The Best Fall Getaways in New Jersey

Fall is the ideal time to book a short getaway, especially if you’re interested in fall activities in New Jersey. By the time the leaves start to change, many New Jersey residents have already taken their vacations and are back at work or school. Crowds, an unavoidable aspect of summer vacations, are practically non-existent when you travel during the autumn months.

So, if you have the itch to travel this fall but haven’t chosen a destination yet, consider these best fall getaways in New Jersey. If you decide you want to put down roots in New Jersey, consider consulting Country Classics. We’re renowned NJ builders and can help you realize your residential dreams.

Vernon

Cheap family weekend getaways in NJ can be hard to come by, but not if you know where to look. If you want an affordable getaway, you need to consider Vernon. In Vernon, you can enjoy a classic fall experience, so add a weekend or mid-week visit to your calendar. Popular with skiers, visiting the Sussex County township is just as much fun before the first snowflake falls. The vibrant fall foliage colors provide the backdrop for hikes on the Appalachian Trail, boating at Wawayanda State Park – one of the best fall parks in NJ –or golfing at one of the local courses. After a busy day on the courses or trails enjoying NJ fall activities, eat at one of the area’s highly-rated restaurants, like the Hawk’s Nest at Mountain Creek Resort or The Lamp Post Inn.

For accommodations, consider staying at Alpine Haus Bed and Breakfast Inn, where you won’t have to leave your room to enjoy the changing leaf colors. The inn offers views of the Pochuck Mountains from its rooms and covered porch. The Buttercup Suite, located on the ground level of the Carriage House, features a four-poster queen bed, a Jacuzzi tub, a stone gas fireplace, a sofa bed, and WiFi. Your stay includes a hearty country breakfast and complimentary coffee, tea, and homemade cookies.

Barnegat Light

The weather may be a little too chilly to take a dip in the ocean or bay, but there’s still plenty to do in Barnegat Light in the fall. For starters, you can increase your daily step count by trekking to the top of the Barnegat Lighthouse or trying your hand at fishing off the jetty.

The town’s A. Jerome Walnut Eco Trail is also worth checking out, as it offers scenic ocean views and a closer look at its magnificent dunes. When you’ve worked up an appetite, stop for lunch in one of the borough’s eateries or make the short drive to Long Beach Island for even more restaurant choices.

During your trip to Barnegat Light, we recommend making The Sand Castle Bed & Breakfast or one of Barnegat Light’s other B&Bs your home base while you explore the area. The resort offers six rooms and two suites designed with your comfort in mind. The Sunset Vista Suite features vaulted ceilings, views of the bay and the lighthouse, a two-person jacuzzi, a fireplace, a big-screen TV, a king-size bed, a private entrance, a glass-enclosed marble shower, a sitting area, and a kitchenette.

Stanhope

Stanhope may be small, but it’s perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. When you check into the Whistling Swan Inn, you’ll become an honorary member of this historic borough. Located on a quiet residential street, the inn is just a few blocks from Stanhope’s entertainment and shopping district, including Stanhope House, a popular live music venue.

The European-inspired Walnut Valley Suite, one of nine rooms and suites in the inn, features a king-size bed, gas fireplace, two full baths, a Jacuzzi tub, and robes. The buffet breakfast offers a tasty selection, such as spinach cheddar quiche, lemon pancakes, or cranberry apple French toast.

Additionally, if you’re a history buff, be sure to visit Waterloo Village, a living history site featuring Victorian homes, a recreated Lenape Indian village, a blacksmith shop, and a grist and sawmill. Moreover, if you’re in town on October 27th, don’t miss the village's annual Fall Festival. It's one of the best NJ fall festivals for couples and families visiting the region to attend.

Newton

If peace and serenity are what you crave, Newton, just 90 minutes from Central New Jersey, is an ideal destination. While you’re in the area, hike the Appalachian Trail or one of the many other trails at area state parks or the Delaware Water Gap. You may have the trail all to yourself during this time of year, so you can stop and admire the fall colors in NJ along the trail.

