5 Star Places To Visit in New Jersey, United States (50)
5.0Grounds For Sculpture(1.938 reviews) - Amazing covid safe garden Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Parks
The perfect day trip! Grounds For Sculpture (GFS), located in Hamilton, New Jersey (midway between Philadelphia and New York), is a forty-two acre not-for-profit sculpture park and arboretum founded by Seward Johnson. Its collection features more than 270 contemporary sculptures by renowned and emerging artists. Rotating exhibitions in six indoor galleries. With rich educational offerings, a robust schedule of performing arts, and fun family events, the park is open year-round. Shopping and dining options complement every visit. Members receive free admission year-round plus a host of other benefits. For hours, admission prices, membership information, and a calendar of events, visit us online at http://www.groundsforsculpture.org.See more..
5.0Cape May County Park & Zoo(1.630 reviews) - Awesome Zoo Thursday: 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Zoos
Have a wild time as you explore more than 85 acres of beautifully maintained exhibits. With 200 different species of mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles and approximately 500 animals, you're sure to see something new. The Cape May County Zoo is open 364 days a year (closed Christmas). Summer Hours: 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Winter Hours: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. beginning November 2nd. No admission fee. That's right! The zoo is free of charge! Donations are GREATLY appreciated! Join the FUN, where the admission is always FREE!See more..
5.0Pinelands Adventures(1.187 reviews) - Another Great Adventure on the Water! Thursday: Eco Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Self-Guided Tours & Rentals • Kayaking & Canoeing
Last year we could only come with 16 due to Covid (see last year's review). This year I organized a Meetup group of 32! We did the same Batso River trip. Allsion was great again giving me a web link so that everyone could pay themselves and made sure everyone signed their waivers and was flexible with replacements of a couple of people who dropped out last minute. Two kayakers had difficulty with the current and the multiple bends and the debris in the river but eventually figured it out. We stopped at the beach for lunch and even though the weather was not as good as last year we had an unforgettable experience. One of us had a drone and took some great pictures, some of which I will add.See more..
*Hours subject to change* Competitive axe throwing is a well known Canadian past time that's becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Simply put, it's like playing a game of darts, except with axes! At Bury The Hatchet you'll experience the thrill of launching an axe at a wooden target in a safe and fun environment. You and your best mates will spend two hours becoming intimate with a 1.5lb piece of whirling wood and metal as you learn, practice, and then finally square off toe-to-toe in a group tournament.See more..
5.0Princeton University(1.004 reviews) - Chancellor Green Library at Princeton University is Stunning! Educational sites
The ivy league campus is ideal for a stroll, where some interesting buildings may be visited.See more..
5.0Amazing Escape Room Freehold(988 reviews) - Fun and Challenging Thursday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
*Hours subject to change* Guests work together to solve problems, uncover clues, and crack codes in order to progress as a team. You and your team have 60 minutes to escape the room. Each room has a storyline that you’ll be introduced to upon entering, along with basic instructions on what you’ll need to uncover to escape.See more..
5.0Bury the Hatchet Paramus - Axe Throwing(965 reviews) - We got great support from the staff. With young children the whole experience is scary but the staff were great. They al Thursday: 12:15 PM - 9:15 PM Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers
*Hours subject to change* Experience the thrill of throwing an axe at a wooden target at Bury The Hatchet. All of our indoor axe throwing ranges have multiple lanes, where customers get a one of a kind experience in a fun urban setting. In between turns you can watch from the sidelines and enjoy a drink with your friends.See more..
*Hours subject to change* Competitive axe throwing is a well known Canadian past time that's becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Simply put, it's like playing a game of darts, except with axes! At Bury The Hatchet you'll experience the thrill of launching an axe at a wooden target in a safe and fun environment. You and your best mates will spend two hours becoming intimate with a 1.5lb piece of whirling wood and metal as you learn, practice, and then finally square off toe-to-toe in a group tournament.See more..
