Right now has been a tease in New Jersey. We’ve been enjoying weather in the 70s during the day, with temps dropping into the upper 50s at night. But all New Jerseyans know not to be fooled. We still have the rest of August to get through and September. September can be really hot here.
Once the crisp autumn air starts to settle in and the leaves begin to turn shades of red, orange, and gold, New Jersey transforms into a vibrant tapestry of fall experiences. From scenic drives to festive events, the Garden State offers so many activities to celebrate the season. Here are the top 20 fall activities to enjoy in New Jersey.
This post is all about things to do in the fall in New Jersey.
Table of Contents
Things to Do in the Fall in New Jersey
Apple Picking
Fall in New Jersey wouldn’t be complete without a trip to an apple orchard. Believe it or not, New Jersey has great apples! There are a few places to go that offer a great experience that’s perfect for either doing with friends and/or families.
Try out the following orchards:
Eastmont Orchards in Colts Neck
Eastmont Orchards is located in central Jersey in Colts Neck. They have 19 different varieties to pick throughout the apple season, which lasts from early September until mid-October (and maybe slightly later!). Check out the below list of what to pick and when:
Early-September
Honeycrisp, McIntosh
Mid-September to Mid-October
Cameo, Cortland, Crispin, Empire, Golden Delicious, Idared, Jonathan, McCoun, Red Delicious, Spartan
Mid-October to Closing
Arkansas Black, Braeburn, Fuji, Granny Smith, Red Rome, Stayman Winesap, Yellow Newtown Pippen
Melick’s Town Farm in Oldwick
Melick’s boasts the largest orchard in New Jersey, has multiple locations including farmers’ markets. This orchard is located in Oldwick in Hunterdon county. Not only can you pick apples, but they also have peaches, nectarines, Asian pears, and sunflowers! Plus they have a hard cider festival on August 31st. Make it a day trip packed with fall activities by exploring the historic town, picking apples, and grab a bite to eat and drink!
Delicious Orchards in Colts Neck
Delicious Orchards is definitely a special treat. As a child, this is where my family and I would frequently go apple picking. Picking enough to make all kinds of homemade goods like applesauce. It’s also a great place to go pumpkin and peach picking. Not only can your own produce, but Delicious Orchards also has its own store that gives a farmers’ market feel. They sell all kinds of seasonal baked goods (like pies, danishes, etc.), bread, sell all kinds of produce, a huge candy and chocolate section, and more!
Be aware that the store and the picking are in two separate locations which are very close to each other.
Sun High Orchards is located in Randolph. They have both pumpkin and apple picking, and even conduct fall farm tours. Per their website, the tours are great for children that are preschoolers and second grade. The tours require a reservation so be sure to inquire about it check out their website. They also have activities to do throughout the year. During the summer, they sell their peaches, Jersey corn, bouquets, pies, and more. They have a patio section located on the property where you can relax and take in the flowers and alpacas. During the spring, they have seasonal produce for sale, like asparagus. During the winter, pick your own Christmas tree!
Bring your baskets and enjoy the crisp air as you select your favorite varieties. Don’t forget to try some homemade apple cider or apple pie while you’re there!
Pumpkin Patches
Although the above mentioned farms have pumpkin picking, there are more to add to the list!
Get into the fall spirit by visiting local pumpkin patches such as Alstede Farms located in Chester or Von Thun Farms, which has two locations in Washington and Monmouth Junction. These patches offer not only pumpkins of all sizes but also fun activities like corn mazes and hayrides. Perfect for families or a fun day out with friends!
Alstede Farms in Chester
Alstede Farms has a lot to offer in terms of picking your own produce. You can pick the following items at their farm:
- Strawberries
- Peas
- Raspberries
- Blueberries
- beans
- Peaches
- Blackberries
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Flowers
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
- Apples
- Pumpkins
Check out their “What Can I Pick Today” page to stay up-to-date on the latest harvest/seasonal pickings.
Von Thun Farms in Washington and South Brunswick
There are lots of activities to do at Von Thun Farms, and some that are designated for seasonal pass holders. At their South Brunswick location, they offer picking strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, apples, and pumpkins. At their Washington location, you can pick the same things as the South Brunswick location, but they have the addition of peach picking and the Sunflower Trail. The Sunflower Trail first opens around the end of June. Along this trail there are many photo opportunities throughout rows and rows of sunflowers.
Check out their calendar of events for the year at this link.
Scenic Drives
Experience the beauty of autumn with a scenic drive. The Delaware River Scenic Byway and Route 206 are famous for their stunning fall foliage. Pack your camera and enjoy picturesque views of rolling hills and vibrant forests.
