until 2:30 am.
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Consignment shops across the Garden State are teeming with treasures. Photo by Rebecca Handler; styling by Susan Brierly Bush; hair & makeup by Sharon Royce; wardrobe & jewelry courtesy of Duet Curated Consignment in Livingston (Dolce & Gabbana dress, Prada purse, Piero Milano earrings).
We’ve got the best of everything here in the Garden State—great shops and terrific venues for sports, theater and all types of leisure.
But let’s face it, all of this comes at a price, and we are Jerseyans—we love a bargain.
Here are our top picks to help you enjoy it all for less.
HEALTH & BEAUTYCheck Out Local Spa Deals and SpecialsKick back for a day of indulgence at Elements Spa at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg. Photo courtesy of Elements Spa
Start 2023 off on a relaxing note. | READCULTUREEnjoy Free and Discounted Events“Transformed Objects Reimagined by American Artists” is one of the exhibits you can see for free at the Montclair Art Museum on the first Thursday of every month. Photo courtesy of Peter Jacobs
Snag deals on concerts, museum admission and more. | READBuild a Great Art Collection on a BudgetCheck out local galleries to see the work of emerging artists, such as this one by Nadia Liz Estela. Photo courtesy of Nadia Liz Estela
To outsiders, art collecting can seem mystifying, an unfamiliar terrain inhabited exclusively by the uber-wealthy and those to the manor born. But being an art collector need not require deep pockets. Here are some strategies to get started. | READMark Your Calendar for NJ’s 2023 Restaurant WeeksPlan a visit to the Sushi Loft at Red Horse in Rumson during Jersey Shore Restaurant Week. Photo courtesy of Red Horse/John Vitollo
Eating out is fun. Paying less than full price for terrific food makes it more so. Town-wide restaurant weeks are a great way to do that. | READSHOPPINGVisit NJ’s Best Thrift and Consignment ShopsThis Livingston mainstay offers luxurious items for a fraction of the cost. Photo courtesy of Duet Curated Consignment
Bargains await the clever shopper willing to do a little legwork to find the best deals. If you’re ready to navigate the world of more-for-less shopping, explore consignment shops and thrift stores. | READGet More Bling for Your Buck*Before your next jewelry hunt, heed this advice from local shop owners.* Photo courtesy of Ward Vintage
“Hunting for vintage jewelry is a thrill,” says Jennifer Ward, owner of Ward Vintage in Bernardsville. “Some of the best costume-jewelry brands were founded by people who had worked for Cartier, Harry Winston and other great designers. A piece doesn’t have to be signed for it to be of quality. If you find something that speaks to you, get it.” | READSPORTS & PLAYSave on Sports and Leisure ActivitiesRent a luxury car, get season tickets for less and more. | READEnjoy Eco-Friendly OptionsPrograms like Charge Up New Jersey offer incentives for clean driving. Photo: Shutterstock/Zviahintsev Denis
Take advantage of local incentives for clean driving, renewable energy and more. | READFind Tee-Riffic Savings at Local Golf CoursesTake advantage of weekday and twilight rates at Heron Glen in Ringoes. Photo courtesy of Heron Glen Golf Course
NJ abounds in great public and semi-private golf courses. | READREAL ESTATEBuy our January 2023 issue here. Cover photo by Rebecca Handler
Consider Property in Atlantic CityFor those who dream of owning a slice of the pie at the Jersey Shore but believe it’s unattainable, don’t forget Atlantic City. Not only are condos and homes affordable, but it’s one of the few cities in the country where properties can be purchased for less now than in 2005. Move quickly, since AC is being developed by some of the same heavy hitters that revitalized Asbury Park. —Ed CondranCheck Out Condos in WeehawkenSomehow, the charming city on the Hudson is under the radar. Weehawken is an easy ferry, bus or Uber from Manhattan, and it’s more affordable than Hoboken and Jersey City. —ECGETAWAYSTake Advantage of Winter in ACCheck out the