5.0Princeton Tour Company(817 reviews) - Our Walking Tour of Princeton Thursday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM Cultural Tours • Ghost & Vampire Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Literary, Art & Music Tours • Walking Tours
We loved the tour. Jennifer made us almost forget the heat (and it was hot). She has a great demeanor, presenting the information using relatable vernacular and she was so funny. Loved her. Did not think we would learn so much about Princeton but we sure did. If all of the guides are like her then this company is truly blessed. And if not, I hope a lot of tours are given by Jennifer.See more..
5.0Amazing Escape Room Princeton(752 reviews) - Medium room Thursday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Escape Games
*Hours subject to change* Guests work together to solve problems, uncover clues, and crack codes in order to progress as a team. You and your team have 60 minutes to escape the room. Each room has a storyline that you’ll be introduced to upon entering, along with basic instructions on what you’ll need to uncover to escape.See more..
5.0Princeton University Art Museum(730 reviews) - a truly memorable experience Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Art Museums
The Princeton University Art Museum is one of the nation's finest art museums, housing collections of over 72 ,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years of world history and all the world's major cultures. The Museum also presents special exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year. Admission is free. The main Museum building is closed for construction of our new Museum, designed by architect Sir David Adjaye and anticipated to open in late 2024. While we build a new Art Museum for Princeton, visit us downtown–in two galleries that feature changing exhibitions and in our retail store, which offers handcrafted, artisanal works and much more.See more..
5.0Lakota Wolf Preserve(668 reviews) - Fun and extremely informative! Nature & Wildlife Areas
After visiting our local zoo and loving the few wolves there that were sleeping, I took my little grandchildren to Lakota, mostly to observe the wolves. They were a little disappointed not to be able to touch these (although we knew they are wild animals, and even our pet dogs nip sometimes). They got quite a kick out of the united howling, and how the beautiful wolves come to Jim, the owner of the preserve and our guide, for snacks. It was a bit cold so the children got antsy during some of the educational experience. As much as we loved learning about the wolves, maybe that could've been done as we're walking deeper into the preserve. Very reasonably-priced, hard to figure how the could afford the lovingly immaculate upkeep on what the visitors pay, even with government subsidies. Well worth the visit; we hope to return this Spring or next.See more..
IMPORTANT: OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT US FOR AVAILABILITY WITHOUT VISITING OUR WEBSITE FIRST for complete schedule information. Closed Sundays. Again, OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Fleece and Fun for Everyone! Jersey Shore Alpacas is a small, friendly farm located in Green Creek, just north of Cape May, NJ (about 3 hours from NYC). Please see our website for more information on visiting the farm. :) You'll love meeting our curious alpacas and browsing in our shop for soft, warm alpaca clothing and cuddly toys! We also carry more than 20 different types of alpaca yarn from Blue Sky Fibers, Alpaca Yarn Company, and farm yarn (when available). We also host occasional adult craft classes in knitting, needle felting, and wet felting! Hope to see you soon!See more..
5.0Hoboken Waterfront Walkway(636 reviews) - Don't miss this view! Thursday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Scenic Walking Areas
This view never gets old. We only get to visit here every couple years but visitors that come to NYC never get to see this spectacular view of the city from Hoboken. After a great meal in Hoboken, this was a great walk to end a wonderful evening. The city of Hoboken has done a great job with this river walk.See more..
Garwood's original real life PRIVATE Escape Game Experience (Never Play with Strangers!). Escapology is located in a prime spot next to Crunch Fitness in the Garwood Mall, up to 8 players will be challenged in this new attraction by working together to find clues, solve puzzles, and pick locks that will free them from the game room. Do you have what it takes to escape? Open every day, book your corporate team building, birthday party, date night or event with us today! Catering available along with our private party/meeting room and large event lounge for any size event. Contact us today or visit our website to book your escape game today!See more..