Delaware River Scenic Byway
There’s plenty to do along the Delaware River which attracts hikers, fishermen, and others because of its scenic views. Enjoy 34 miles worth of spectacular views as the byway travels through Trenton and five riverside towns: Titusville, Lambertville, Stockton, Raven Rock and Frenchtown.
Route 206
This highway stretches along 130 miles throughout New Jersey from Hammonton up to Andover and beyond. In the Newton area, it’s particularly picturesque with farms, markets, and woods.
Fall Festivals
There are actually quite a few fall festivals that happen throughout New Jersey. There have already been some festivals shared throughout this blog post so far. But if you’re looking for bigger fall festivals, I’ve got a list for you! The Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival and the Chester Harvest Festival are just a few examples where you can enjoy live music, food, and seasonal fun. Each festival offers a unique celebration of the season.
New Jersey hosts a variety of fall festivals that celebrate the season with food, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Here are some of the best fall festivals in the state:
Chatsworth Cranberry Festival
– Location: Chatsworth, NJ
– Dates: Mid-October
– Highlights: This festival is a must-visit for cranberry lovers. It features cranberry-themed foods, crafts, and live music. Set in the heart of the Pine Barrens, it’s one of the largest festivals in New Jersey, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
South Jersey Pumpkin Show
– Location: Salem County Fairgrounds, Woodstown, NJ
– Dates: Mid-October
– Highlights: Celebrating all things pumpkin, this festival offers pumpkin pie contests, pumpkin desserts, and the Giant Pumpkin Pyramid. There are also hayrides, a haunted barn, and a Little Miss Pumpkin Show pageant.
Allaire Village Fall Harvest Festival
– Location: Allaire State Park, Wall Township, NJ
– Dates: Late September
– Highlights: Step back in time at this historic village where the fall harvest is celebrated with 19th-century demonstrations, including blacksmithing, hearth cooking, and cider pressing. The festival also features pumpkin picking, hayrides, and live entertainment.
Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival
– Location: Red Bank, NJ
– Dates: Early October
– Highlights: This festival is a tribute to the town’s Irish heritage and the beginning of oyster season. It features oysters prepared in various ways, seafood, and other gourmet dishes, all paired with Guinness. Live music, craft vendors, and family activities make it a lively fall event.
Giant Pumpkin Carve Festival
– Location: Salem County Fairgrounds, Woodstown, NJ
– Dates: Late September
– Highlights: This festival showcases creatively carved pumpkins, some of which are giant-sized. There’s also live entertainment, hayrides, and a pumpkin patch. It’s a great event for families and anyone who loves the artistry of pumpkin carving.
Cape May’s Fall Festival
– Location: Cape May, NJ
– Dates: Early to Mid-October
– Highlights: Known for its charming Victorian architecture, Cape May’s fall festival offers a birding weekend, craft shows, and tours of historic homes. The festival also includes trolley rides, food vendors, and a scarecrow contest.
Bergen County Fall Harvest Festival
– Location: Van Saun Park, Paramus, NJ
– Dates: Early October
– Highlights: This festival includes everything from a petting zoo and pony rides to a craft fair and food trucks. There are also pumpkin picking, live music, and educational exhibits, making it a fun, family-friendly event.
Oktoberfest at Historic Smithville
– Location: Historic Smithville, NJ
– Dates: Early October
– Highlights: Experience German culture with traditional food, beer, and live music. The event also features over 100 craft vendors, children’s activities, and a petting zoo. The historic village setting adds to the charm of this festive celebration.
Tewksbury Harvest Festival
– Location: Christie Hoffman Farm Park, Tewksbury, NJ
– Dates: Late September
– Highlights: A quintessential small-town fall festival, it includes a dog parade, hayrides, games, and local vendors. The festival is known for its community feel and beautiful rural setting.
Long Valley Fall Festival
– Location: Long Valley, NJ
– Dates: Early October
– Highlights: Enjoy a day of family fun with a street fair, craft vendors, and live music. The festival also features a beer garden, food trucks, and activities for kids, all set against the backdrop of Long Valley’s scenic countryside.
These festivals offer a great way to celebrate the fall season, whether you’re interested in food, crafts, music, or simply enjoying the beauty of autumn in New Jersey.
* Check all websites for the most up-to-date event times and dates.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Fall is the perfect time for hiking. Trails like the Appalachian Trail and Hacklebarney State Park offer breathtaking views of autumn leaves. Dress in layers and explore the beauty of New Jersey’s natural landscapes.
New Jersey offers a diverse range of hiking trails that showcase the state’s natural beauty, from coastal landscapes to mountainous regions.