Borgata Hotel and Casino’s off-season pricing in Atlantic City. Photo courtesy of Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Rooms in Atlantic City go for more than $500 a night during the summer. If you don’t care about the beach breezes during the balmy dog days, why not indulge during the off-season? Rooms at the Borgata go for around $100. A night at the Tropicana is $48. There are also an array of deals at various casino restaurants during the off-season. And don’t forget to consult our roundup of AC’s best restaurants. —ECSave at the Jersey ShoreAlready yearning for a trip to the Shore? Working directly with an agent is one of the best ways to cut costs because there are no hidden fees, says James Ward, a broker associate at Shore Points Vacations in Point Pleasant Beach. Book early, as prices may go up as inventory goes down. Renters can also save 20–25 percent by booking during summer’s shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall). —Falyn StemplerEXPERT ADVICEEffectively Make New Year’s Resolutions“Nothing helps achieve a bigger goal like achieving a small goal,” says life coach Allison Task. Photo courtesy of Donna Dotan
Making a resolution this year? “Be realistic and give yourself some grace,” says Montclair-based career and life coach Allison Task, author of the self-help book Personal (R)evolution. | READSave Money as a Garden State ResidentHere are a few practical tips for Garden State residents. Photo: Shutterstock/Pickadook
It may sound like an oxymoron, but there are some ways to save while living in New Jersey. We asked Roger Moss, an advisor with the Montville Financial Group, how Garden State residents can keep a little more of their hard-earned green. | READ
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Take the Veluxity 2018 Mclaren 570S for a spin; it’s $1,795 a day! Photo courtesy of Veluxity/John Hinchey
RIDE LIKE A BIG ROLLEREver wonder what it would be like to tool around New Jersey in a $359,000 Lamborghini or a $400,000 Rolls-Royce? Veluxity Exotic Car Rental has the wheels to satisfy your curiosity. Veluxity will deliver one of its high-end luxury or sports cars to any New Jersey location. Ballpark prices for a daily rental range from $500 for a BMW X5 to $1,295 for an elegant Bentley GT convertible all the way up to $3,000 for a teeth-clenching 690 horsepower Lamborghini Aventador.
“These cars are ideal for New Jersey back roads,” says Veluxity owner Ron Petruska. Some clients rent to satisfy a personal craving; others want to make an impression on a business client. Luxury rentals also rank among the great birthday or Father’s Day treats. Renters must be at least 24 years old, with full insurance coverage. Rentals come with 75-125 free miles per day. Visit Veluxity’s website or call 914-584-1974. —Ken Schlager
BUY SEASON TICKETSIf you’re tired of the exorbitant prices set by big-name professional teams (yes, New York teams, we’re looking at you!), tickets are a fraction of the cost for the Lakewood Blue Claws and Trenton Thunder.
Concessions and parking are much less, and it’s a relaxed baseball experience as you check out emerging ballplayers. —Ed Condran
PLAN YOUR PLAYA single-day ticket for Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson is $49.99. A gold pass, which includes unlimited admission to the park, and parking, is just $74.99. The Platinum pass adds Hurricane Harbor for a few dollars more. The passes make sense if you plan to visit the popular theme park more than once in 2023. The big bonus is that you can visit Six Flags parks around the country for free with the gold pass. —EC
SIGN UP FOR THE SEASONBuy Jersey Devils season ticket packages at the mid-point of the season. If you put a deposit down in January for the 2023-24 season, your seats will be reserved in mid-February for the next campaign. The bonus is ten free games for the remainder of the 2023 season. —EC
Want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey? Check out more tips and tricks for saving on everything from entertainment to your taxes in the Garden State.