The Newton area offers many other outdoor activities, including fishing, canoeing, boating, or kayaking on local lakes or the Delaware River that you can try if you don’t want to hike. The hilly terrain is ideal for mountain biking or skiing if there’s an early snowstorm. The area also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

The Wooden Duck Inn Bed and Breakfast provides a convenient base for exploring Newton in Sussex County. Set on 14 wooded acres, the house offers beautiful views of the countryside and wildlife. The Canvasback, one of 10 rooms named for duck breeds, features a king sleigh bed, separate sleeping area, two-person soaking tub, flat-screen TV, and electric fireplace. It's a popular suite, so book it early to avoid disappointment.

Mullica Hill

The Best Fall Getaways in New Jersey | Country Classics

Another town perfect for NJ fall weekend getaways is Mullica Hill. Picturesque Mullica Hill is an antique lover’s paradise. The Main Street area is home to over 30 antique shops, including the three-story Old Mill Antique Center. Many New Jersey towns have a few properties on the National Register of Historic Places, but not Mullica Hill. The entire town is a designated historic place. Today, the Civil War-era houses are home to a collection of shops, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Two popular local events – Civil War Weekend and Ghost Walk – will be held from October 12th to October 13th this year. The Civil War Weekend offers a battle reenactment and recreations of Northern and Southern army camps, while the Ghost Walk provides a glimpse into Mullica Hill’s haunted history.

If you’re looking for a scarier Halloween experience, pay a visit to Night of Terror, which offers seven frightening attractions, including Slaughter Cave, Dark Dreams, The Zombie Mayhem, Ride of Terror, Head Hunters, a spooky Cornfield Maze, and the Haunted Paintball Hayride.

If staying in a busy hotel isn’t your idea of a relaxing vacation, check out the Candle House Inn. Located on 33 acres of former farmland, the Inn contains just three beautifully decorated and cozy ensuite guest rooms.

Frenchtown

A walkable downtown area, one-of-a-kind shops, excellent restaurants, and unique bed and breakfasts make Frenchtown a great choice for a getaway. This laidback little town on the Delaware River may be quiet, but you’ll never run out of things to do.

After you shop and enjoy a gourmet meal at a local eatery, work off those calories with a walk or bike ride on the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail. The wooded trail borders the river and offers the perfect vantage point to view the changing leaves colors.

If you’re in town around late October, you may want to join the undead for the Zombie Crawl. During the annual event, participants dress as zombies, roam the town looking for scavenger hunt clues, and finish the day with a dance party. (Makeup is provided for a small fee if you don’t have your own zombie transformation kit.)

At the end of a long day, taking in the sights or terrorizing the town, it’s nice to have a comfortable place to relax and rejuvenate. Frenchtown offers two upscale lodging options for visitors. There is the Widow McCrea House Bed and Breakfast, which features antique furnishings that may make you think you’ve traveled back to 1878 when the Italianate Victorian Inn was built. Although the furnishings may belong in the 19th century, the amenities certainly don’t. The B&B features comfortable guest rooms and suites with private baths, queen-size featherbeds, Jacuzzis, and fireplaces.

Another choice is The National Hotel, established in 1850. It once served as a stagecoach stop for weary travelers, including Annie Oakley. It offers elegantly appointed rooms with king—or queen-size beds and thoughtful amenities, such as Jacuzzis and private porches. The hotel offers an on-site restaurant and a popular bar that often holds karaoke and open mic nights.

Cape May

Do you prefer to forget about your car once you reach your vacation destination? If so, Cape May is one of the best places to visit in NJ in the fall because restaurants, stores, attractions, and the beach are all within walking distance.

Interestingly, unlike other shore towns that offer mile after mile of motels and condos, Cape May features stately Victorian homes and mansions that have been converted to upscale hotels and bed and breakfasts.

Congress Hall, a popular summer retreat for 19th-century Presidents, offers spacious guest rooms and suites, a pool bar, and three restaurants. Located across the street from the beach and just a few blocks from the town’s shopping district, it is ideal for vacationers.

The Southern Mansion, built in 1863, features period furnishings in its rooms and suites. Although you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into the 1800s, the bed and breakfast offers all of the modern conveniences, including wireless Internet, cable TV, and private bathrooms.