Here are 10 of the best hikes in New Jersey:
Mount Tammany
– Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (this has a NJ and PA side)
– Distance: 3.5 miles (loop)
– Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous. The hike can be strenuous because of its steepness.
– Highlights: This hike is one of the most popular in New Jersey, offering stunning views of the Delaware Water Gap from the summit of Mount Tammany. The trail includes steep climbs, rocky paths, and breathtaking overlooks. The Red Dot Trail is a challenging but rewarding ascent, while the Blue Dot Trail provides a more gradual descent. There are also plenty of nearby hikes if you’d like to make a whole weekend trip to the area.
Stairway to Heaven
– Location: Wawayanda State Park, Hewitt, NJ
– Distance: 7.3 miles (out and back)
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Highlights: The “Stairway to Heaven” hike takes you along the Appalachian Trail and up to Pinwheel Vista, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. The trail features a mix of wooded paths, boardwalks over wetlands, and a rocky climb to the summit. This trail, although steep and strenuous, is excellent for viewing the fall foliage.
Palisades Interstate Park
– Location: Alpine, NJ
– Distance: Varies (multiple trails)
– Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
– Highlights: Palisades Interstate Park offers several hiking options along the Hudson River with stunning views of the Palisades Cliffs and the Manhattan skyline. The Long Path and Shore Trail are popular choices, providing a mix of forested areas, river views, and historic sites like the Kearney House.
Buttermilk Falls
– Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Layton, NJ
– Distance: 1.5 miles (out and back)
– Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
– Highlights: Buttermilk Falls is New Jersey’s tallest waterfall, and this hike takes you up a steep staircase to the top of the falls and beyond. The trail continues to the Appalachian Trail, where you can extend your hike to Crater Lake for more scenic views and a quieter atmosphere.
High Point State Park
– Location: Sussex, NJ
– Distance: 3.5 miles (loop)
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Highlights: The Monument Trail at High Point State Park offers sweeping views from the highest point in New Jersey. The trail takes you through forests, past the High Point Monument, and along ridges with views of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching and picnicking. There are views of farmland, forests, valleys, and hills.
Ramapo Valley County Reservation
– Location: Mahwah, NJ
– Distance: Varies (multiple trails)
– Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
– Highlights: This popular hiking destination offers a variety of trails through forests, around scenic lakes, and up to viewpoints like Hawk Rock and Ridge Overlook. The Vista Loop Trail is a favorite, providing a moderate hike with rewarding views over the Ramapo Valley. This is probably one of our favorite hikes and we’ve hiked here quite often. It has so many trails to hike on and you could spend a whole day there. There are plenty of picnic areas (no picnic tables except at the main entrance/ trailhead by the parking lot) to have a nice picnic and enjoy the scenery. Get here early because the parking lot is not that big and fills up quickly.
Watchung Reservation
– Location: Mountainside, NJ
– Distance: 10 miles (loop)
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Highlights: The Sierra Trail at Watchung Reservation offers a loop through this historic and scenic park. You’ll pass by lakes, meadows, and woodlands, as well as historical sites like the Deserted Village of Feltville. The reservation is also known for its rich wildlife and diverse plant life. The Deserted Village is an interesting find! Around 1736, Peter Willcocks built
Pine Barrens
– Location: Wharton State Forest
– Distance: Varies (multiple trails)
– Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
– Highlights: The Pine Barrens offer a unique hiking experience through one of the largest wilderness areas in the eastern United States. Trails like the Batona Trail take you through pine forests, past cedar swamps, and along sandy roads. The area is known for its quiet beauty, cranberry bogs, and opportunities for wildlife sightings. Take a moment to also visit the restored Batsto Village. This is a historic site that dates back to 1766. Here you’ll find old farms, a post office, different types of mills like the gristmill and saw mill, and an ice house which kept villagers’ food cold all throughout the year.
Sourland Mountain Preserve
– Location: Hillsborough, NJ
– Distance: 5 miles (loop)
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Highlights: The Ridge Trail at Sourland Mountain Preserve offers a rugged hike through boulder fields, past large rock formations, and up to a scenic overlook. The preserve is a great spot for hiking, birdwatching, and even bouldering.
Island Beach State Park
– Location: Seaside Park, NJ
– Distance: Varies (multiple trails)
– Difficulty: Easy
– Highlights: Island Beach State Park offers several easy hikes through dunes, maritime forests, and along the beach. The trails provide opportunities to see coastal wildlife, including ospreys and foxes, and enjoy views of Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The park is a serene escape, especially in the off-season.
These hikes showcase the diverse landscapes of New Jersey, from coastal plains to mountainous terrain, offering something for every level of hiker.