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Music & moreSAVE AT THE SYMPHONYIn an effort to entice a new generation of music enthusiasts, the New Jersey Symphony, based in Newark, is offering residents ages 21–40 a great deal. Join the New Jersey Symphony Young Friends program at no cost and snag tickets for some of the best seats in the house priced between $35 and $45. —SV
ENJOY DISCOUNTED EVENTSIt’s been 25 years since the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark opened its doors, and this premier cultural organization is celebrating its anniversary by offering the public $25 tickets to select shows—from jazz great Terence Blanchard to ballet from the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine and lectures from astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson—all year long. Bravo! —SV
TheaterPAY WHAT YOU CANThe Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey welcomes younger audiences with its $30 Under 30 program for every performance. Over 30? The Madison theater, which specializes in presenting Shakespeare’s canon—and made NJM’s 52 Things You Must Do in New Jersey list—also reserves pay-what-you-can tickets for every performance (except opening nights) on a first-come, first-served basis. —Deborah P. Carter
Luna Stage is a small but mighty venue that produces innovative local and global content, including readings, film screenings, interactive experiences and traditional productions. All shows are pay-what-you-choose. —DPC
GRAB CHEAP SEATSFrom musicals to classics, Two River Theater puts on a diverse roster of performances that patrons under 35 can purchase for $25. For the general public, a limited number of $25 seats (some with partial views) are also available. —DPC
MuseumsGET PASSES AT THE LIBRARYLocal libraries are good for more than just books. Many libraries around the Garden State also participate in museum-pass programs, through which you can get discounted, if not totally free, visits to a local museum or attraction. Museum passes vary from library to library, so check with yours; the easiest way to find out is to ask your librarians, who are more than willing to help. At many county libraries, reserving a museum pass is as easy as putting a hold on the latest novel you can’t wait to get your hands on. —Shelby Vittek
SNAG FREE MUSEUM ADMISSIONOn the first Thursday of every month, the Montclair Art Museum welcomes visitors of all ages at no cost. The museum’s Free First Thursdays includes admission, talks, music and other activities. Enjoy a gallery tour of exhibits like “Transformed Objects Reimagined by American Artists” from MAM’s permanent collection, as well as current exhibitions. While attendance is free, advance registration is recommended. —SV
973-746-555
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MEMBER BENEFITSWhen you sign up to become a member of any of the dozens of Jersey-based museums that are part of the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association network, you get access to them all. The program includes 23 arts historical and cultural institutions around the Garden State, and more than 1,000 institutions in four countries. Benefits include free admission and shop discounts at participating museums, such as the Morris Museum in Morristown, the Princeton University Art Museum, the Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge in Medford, and Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center in Millville. —SV
CHECK OUT NEWARK’S ARTS SCENEPart festival, part art walk, part market, Newark First Fridays have a little bit of something for everyone. On the first Friday of every month, a host of artists, food vendors, musicians and performers come together to showcase all the Brick City has to offer. Attendees can look forward to exclusive deals on art and admission to spots such as Akwaaba Gallery and Brick City Comedy Revue. —SV
Want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey? Check out more tips and tricks for saving on everything from entertainment to your taxes in the Garden State.
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Take advantage of weekday and twilight rates at Heron Glen in Ringoes. Photo courtesy of Heron Glen Golf Course
New Jersey abounds in great public and semi-private golf courses.
The best way to save on public golf is to register with your county. For an annual fee as low as $40 (depending on the county), residents get advance-booking privileges and reduced fees.
Monmouth County, for example, charges residents only $50 a year for a season pass (less for seniors and juniors). Passholders can play the highly regarded Hominy Hill for just $40 on weekdays (carts extra). Without the pass, it’s still a relative bargain at $65 on weekdays.
Wherever you play, weekdays and twilight times (typically late afternoon) always cost less. Twilight times are great in late spring and summer, when you can play into the early evening hours. Consider the challenging Heron Glen in Ringoes, where nonresidents of Hunterdon County pay $54 on weekdays and $33 weekdays after 3:30 pm (carts extra; less for seniors).
Be flexible! Some excellent courses (including Bowling Green in Oak Ridge and Architects in Phillipsburg) offer dynamic (or adaptive) pricing online, with great deals available based on open tee times.
Want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey? Check out more tips and tricks for saving on everything from entertainment to your taxes in the Garden State.
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Check out local galleries to see the work of emerging artists, such as this one by Nadia Liz Estela. Photo courtesy of Nadia Liz Estela
To outsiders, art collecting can seem mystifying, an unfamiliar terrain inhabited exclusively by the uber-wealthy and those to the manor born.
But being an art collector need not require deep pockets. Here are some strategies to get started.
Visit galleries, museums and auction houses. Train your eye, and learn about different media and what you like about them. Discover your tastes and be guided by your instincts and your passion. (A good place to start? New Jersey Monthly’s ultimate guide to under-the-radar museums.)
Be selective. In the vetting process, each work should fit within specific guidelines and fulfill particular needs like genre (abstract or representational), medium (painting, photography, sculpture, etc.), even size.
Know that research is essential when building a collection. Without it, you are operating in the dark. When a work catches your eye, make a note. Then do your homework. Auction houses are great resources for research—and for art that can be snapped up for nominal sums. Rago Auctions in Lambertville holds a yearly auction of unreserved (meaning that no minimum dollar amount must be met) decorative and fine art. This means the items must sell if someone bids on them. Frequently, items sell for a few hundred dollars. With estimates from $100 to $10,000, the auction is a lollapalooza for art enthusiasts.
Be fiscally minded. Everyone has a budget; work within yours. Consider emerging artists. Universities like Rowan, Rutgers and Montclair State have master of fine arts programs and are a great place to discover new art talent in which to invest.