Cape May’s Victorian Weekend, held from October 5th to 9th, provides a glimpse into life in the historic town during the Victorian era. Events include a night of Victorian parlor games, the Cape May Wine Trail, the Behind the Walls and Under the Crawls Tour, murder mystery dinners, The Chocolate Lover’s Tasting Tour, private home tours, and the Victorian Weekend Crafts and Collectible Show.

Wildwood

With its insanely wide beaches and a large selection of accommodations, Wildwood is the place to be if you’re looking forward to an uncrowded fall beach getaway. Although mornings may be a little chilly, temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities.

You can spend your mornings strolling along the beach and boardwalk, then make time in the afternoon for boating, biking, shelling, volleyball, or fishing. Attractions nearby include golf (both miniature and 18-hole), Wetlands Institute trails, the Cape May Bird Observatory, historic Cold Spring Village, and the Cape May County Park and Zoo.

Those interested in the town's history will enjoy a stay at the Candlelight Inn, a Victorian bed and breakfast located three blocks from the beach. Rooms feature period furnishings yet don’t skimp on modern amenities, like whirlpool tubs, flat-screen TVs, fireplaces, and wireless Internet access. If you think you’ll need more room to spread out, consider booking in at The Lotus Inn, which offers townhouses with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, living rooms, and kitchenettes.

Montclair

If a short drive is one of the most important factors in your getaway choice, you’ll want to consider visiting Montclair, New Jersey. The town that was once home to Yogi Berra and TV’s mafia boss Tony Soprano is a 50-minute drive from Central New Jersey.

While you’re in town, stop by the Yogi Berra Museum, tour the Van Vleck House and Gardens, or take in the American and Native American art exhibits at the Montclair Art Museum. Then, Montclair’s Wellmont Theater is the place to go for musicals and comedy performances. During the fall, the theater offers performances by Craig Ferguson, Rumors of Fleetwood Mac, Rick Springfield and Richard Marx, World of Dance, O.A.R., and Lewis Black.

Although you’ll find the usual selection of chain hotels in Montclair, The George is the best option if you prefer one-of-a-kind accommodations. The historic hotel now offers 32 bespoke rooms and suites that provide luxurious furnishings and amenities. Room rates include a complimentary continental breakfast.

Princeton

Princeton New Jersey Fall Getaway | Country Classics

The best getaway destinations aren’t always far away, and one of the best fall getaways for couples is Princeton. If you’ve only visited Princeton for a few hours at a time, you may want to consider devoting an entire weekend to exploring the town, considering it's one of the best places for fall colors in NJ.

After you’ve visited the historic sites, why not spend the afternoon checking out the Asian art collection at the Princeton University Art Museum or enjoy a little mid-afternoon snack at Halo Pub or Chez Alice Gourmet Café and Bakery?

Additionally, when it comes to fall festivals in New Jersey, there is the popular JazzFeast, an annual event held in Princeton that features performances from some of the top names in jazz, plus food from an array of area restaurants, which will be held on September 15th this year.

If a stay at a generic hotel isn’t your idea of the perfect getaway spot, The Peacock Inn offers a better option. The Inn, a recently restored colonial mansion-turned-hotel, is conveniently located just a few minutes walk from shops and restaurants. The boutique hotel offers 16 guest rooms with top-of-the-line bedding and furnishings and a restaurant that earned four diamonds from AAA.

Asbury Park

Asbury Park is a great fall destination for those who enjoy a mix of beach-town vibes and cultural attractions. While the summer crowds have dispersed, the town's vibrant arts and music scene thrives, with several fall activities in New Jersey available for couples and families interested in arts and music.

Start your visit with a stroll along the iconic Asbury Park Boardwalk, where you can enjoy ocean views, public art, and quirky shops. The Silverball Museum Arcade is a must-visit for pinball enthusiasts, offering a nostalgic experience with vintage pinball machines.

Asbury Park is also home to some fantastic live music venues, including the legendary Stone Pony and the Wonder Bar. You should check the event schedules beforehand to catch a live performance during your stay. We promise that catching a show is one of the best fall getaway ideas in NJ, especially during a weekend getaway.

