New Jersey’s fall really does its own thing—bursts of color, hometown festivals, and a sense of togetherness you don’t find everywhere. The week of October 19–25, 2025, packs in all sorts of experiences: outdoor hikes, quirky festivals, and art shows that remind you why the Garden State’s got so much personality. If you’re up for it, this week’s a chance to catch autumn’s best side.
You’ll stumble on activities for every mood—quiet walks, big concerts, and old sites that reveal the state’s layers beyond the usual touristy stuff. Day trip or weekend escape, each pick brings you closer to Jersey’s local flavor and those crisp, changing landscapes.
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1) Visit the New Jersey Pumpkin Festival in Bridgewater
Head to the New Jersey Pumpkin Festival in Bridgewater for a classic fall weekend. It’s one of those events where everyone—families, neighbors, out-of-towners—comes together for farm fun, food, and the kind of pumpkin displays that just beg for a photo.
The festival usually pops up at local farms famous for pumpkin picking and autumn markets. Demarest Farms is a popular spot, with hayrides, corn mazes, and a petting zoo. You can pick pumpkins or just browse the market for produce and crafts.
Crowds can get thick on weekends, and parking fills up fast. If you’re not a fan of waiting, get there early. Food stands serve cider, donuts, and other fall favorites—just know some vendors are cash-only.
Not into crowds? Smaller farms around Bridgewater also host pumpkin events and displays with a quieter vibe. Whether you’re in it for the pumpkins, the snacks, or that perfect fall photo, it’s a solid way to soak up autumn in central Jersey.
2) Explore the Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton
Spend a few hours wandering Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton. The park sprawls over 42 acres, mixing more than 270 contemporary sculptures with gardens, ponds, and shady paths.
What’s cool is the place used to be the New Jersey State Fairgrounds, but artist Seward Johnson turned it into an outdoor museum in ’92. You’ll spot massive pieces and hidden gems tucked in the greenery, so take your time.
Open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., tickets are $25 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and military (see When In Your State). Late October means mild temps and peak fall colors—makes everything pop.
Families like the open space and interactive art (Tripscope). Bring kids—they can roam safely while you check out the art at your own speed. Wear comfy shoes, and don’t rush it; you’ll want a few hours to wander.
3) Attend a live concert at the Prudential Center in Newark
Catch a big-name concert at the Prudential Center in Newark, one of Jersey’s top indoor arenas. The venue hosts everything from pop and rock to hip-hop and sports, and it’s easy to reach—right near Newark Penn Station.
Most seats have a decent view, but it’s smart to check seating charts and event schedules before grabbing tickets. Weeknight shows pull locals; weekends bring folks from all over.
Plenty of restaurants and bars are a short walk away, especially in the Ironbound. Parking’s doable in nearby garages, but hopping on public transit can be a lifesaver after a packed event.
If concerts aren’t your thing, the upcoming events calendar lists comedy, family shows, and seasonal acts too. The vibe stays lively but not overwhelming, so it works whether you’re flying solo or with friends.
4) Tour the historic Batsto Village in Wharton State Forest
Step back in time at Batsto Village, a preserved iron-making town tucked inside Wharton State Forest. The site showcases original buildings—homes, a sawmill, and the Batsto Mansion—dating from the 1700s through the early 1900s.
Set deep in the Pinelands, Batsto sits among forest trails and lakes. Walking the grounds, you get a sense of how industry and wild nature mingled here. Interpretive displays tell the story of early American manufacturing and glassmaking.
You can join a guided Batsto Mansion tour to peek inside restored rooms and learn about the Richards family, who ran the ironworks in the 1800s. Tours run on select days—double-check before you go.
Wharton State Forest covers about 125,000 acres, so after the village, hit the trails or swing by the visitor center for maps and seasonal tips. History and the peace of Jersey’s biggest forest—can’t really beat that.
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5) Enjoy wine tasting at Renault Winery in Egg Harbor City
Check out Renault Winery Resort in Egg Harbor City, one of the state’s oldest wineries. Since 1864, it’s been making wine on the same grounds, so you’re getting a real taste of Jersey tradition.
