New Jersey’s never short on things to do, especially this time of year. Whether you’re after a bit of culture, some outdoorsy adventure, or just want to see what’s happening around the state, there’s plenty to fill your week. From the coast to the hills, you can pick what suits your mood—no need to rush or overplan.
You’ll find art, science, music, and a good dose of local flavor. Want to hang by the water? Explore some history? Or maybe just wander through a festival? There’s something for just about every pace and interest.
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1) Visit Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton for outdoor art exhibits
At Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton, you’ll wander among 270+ contemporary sculptures spread over 42 acres. It’s not just about the art—the gardens, ponds, and winding paths make the whole place feel like a living exhibit.
Sculptor Seward Johnson founded the park back in 1992, and it sits on what used to be the New Jersey State Fairgrounds. The layout encourages you to stroll at your own pace, and the way the art is positioned means you’ll catch new angles as you go.
You’ll need to book an advance timed ticket—spontaneity’s a little tough here, especially on busy days, but it keeps things comfortable. There’s a mix of big outdoor installations and rotating indoor gallery shows, so there’s always something new. The gardens change with the seasons too, so coming back in a different month actually feels worthwhile.
It’s pretty easy to get to, whether you’re coming from Philly or New York. Figure on at least two or three hours if you want to see the highlights. And seriously—wear good shoes.
2) Explore the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City
Right inside Liberty State Park, just off the Hudson, you’ll find the Liberty Science Center. It’s easy to reach—drive in from the Turnpike or hop over from Jersey City or Manhattan on public transit.
Inside, you’ll get hands-on with exhibits covering everything from biology to engineering. There are live animal habitats, big science models, and a lot of stuff you can actually touch and try.
Don’t miss the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium. It’s massive—one of the biggest in this half of the globe—and the space shows are honestly impressive. Check their schedule to catch something you’re into.
For the more adventurous, there’s a pitch-black crawl maze and a huge climbing structure. Heads up: these get packed on weekends and school holidays.
Most people spend a few hours here, but you can just hit your favorite exhibits if you’re short on time. There’s food on-site, but you might want to wander into Jersey City for more options.
If you’ve got energy left, Liberty State Park’s waterfront is right outside, with great views of the Statue of Liberty.
3) Attend a jazz concert at the South Orange Performing Arts Center
Catch live jazz up close at the South Orange Performing Arts Center. The venue’s cozy, with good sound and easy access by train or car.
This week, the Jazz in the Loft series is on, spotlighting both local and national musicians. The space is smaller than a typical concert hall, so you’re never far from the music.
If you’re into bigger bands, check the schedule for events like Giants of Jazz. Those shows tend to sell out, so get tickets early if you’re interested.
Parking’s nearby, but it fills up fast on event nights. Arriving early gives you time to grab dinner in South Orange Village—there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance.
The center covers a wide range of jazz styles, from old-school swing to more modern sounds. Whether you’re at a small session or a headline show, you’ll get a focused, listening-friendly vibe—no bar noise or distractions.
4) Hike the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area trails
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers 150+ miles of trails—everything from flat, easy walks to steep mountain hikes. The park straddles the Jersey–Pennsylvania border, so you get a mix of scenery without a long drive.
If you’re up for a challenge, the Mount Tammany Red Dot Trail is steep, rocky, and rewards you with killer views from the top. Bring water and solid shoes; it’s a real workout, especially in August heat.
For something more relaxed, the Dingmans Falls boardwalk is flat, accessible, and leads straight to a stunning waterfall. Short, but worth it.
Parking near popular trailheads fills up early on weekends. If you want to avoid crowds, aim for sunrise or try a weekday—local hiking guides swear by it. No entrance fee, so you can come back as often as you like.
You might spot deer, hawks, or other wildlife along the way. Stick to marked trails, watch for any closures, and bring a map if you’re heading off the main paths.
5) Tour the Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange
Step into Thomas Edison’s world at the Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange. You’ll see his 1887 lab complex and even his home, Glenmont Estate—a real peek into both his work and personal life.
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Start at the Laboratory Complex on Main Street, where you’ll check in and pay the entrance fee. You can wander the Main Laboratory Building solo or hop onto a ranger-led tour for a deeper dive into spots like the Chemistry Lab.