*Hours subject to change* Competitive axe throwing is a well known Canadian past time that's becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Simply put, it's like playing a game of darts, except with axes! At Bury The Hatchet you'll experience the thrill of launching an axe at a wooden target in a safe and fun environment. You and your best mates will spend two hours becoming intimate with a 1.5lb piece of whirling wood and metal as you learn, practice, and then finally square off toe-to-toe in a group tournament.See more..
*Hours subject to change* Guests work together to solve problems, uncover clues, and crack codes in order to progress as a team. You and your team have 60 minutes to escape the room. Each room has a storyline that you’ll be introduced to upon entering, along with basic instructions on what you’ll need to uncover to escape.See more..
5.0Adventure Rooms(436 reviews) - Fun night out!! Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
Take on some of the most famous, award winning, room escape events in the world. Your goal is simple... complete the Adventure Rooms challenge in less than 60 minutes! Can you solve your way to victory?See more..
5.0Human Village Brewing Co(353 reviews) - FUn and smaCK in the middle of town, ANTIpasto was FAntastic! Spent 2-3 hours Breweries
Humankind’s origins lie within the Village. The Village allowed for the creation of civilization, the specialization of roles and trades, and a gathering place to share ideas. Beer is a beverage of gathering with origins as old as the Village itself. Beer was crafted from the simple raw elements that sustained us: water, grain, and the fire's heat.See more..
5.0Escape Garden State(350 reviews) - Great Fun Thursday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
Real-life escape games featuring New Jersey themes. Groups of 2-8 people are able to immerse themselves in authentic experiences as they count down the time left on the clock. Book your reservation now, and see if you can Escape the Garden State!See more..
5.0Sea the City Jet Ski & Hot Tub Boat Tours(301 reviews) - Hot Tub Boat - Absolute BEST experience in NYC ever!! Thursday: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Waterskiing & Jetskiing • Sightseeing Tours
Just had the most amazing and magical sunset hot tub boat with @seathecity on the Hudson. I have worked for Disneyland for 34 years so I have a high standard for “magical”. This exceeded magical and I cried a few times looking at the sunset over the city and Lady Liberty. I highly recommend this tour at 4:00 to see the sunset blend into night. Just....pure magic.See more..
5.0Gun For Hire Shooting Range(261 reviews) - Really great experience Thursday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Shooting Ranges
Want to shoot? Just stop in! We have everything you need. Just bring your ID. We have earned a 6 star rating and have been voted NJ's Best of the Best of the Best. We have 44 indoor ports both 25 and 50 yard, over 300 guns for rent, comfortable lounge, and an incomparable family environment. 8 years old and up can shoot! We are located 15 miles from NYC, New York City. We have an indoor Firing Range, Gun Range, and Pistol Range. Many tourists visit us and all you need is a friend and a government ID like a passport or a drivers license. We have a huge selection of firearms and the best instructors. All are welcome to come and try your skill and scratch another one off the bucket list. NO appointment needed, just walk right in and have a blast. We supply it all, ammunition (bullets), eye and ear protection and targets. We have the cleanest safe environment and we offer instruction cards in 15 languages. Beginners all love us!See more..
Bury the Hatchet’s warehouse-style space is expressly for ax-throwing. First, instructors lead one-on-one safety lessons before the two-hour sessions get underway. Bury the Hatchet works tournament-style, letting groups of up to 12 players compete against each other in knockout rounds. Those who take a liking to the sport can go on to perfect their skills in of Bury the Hatchet’s leagues!See more..
The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is built on the highest peak in Newark next to Branch Brook Park. The French Gothic Cathedral covers 45,000 square feet, an area equal to that of London’s Westminster Abbey, and is longer and taller than St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Built over a 55-year period, beginning at the turn of the century, the land was purchased in 1871 for $60,000. The cost, initially estimated at $1 million, soon rose to $18 million. Most of the money was raised through large donations and church collections throughout the Archdiocese. The edifice was dedicated on October 19, 1954. The title of "Sacred Heart" honors Jesus Christ's love for humanity. He made the human face of God's love present in Galilee. The same love reached out to us here and now. We invite you to allow the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart to lead you in prayer and to deepen your own faith, hope, and love.See more..
