When you think about winter getaways, you may be more inclined to think of the Rockies than Rockaway Township, New Jersey. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t great winter getaway destinations in the Garden State! Here are a few great options for a winter break that’s close to your New Jersey home.
New Jersey offers a huge range of winter activities. There’s something for everyone in nearly every price range, and you don’t have to get on a plane to experience any of it. As long-time New Jersey residents, we've sorted our favorite places to visit in the winter in New Jersey into helpful categories so you can customize the experience you're after.
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Ski resorts in New Jersey offer all-inclusive options to entertain the outdoorsy and indoor folks alike. This makes them the perfect destination for girls' weekends and other group trips. Your mountain getaway is an easy crowd-pleaser if you choose one of our recommended resort destinations.
Crystal Springs Resort is located in Hamburg, and it’s a four-season resort destination with great accommodations, indoor heated pools, fitness facilities, and more. It also offers snow tubing, skiing and snowboarding, and gorgeous winter views nestled on the side of the Appalachian Mountains. Enjoy fine dining, live weekend entertainment, and 2 ultra-luxurious spas.
Mountain Creek is another great New Jersey destination for skiing, snowboarding, and all things wintery and fun! The resort offers a range of accommodation options to suit most budgets, and you’ll find all the amenities you would expect from a ski resort here, including restaurants and nightlife!
Romantic Getaways in New Jersey
When it's time to steal some time away with your sweetie, your getaway features intimate dinners and cozy accommodations. Here are our favorite romantic getaways for a little quality time.
Outdoor winter activities aren’t for everyone, and if your idea of a winter getaway is more about cuddling near the fire with cocoa and enjoying historic charm in comfort and warmth, then the Woolverton Inn in Stockton is a great option. It's won several awards and features a three-course breakfast, so you can be sure to enjoy comfort and luxury with this choice.
The Mason Cottage in Cape May is the complete opposite of a loud, family-friendly water park. This getaway is for travelers who like their accommodations historic, their entertainment refined and subdued, and their meals gourmet. It’s a great couples’ getaway for people looking for winter weekend breaks in New Jersey.
Who says you can only go to the Jersey Shore in summer? The 15-room historic Majestic Hotel was built in Ocean Grove in 1870 and was recently renovated. It’s luxurious, quaint, and exciting and allows you to gaze out over the winter ocean from a spacious porch. It’s a fantastic way to experience the culture and history of the town without hordes of sun-seekers.
Planning for fun with the whole family doesn't have to be a chore. Our favorite family winter getaways in New Jersey have plenty to offer kids of all ages so you can make joyful memories.
For the adventurous winter fun seeker in New Jersey, there’s the year-round Timberlane Campground in Clarksboro to explore. The campground accommodates tents and RV’s, but winter campers may find the cabins more comfortable! There are also convenience stores, a lounge, a game room, and more.
Located in West Orange, the Turtle Back Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months. While some animals retreat indoors, many others, especially the cold-loving species, become more active and playful in the snow. It's a unique opportunity to observe animals like snow leopards, penguins, and sea lions in their element. The zoo also offers special winter-themed events and exhibits, ensuring an educational yet fun experience for kids and adults alike. To top it off, the zoo lights up in the evening with winter-themed illuminations, adding a magical touch to your visit.
For families seeking some indoor winter fun, Skylands Ice World in Stockholm is the place to be. Boasting a spacious indoor ice skating rink, it's the perfect spot for families to glide and twirl together. Whether you're an experienced skater or trying it out for the first time, the rink caters to all skill levels. The facility also hosts ice hockey games and figure skating exhibitions, offering entertainment for those who'd rather watch than participate. With skate rentals available and a café to refuel,
Witness the grandeur of the Paterson Great Falls, especially mesmerizing during the winter months when the cascading waters partially freeze, creating a spectacular icy spectacle. Located in Paterson, this National Historical Park not only offers breathtaking views but also educational insights into the region's industrial past. The park's walking trails are open year-round, providing families the opportunity to explore and take in the icy beauty of the falls.
