Things To Do in Central New Jersey: 25+ Fun Ideas for this Weekend

Central New Jersey boasts a wealth of attractions and activities waiting to be explored. From historic landmarks to scenic parks, from charming towns to vibrant cultural venues, this region offers a significant share of the top things to do in New Jersey. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or art enthusiast, Central New Jersey provides diverse experiences that will captivate and delight visitors of all ages and interests.

Visit Farms & Orchards in Central New Jersey

Looking to explore the agricultural side of Central New Jersey? There are several farms and orchards you can visit to experience sustainable practices and fresh produce. This includes Bobolink Dairy in Milford, which offers a unique product line of cheese, meats, and bread made using sustainable methods. You can visit their Hunterdon County farm store (closed Tuesdays), take tours, and enjoy various events during the warmer months.

Cherry Grove Farm, located in Lawrenceville, is known for its award-winning cheeses and ethically raised meats. They provide grass-fed beef, lamb, pork, and artisan cheeses made with raw cow's milk.

For a taste of history, head to English Farm in the Liberty Corner area of Bernards Township, where you can find fresh produce, meats, dairy, and more. Don't miss the chance to see farm animals year-round or enjoy pumpkin picking in one of Somerset County’s best towns.

And if you're in Stockton, be sure to visit Gorgeous Goat Creamery to meet friendly goats and learn about goat milking and cheesemaking on a fun farm tour. Enjoy fresh dairy products and even pet baby goats during the seasonal opportunities.

Eat at Farm-to-Table Restaurants in Central New Jersey

Indulge in farm-fresh flavors at renowned Central New Jersey restaurants prioritizing locally sourced ingredients. Begin your culinary journey at 12 Farms Restaurant in Mercer County, offering a menu featuring grass-fed beef and seasonal seafood. The restaurant also caters to various dietary requirements, offering vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.For artisan bread and pastries made with locally sourced ingredients, visit Bread & Culture in Flemington. Their sourdough creations are a must-try, rooted in farmer's market beginnings.

Explore Brick Farm Market in Hopewell for a casual dining experience, local produce and meats, and insights into nearby Double Brook Farm. You can also head to Brick Farm Tavern for pasture-to-table dining sourced from their 800-acre farm and local partners. This venue also houses Sourland Mountain Spirits, offering handcrafted cocktails and on-site distilled spirits.

Lastly, savor farm-to-table Italian cuisine and an extensive global wine list at Eno Terra in the Kingston area of South Brunswick Township, located on America's oldest highway, for a unique dining experience.

Visit Distilleries in Central New Jersey

Discover the unique craft spirits scene in Central New Jersey by visiting a variety of distilleries showcasing innovative techniques and flavors. The region is home to several of New Jersey’s best distilleries, including Ashton Brewing Company. Located in Middlesex, Ashton Brewing Company offers award-winning beers crafted by NJ's only Master Beer Judge, Steve Ashton. You can savor their brews at the taproom or find them distributed throughout Central Jersey.

Head over to Bellemara Distillery in Hillsborough Township for grain-to-glass spirits that blend traditional Scottish methods and American creativity.Enjoy tastings, cocktails, and tours overlooking the copper stills. Or, if beer is more your thing, head to Flounder Brewing at Carriage Farm, which is conveniently located next door to Bellemara Distillery. Nearby, you’ll find abundant hiking trails in the Sourland Mountain Preserve.

If you want to try some unique beers while remaining in Somerset County, head to Jersey Cyclone Brewing Company. This brewery, founded by lifelong friends Jan and Brian after surviving Hurricane Irene, uses a five-barrel brewhouse to create a diverse range of craft beers.

Finally, Descendants Brewing Company in Milford offers a family-friendly European pub atmosphere where you can enjoy beer brewed with local NJ ingredients and choose from over 270 whiskeys.

Visit Historic Sites in Central New Jersey

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Central New Jersey by exploring its various historic sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the past. Begin your historical journey at the Abraham Staats House in South Bound Brook, a significant site that served as General Headquarters during the Middlebrook Encampment in the 18th century.

Step back in time further at East Jersey Old Town Village and the Cornelius Low House in Piscataway, where you can explore recreated 18th and 19th-century buildings, including a historic Dutch merchant's home built in 1741. For a different perspective, visit the Griggstown Bridge Tender's House in Princeton, a restored 1830s canal house turned visitor center that provides insight into the life of a bridge tender's family and the history of the D&R Canal.

You can also experience farm life from 1890 to 1910 at Howell Living History Farm in Hopewell Township, where family-friendly programs bring the agrarian past to life.

Go Hiking, Biking, and Kayaking in Central New Jersey

Discover the diverse outdoor adventures awaiting you in the central area of the Garden State by hiking, biking, and kayaking through picturesque landscapes and nature reserves. The region is home to many of the top hiking trails in New Jersey, not least of which is the 70-mile walking and biking path along the D&R Canal Towpath. This former canal system, now a state park, meanders alongside the Delaware and Raritan Canal, passing through historic towns.For more nature immersion, visit the D&R Greenway Land Trust, offering 21,000 acres of preserved land with scenic meadows, a labyrinth, and hiking trails. At Duke Farms, explore over 1,000 acres of native species, sustainability initiatives, and natural beauty in one of Hillsborough’s best parks. The estate, once owned by Doris Duke, is fondly called 'NJ's Central Park' and invites visitors to hike, bike, attend events, and enjoy the on-site cafe and market.

