Spring’s finally here in the Garden State, and honestly, there’s a new kind of energy everywhere. New Jersey wakes up this time of year with everything from award-winning wine tastings to outdoor festivals that really show off the state’s culture and natural beauty.
You’ve got a ton of options to fill your week—whether you’re after family adventures, cultural outings, or just want to breathe some fresh air somewhere new. The shore’s boardwalks are buzzing, and the hiking trails up north are calling. So, here’s a quick guide to making the most of late May in Jersey.
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1) Visit the Atlantic City Boardwalk for entertainment and dining
Atlantic City Boardwalk? Always a classic. It’s got that old-school charm, but there’s plenty of modern excitement too. The 4-mile stretch gives you ocean views while you wander past shops, casinos, and all sorts of places to eat.
There’s live entertainment happening this week—check out Boardwalk Hall if you want something special, especially if you’re around for Mother’s Day weekend on Sunday, May 18.
Food-wise, it’s hard to go wrong. Grab some saltwater taffy (it’s a must), or treat yourself to fresh seafood with a view. If you’re in the mood for something different, join the Atlantic City Scavenger Hunt and uncover hidden gems most folks miss.
Once the sun goes down, the place really lights up. Beachfront fireworks happen on select nights, and the glow from the casinos makes for a pretty unforgettable stroll.
The boardwalk links up to major resorts like the Borgata, so you can dip into gaming, grab dinner, or catch a show—all without leaving the area.
2) Explore the Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton Township
If you like art and the outdoors, Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton is a must. It’s 42 acres of sculptures and gardens, and honestly, there’s something unexpectedly relaxing about wandering the paths and stumbling onto art in the middle of nature.
You’ll find plenty to see indoors too—six galleries with rotating exhibits, so there’s always something new, rain or shine.
May is a great time to go. The gardens are in full bloom, and it adds a whole extra layer to the art. This week, they’ve got performances and creative workshops on the schedule, so check ahead to see what’s happening.
Give yourself at least a couple of hours to explore. The mix of walking trails and unexpected art really does make for a refreshing day out.
3) Attend the New Jersey Seafood Festival in Belmar
The 36th Annual New Jersey Seafood Festival wraps up Sunday, May 18, at Ferruggiaro Park by Silver Lake in Belmar. If you’re reading this on Sunday, you’ve still got time—11am to 6pm.
Admission? Free. Just pay for whatever you eat. Nearly 30 food trucks are serving up seafood, so you won’t leave hungry.
It’s not just about the food, though. Craft vendors are scattered around, and there are activities for the whole family. This festival’s become a real spring staple in Belmar.
For 2025, they’re promising “big bites” and a seriously impressive lineup of seafood. Downtown Belmar’s shopping district is right there, so you can wander before or after you eat.
Parking’s no joke—arrive early or consider public transit. And wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking.
4) Experience the Fairy and Pirate Festival at Turkey Brook Park
The Fairy & Pirate Festival is happening today, May 17, at Turkey Brook Park in Mount Olive. Yeah, it’s technically just before the week kicks off, but it’s too fun not to mention.
The park transforms into a magical wonderland with games, rides, and entertainment for all ages. Kids can hop on pony rides and inflatables, and there’s a Treasure Map to guide your adventure.
Special guests—Princesses & Knights—make the day even more memorable for little ones. Past years have seen big crowds, like 3,200 visitors, so getting there early is smart.
There are vendors selling food, crafts, and themed goodies. It’s a good chance to pick up something unique and support locals at the same time.
5) Join the Spring New Jersey Gem Show
The Spring NJ Gem Show finishes up May 18 at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center. If you’re into gems, fossils, or just cool rocks, this is your last shot to check it out.
You’ll find rare gemstones, minerals, fossils, crystals—even meteorites. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, there’s a lot to see.
Try out some hands-on stuff—metal detecting, geode cracking, gemstone sluicing—and maybe walk away with a treasure for yourself.
The show opens at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, so you’ll have plenty of time to browse. There’s everything from beginner pieces to investment-grade minerals—something for every budget.
You’ll also spot artisan jewelry, amber, and beads—lots of unique, wearable art you won’t find in a regular store.