Be aware of—but not beholden to—trends. Although digital art has been in existence since the 1980s, crypto art, NFTs, web3 art, and digital art created on block-chain technology are among the newer trends in collecting. When considering crypto-art, be mindful that desirability, resale and demand are directly linked to the platform where the works are minted (published/sold). Edition number, smart contract, (terms of sale, reassignments of any resale), and the artists and digital creators also inform the value and price.
Since 2016, great attention has been focused on artists of color, female artists, and artists under 35 years old.
When building your collection, don’t limit yourself to what’s trendy. Seek out quality, which is defined by how a work is made and how it looks. Quality is the only true barometer of fine art.
Want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey? Check out more tips and tricks for saving on everything from entertainment to your taxes in the Garden State.
Ron Shipmon is an art collector, curator, art advisor, arts contributor and certified art appraiser, with more than three decades of expertise in the contemporary, emerging and digital art markets amassed from working with both corporate and private clients across the United States and around the globe.
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Indulge in a luxurious New Jersey spa day for less at one of these spots in New Jersey.
Crystal SpringsIn New Jersey, Crystal Springs is a category of one. The sprawling resort in the state’s northwest corner offers luxury accommodations at two separate properties, each with its own spa, plus six golf courses, indoor and outdoor pools, expansive fitness facilities, seasonal outdoor activities, and multiple dining options, including one of the state’s top-rated dining experiences at Restaurant Latour. For the breadth of its facilities, there’s no place in the Garden State quite like it.
Take advantage of a midweek package at Reflections Spa in Sussex County. Photo courtesy of Reflections Spa
A Spa-and-Stay Package at the resort’s Grand Cascades Lodge includes overnight accommodations; a 50-minute massage at the hotel’s Reflections Spa; a $30 breakfast credit for each night of stay; access to the unique, indoor Biosphere pool (palm trees in Sussex County!) and fitness center; plus seasonal activities. You can also tour the resort’s famed wine cellar. Prices start at $559 midweek, $619 weekends. A similar package at the resort’s Minerals Hotel and Elements Spa runs $319 midweek, $419 weekends.
This winter and spring, Reflections is offering Spa & Pool Daycations ($195) that include $175 in spa credits; $50 in lunch, drinks or retail credit; a day pass to the Biosphere pool; and a self-guided wine-cellar tour. The Elements Daycation package is $175, available Monday-Thursday through June 29.
Exhale Spa and BathhouseExhale Spa and Bathhouse at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City offers special pricing every Tuesday and Thursday on its 50-minute Fusion Massage and True Facial treatment (each $140); Hot Towel Exfoliation treatment ($25); and CBD oil add-on ($40).
Spa ToccareSpa Toccare at the Borgata in Atlantic City offers seasonal specials on facials and massages. January’s special is an LED facial and seasonal body wrap.
Sojo Spa ClubSojo Spa Club in Edgewater is a destination spa where you can idle away a winter’s day enjoying heated outdoor pools and baths; saunas and therapy rooms; a Korean body scrub; and other treatments. Midweek admission starts at $70 a day; check online for monthly midweek specials on all-day admissions and specific treatments.
Each week of January offers a special deal, such as 10 percent off foot massages and shiatsu massages. Visit the website for details.
Want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey? Check out more tips and tricks for saving on everything from entertainment to your taxes in the Garden State.
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Want to look luxe for less? At Duet Curated Consignment in Livingston, this chic ensemble comes in at 67 percent below retail price. Photo by Rebecca Handler; styling by Susan Brierly Bush; hair & makeup by Sharon Royce; wardrobe & jewelry courtesy of Duet Consignment (Dolce & Gabbana dress; Generation Love jacket; Aspinal of London bag).
Bargains await the clever New Jersey shopper willing to do a little legwork to find the best deals.
If you’re ready to navigate the world of more-for-less shopping, explore consignment shops and thrift stores.
Consignment stores typically carry designer merchandise in perfect or lightly used condition. Items are often sold for one-third to one-half of retail—and don’t forget to ask about becoming a consignor.
Thrift stores, which might contribute proceeds to charities, carry an array of donated merchandise and are not as choosy about labels.
Fabulous finds at surprising prices can also be found at warehouse sales, trunk shows and estate sales. Just do a little research, jump in your car and go!
Have a favorite shop? Join their email list for rewards, coupons and notices of upcoming sales.