The Tour & Taste runs weekends through late December 2025. You’ll stroll the historic property, hear a bit of its story, and taste three wines with a little charcuterie plate. Tickets and times are on Eventbrite.
There’s indoor and outdoor seating with vineyard views. Late afternoons feel especially relaxed, with sunlight across the fields. Want quiet? Arrive early before the groups roll in.
Only about a half-hour from Atlantic City, Renault makes for an easy day trip. Whether you’re a history buff or just want to sip some local wine, it’s a laid-back, interesting stop.
6) Take a scenic hike in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Craving a hike? The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area stretches over 70,000 acres along the Jersey–Pennsylvania border, with more than 100 miles of trails. You’ll find everything from riverside strolls to tough ridge climbs.
Try the hikingguy.com/guides/delaware-water-gap-hikes/”>Mount Tammany Trail for big views—it’s steep and rocky, but the Delaware River overlook is worth it. If you want something quieter, Mount Minsi Trail on the PA side has similar scenery and fewer hikers.
Weather can turn fast up there, so check the forecast. Trails get muddy after rain, rocks can be slick, and you’ll need good shoes and water even for short walks.
Besides hiking, you’ll stumble on waterfalls, forested valleys, and open river vistas. The park’s 40-mile stretch of the Middle Delaware River is perfect for kayaking or just chilling by the water after a trek.
7) Experience the Fall Harvest Festival at Terhune Orchards
Celebrate fall at Terhune Orchards in Princeton. Their Fall Family Fun Weekends run through early November, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. It’s a chill way to get into the harvest spirit.
Pick apples, pumpkins, sip fresh cider, and check out the barnyard and corn maze. Pony rides, pedal tractors, and kids’ games keep the little ones busy while adults catch live music and sample local eats.
If you’re not into crowds, go early. The farm store and outdoor market sell baked goods, produce, and even Terhune’s own wines for tasting.
Parking’s free, but there’s a small fee on festival weekends. Dress for the weather and expect uneven ground. The festival’s got a genuine, no-frills vibe—just a well-run, old-school celebration of the season.
8) Visit the Cape May Lighthouse and nearby beaches
Climb the historic Cape May Lighthouse in Cape May Point State Park. Built in 1859, it stands over 150 feet tall. If you’re up for the 190+ steps, you’ll get sweeping views of the Atlantic and Delaware Bay. There’s a small museum and nature trails winding through coastal wetlands, too.
If you’re around for the Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey (third weekend in October), you can join others touring lighthouses statewide. It’s a mellow event, mostly attracting lighthouse fans and history buffs.
After your climb, Cape May’s beaches are just down the road—about 2.5 miles along Beach Avenue. They’re clean, family-friendly, and easy to reach from most hotels (CapeMay.com). Great for a stroll, shell hunt, or catching the sunset.
Parking can be tight near the lighthouse and beach, especially on weekends. Arrive early or try public lots. Even in fall, the ocean breeze gets chilly—bring a jacket.
9) Explore the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City
You’ll find Liberty Science Center in Liberty State Park at 222 Jersey City Boulevard. It’s easy to reach off the Turnpike, and you get killer views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. If you’re hanging around the Hudson waterfront, it’s a solid stop.
Inside, there are hundreds of hands-on exhibits across nine galleries—engineering, health, space, and more, with plenty for both kids and adults. The planetarium (one of the biggest in the Western Hemisphere) puts on some wild shows about astronomy and Earth science.
The vibe is all about learning by doing, not just staring at stuff. Exhibits rotate often, so even regulars find new things. Check what’s on before you go at the official Liberty Science Center website.
If you want to expand your day, Liberty State Park and the Jersey City waterfront are right there. For more ideas nearby, Tripadvisor’s list of things to do near Liberty Science Center has you covered.
10) Attend the Montclair Art Museum’s autumn exhibit
Check out American and Native American art at the Montclair Art Museum, open since 1914. The fall shows mix historical and new pieces, giving you a peek at how artists interpret modern life.
This season features photography from the last 25 years and new themed exhibits opening in September and November. It’s a good chance to see local and national artists’ takes on what’s happening now.
If you like some guidance, join a Museum Highlights Tour. A docent leads small groups, shares stories behind the art, and sparks some real conversation.