6) Take a canoe or kayak trip through the Pine Barrens
If you want to get outdoors, spring’s the time to paddle through New Jersey’s Pine Barrens. The weather’s warming up, flowers are blooming, and the landscape just feels alive.
Pinelands Adventures runs daily kayaking and canoeing trips from April to October. Pick from 2, 4, 5, or 8-hour outings on the Batsto and Mullica Rivers, depending on how adventurous you’re feeling.
First-timers can join naturalist-guided paddles to learn about the area’s ecology and history. It’s a cool way to appreciate what makes the Pine Barrens special.
Don’t forget lunch and bug spray. The scenery’s worth it, but a little planning goes a long way.
It’s smart to reserve ahead, especially on weekends. Call 609-268-0189 for info or to book your trip.
7) Enjoy live music and food at Lake Hopatcong Block Party
The Lake Hopatcong Block Party is set for May 17 at Hopatcong State Park. It’s a bit before the week starts, but it’s a local favorite and worth putting on your radar.
Expect a mix of food vendors and live music all day. The vibe is lively but still family-friendly.
Local businesses, non-profits, community groups, and crafters all set up shop. It’s $10 cash to park at the state park, but you can also get in free via the Hopatcong Senior Center.
Free boat rides are a highlight—no boat needed, just hop on and enjoy the lake.
Besides food and music, you’ll find arts and crafts, vendor shopping, and rides for the kids. There’s honestly something for everyone.
8) Participate in Girls Flag Football at I9 Sports
Looking for something active this Sunday? I9 Sports is hosting a Girls Flag Football event on May 18, 2025, from 1pm to 3pm. It’s a great way for girls to try out this growing sport—no experience needed.
The league uses a 7 vs 7 format, and I9 Sports is known for making things fun and accessible, even for total beginners.
You can sign up for the Spring 2025 Girls Only Outdoor Flag Football League at Bynum Fields, but spots go fast. Register soon if you’re interested.
I9’s programs fit busy family schedules and keep things friendly. For details or to register, call 908-212-3200 or check their website.
This girls-only flag football program in Union County is new and supportive—perfect for young athletes looking to learn, play, and just have a good time.
9) Visit Whitesbog Village for the cranberry and blueberry festivals
Whitesbog Village gives you a real glimpse into New Jersey’s deep farming roots, especially during its lively seasonal festivals. This historic spot keeps its agricultural spirit alive with events that focus on two crops close to Jersey hearts: cranberries and blueberries.
The annual Blueberry Festival is coming up fast. It’s a good excuse to pick your own blueberries, listen to live music, and maybe grab a homemade blueberry pie (honestly, who doesn’t love that?). The festival celebrates Elizabeth White, who actually developed the first cultivated blueberry right here at Whitesbog.
While you’re out there, check out Suningive, the 1923 house where Elizabeth White lived. It now acts as the headquarters for the preservation trust watching over the property.
Whitesbog keeps the calendar full with year-round events—think Saturday markets, seasonal hikes, and guided tours. If you want to learn about Pinelands history or old-school cranberry farming, this is your spot.
You can wander on a self-guided tour and take in the scenery and stories at your own pace. The village pops up on plenty of weekend activity lists for good reason—it’s both educational and just plain pretty.
Honestly, wear comfy shoes and bring a camera. The preserved Pinelands landscape is something you’ll want to remember.
10) Discover the Lakota Wolf Preserve in Columbia
The Lakota Wolf Preserve is a rare chance to see wolves—and a few other wild faces like bobcats, foxes, and lynx—living in roomy, natural habitats. This nonprofit cares deeply for its animals and tries to give visitors a real sense of what makes these creatures tick.
Tours run all year, and the wolf-watch sessions let you watch the wolves play and interact. You’ll pick up some fascinating tidbits about wolf behavior and why they matter in the wild.
Heads up: there’s a short uphill walk from the parking lot to the preserve. Try to get there 20 minutes early, especially if you’re coming with a group.
If you’re into photography, you can book private two-hour sessions for better photo ops. These tours give you more time to catch that perfect shot of a wolf mid-howl or just lounging around.
You might want to check out some nearby attractions while you’re in the area. There are outdoor activities, gear rentals from Edge of the Woods Outfitters, and even aerial adventure parks if you’re making a full day of it.