THRIFT STORESBargain Box Thrift BoutiqueSales of upscale clothing, gently used tableware, bric-a-brac and linens help support Morristown Medical Center.
1117 Mt. Kemble Avenue, Morristown; 908-766-0745
Habitat for Humanity RestoresLarge inventories of furniture, décor and household items await.
Locations at the Randolph, Fairfield, Manville, Wayne, Washington, Westwood, Freehold and Hamilton stores.
Hope ChestShop for women’s and men’s clothing and home décor, with proceeds funding the Center for Hope Hospice.
26 Prospect Street, Westfield; 908-233-9973
Junior League of Summit Thrift ShopCommunity initiatives are supported through sales of new and used women’s, men’s and kids’ clothing, toys, decorative items, housewares and small furniture.
37 DeForest Avenue, Summit; 908-273-7344
Market Street Mission Thrift StoreThis large warehouse sells furniture, home décor, and women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing. Proceeds from Morristown, Asbury Park and Newton locations benefit community services.
973-538-0427
Second Chance ShopSales of housewares, clothing, jewelry, books and furniture support the Matheny hospital and school for children and adults with developmental disabilities.
4 Church Street, Gladstone; 908-234-2016
CONSIGNMENT SHOPSAct ll ConsignmentThis long-lived shop is loaded with women’s clothing, costume jewelry, shoes, handbags, and household and gift items.
274 Main Avenue, Stirling; 908-626-1600
B. Savvy Consignment & Accessory BoutiqueYou’ll find designers like Prada, Gucci, Louboutin and Chanel on the racks of this popular, high-end shop.
176 Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland; 973-226-8800
DoubleTake Consignment BoutiqueWhy not support sustainable luxury by giving hand-selected and authenticated clothing and accessories a new life?
800 Morris Turnpike, Suite 105, Short Hills; 973-564-6464
Deja Vu NJ ConsignmentPre-owned women’s clothing collections include designer looks in shoes, accessories and prom dresses.
624 Arnold Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach; 732-899-2020
The longtime Livingston shop Duet offers luxurious items for a fraction of the cost. Photo courtesy of Duet Curated Consignment
Duet Curated ConsignmentFor 30 years, Duet has been a go-to for designer goods and fine jewelry.
79 S. Livingston Avenue, Livingston; 973-535-1133
E Designer ResaleEdited couture includes Louis Vuitton and Hermès, all authenticated in like-new condition.
720 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park; 201-943-3401
FLIP ConsignmentSporting goods and dance gear are abundant here: skis, snowboards, bikes, baseball, hockey, golf, ballet, cheer and more.
1279 Springfield Avenue, New Providence; 908-898-0080
Greene StreetThis sustainable shopping alternative offers mid- to high-end labels in a modern setting.
Locations in Lambertville, Princeton and Red Bank; 732-268-7913
New Leaf ConsignmentThis upscale shop, known for designer fashion and accessories at thrift-store prices, reduces prices often.
16 Park Avenue, Madison; 973-377-2422
One Savvy Design Consignment ShopOwned by a seasoned New York City fashion pro, this shop sells authenticated new and gently used top designer looks for less.
629B Valley Road, Upper Montclair; 973-744-0053
Plato’s ClosetHere, a host of name-brand shoes, clothing and accessories for girls, sizes 13-24.
Stores in Ledgewood, Fairfield, Edison, Middletown, Princeton, Maple Shade, Deptford; 973-970-9828
Quality ConsignmentsLike-new designer and boutique brands of women’s clothing and accessories, including Dior, Jimmy Choo and Valentino.
908 Main Street, Boonton; 973-334-0151
Squan Dry GoodsA huge selection of funky wardrobe options—from dresses to Doc Martens—awaits at this boho-style consignment shop.
75 Main Street, Manasquan; 732-612-3258
Taylor’s Consignment ShopA Morris County favorite, this store is loaded with women’s clothing and home decor at reasonable prices.
752 Speedwell Avenue, Morris Plains; 973-267-1919
The CollectiveHot looks in clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories are offered at unexpected prices. Inventory changes continually.
101 Summit Avenue, Summit; 908-376-9277
Want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey? Check out more tips and tricks for saving on everything from entertainment to your taxes in the Garden State.
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The holiday hit Hip Hop Nutcracker, known for its revolutionary remix of a traditional ballet, celebrates its 10th season this year.