It’s about a 20-minute drive from Newark, maybe half an hour from NYC. The park’s open Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so plan accordingly.
Give yourself at least two hours if you want to see both the lab and the estate. Some spots aren’t fully accessible, and you’ll need a parking pass from check-in.
If you’re into industrial history or just want to see where the phonograph came to life, this place is hands-on and surprisingly down-to-earth.
6) Enjoy the Cape May Lighthouse and nearby beaches
Climb the Cape May Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Atlantic and Delaware Bay. It’s 199 steps up a narrow staircase, so be ready for a bit of a leg workout. At the top, the views stretch out over wetlands and coastline.
The lighthouse sits inside Cape May Point State Park, where you’ll find walking trails and good birdwatching—late summer’s a great time to spot migrating shorebirds. Parking’s available, but weekends get crowded fast.
Afterward, wander down to the nearby beaches for a quieter spot than the main Cape May stretch. The sand’s a bit rougher and the surf can be strong, so check conditions before you swim.
If you want more action, head over to the main beach area near the Washington Street Mall for shops and restaurants. It’s busier, but offers more choices.
Combining the lighthouse and beach in one trip gives you a nice mix of history and relaxation. An hour at the lighthouse, then the rest of the day by the water—sounds about right.
7) Visit the Princeton University Art Museum
Check out the Princeton University Art Museum—it’s free, and right in the heart of campus. The collection is huge, spanning everything from ancient artifacts to modern art, and you can easily pair your visit with a stroll through Princeton’s historic grounds.
The main building’s closed for construction until October 31, 2025, but they’re running temporary exhibits and programs in other spots around campus. So you can still see a good chunk of the collection.
You’ll find European paintings, African sculpture, Asian ceramics, photography—the works. They also run talks and tours if you want more background.
The museum store is worth a look, especially if you’re into locally made art or exhibition-themed gifts. Purchases support museum programs, which is a nice bonus.
Check the museum’s website for current events and locations before you go—things move around with construction.
8) Experience the Red Bank Street Fair
The Red Bank Street Fair is set for Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., right downtown along Monmouth and Broad Streets. With streets closed to cars, you can wander easily between vendors and activities.
Expect local artisans, food stalls, and live music. There’s a laid-back vibe—browse crafts, sample snacks, and chat with community groups at your own pace.
Crowds swell in the afternoon, so if you’re after easy parking and fewer lines, show up early. Public lots and street parking go fast.
It’s family-friendly, with musicians on corners and kid-focused activities at some booths. You can try a variety of foods without committing to a full meal.
For more details on vendors and what’s happening, check the Red Bank Street Fair & Craft Show page before you go.
9) Attend the Montclair Food and Music Festival
Dig into local eats and live music at the Montclair Food and Music Festival. You’ll find everything from classic Jersey fare to global dishes, thanks to a lineup of restaurants, food trucks, and vendors.
Music-wise, expect regional bands and solo acts across a bunch of genres. The vibe is relaxed—grab a bite and listen, or bring a blanket and settle in away from the main stage.
It’s a good spot for families, with kid-friendly food and open spaces. Arriving early helps you snag a good spot before the crowds hit.
The festival’s right in downtown Montclair, so you can browse shops and galleries nearby, too. Check the Montclair events calendar for set times and vendors.
Parking’s tight, so public transit or rideshare might be your best bet. The NJ Transit train station is a short walk from the festival grounds.
10) Explore the Adventure Aquarium in Camden
Right on the Camden Waterfront, just across from Philly, you’ll find the Adventure Aquarium. It’s a quick add-on to other local spots, or a solid destination by itself.
Inside, you’ll see 15,000+ aquatic creatures, including one of the country’s largest shark collections. The Shark Bridge—an 81-foot suspension bridge over the shark exhibit—is a must if you’re feeling brave.
Interactive touch tanks let you feel stingrays, starfish, and more. The layout’s simple, so you won’t get lost or double back.
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.—check the official site for current ticket prices and programs. Weekdays are usually less crowded.
Parking’s nearby but can get pricey for longer visits. If you’re coming from Philly, public transit saves you the hassle.