Wine Tastings and Tours
Visit local wineries such as Cape May Winery or Unionville Vineyards for a delightful fall wine tasting. Many wineries host special events and tastings featuring seasonal wines that pair perfectly with the cooler weather.
Haunted Attractions
For those who enjoy a good scare, New Jersey’s haunted attractions are a must-visit. Check out Field of Terror for spine-chilling experiences. These haunted houses and ghost tours promise thrills and chills.
This article by My Central New Jersey discusses more haunted places to visit. Check out 13 Most Haunted Sites in Central New Jersey.
Corn Mazes
Challenge yourself with a visit to a corn maze. Howell Farm and Conners Farm offer intricate mazes that provide fun for all ages. Navigate your way through the cornfield and enjoy additional activities like pumpkin picking and hayrides.
Howell Farm holds the American Quilt Maze. This year (2024) at the time this post is being written, the maze is open for operations starting in mid-September on the weekends. Check out the website for operating days and hours. This farm isn’t just for corn mazes though. It’s a historic, living farm. This means it is operated for educational purposes. Throughout the year you’ll see the farmers plant and harvest the crops, do chores around the farm, take care of the animals, and all there is to do on a working farm.
For details about all of the Conners Farm fall activities, you’ll find a whole schedule of events divided into day and evening activities. Check out the links below:
Fall day time activities at Conners Farm
Fall night time activities at Conners Farm
Historic Sites and Tours
Explore New Jersey’s rich history by visiting historic sites such as Washington Crossing Historic Park or Liberty Hall Museum. Many of these sites offer fall-themed events and educational tours that provide insight into the state’s past.
Farmers’ Markets
Fall farmers’ markets are brimming with seasonal produce and treats. Visit Montclair Farmers Market or Hoboken Farmers Market to find everything from fresh apples and pumpkins to homemade pies and artisan goods. Let’s check out the top 10 farmers’ markets to check out in New Jersey
Montclair Farmers’ Market (Montclair)
– Location: Walnut Street Train Station, Montclair, NJ
– Highlights: Established in 1993, this market is one of the oldest in the state. It offers a wide variety of organic produce, dairy products, baked goods, and even flowers. The market also features specialty vendors selling honey, pickles, and handmade crafts. The summer season operates between June and November, while the winter season operates from December to May.
West Windsor Community Farmers’ Market
– Location: Vaughn Drive Lot, West Windsor, NJ
– Highlights: Known for its diverse selection, this market features local produce, meats, seafood, and artisan breads. There are also live music performances and cooking demonstrations that make it a community hub. It operates every Saturday.
Collingswood Farmers’ Market
– Location: Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ
– Highlights: This market is a local favorite, offering everything from organic vegetables to grass-fed meats. It also has a unique “shopping from the street” setup, where customers can browse and purchase from vendors set up along the road. This farmers’ market operates from May to Thanksgiving.
Princeton Farmers’ Market
– Location: Hinds Plaza, Princeton, NJ
– Highlights: Situated in the heart of Princeton, this market offers a sophisticated mix of organic and conventional produce, cheeses, baked goods, and flowers. It’s also known for its strong emphasis on sustainability. The farmers’ market operates on Thursdays, however, their website doesn’t give a season’s timeframe that they’re open. (Unless I just didn’t find it!)
Asbury Fresh
– Location: Kennedy Park, Asbury Park, NJ
– Highlights: This market blends fresh produce with a beach-town vibe. Besides fruits and vegetables, you can find local arts and crafts, unique handmade items, and live music, making it a lively destination. This farmers’ market operates every Sunday from May to November.
Morristown Farmers’ Market
– Location: Spring Street and Morris Street, Morristown, NJ
– Highlights: Operating for over 30 years, this market is a staple in Morristown. It offers a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and more. The market also features local musicians, enhancing the shopping experience. It operates every Sunday from June to November.
Red Bank Farmers’ Market
– Location: The Galleria Red Bank, Red Bank, NJ
– Highlights: This market is known for its diverse vendors offering organic produce, flowers, baked goods, and seafood. Its location in a historic building adds to the charm, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It operates from Mother’s Day until mid-November and is open every Sunday. Red Bank is also a wonderful little town that has little boutique shops, lots of restaurants, and a riverfront to enjoy walking along.
Summit Farmers’ Market
– Location: Park & Shop Lot #2, Summit, NJ
– Highlights: Open from April to November, this market features local produce, gourmet cheeses, meats, and prepared foods. It also offers a recycling center and hosts various community events throughout the season.