For a peaceful retreat, head to Fairview Farm Wildlife Preserve in Bedminster Township to investigate 170 acres of nature trails, a pond, and gardens. Additionally, don't miss the enchanting Leonard J. Buck Gardens in Far Hills, a 33-acre botanical paradise with waterfalls, rock outcroppings, and a variety of native and exotic plants in a serene woodland setting.

Visit Arts and Entertainment Venues in Central New Jersey

In Central New Jersey, experience a vibrant arts and entertainment scene by visiting various venues showcasing diverse cultural experiences. For art classes, exhibits, theater, and concerts, head to the Farmstead Arts Center in Basking Ridge, located on the 40-acre Farmstead Park, where local artists work in a historic farmhouse.

If contemporary art, craft, and design interest you, the Hunterdon Art Museum in Clinton is the place to go, offering over 12 exhibits and 300 art classes annually. For a unique escape, visit Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton Township to explore over 270 contemporary sculptures amidst scenic landscaping.

Visit Outdoor and Nature Places in Central New Jersey

Discover the natural beauty and outdoor wonders of Central New Jersey by exploring various parks and nature reserves in the region. Duke Farms in Hillsborough boasts a year-round bloom of 1,300 vibrant orchids in its Orchid Range, surrounded by a 2,700-acre estate with scenic trails to explore.

Branch Brook Park, one of Newark’s best parks, offers a stunning display of pink and white blooms during the Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival in April. The festival features races, family activities, and BloomFest with food and entertainment.

Richard W. DeKorte Park in the NJ Meadowlands provides a unique experience with a half-mile floating boardwalk through a tidal marsh, ideal for bird watching with NYC skyline views.

Allaire State Park in Farmingdale merges history and nature, offering the Boy Scout Trail with prehistoric sculpture exhibits and Allaire Village, a recreated 19th-century iron town to explore. Allaire State Park is one of the top parks in New Jersey.

High Point State Park in Wantage features NJ's highest peak at 1,803 feet. The New Jersey Veterans' Memorial is located at the top of this peak and provides incredible panoramic views. This memorial is open Wednesday through Sunday during the summer season.

Watch Sports & Games in Central New Jersey

For hockey fans, catch the New Jersey Devils in action at the Prudential Center, one of Newark’s top attractions. Named after the mythical Pine Barrens creature, this team is the only major professional sports team to represent the state in its name. Prepare for intense rivalries with the New York Rangers, the New York Islanders, and the Philadelphia Flyers as you cheer on the Devils.If golf is more your speed, head to the USGA Museum in Far Hills for a unique putting challenge. Test your skills on the Pynes Putting Course, a replica of St. Andrews' Himalayas course, using historic putters and replica balls on greens with challenging slopes and troughs. And don't miss the Far Hills Races in October, a nationally televised steeplechase event that combines horse racing with tailgating and people-watching while supporting local charities. It’s one of the most fun things to do in Somerset County.

Visit Shopping and Wellness Centers in Central New Jersey

Discover the diverse shopping and wellness centers scattered throughout Central New Jersey for a rejuvenating and fulfilling experience. Immerse yourself in the full-on Japanese experience at Mitsuwa Marketplace in Bergen County, where you can wander through aisles filled with unique ingredients and cute character items. Indulge your taste buds at the food court offering delicious options like ramen, katsu, and mochi donuts.

For antique lovers, a trip to Lambertville is a must. Uncover high-end furniture stores or browse through multi-vendor shops for one-of-a-kind treasures. Make sure to visit the Golden Nugget Flea Market, where you can search for hidden gems year-round on weekends and Wednesdays.

Need a break? Thankfully, this area of the state is home to some of the best spas in New Jersey. Head to SoJo Spa in Edgewater, an urban oasis offering a variety of treatments. Relax in saunas, whirlpools, or the rooftop infinity pool with stunning NYC views. Treat yourself to luxurious body treatments or take advantage of midweek spa specials for the ultimate pampering session.

Other Places to Visit in Cental New Jersey

In addition to the shopping and wellness centers, Central New Jersey offers a variety of intriguing places to visit that cater to different interests and preferences. Foodies will enjoy checking out the pizzeria Razza in Jersey City. This restaurant elevates everyday staples by using a 2008 sourdough starter for bread and churning homemade butter.

Island Beach State Park in Lanoka Harbor provides a glimpse of the Jersey Shore's past, where a hike up the dune and north on the beach leads to the historic Judge's Shack, symbolizing the region's fishing heritage. The park is located amid some of the best Jersey Shore towns, so it’s a great place to explore.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's Outdoor Stage in Florham Park presents open-air performances under the stars. Situated at the Saint Elizabeth University campus, this 400-seat theater offers a scenic backdrop for enjoying Shakespearean classics.

These diverse destinations in Central New Jersey promise unique experiences for locals and visitors alike, whether it's savoring artisanal delights, exploring historical sites, or immersing yourself in classic literature.

Have a Fun Day Out in Central New Jersey

So, whether you're looking for a relaxing day outdoors, a taste of local flavors, or a glimpse into history, Central New Jersey has something for everyone. From farm visits to outdoor adventures, there's no shortage of activities to explore in this vibrant region. So pack your bags, grab your friends, and head to Central New Jersey for an unforgettable experience!

Source: Things To Do in Central New Jersey: 25+ Fun Ideas for this Weekend