For families looking for year-round water excitement, irrespective of the biting winter cold outside, Big Kahuna's Indoor Water Park in West Berlin is the perfect splash haven. This tropical-themed sanctuary offers an array of attractions tailored for water enthusiasts of all ages. From adrenaline-pumping slides, a relaxing lazy river, and a surfing simulator to a specially designated kiddie zone for the youngest members, the park ensures comprehensive entertainment. And when it's time to refuel after the watery escapades, families can head to the park's dining options for some scrumptious meals or simply unwind in the lounge area.
Now let's shift focus from specific attractions to complete towns! Sometimes you don't want to just go to one place for your winter getaway. By broadening your search to include towns as well, you can plan a longer trip this winter or simply have more options for things to do!
If you’re looking for an active getaway, plan a trip to May’s Landing. The former Revolutionary War port city offers the perfect home base for exploring the sights and shops of Atlantic County.
Stop by Lake Lenape Antiques or T&D Gifts in downtown May’s Landing, then enjoy lunch at Henri Hott’s Barbeque, Maplewood II, Cousin Mario’s Italian Restaurant and Bar, or one of the other local eateries.
After lunch, walk off your meal with a loop around the Swamp Trail Boardwalk at Estell Manor Park, or sample one of the 27 award-winning wines at Balic Winery. The Hamilton Mall and the shops and casinos of Atlantic City are just a short distance away if you’re in the mood to do a little more shopping.
Large hotels may offer ample amenities, but they aren’t always the best choice if relaxation is high on your list of must-dos. Loud neighbors, mediocre food, and long waits for the elevator can leave you feeling a little frazzled when you book a room in a mega hotel. Luckily, there’s a better option in May’s Landing. The Inn at Sugar Hill, a 170-year-old country inn, offers just six guest rooms and an impressive view of the waterfront. All rooms are equipped with WiFi, flat-screen TVs, antique furnishings, and fireplaces.
What better place to shop for antiques than Burlington, one of New Jersey’s oldest cities?! The 330-year-old city is home to multiple locations listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers a square mile of shops and restaurants.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to take one of the Historical Society’s walking tours. Tours cover a variety of topics, including the town’s role in the Revolutionary War, Underground Railroad, and Civil War. Guided tours include more than 40 sites, such as New Jersey’s oldest fire company, several Underground Railroad sites, the oldest library in New Jersey, and many historic homes.
Lily Inn is the place to stay if you’re planning a winter getaway to Burlington. The five-guest room bed and breakfast was built around 1700 and features 10-foot ceilings, antiques, and blue marble fireplaces. Whether you choose the king room with spa tub or the spacious J. Howard Pugh suite with a separate sitting room, you’ll find the accommodations comfortable and convenient. The Inn is also home to the Riverview Restaurant, Brickwall Tavern and Dining Room, and Geraghty’s Pub.
You might not want to take a dip in the ocean during a winter getaway (unless you’re a member of the Polar Bear Club), but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a trip to the beach. Although beach towns are packed during the summer months, they’re the perfect place to enjoy a quiet, uncrowded vacation when the weather turns colder. Asbury Park offers plenty of things to do, from a visit to Bruce Springsteen’s favorite haunt, The Stone Pony, to a stroll on the famous boardwalk.
The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel provides a comfortable home base for your Asbury Park trip. The historic hotel is located across the street from The Stone Pony and offers scenic beach views from the upper floors. Rooms and suites feature down comforters, luxury bedding, and flat-screen TVs.
Set on 10-wooded acres, the Wooden Duck Bed & Breakfast provides everything you need for a relaxing weekend or midweek getaway in the Newton area. The 10 rooms, all named after duck breeds, feature fireplaces, flat-screen satellite TVs, and luxurious bedding.
The Harlequin, the B&B’s most luxurious suite, offers a queen bed, a two-person soaking tub, a double-sided gas fireplace, and a private balcony. You’ll also have access to the B&B’s 24-hour snack station, which offers home-baked treats, coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
A filling breakfast is a must if you’ll be spending the day visiting local attractions. The B&B provides a home-cooked meal every morning that includes fruit, bread, and an entrée sourced from local farms and butchers.
Nearby attractions include the Sterling Hill Mining Museum, Angry Erik Brewing, biplane rides at Andover Flight Academy, skiing at Mountain Creek, and tours of the Lakota Wolf Preserve (reservations are required).
