Dan Zarrow Presents 6 ‘WOW’ Spring Weekend Getaways in NJ

Happy Spring, New Jersey! As the weather gets warmer, we are all thinking about Spring Break. Or spring vacations. Or spring flings. Or really any way to ease that insufferable Spring Fever!

I'm sure you will not be surprised to know there are countless ways to enjoy springtime right here in New Jersey. From Sussex to Cape May, from Hoboken to Camden, there is something for everyone across our 21 counties. And the best part: You don't have to travel far to go on a truly 'WOW'-worthy mini-adventure.

In case you need some help getting inspired for your Garden State getaway, our friends at VisitNJ.org have created a set of itineraries perfect for planning a spring weekend escape. I want to highlight some of my favorites: two from North Jersey, two from Central Jersey, and two from South Jersey. (Remember, this is just a small sampling of the trip suggestions across all corners of the state.)

This article is part of a special series brought to you by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism.

Nature and Fun

In the daily grind, the hustle and bustle in New Jersey's suburbs and cities, it is easy to forget that our state teems with natural beauty, wide open spaces, and fresh air.

The Camp & Connect with Nature in The Skylands itinerary will take you to Great Divide Campground in Newton, Sussex County. Your camping experience may range from rustic to full utilities to cozy cabin trailers.

The campground's private lake allows for fishing and boating, plus they have a full activities calendar and playground for families of all sizes and ages.

Golfing and Spa-ing

A classic luxury getaway is perfect for couples or older families, for play and/or pampering.

Head to Crystal Springs Resort for the extravagant Golfing & Spa-ing at Crystal Springs Resort itinerary. The Northeast's largest golf resort features six high-class courses, catering to beginner and advanced golfers. Then go from shouting "fore" to saying "ahh" as you relax at Reflections Spa at Grand Cascades Lodge or award-winning Elements Spa at Minerals Hotel. Both options have numerous package options available for solos, couples, besties, and more.

Don't sleep on the incredible food options here, too. Coming up May 2-4 is The New Jersey Food & Wine Festival.

Legends and Lore

New Jersey is full of quaint downtown areas that really make a community vibrant and alive. And Princeton has always been one of my favorites.

There is so much history to explore in this picturesque Mercer County town, which you can unlock through the Discover Legends and Lore in Princeton itinerary. Walk the hallowed grounds of Princeton University, New Jersey's only Ivy League institution. Then follow in Washington's footsteps on the hallowed grounds of Princeton Battlefield State Park. You might even be able to tour Drumthwacket, the official residence of the NJ Governor. (Currently only available on Wednesdays, with advance registration required.)

End your day with a great show at McCarter Theatre, raise a glass at Triumph Brewing Company, and spend the night at the purely Princetonian Nassau Inn.

Culture and Food

Many New Jerseyans know New Brunswick as the home of Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. And there is so much to see and do on the banks of the old Raritan.

The Go on a Culture & Foodie Trip to New Brunswick itinerary showcases the variety of performing arts venues within easy walking distance of each other. The 1,850-seat State Theatre New Jersey offers a full lineup of world-class shows, concerts, and special events. Just next door, George Street Playhouse is a smaller venue featuring established and emerging theatre artists. And, on the Rutgers campus, the Mason Gross School of the Arts boasts more than 500 live events each year — clearly offering something for everyone.

For those hungry for a good meal, you'll find a wide variety of amazing options in New Brunswick. The Frog and The Peach features a refined dinner menu of tasty appetizers, entrees ranging from beef to fish, delectable desserts, and a renowned Sunday Brunch. Or relive your college days with an infamous fat sandwich, or maybe a BOLI and Fishbowl at Stuff Yer Face.

Wine and More

Among the coastal plains and pine trees of South Jersey, the winery/brewery/distillery scene is flourishing.

Following along the Raise a Glass to a South Jersey Sip Trip itinerary, you might visit Renault Winery in Egg Harbor City, one the oldest continuously-operating wineries in the country. Tomasello Winery has tasting rooms across the state, but their home and vineyard is in Hammonton. Or drive down the Cape May peninsula to taste some Lighthouse Blush and enjoy some tapas at the scenic Cape May Winery and Vineyard.

There are more than 178 sippable spots to stop throughout the state. And what I love about this Raise a Glass to a South Jersey Sip Trip itinerary is that you can easily pair it with any of the other 3-day road trips, such as the American Revolution, Scenic Byways, Black Heritage, or Anthony Bourdain Food Trail tours.

Luck and Luxury

For over a century, Jersey locals and visitors from afar have flocked to the resort town of Atlantic City for gaming, dining, entertaining, and relaxing. And Spring is a perfect time to enjoy the seaside destination before the summertime crowds swell.

The Feel Lucky and Luxe-y in Atlantic City itinerary lays out plans for a perfect day trip, date night, or Spring weekend getaway. Obviously, there are countless things to do. And the best part — you will find options at all price points.

Try your luck at slots, blackjack, or roulette at Hard Rock Casino or Golden Nugget. Devour a delicious meal at Old Homestead Steak House at Borgata, Dock's Oyster House, or the infamous Knife & Fork Inn. Relax at Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars or Exhale Spa + Bathhouse at Ocean Casino Resort. Soak in the nightlife at The Quarter at Tropicana. Shop 'til you drop at Tanger Outlets. And spend time with the family at Steel Pier, Island Waterpark, or Absecon Lighthouse.