The original New Jersey Performing Arts Center show, which tours nationally, is distinguished by its contemporary hip-hop choreography set to the Nutcracker’s classic score by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It also includes a unique plot that emphasizes the holiday-spirited show’s themes of love, family and community, says director and choreographer Jennifer Weber. The show takes place on Saturday, December 17, at 2 pm (buy tickets on NJPAC’s website).
Top-tier talent will take the stage this season, including New York rapper Kurtis Blow, one of hip-hop’s founding fathers, who has also been dubbed America’s Christmas rapper for his hit song, “Christmas Rappin’” (1979).
“Every year it gets stronger,” says Weber, the founder of Manhattan-based dance company Decadance Theatre. She says the idea to mix the two drastically different genres together came to her after she was asked, ‘How do you make hip-hop vulnerable?’ Her answer? Take away hip-hop music, which has a steady beat, and replace it with classical scores, which have a more unpredictable sound.
“I think the hip-hop movement makes you hear the classical music in a totally new way, and the classical music makes you see the hip-hop choreography in a totally different way,” she says.
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As gamblers occupied tables and slots at Atlantic City’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Saturday night, a vastly different scene unfolded within the site’s Etess Arena.
There, the sounds of slot machines were drowned out by the rhythmic guitars and famous harmonies of the Beach Boys, who delivered good vibrations with a festive twist. The band’s current iteration, led by lead singer and original co-founder Mike Love, stopped in New Jersey on its “‘Tis the Season” tour, which features the Holiday Vibrations Orchestra.
The performance, a 35-song set with an intermission, included some of the Beach Boys’ most popular hits, such as “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” “I Get Around,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Kokomo” and “Good Vibrations.” But the group, which first rose to fame in the early 1960s—albeit with a vastly different roster of members—also paused the nostalgia for holiday classics throughout the concert. With takes on “White Christmas,” “Jingle Bell Rock” and “Frosty the Snowman,” as well as originals like “Little Saint Nick,” the Beach Boys blended their expected fun-in-the-sun style with seasonal tunes fit for a crisp December evening.
The show was a reminder that the city referred to as America’s Playground has more to offer than just betting and gaming during the winter, when the cold weather leaves Atlantic City’s beaches and historic Boardwalk rather empty (often resulting in discounted hotel rates!). In addition to boasting delicious restaurants and other entertainment options in the casino resorts, the area attracts an array of famous bands, musicians and comedians—even when temperatures drop.
[RELATED: Is Atlantic City Finally On a Roll?]
Below are just some of the acts and holiday celebrations coming to Atlantic City’s casinos while it’s too chilly to enjoy the sand and surf.
Hard Rock’s Etess Arena holds 7,000 people at full capacity. Photo courtesy of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino* December 9–10: Greta Van Fleet * December 30–31: Earth, Wind & Fire * February 10–11: Def Leppard & Mötley Crüe * February 16–18: Billy Strings * March 16: The Killers
Borgata December 10: Nikki Glaser * December 10: Jerry Seinfeld * January 14: Dancing With the Stars* – 2023 Live * January 15: Sidewalk Angels featuring Rob Thomas * January 28: Whitney Cummings * March 3: Smokey Robinson
Caesars Atlantic City December 17: Atlantic City Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker * March 11: Patti LaBelle * March 26: Atlantic City Ballet Presents: Midsummer Night’s Dream*
Ocean Casino Resort* December 11: Cirque Dreams Holidaze * December 30: Duran Duran * February 25: Elvis Costello
Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City* December 8-11: Santa’s Christmas Wonderland * January 21: Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular
Tropicana Atlantic City* March 25: Chaka Khan
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Looking for fun this December? Check out these events and activities happening all over New Jersey.
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There are plenty of fun food and drink events happening in New Jersey this month, including wine dinners and holiday celebrations.
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The Center for Educational Advancement (CEA), which assists students and adults with disabilities, will hold its 30th annual 5K fundraiser this Thanksgiving.
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There are plenty of fun food and drink events happening this month, including a fall chili cook-off in East Rutherford and a brunch fundraiser in Atlantic City.
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Looking for ways to enjoy New Jersey this November? Check out these events, including colorful comedy and spectacular shows.
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The Atlantic City Tattoo Expo, which takes place in early November, has come a long way since its 2001 debut.
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Searching for our state's notable dead may seem macabre, but these graveyards offer up history, art, serene landscapes and even poetry.
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Bring Fido along on all these fall adventures, from pumpkin picking to camping.