5.0Princeton Public Library(203 reviews) - An Outstanding Bookstore Thursday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Libraries
The Princeton Public Library is a very attractive building, inside and out. It is located in the "heart" of Princeton, not too far from Nassau Street. We easily found metered parking just a block away. Being from out-of-town, we were not there to take out any materials. Rather, I was there to look at their donated books that were for sale. And, their Bookstore is outstanding. Just outside the physical Bookstore were several tables of $1 books. Inside, books for sale are nicely displayed by subject matter. This Bookstore is terrific (I have been in many). They have a neat machine that in addition to checking out books permits you to renew materials and pay any outstanding fines.See more..
*Hours subject to change* Competitive axe throwing is a well known Canadian past time that's becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Simply put, it's like playing a game of darts, except with axes! At Bury The Hatchet you'll experience the thrill of launching an axe at a wooden target in a safe and fun environment.See more..
The Escape Game is a live 60-minute adventure. You and your team will select a challenge and will have one hour to complete your mission and escape. We offer several unique experiences, all happening in a completely immersive environment. You may be in prison planning an escape, on the hunt for gold or in a museum stealing back a piece of art.See more..
5.0The Fudge Shoppe(169 reviews) - Great customer service Thursday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops
The Fudge Shoppe was founded in 1961 by Allen and Anna Burry. A local staple, The Shoppe has now been in Flemington, NJ for over 50 years and currently has three generations of the family working as well as many other employees. The Fudge Shoppe continues to be the best chocolate around, continuing its great traditions while working on creating new products. We hope you enjoy!See more..
Experience movies, live music, talks, and performance in one cool theater. Dine in on local comfort food. Hopewell Theater is a spectacular live venue with State-of-the-art projection, lighting and sound.See more..
5.0Princeton University Chapel(161 reviews) - Princeton University Chapel Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Churches & Cathedrals
Princeton University's Chapel is amazing! The word 'chapel' conjures up the image of a small space for quiet reflection and prayer. While it is quiet, as it should be, it is anything but small. The chapel is beautiful and very large. Built around 1920 I believe and in the collegiate gothic style as many of Princeton's building are it is a wonderful place to visit if you are in Princeton. Just a short walk, maybe 100 yards into the campus from Nassau Street, you will come to the front entrance. When inside turn around to see the huge pipe organ in the balcony above the entrance. Christmas concerts there are amazing! Very cool place that is worth the visit especially if you like gothic architecture.See more..
5.0Valenzano Family Winery(160 reviews) - Great place, atmosphere. Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards
Since 1996 when we made our first commercial batch of wine, our family has grown our passion into our livelihood. Today, we are one of the east coast’s largest wine producers, and many would say its most popular. Our wines have won double gold medals from the Indy International Wine Competition, Fingerlakes International Wine Competition along with the NJ Governor’s Cup and dozens of prestigious awards. Based in Shamong, New Jersey, in the center of the Pine Barrens, Valenzano Winery maintains 88 acres of farms where we proudly grow our vineyards. We also look locally and nationally, sourcing the freshest and finest fruits imaginable to craft world-class wines that taste best when paired with the right foods and friends. From a hobby to a reputed winery, visit us and hear our story. Join us for a tasting and to learn more about our wines, our winery, and our approach to winemaking.See more..
5.0Bridge Marina(151 reviews) - A PERFECT DAY ON THE LAKE! Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Boat Rentals
Renting a pontoon boat at Bridge Marina was the perfect experience for me and my family! We were greeted by a really nice employee named, Joe. He was super attentive and made us all feel very comfortable and welcome. I told him it was my first time taking a boat out and he was patient, thorough, and both funny and professional. The boat itself was a beautiful luxury pontoon and my family loved how comfortable it was and the Bluetooth audio system was an awesome touch to enjoy music out on the water. It was a perfect day on the lake and Bridge Marina was the perfect choice to rent from. We can’t wait to come back! Thanks a lot guys!See more..
