Fall Family Fun Things to do

Best Tri-State Area’s Weekend Getaway Ideas

Written by JCFamilies

Best Tri-State Area’s Weekend Getaway Ideas

We are planning a weekend getaway near New Jersey. Luckily, we live in Jersey City, and there are some fun places right here in New Jersey that we can travel to and even a few that we can easily get to in New York and Connecticut. New Jersey offers opportunities for pretty much any kind of holiday. From farmland and mountains to oceanside towns and busy urban centers, you can spread your visits out over a couple of months and experience various short vacations without ever leaving the tri-state area. To help you decide, here is our pick of the tri-state area’s best weekend getaway ideas.

Lake George, NY

Lake George stretches for 32 miles in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. Georgia O’Keefe made its breathtaking vistas famous, but there is nothing like seeing them for yourself. Besides incredible natural beauty stretching as far as the eye can see, Lake George has much to offer including Mini-golf courses, classic rollercoasters, craft beer breweries, and lake cruises. There is absolutely something for everyone. 

Lake George is a year-round tourist destination, so there is plenty to do even when visiting on a rainy fall weekend. Once you figure out your lodging, check out the attractions and make an itinerary. 

Lake George, NY: Weekend Getaways near New Jersey

Fall weekend getaway near New Jersey, New York

Burlington, NJ

Many people equate New Jersey with its long beaches, boardwalks, and water sports and so summertime. However, historic towns like Burlington prove that New Jersey can also be fun during other seasons of the year. Over 300 years old, Burlington is a perfect tri-state area weekend getaway for a history buff. In addition, the historical society organizes walking tours, which you don’t want to miss. 

If antiquing is more your speed, you will not be disappointed. Burlington is a favorite spot for antiquing enthusiasts. Charming inns, bed and breakfasts, delicious restaurants, and beautiful nature make Burlington a perfect weekend getaway year-round.

Burlington, NJ: Weekend Getaway

A weekend getaway for Fall in New Jersey

Chester, CT

Fall is just around the corner, which can only mean one thing for Connecticut. It will be teeming with hikers and other outdoorsy types in the upcoming months. Chester is the perfect weekend getaway for anyone looking for a quaint small town to provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of a big city. Enjoy walking down its charming main street filled with cafes, shops, restaurants, and galleries. Spas are also available if you want to hammer the relaxation point home. Finally, for everyone wishing for a more active holiday – you can easily rent bikes and ride around exploring the area.

Chester, CT: Plan a fall weekend getaway

Chester, CT. Weekend getaway near New Jersey

Saratoga Springs, NY

Saratoga Springs usually draws a huge horse racing crowd but it is a fun place to visit whether or not you’re interested in thoroughbreds. The Saratoga Spa State Park is famous for numerous mineral springs sprouting throughout the place. You can go on a self-guided tour of the springs and quickly learn about their healing properties. There are also plenty of museums if you are seeking a change of pace and a little history and culture during  your relaxing weekend getaway.

Cape May, NJ

Cape May is one of New Jersey’s finest beach towns. It found its way onto our list of the best tri-state area weekend getaways because visiting it can be an excellent opportunity to catch the last few remaining rays of summer sunshine. Even if you choose a sunny weekend in autumn, you can still have a lot of fun there, even without swimming or other water-related activities. The ocean air alone is worth visiting. It will refresh you and provide a welcome respite from the stuffiness of city life. In addition, the nearby town of Green Creek is home to the Jersey Shore Alpacas – an alpaca farm that allows its visitors to meet and feed these charming creatures during what they call Open Farm Saturdays. 

Cape May, NJ: Weekend Getaway near New Jersey

Weekend Getaway near New Jersey. Cape May is a beautiful destination

Mystic, CT

Mystic has a long history as a bustling seaport, so most of its tourist attractions reflect this. The Mystic Seaport Museum allows you to explore its maritime exhibits, climb onto antique vessels, and even visit the shipyard. The Mystic Aquarium is particularly fun for children since it is home to unique marine life including penguins and beluga whales. 

If Mystic sounds vaguely familiar and glamorous, you might recall Mystic Pizza, the late 80’s film starring Julia Roberts. If this is the case, we have great news for you – you can grab a slice from this famous pizzeria and see what all the fuss is about.

Weekend Getaways New Jersey

Plan your visit in try-state-area NY, CT, and NJ

Author Bio: Angie Sims
Angie Sims used to work in the traveling industry for 6 years, and now she works in the relocation industry. For the last 3 years, she has been specializing in helping people with their domestic and international relocation. She is also a full-time mom and a part-time blog writer. From her own experiences, she writes about traveling and moving with children on her blog.

Updated August 26, 2023

About the author

JCFamilies

Skip to toolbar