Highlands Farmers’ Market
– Location: Huddy Park, Highlands, NJ
– Highlights: Located at the Jersey Shore, this market offers fresh produce, seafood, and baked goods. Its seaside location and friendly atmosphere make it a delightful weekend stop. It operates every Saturday from June to November every year. This is definitely a location you won’t want to miss. There’s a little downtown area, complete with a small movie theater. The Highlands also features a Craft Beer Festival in September, Oktoberfest and Fall Taste of Highlands in October, and a Howl-o-ween Dog Costume Contest.
Atlantic City Farmers’ Market
– Location: Center City Park, Atlantic City, NJ
– Highlights: This market is perfect for combining a beach day with fresh, local shopping. It offers a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and homemade goods, making it a popular stop for both locals and tourists. It operates every Thursday and Saturday from July to September.
These markets not only provide access to fresh, local products but also foster a sense of community and support for local farmers and artisans. Whether you’re looking for organic produce, homemade goods, or just a pleasant weekend activity, these farmers’ markets in New Jersey are worth a visit.
Pumpkin Festivals
Celebrate all things pumpkin at local festivals like The Great Pumpkin Festival in Flemington. These festivals feature pumpkin carving, pie-eating contests, and more, offering a fun-filled day for the whole family.
Art and Craft Fairs
Discover unique handmade crafts and artwork at local fairs. Events like The Art Walk in Hoboken or the Princeton Arts Council showcase local talent and offer opportunities to find one-of-a-kind autumn-themed items.
Local Theater Productions
Enjoy a night out at the theater with fall productions at Paper Mill Playhouse located in Millburn or George Street Playhouse located in New Brunswick. These venues offer a variety of shows and performances that capture the spirit of the season.
Outdoor Sporting Events
Fall is a great time to catch a college football game or other outdoor sports events. Support your local teams and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of stadiums and sports fields. Check our places like Rutgers University which has very lively football games.
Cozy Cafés and Restaurants
Warm up with a visit to a cozy café or restaurant. Enjoy seasonal dishes and beverages at local favorites. Look for spots that offer pumpkin-flavored treats or hearty soups perfect for fall weather. Just about every town has a great restaurant to dine in New Jersey. But check out these top 5 restaurants for fall/seasonal recipes:
- Juniper Hill in Annandale offers a farm-to-table menu that changes daily based on local and seasonal ingredients. Expect dishes featuring East Coast fish and local produce, perfect for a fall-themed meal (Best of NJ).
- Faubourg in Montclair is known for its French-inspired menu that evolves with the seasons. In the fall, they offer dishes like coq au vin, which pairs well with the cooler weather and adds a comforting touch to any meal (New Jersey Monthly).
- Elements in Princeton provides a sophisticated dining experience with tasting menus that change frequently. During the fall, you might find creative uses of seasonal ingredients like squash, root vegetables, and game meats, all prepared with unique culinary techniques (New Jersey Monthly).
- The Ebbitt Room in Cape May focuses on clean, seasonal flavors and may feature fall recipes using local produce, such as a white-miso-marinated halibut or root vegetable purees that celebrate autumn’s harvest (New Jersey Monthly).
- Chef Mike’s ABG in Seaside Park offers beachfront dining with a menu that often includes seafood paired with fall vegetables and spices, providing a cozy, seasonal dining experience by the shore (Best of NJ).
Fall Photography
Capture the beauty of autumn with fall photography. Branch Brook Park and Rancocas State Park are excellent locations for photographing the colorful foliage. Use this opportunity to practice your photography skills and create lasting memories.
Seasonal Workshops and Classes
Participate in fall-themed workshops and classes to learn something new. From cooking classes featuring seasonal recipes to craft workshops making autumn decorations, there are plenty of opportunities to get creative.
Bird Watching
Fall is an ideal time for bird watching as migratory birds pass through New Jersey. Visit places like Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge to observe a variety of bird species. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the peacefulness of nature.
Antiquing and Flea Markets
Browse antique shops and flea markets for unique finds. The Lambertville Flea Market and Englishtown Auction Sales are great places to discover vintage items and collectibles that capture the charm of fall.
Weekend Getaways
Escape the everyday by planning a fall weekend getaway. Consider destinations like Cape May for a relaxing retreat filled with fall colors and seasonal activities. Enjoy scenic landscapes, cozy accommodations, and local attractions.
Conclusion
New Jersey offers a wealth of fall activities that showcase the best of the season. Whether you’re exploring scenic drives, picking pumpkins, or enjoying a local festival, there’s something for everyone to appreciate.
This post was all about things to do in the fall in New Jersey.
Share your favorite fall activities in New Jersey or suggest new ones in the comments!