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Deb Belfatto built an intensive symposium to educate and inform women about their health. It's happening at NJPAC on Saturday, October 15.
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There are plenty of fun food and drink events in New Jersey this October, including Halloween parties and beer pairings.
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Find frights and delights all over New Jersey as Halloween nears.
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From Oktoberfest celebrations to family-friendly events, the Garden State has a plethora of fun fall happenings.
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From the scenic hiking trails of South Mountain Reservation to the fascinating ecosystem of the Great Swamp, there's plenty to see and do close to home.
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Guests can traverse the Watchung Reservation—a verdant, 2,000-acre preserve in Union County—on horseback while learning about local wildlife.
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Board a historic passenger train in Phillipsburg, ride along the Delaware River and arrive at an interactive mining exhibit.
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People come from as far away as France to gaze at the stunning Great Falls. Plus, there's an abundance of fabulous Middle Eastern cuisine to try.
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Take a trek through the Great Swamp, where woodlands, grasslands, brooks and ponds provide a habitat for a wealth of aquatic life, birds and mammals.
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New Jersey's capital city offers the kind of deep-dish American history you can only find in a few U.S. cities. (And don't forget about its thin-crust pizza!)
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Put on your walking shoes and hike to Hemlock Falls, a 25-foot-high cascade in the heart of the 2,110-acre wooded oasis.
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Looking for ways to enjoy New Jersey this October? Check out these events, including autumnal activities and eclectic art shows.
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Step aside, pumpkin-spice lattes! These popular local breweries are pouring seasonal lagers, ales and stouts.
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The Maine-based nonprofit is performing, and hosting a clinic, at Richard J. Codey Ice Arena on October 1.
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Looking for ways to enjoy New Jersey this September? Check out these events, including autumnal activities and iconic comedic acts.
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The beloved festival brings iconic musicians, surfers and so much more to the Jersey Shore every September.
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Dig into delicious festivals, markets and more happening statewide.
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Head to Huddy Park from August 5–7 to support a hardworking bayside town.
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Looking for ways to enjoy New Jersey this August? Check out these events, including hilarious comedy acts and superstar concerts.
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The longstanding Garden State tradition in Readington boasts about 100 hot-air balloon ascensions—plus live music, rides, fireworks, food and a 5K.
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The 80th annual expo will showcase pedigrees and feature adoptable animals.
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There are plenty of fun food and drink events in New Jersey this July, including a pop-up picnic, a cookie-eating contest and more.
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BBQ, booze and tunes by the beach—what could be better?
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The festival has become a fixture in Essex County, annually featuring local and national musical acts, 75+ arts and food vendors, and thousands of attendees.
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The County College of Morris in Randolph will display the Vietnam War Moving Wall Memorial from July 7-11.
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The Peach Truck sources its peaches from Georgia and South Carolina and also offers salsas, jams, hot sauce and more.
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Looking for ways to enjoy New Jersey this July? Then check out these events, including hilarious comedy acts and superstar concerts.
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Whether you're traveling to the beach or staying inland this Fourth of July, there are plenty of places to celebrate the holiday in New Jersey.
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The recreational complex is a special place for people with special needs.
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The pandemic forced the Independence Day celebration to take a two-year hiatus, but Oceanfest is ready for a blast in Long Branch.
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Enrique Vega, a Trenton native, runs Cowboys BBQ & Rib Co. out of Fort Worth, Texas, with his wife, Lauren.
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New Jersey is planning a number of Juneteenth celebrations this weekend. The holiday commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States.
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Flemington native Nate Cooper always loved to make people laugh, but never realized that one day he’d become a professional clown.
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Want to do something special for your dad this Father's Day? A number of New Jersey restaurants are celebrating the holiday.
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Revel in the Garden State's hottest celebrations of music, food, arts and more.
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The Show Place, a Beach Haven institution renowned for its in-store performances, can send waitstaff to serenade locals—anywhere on the island.
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Enjoy decadent scoops at these top-notch spots around the Garden State.
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With wine dinners, events celebrating different cultures, and more, there are plenty of fun food and drink events in New Jersey this June.
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Green Gables Croquet Club in Sea Girt, celebrating 65 years, invites the public to play a free game of golf croquet this June.
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Looking for different ways to enjoy NJ this June? We've got you covered with a variety of events, including comedy shows, concerts and more.
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Fun food truck festivals are popping up all over New Jersey between June and September.
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