For a unique stay, consider booking a room at The Asbury Hotel. This hotel combines modern design with a laid-back beach town atmosphere. It offers a rooftop bar with panoramic ocean views, perfect for relaxing with a drink after a day of exploring.

Other Fall Getaways Outside New Jersey

You don't always have to stay in New Jersey to get away this fall! Check out these honorable mentions just outside New Jersey, close enough to visit for a day trip, weekend, or longer getaway!

Shelter Island

Does your perfect getaway involve long walks on nearly deserted beaches and dinners in cozy, little restaurants? If so, Shelter Island, one of the barrier islands off Long Island, might be the ideal spot for a romantic getaway or a laid-back family trip.

Two ferry companies provide convenient access to the island and offer room for your car. While you’re on the island, go for a bike ride, try surf fishing, or explore the trails at Mashomack, the island’s 2,000-acre nature preserve. You won’t find any mega resorts on the island, but a collection of small hotels and inns offer quiet, luxurious accommodations near island beaches.

The Poconos

The Pocono Mountains are just far enough away to qualify as a getaway yet close enough that you won’t have to spend most of the day traveling. If you’re in the mountains during the weekend of October 12th, you’ll want to check out the Autumn Timber Festival at the Shawnee Mountain Ski Area. The festival features lumberjack competitions, chainsaw sculpture, blacksmith and sawmill demos, food and craft vendors, and kids’ activities.

The leaves may be mostly green in October in New Jersey, but that’s not the case over the river in the Poconos. Driving isn’t the only way to enjoy the changing foliage. The Stourbridge Line offers a relaxing train ride through the colorful forests that line the tracks. Trains travel between Hawley and Honesdale and can be boarded at either station.

Accommodation options in the Poconos are many and varied, including large resorts, cozy inns, condo rentals, and romantic rustic cabins.

Philadelphia

You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time to 1776 when you make time for a stroll through the historic area or the Old Town section of Philadelphia. The streets are full of gracious old homes and buildings that played pivotal roles in U.S. history.

Philadelphia is an excellent but often overlooked getaway choice. The nation’s first capital is just over an hour from Central New Jersey and offers many attractions and activities. During your trip, visit Independence Hall and see the very room where the Declaration of Independence was signed, or tour the tiny house where Betsy Ross sewed the country’s first flag.

Philadelphia may be a big city, but it still offers plenty of outdoor activities. Fairmount Park, located just outside of Center City, encompasses 2,000 acres on either side of the Schuylkill River. Picnic on the riverbanks, hike or bike the trails that crisscross the park, or enjoy the unexpected ambiance of historic homes, which can be toured during certain times of the year.

If you’re an animal lover, you’ll want to add a visit to the Philadelphia Zoo to your itinerary. The oldest zoo in the country is home to 1,300 animals and includes a rare animal conservation center, primate reserve, underwater penguin viewing area, and avian center with exotic birds.

The city is busy in the fall with a popular film festival in October, Philadelphia Eagles’ games, a hard cider festival, and a Revolutionary War battle reenactment – all of which you can enjoy. You can also consider catching a performance of Hamilton at the Forrest Theater or enjoying scary Halloween fun at Terror Behind the Walls at Eastern State Penitentiary.

Thanks to hundreds of fine and casual dining spots, finding a place to enjoy a meal in Philadelphia is never difficult. The Center City District Restaurant Week, normally held in September, offers the chance to try three-course meals at discounted prices at more than 125 restaurants. You’ll also find plenty of places to stay in Center City, from major chains to intimate boutique hotels.

Settle Permanently In New Jersey To Enjoy Fall Getaways Year-Round With Country Classics

Now, you know a few of the best fall getaways in New Jersey, and we hope you get to visit them all. However, if you'd like to make your stay a bit more permanent, we recommend checking out Country Classics' new construction homes in New Jersey.

You can learn more about our current availability on our website, or click on the button to speak with a new home advisor! They’ll help you find the perfect place to call home so you can begin visiting these spectacular fall getaway towns and crossing them off your travel list.