Located just 20 minutes from Atlantic City, Smithville is an excellent getaway destination at any time of the year. The historic downtown area features a collection of gift and antique shops, plus plenty of places to enjoy a quick or leisurely meal.
If you celebrate Christmas, you’ll want to be sure to plan your visit during December, when the town is transformed into the ultimate holiday village. Catch a performance of the Light Show on the Lake (from Thanksgiving until January 6), visit the talking Christmas tree, or make s’mores on the Greene on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during December.
Do your kids find Santa Claus a little scary? They may enjoy story time with Mrs. Claus on December weekends instead. If they’re fans of the bearded guy, treat them to Breakfast with Santa at Fred and Ethel’s Lantern Light Tavern on December 8 or 15.
The Colonial Inn offers convenient accommodations within walking distance of Historic Smithtown. The adult-only Inn features luxurious rooms and suites with soaking tubs, steam showers, and high-quality bedding, while The Barn is the place to go if you’ll be bringing the kids.
The Woolverton Inn in Stockton is just far enough away from home to qualify as a getaway but not so far that you’ll need to spend hours on the road to get there. Although the inn is surrounded by 300 acres of forest and farmland, it’s only a short drive to the shops and restaurants of Lambertville and New Hope, PA. A day at the inn starts with a gourmet, three-course breakfast in the dining room, followed by some refreshments and sweet treats in the afternoon. Rooms and suites offer feather beds and Egyptian linens and towels.
If you enjoy nothing better than reading a good book next to a roaring fire, you’ll want to book the Newell’s Library room at the Woolverton Inn. The room features more than 700 books, a sitting area with a fireplace, and a king-feather bed. During your winter visit, you can take advantage of the inn’s Warm Up/Chill Out package, which features an in-room fireside massage for two, aromatherapy candles, and a stress release and meditation CD.
One advantage of our small state is how quickly you can drive to another in order to get a fresh perspective and change of scenery. If you're interested in leaving New Jersey but not driving for hours, we've still got great getaway recommendations for you
In just two hours, you could be in Poughkeepsie, ready to start your relaxing mini-vacation. The city is home to the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge, the Walkway Over the Hudson. After you enjoy the views from the bridge, visit the FDR Presidential Library and Museum or do a little shopping for unique crafts and artwork at Craftsman by Design.
If you’re a history buff, you want to make time for a visit to Locust Grove Historic Estate during your trip. The mansion was once the home of Samuel F.B. Morse, the inventor of the telegraph. Although Locust Grove is closed during January, tours are offered from Monday through Saturday for the rest of the year.
The Sunset Sensations Wine & Food Event will be offered at Locust Grove on December 5, while Holiday House Hunts for children will be held on December 1,8, and 15. Kids will explore the mansion looking for clues during the holiday-themed scavenger hunt.
Poughkeepsie has the usual assortment of big-name chain hotels, but if you’re looking for something a little quieter, try the Stonegate Bed & Breakfast in nearby Highland, NY. You’ll feel as if you’ve traveled back to the 19th century when you step through the doors of the B&B (well, if the 19th century offered indoor plumbing and king-size beds, that is).
Winter is the perfect time to visit Tannersville, nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains. Whether you enjoy winter sports or prefer spending your days in the water, you’ll find plenty to do at Camelback Resort in Tannersville. In fact, Camelback offers so many activities that you won’t have to leave the resort until you’re ready to go back to New Jersey.
Camelback features 39 trails, three ski-ins, ski-out restaurants, a terrain park for snowboarders, and skiing and snowboarding lessons for adults and children. If tubing is more your style, you’ll enjoy sliding down one of the 42 lanes at the biggest snow tubing park in the country.
Winter sports aren’t the only attractions at Camelback. The resort also offers the Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark featuring water attractions and rides for the entire family. The balmy summer temperatures in the park make indulging in a little water fun and a comfortable experience despite the snow outside.
Camelback Lodge offers 453 guest suites, shopping, entertainment, restaurants, an arcade, an indoor ropes course, bumper cars, laser tag, an escape room, and an adult luxury spa.
No matter how much you enjoy your vacation time, it’s always nice to return to a comfortable, modern home. If your home is neither, you’ll want to consider building or buying a new home in Central New Jersey. Check out Country Classics' current new home opportunities on our website, and contact us soon if you’re interested in becoming one of our newest homeowners.