New Jersey, aptly known as the Garden State, offers a plethora of activities to enjoy the fall season in all its glory. For those looking to harvest some of autumn’s bounty, Alstede Farms in Chester and Mackey’s Orchard in Belvidere offer apple-picking opportunities. Families can also indulge in fresh apple cider at these orchards.
Pumpkin enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either; Red Wagon Farm Market in Manalapan and Duffield’s Farm & Market in Sewell provide a range of pumpkins and fall festivities including hayrides to the pumpkin patches.
For those seeking outdoor recreation beyond harvesting, hayrides are offered at several locations including Springdale Farms in Cherry Hill and Melick’s Town Farm in Oldwick.
Corn mazes are also a popular choice; Howell Living History Farm in Hopewell and Bullock Farms in Cream Ridge offer complex mazes with various attractions and viewing platforms. Moreover, those interested in wildlife can enjoy a visit to zoos like Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange or Bergen County Zoo in Paramus, where the cooler fall air makes for livelier animals.
Beyond the farms and zoos, the Garden State offers natural scenic beauty that can be explored on foot or by bike. Trails in places like Cape May Point State Park and The Great Falls of Paterson are perfect for hiking, walking, or biking.
For the creatively inclined, studios like Glassworks Studio in Morristown offer arts and crafts sessions suitable for all age groups. The Jersey Shore, often associated with summer, also offers a range of activities such as beachcombing and whale watching in the fall season.
Finally, as Halloween approaches, families with children can look forward to “Trunk or Treat” events. One such event will be hosted by the Jersey Shore Arts Center in Ocean Grove on October 28, 2023, offering a sackful of candy for the kids.
For a less sugar-centric experience, The Great Pumpkin Train offers a scenic ride along the Delaware River, with stops for corn mazes and pumpkin picking. Whatever your interests, New Jersey has a rich offering of activities to make your fall season memorable.