Planning Your Week in New Jersey
Getting ready for a week in New Jersey means thinking ahead about May’s unpredictable weather, figuring out how you’ll get around, and packing for everything from sandy beaches to city streets.
Weather Considerations for May
May usually feels pretty good, with temps swinging from 55°F to 75°F, but you’ll want to be ready for surprises. Mornings and evenings can feel chilly, but afternoons often warm up fast.
Rain shows up pretty often—expect 8-10 rainy days this month. It’s smart to check the forecast before you set out.
If you’re heading to the coast (Cape May, Atlantic City), expect it to be 5-10 degrees cooler than inland thanks to the ocean breeze. Sometimes that’s lovely, sometimes you’ll wish you packed another layer.
UV levels jump up in late May, so don’t skip the sunscreen, even if the sky looks cloudy. New Jersey weather in May keeps you guessing, so layering is your friend.
Transportation Tips and Options
NJ Transit has a big rail and bus network that links up most of the places you’ll want to see. If you’re bouncing between regions, a monthly pass ($75-175, depending on zones) can save you a bundle.
Rideshare services work all over, but prices spike during busy hours (10am-2pm) and weekends. If you pre-schedule, you might save 15-25% on fares.
Renting a car gives you the most freedom for exploring New Jersey attractions. Just keep in mind that most highways have tolls—plan on $15-25 a day if you’re traveling between regions.
The PATH train is handy for hopping between NYC and North Jersey cities like Hoboken and Jersey City. It’s only $2.75 a ride.
For a different view, try the ferry. Cape Liberty and Belford offer routes with some pretty great skyline scenery.
Packing Essentials for Local Adventures
Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable layers
- A light jacket or sweater
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket or small umbrella
- Swimwear (if you’re hitting the beach)
Tech & Navigation:
- Portable charger
- NJ Transit app or a paper map
- Digital wallet for tap-to-pay
- Water-resistant phone case
Bring a refillable water bottle—May can sneak up on you with dehydration, and most weekend events are outside. Plus, you’ll cut down on plastic waste.
Bug spray is a must, especially if you’re heading to the Pine Barrens or any nature preserve. Mosquitoes start showing up in mid-May in wetter areas.
Don’t forget a day bag that works for both city wandering and casual dining. New Jersey’s dress code swings from super casual to a bit fancy, so versatile clothes will make your life easier.
Enhancing Your New Jersey Experience
New Jersey’s packed with ways to make your trip unforgettable, especially if you know a few tricks and pick your spots wisely.
Insider Advice for First-Time Visitors
Definitely download the NJ Transit app before you get here—it’ll save you a lot of confusion and time. Too many people skip this and end up stuck at the station, scratching their heads.
Layer up, even in May. The weather can flip fast, especially near the shore where Atlantic breezes can drop the temperature in a hurry.
Try visiting big attractions like the Atlantic City boardwalk or Liberty State Park on weekdays. Crowds thin out, and you might even catch some weekday deals.
If you’re heading to beach towns, rent a bike instead of driving. Parking gets pricey and hard to find, especially during May festivals.
Supporting Local Businesses and Events
Hit up the farmers’ markets in Princeton, Montclair, or Collingswood if you want to find local produce and some surprisingly good artisanal stuff. These spots are packed with regional specialties, and honestly, buying there feels good—you know your dollars go straight to the folks who grew or made what you’re carrying home.
Skip the big chains and try out independent restaurants instead. New Jersey’s food scene is wild—think family-run places dishing up real Italian, Portuguese, Korean, or Indian food. You can taste the difference, and you’re helping families keep their doors open.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Jersey City! Look for deals here:
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There’s always something happening, like the Fantasy Faire in South Jersey this weekend. Local artists, crafters, and performers come out to share what they do best. It’s a great way to see what your neighbors are up to.
If you’re staying overnight, maybe skip the big hotel chains. Try a B&B or a boutique spot—The Bernards Inn in Bernardsville, for example, feels very New Jersey and puts your money right back into the community.
And if you’re not sure what’s on, check out the weekly event listings. There’s usually a local band playing, a theater show, or an art exhibit you can catch—and honestly, those tickets make a difference.
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
