12 Spring Getaways in and around NJ & NY
The moment spring starts everything becomes beautiful. The season brings sunshine and gives us an opportunity to come out of those winter blues. Most importantly, it’s the perfect time to ditch those layers of clothes and head outdoors for some fun. How about a spring break with your family? If you have waited for a weekend getaway for so long, plan a trip now. Well, you don’t have to fly to a far-flung resort or remote island to celebrate the season and spend quality time with your family. If you live in or around New York or New Jersey, here are some great spring break destinations for you. Check them out!
1) Holland Ridge Farms, New Jersey
If you love flowers or nature photography, you can’t afford to miss Holland Ridge Farms – USA’s biggest “U-Pick” flower farm. Bustling with countless colorful blooms including the signature tulips, this pristine landscaped farm situated in New Jersey will be your most memorable getaway. Well, you don’t have to travel to the Netherlands to pick flowers. Take part in the renowned ‘U-Pick Tulips’ in spring or ‘U-Pick Sunflowers’ flower-pick seasons and witness those gorgeous blooms like never before. The farm is also a top-notch destination for nature photography and even a more perfect one to celebrate your birthdays, engagement shoots, and other special events.
2) Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington DC
No matter whether you live in NY or NJ, you can travel to Washington, DC in late March to celebrate the famous ‘The National Cherry Blossom Festival’. The popular spring celebration that is commencing from March 20, 2022, through April 17 commemorates Tokyo’s Mayor Yukio Ozaki the 1912 gift of 3,000 Japanese cherry trees to Washington. If you are witnessing the festival for the first time, you will be thrilled to see the signature events that are filled with color, food, and culture. Some of these events including Petal Porches, Blossom Kite Festival, The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, and Pink Tie Dinner Party are truly a treat to the eyes and soul.
3) Deepcut Gardens, New Jersey
Established in the late 1600s, the Deep Cut Gardens in New Jersey’s Middletown is a recessed garden featuring over 50 varieties of roses and lush greenery. The 54 acres of gardens allow you to look at the tropical lilies and brightly colored koi and goldfish in the natural pond. Apart from cherishing nature in the garden, you can visit the indoor area and read some books on horticulture. If you are looking to spend some time in the lap of nature, this spot is a great place to relax and rejuvenate.
4) Channel Gardens, New York
Situated in a complex on the west side of New York City’s Fifth Avenue, the Channel Gardens offers some picturesque and epic holiday views to visitors. The themed garden has six granite pools with fountainhead sculptures that showcase mesmerizing historical art. From beautiful pink ducks floating in the fountain pools to Easter lilies, marigolds, and bromeliads adorning the garden, the setting is extremely colorful and whimsical. In December, the garden gets its vibrant red touch to welcome the holiday angels. But if you are visiting in Spring, rest assured that you are going to love the sight of those gorgeous florals all around you.
5) Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, New Jersey
If you are a family of kids, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is the ideal getaway for you. With its wide range of fun and entertaining activities for the entire family, the boardwalk is a treat in itself. The boardwalk is filled with fun games, aquarium, mini-golf, beach, rides, fireworks, movies, concerts, and so much more. Start your day with family-friendly rides at the amusement park and cherish local seafood and ice cream treats midway. Catch some rays at Jenkinson’s Beach and then fresh up after a hot day by submerging in water. Video game lovers can enjoy the latest video games at the arcade and don’t forget to grab a burger at Little Mac’s and sip on a pina colada while enjoying the sea views.
6) Lambertville, New Jersey
Lambertville in southwestern Hunterdon County offers a calming and historic riverside-town experience. Situated on the banks of the Delaware River, the city is full of streets lined with historic buildings with bread and breakfast options, such as Chimney Hill Estate and Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn. If you love shopping, stroll the streets for antiques, crafts, and gifts. Once you have thoroughly enjoyed shopping, walk across the Bridge St. bridge to New Hope in Pennsylvania. There you will find plentiful dining options and more intriguing options for sightseeing, such as Bucks County Playhouse and Solebury Orchards.
7) Intrepid Museum, New York
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York is a great spring getaway destination for a family of kids. The National Historic Landmark features the iconic aircraft carrier Intrepid and the space shuttle Enterprise. Visit the landmark to witness the world’s fastest jets and guided-missile submarines. Examine original artifacts, explore a wide range of exhibits, and see historic video footage. Something you and your kids would love to see on a sunny spring day!
8) Stone Harbor, New Jersey
New Jersey’s Stone Harbor is a retreat to the eyes. Thanks to the picturesque setting offering spectacular views of the bay! Hit the Seven Mile Beach, dine along the shore watching boats and ferries visiting and leaving the harbor, or simply take a stroll on 96th Street. The Wetlands Institute located over the Boulevard Bridge offers plenty of options to witness marine life. The quaint little town also boasts tons of galleries, boutiques, and arcades. For accommodation, you can choose to stay at the boutique resort, The Reeds at Shelter Haven. The spot is perfect to enjoy a luxe and peaceful getaway while enjoying the seashore at its best!
9) Shinn Estate Farmhouse, New York
Set in a historic setting, Shinn Estate Farmhouse is a stupendous wine country getaway in New York. The thoughtfully restored farmhouse surrounded by farmlands offers a tranquil escape to those who want to come out of their stressful lives. From antique floors and spacious guest rooms to modern bathrooms and a bar/lounge, there is everything you need from a full-service resort. While residing in the farmhouse, you can plan a day trip to Goldsmith’s Inlet Park or Indian Island County Park. Golf lovers can head towards Long Island National Golf Club. Hit the vineyards and sip on some wine while enjoying views from your balcony.
10) Asbury Park, New Jersey
Asbury Park is a beachfront city about 1 hr and 30 min drive away from NYC. Located on the New Jersey coast, the seaside city has a sandy shore and beachfront boardwalk lined with several shops and cafes. Start the day at Splash Park and then head toward the 1920s Paramount Theatre for a music concert. In the evening, enjoy some finest video games at the Silverball Museum before strolling across Asbury Park Boardwalk. Grab some tacos at MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos and visit the Parlor Gallery. Stay at Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel and enjoy gorgeous panoramic views while relaxing through the weekend.
11) Newport, Rhode Island
This coastal town is a great place to ditch the hectic life of the city and enjoy some waterfront views. Located on Aquidneck Island, the seaside city of Newport is the perfect place to embrace some peace. Count on a 3.5-mile Cliff Walk to enjoy panoramic views and catch some sea breeze. Apart from waterfront views, take some time to witness some enthralling mansions of America’s wealthiest families. The coastal landscape also boasts some great vineyards with spirited new breweries and distilleries perfect for wine lovers. For dining, you can count on chef-owned restaurants on the Classic Coast. Don’t forget to witness the Fort Adams State Park and the International Tennis Hall of Fame. If you are planning to stay, check-in at Castle Hill Inn.
12) Maine
If you enjoy road trips, head to Southern Maine – one of the most sought-after domestic destinations in the US. Start your day trip at Ferry Beach State Park before heading towards Goat Island Lighthouse and Gilsland Farm. If you have kids, begin your holiday at Palace Playland, Maine’s beachfront amusement park. Board a classic lobster boat for a coastal Maine tour and enjoy views of the shoreline.
Choose your favorite spring getaway option from the list and quickly head toward your destination. Happy spring!
