End of Summer Bucket List: 10 Things to Do Before Fall in New Jersey
As summer begins to wind down, there's no better time to soak up the last of the warm weather and sunshine in New Jersey. Whether you're a beach lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, the Garden State offers countless ways to make the most of the final days of summer. Here’s your ultimate end-of-summer bucket list with 10 must-do activities before fall arrives.
1. Catch a Sunset at the Jersey Shore
Nothing says summer quite like watching the sun dip below the horizon over the Atlantic Ocean. Head to iconic spots like Cape May, Asbury Park, or Sandy Hook for a picture-perfect sunset. Don’t forget your camera—these are moments you’ll want to capture.
2. Explore New Jersey’s Scenic Hiking Trails
The cooler days of late August are perfect for a scenic hike. Mount Tammany at the Delaware Water Gap offers breathtaking views, while trails like Palisades Interstate Park provide stunning vistas of the Hudson River. Don’t miss the chance to hike High Point State Park, where you can stand at the highest elevation in the state.
3. Indulge in a Boardwalk Treat
No summer is complete without a trip to the boardwalk. Enjoy classic New Jersey treats like funnel cakes, saltwater taffy, and frozen custard. Point Pleasant Beach and Wildwood offer some of the best boardwalks, packed with rides, games, and food stands.
4. Visit a Local Farmers Market
Late summer is harvest season in New Jersey, making it the perfect time to visit a local farmers market. Fresh produce like juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and peaches are in abundance. Markets like Collingswood Farmers Market and Montclair Farmers Market are popular choices.
5. Spend a Day at the Lake
Escape the heat with a relaxing day at one of New Jersey's beautiful lakes. Lake Hopatcong, the largest lake in the state, is ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming. Round Valley Reservoir offers clear blue waters and plenty of space for picnicking and hiking.
6. Enjoy a Drive-In Movie Night
Experience the nostalgia of a drive-in movie before summer ends. Locations like Delsea Drive-In in Vineland offer double features of the latest blockbusters. Pack some snacks and enjoy a movie under the stars.
7. Go Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard
New Jersey’s wine country is in full swing by late August. Visit vineyards like Hopewell Valley Vineyards or Cape May Winery to sample award-winning wines while enjoying picturesque views of the vineyards.
8. Take a Whale Watching Tour
August is prime time for whale watching along the Jersey Shore. Book a tour from Cape May or Belmar to catch a glimpse of humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life as they migrate along the coast.
9. Experience a Summer Music Festival
From jazz to rock, New Jersey hosts a variety of music festivals throughout the summer. XPoNential Music Festival in Camden and Sea Hear Now in Asbury Park are just a few options to enjoy live music in a summer setting.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Through the Countryside
Wind down the summer with a scenic drive through New Jersey’s picturesque countryside. Routes like Route 519 and Route 29 offer stunning views of rolling hills, farmland, and charming small towns. Stop at a roadside stand for fresh produce or homemade pies along the way.
As the end of summer approaches, make sure you check off these quintessential New Jersey experiences from your bucket list. From beach days to scenic hikes and everything in between, there’s no shortage of ways to savor the last days of summer in the Garden State. So grab your sunglasses, hit the road, and enjoy all that New Jersey has to offer before the fall leaves start to turn.
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