Got extra time? There’s plenty to do nearby—Tripadvisor’s list covers parks, historic sites, and waterfront dining.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Week in New Jersey
To get the most out of your week, try grouping activities by area, learn the best ways to get around, and keep an eye on late-summer weather. A little planning goes a long way—sometimes it’s the small tweaks that let you squeeze in more fun without feeling rushed.
How to Plan Your Itinerary
Try grouping activities by region to cut down on driving all over the place. Say you want to hit Liberty State Park, catch the Ellis Island ferry, and check out the Newark Museum of Art—those are all up in northern New Jersey, so why not tackle them in one go?
Mix up your plans with both fixed-time events (like concerts or tours) and flexible activities (parks, boardwalks, you get the idea). That way, if something runs late, you’re not totally thrown off.
Take a look at local event calendars—New Jersey Monthly’s weekend guide is pretty solid—for festivals or seasonal stuff you might want to catch. Some of the bigger events, especially in summer, need tickets ahead of time.
Thinking about eating out at a popular spot in places like Hoboken or Cape May? Book a table a few days early. Walk-ins can be tough to snag when things get busy.
Navigating Local Transportation
If you’re staying near bigger cities, NJ Transit trains and buses cover most urban centers and even some shore towns. Grab a reloadable NJ Transit MyTix pass—nobody wants to stand in a ticket line forever.
Driving gives you more freedom, but traffic on the Garden State Parkway and Turnpike can get rough, especially Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Don’t forget tolls and leave some wiggle room for delays.
Rideshare options in smaller towns can be spotty at night. If you’re out late, it’s smarter to set up your ride ahead of time.
Heading to the shore? Park-and-ride lots help dodge those steep beach parking fees. Some places—like Asbury Park—use parking apps, so downloading them before you go saves some hassle.
Weather Considerations for August
August here is hot and sticky, with highs usually between 82–86°F (28–30°C). Thunderstorms? Pretty common in the late afternoon, mostly inland.
Pack light, breathable clothes, and toss a small umbrella or rain jacket in your bag. Shore breezes can make evenings chilly, so a light sweater might come in handy.
If you’re heading to an outdoor event, check the weather that morning. Sometimes there are heat advisories, so keep water with you and find shade when you can.
The sun can be brutal. Slap on SPF 30+ sunscreen—even if it’s cloudy—and reapply if you’re swimming or sweating a lot.
Essential Visitor Information
August in New Jersey means packed beaches, busy roads, and a calendar full of events. Planning ahead for parking, tickets, and whatever the weather throws at you is pretty much a must.
Local Events and Festivals
This week, you’ll find all sorts of cultural, food, and music events statewide. There’s seafood along the shore, jazz in city parks, and county fairs full of local eats and crafts.
A lot of these events, like the ones on the New Jersey August events calendar, want you to buy tickets before you show up. Some places cut off entry once they’re full, especially on weekends.
Transit options can be hit or miss. Shore towns often run shuttles over the weekend, but for some inland fairs, you’ll probably have to drive. Double-check event websites for parking fees—some places charge $10–$20 per car.
Quick Tips:
- Show up early if you want a good spot in free seating areas.
- Bring cash for smaller vendors (not everyone takes cards).
- Double-check event hours the day of, just in case weather messes with the schedule.
Safety Guidelines for Summer Activities
Hot, sticky days can sneak up on you. If you’re out for a while, you might get heat exhaustion before you realize it. Bring a water bottle, wear something light—honestly, skip the dark colors—and don’t be shy about ducking into the shade every now and then.
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Thinking about swimming? Stick to beaches with lifeguards. The Atlantic coast in August gets those sneaky rip currents, and they’re no joke. Check the flags, and maybe just don’t swim after hours.
Big crowds mean more chances for petty theft. Keep your stuff in a bag you can sling across your body, and don’t let it out of your sight.
Checklist for Outdoor Safety:
| Risk | Prevention |
|---|---|
| Heat | Hydrate, wear a hat |
| Sunburn | Apply SPF 30+ every 2 hours |
| Rip Currents | Swim near lifeguards |
| Theft | Use crossbody or anti-theft bag |
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