Downtown Montclair’s got plenty of spots for a meal or a stroll after your visit. Parking’s onsite, and visitor guidelines say masks are optional unless otherwise posted.
Planning Your New Jersey Adventure
Ready for a week of outdoor events, scenic drives, and local festivals? First things first: get a feel for New Jersey’s autumn climate and the basics of getting around. Pack smart, map out your routes, and double-check parking rules so you’re not caught off guard.
Weather and Packing Tips
October mornings in New Jersey? Pretty chilly. Afternoons, though, usually warm up into the low 60s°F—then back down to the 40s°F once the sun dips. Layers are your friend here: think light jacket, a decent sweater, and shoes you can actually walk in. You’ll want to be comfortable whether you’re wandering city streets or heading out on a trail.
It does rain now and then, so toss a compact umbrella or a water-resistant jacket into your bag. Planning to check out outdoor spots like the South Mountain Fairy Trail? Closed-toe shoes with good grip are a must.
Here’s a quick packing cheat sheet:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Light jacket | Daytime comfort |
| Warm sweater | Evening warmth |
| Umbrella | Sudden rain |
| Comfortable shoes | Walking and hiking |
| Reusable bottle | Hydration on the go |
Evenings along the coast get breezy—especially if you’re hanging out by the boardwalk or near the water. A windbreaker isn’t a bad idea if you’re out past sunset in beach towns.
Transportation and Parking Advice
Honestly, driving’s usually the simplest way to get to most places. Major highways like the Garden State Parkway and I‑195 tie the state together, connecting cities to the shore without much fuss. Near festival sites (like the ones in New Jersey Monthly’s weekend guide), you might hit some traffic, so plan for that.
You’ve got options if you’d rather skip the car. NJ Transit trains and buses link up main spots like Newark, Princeton, and the Jersey Shore. Buying tickets ahead of time on the NJ Transit app saves you from waiting in line at the station.
Parking? It’s a mixed bag. Downtown, you’ll probably need to use municipal lots or feed a meter; out in the suburbs, lots of places have free parking. Always check event websites for shuttle info or any special restrictions.
If you’re making a bunch of stops, grab an EZPass for toll roads. It’ll save you time and you won’t have to fumble for cash at the plaza.
Making the Most of Seasonal Events
Fall in New Jersey is packed with festivals, farm days, and Halloween fun. If you plan ahead, you’ll dodge the worst lines and last-minute headaches—and maybe even save a few bucks.
How to Secure Event Tickets
Big October events like the Holland Ridge Fall Flower Festival in Cream Ridge? Those tickets disappear fast. Check the official sites—NJ Family’s festival guide is a good place to start—for up-to-date ticket info and parking details. Buying early usually means you’re in, and sometimes you’ll find cheaper weekday rates.
A lot of festivals use timed entry these days. If you can, pick an early slot. You’ll get better parking and smaller crowds. Not into strict schedules? Some community fairs or township events still let you just walk in.
Definitely keep tabs on the weather. Some places offer refunds or rain dates, but not all. Bring a printed ticket or have it on your phone—cell service can be spotty out in the sticks.
Ticket Tips Table
| Step | Action | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buy online early | Avoid sellouts |
| 2 | Review event policies | Know refund rules |
| 3 | Arrive before noon | Easier parking |
| 4 | Carry mobile backup | Prevent entry delays |
Family-Friendly Activities for All Ages
Families can find all sorts of low-cost outings, from pumpkin patches to quirky town fairs. The Scarecrow Festival in Hillsborough Township lines the streets with creative displays—kids seem to love it. Farms like Alstede or Demarest run hayrides and corn mazes that everyone can get into, whether you’re wrangling toddlers or chasing after teens.
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Bring some layers since the weather can flip on you, and pack snacks so you’re not stuck in a concession line. A lot of farms let you bring your own food for picnics, which honestly makes things easier. If you’ve got little ones, smaller spots with stroller paths and petting zoos are usually a win. Teens? They’re probably eyeing haunted trails or those outdoor movie nights you’ll find in local park calendars.
Before you head out, double-check accessibility. A few older farms have bumpy ground or not enough restrooms. Sorting out those details ahead of time means you can actually relax and enjoy the day.
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