5.0Hamilton Park(149 reviews) - Hands down the best view of NYC Historic Sites • Parks
This is where in 1804, Aaron Burr killed Alexander Hamilton.See more..
5.0Holmdel Park(129 reviews) - Amazing park for all ages Thursday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM Parks
We visited here on a unusual cool summer day. Brought our bikes to ride but quickly realized you can't just ride your bike anywhere. The park guards were doing some maintenance and quickly advised us that the only trails for bikes were the on the other side of the road. Regardless, we enjoyed the beautiful park. We were on both playgrounds with our 8 and 6 YO, walked down to and around the pond and crossed to the Longstreet Farm which was so cute and informative!! Loved the restored home and the carriage barn. Kids loved petting the sheep and cows. Pack a picnic basket, grab a blanket and enjoy the green open spaces! LOVE IT!See more..
5.0Last Minute Escape(107 reviews) - A visit to the frozen grove Thursday: 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
Last Minute Escape (formerly Exit Strategy) is a unique, real-time immersive experience unlike anything you've participated in. Recommended for anyone who enjoys a challenge and can use their observation skills and intellect, Exit Strategy quickly becomes the fastest hour you've ever had and the most enjoyable test of wits you've ever faced. The task for each scenario is simple: go in, do the job, find the key, and get out. Do you have what it takes to get out in an hour? Do you have your own Exit Strategy?See more..
The Other Tales - Escape Rooms offers real life mystery adventure games. Our games are an immersive experience, where players become part of the story as they look for clues, solve puzzles and uncover the mystery. Movie-like sets, deep story, and unusual riddles are fun for adults of all ages.See more..
5.0Legendary Exotics(93 reviews) - Incredible day test driving exotic cars! Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
This was a unique and unforgettable experience! Ron was super communicative and helpful when explaining how the use the cars. The “tour the shore” route was incredible and scenic, and also allowed you to fully experience the power of the cars. Would highly recommend for anyone who’s interested a really fun day trying out five exotic vehicles! Pro tip: you can drive the fastest on the highway, which is the first and last car that you get to drive - so choose wisely!See more..
5.0Yestercades(90 reviews) - Some things just don't get old Thursday: 11:30 AM - 12:00 AM Game & Entertainment Centers
What a great place! It's rather small, but packed with all kinds of fun stuff. You can travel around playing for hours without realizing how much time has passed. The only real downside for me was that the party room had some machines I wanted to play and couldn't, because there were back to back parties. We did go on the weekend, will check it out n a weekday next time. Or we could just play that 4 player Pac-Man machine for few hours... FYI, there's a public parking right around the corner on the White St. and many restaurants and small shops all around.See more..
5.0Beyond The Plate Food Tours(88 reviews) - Great experience Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Walking Tours • Private Tours • Food Tours
We had so much fun on this tour. The weather was perfect, and the food was so good. Heather was a great tour guide who gave us some information about the history of jersey city. We really enjoyed being able to sample food and drinks from different restaurant. We also got background information on the restaurants, owners and food. If you are looking to do something different this tour is a MUST DO!!!!See more..
5.0Howling Woods Farm(86 reviews) - Enjoyable Tour At Howling Woods Farm Spent 1-2 hours Farms
Howling Woods Farm, located in Jackson, New Jersey, is a 501(c)(3) educational facility with the primary purpose of teaching visitors about the true nature of wolves. We also rescue and place a limited number of wolfdog hybrids and northern breed canines. You can find us at public events, with our animals, throughout the State of New Jersey. Located in Jackson Township, New Jersey, we are situated on a 10 acre pinewoods forest in the Pinelands National Reserve. Tours by appointment only. Guided walking tours are 1 hour long during which you interact with our wolfdogs while learning about wolves, wolfdogs and our rescue mission.See more..
New Jersey's premium real-life escape game experience! Up to 8 players will be challenged in this new attraction by working together to find clues, solve puzzles, and pick locks that will free them from the game room. Do you have what it takes to escape? Our Holmdel location is located within the iconic Bell Works Building! Endless shopping, restaurants, and entertainment!See more..
5.0Kayak East(84 reviews) - Excellent bang for your buck! Kayaking & Canoeing
I signed up the day before the Kayaking trip which was very easy to do on the Kayak East website. The site asks for your height/weight so the guide can bring the right kayak for you. You can also bring your own kayak if you have one! I paid about $62 for a solo kayak which included a lifejacket and paddle. John brought all the gear and had it prepped and ready for us to go by the time I arrived. We paddled out in a group of about 15 people, some single folks (like me) and some groups. It was a calm day with nice weather but John and Susan helped ensure we were sticking together as a group for safety when crossing the shipping channel. It was quite leisurely but not so slow so I'd recommend it to folks with mixed experience kayaking. I'd definitely kayak again with Kayak East!See more..
5.0Skydive Cross Keys(82 reviews) - Best experience Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Skydiving
What an amazing experience! From start to finish my experience was perfect, the staff was helpful and organized. My tandem jumper Jimmy made my first jump perfect in ever way and my photographer Art was energetic and took some really cool pictures. Thank you both I highly recommend Skydive Cross Keys Thank you Rich DunnetSee more..
White Eagle Hall is a newly restored and renovated historic theater located in the thriving nightlife scene of Downtown Jersey City, New Jersey. White Eagle Hall presents live music, theatre, comedy, dance, film, family shows as well as other performances while serving food and drinks. In addition, White Eagle Hall is a warm and intimate event space perfect for weddings, receptions, private parties.See more..
My wife and I recently visited Washington Lake Park for a walk on a nice weekday afternoon. The park is very well kept and there are many trails and walkways for walking or biking. We often walk in this beautiful place and recommend it highly.See more..
5.0Columbia Trail(67 reviews) - Columbia Trail - Long Valley Access Hiking Trails
Columbia Trail spans 16.5 miles through sections of Morris County, Washington County, and Hunterdon County. We accessed the Columbia Trail in the little historic town of Long Valley. Parking for trail only is located just off Schooley’s Mountain Road next to the Coffee Potter. Columbia Trail is great for biking, hiking or walking.See more..
5.0Words Bookstore(65 reviews) - delightful shop to browse Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops
great book shop knowledgeable staff and well stocked if not they order it and presto you have it in your handsSee more..
5.0Boulevard East(58 reviews) - Perfect location for our NYC visit Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas
John F. Kenneday Boulevard East connects Weehawken, West New York, Guttenberg and North Bergen, New Jersey.See more..
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (formerly called "New Jersey Shakespeare Festival") is one of 25 professional theatres in the state. One of the leading Shakespeare theatres in the nation — serving 100,000 adults and children annually — it is New Jersey's largest professional theatre company dedicated to Shakespeare's canon and other classic masterworks. Through its productions and education programs, the company strives to illuminate the universal and lasting relevance of the classics for contemporary audiences.See more..
Amazing experience! The staff was very friendly and welcoming. They made the whole experience pleasant and comfortable. My instructor was Jim and he was absolutely incredible. He told me exactly what to do and made the dive AMAZING! I participated in the sunset dive and it was breathtaking! The freefall was great but my favorite part was the canopy going up and slowly coming down and seeing the sunset, mountains, and skyline. I did the video package also and my videographer was Shane. The video and pictures came out soooo good and captured the whole experience and more! My friend was able to be there for moral support. I would highly recommend Skydive Sussex and I plan on going again next year.See more..