Ultimate New Jersey Road Trip – Best Things To Do, Route, Hotels & Nightlife

Embark on a New Jersey road trip to savor diverse experiences, from exploring historic Princeton and scenic Cape May to indulging in Atlantic City’s vibrant nightlife, all within a compact yet dynamic state. Plan some of the best places in New Jersey, including some of the stunning weekend getaways in New Jersey.

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New Jersey Road Trip Itinerary – Weekend Getaways In New Jersey

Whether you seek beachfront relaxation, cultural immersion, or thrilling entertainment, New Jersey offers a rich tapestry of attractions to delight every traveler. Here’s a detailed road trip itinerary for exploring New Jersey.

Day 1: Newark to Princeton – NJ Road Trip

Start your journey in Newark, New Jersey. Before hitting the road, fuel up with breakfast at a local diner like the Tops Diner for some classic American fare.

Route – Drive south on Interstate 95 for approximately 40 miles to Princeton, New Jersey.

Things To Do In Princeton: 

• Explore Princeton University’s beautiful campus. 
• Walk around Nassau Street to admire the charming shops and cafes.
• Have lunch at the Nassau Inn, a historic hotel in downtown Princeton’s heart. Their restaurant, The Yankee Doodle Tap Room, offers delicious American cuisine.
• Visit the Princeton University Art Museum to see an impressive collection of artworks worldwide.

Overnight Stay In Princeton – Spend the night at the Nassau Inn or The Peacock Inn, offering cozy accommodations and excellent service. Make sure to book in advance.

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Day 2: Princeton to Cape May – NJ Road Trip

Route – After breakfast, head south towards Cape May, approximately 120 miles away.

Along the way, stop at Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, New Jersey. This 42-acre sculpture park features over 270 contemporary sculptures within beautifully landscaped grounds.

Continue your journey to Cape May, known for its picturesque beaches, historic Victorian architecture, and charming downtown area.

Things To Do In Cape May – 

• Have lunch at a seaside restaurant for the waterfront dining experience.
• Spend the afternoon exploring Cape May’s historic district, including the Emlen Physick Estate and the Cape May Lighthouse.

Overnight Stay In Cape May – Check into your overnight accommodation at The Virginia Hotel or The Beach Shack. Both offer comfortable rooms and convenient access to the beach and downtown area.

Day 3: Cape May to Atlantic City – NJ Road Trip

Enjoy breakfast at a local cafe like George’s Place, known for its delicious Greek-inspired dishes.

Route – Drive north along the coast to Atlantic City, approximately 45 miles away.

Things To Do In Atlantic City – 

• Upon arrival, visit the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk. Stroll along the promenade, enjoy the ocean views, and visit some shops and attractions.
• Have lunch at a historic seafood restaurant known for classic dishes.
• Spend the afternoon trying your luck at one of Atlantic City’s many casinos, or catch a show at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Overnight Stay In Atlantic City – Check your overnight accommodation at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa or MGM Tower Borgata. Both offer luxurious amenities and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Day 4: Atlantic City to Jersey City/Newark – NJ Road Trip

Enjoy breakfast at one of the cafes or diners along the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

Route: Depart Atlantic City and drive north to Jersey City or Newark, depending on your preference, approximately 120 miles away.

Things To Do In Jersey City – 

• In Jersey City, visit Liberty State Park for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. You can also ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
• Explore the vibrant Ironbound District in Newark, known for its Portuguese and Brazilian cuisine. Have lunch at a local restaurant like Fornos of Spain or Iberia Peninsula.

Depending on your departure plans, you can spend the night in Jersey City or Newark before heading home or continue your journey elsewhere.

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Nightlife Options In New Jersey Road Trip

Here are some highly-rated and safe nightlife options in the mentioned places.

Princeton:

1. The Ivy Inn: A cozy pub offering a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails, perfect for a relaxed evening.
2. Winberie’s Restaurant & Bar: Known for its lively atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and extensive drink menu.

Cape May:

1. The Rusty Nail: A popular beach bar with a casual vibe, offering live music, fire pits, and a variety of drinks.
2. The Brown Room: Located in Congress Hall, this upscale lounge offers craft cocktails and live music in a sophisticated setting.

Atlantic City:

1. Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa: Home to several bars and clubs, including Premier Nightclub and Gypsy Bar, offering top-notch DJs, dancing, and drinks.
2. The Chelsea Beach Bar: A beachfront bar with a relaxed atmosphere, offering cocktails, live music, and stunning ocean views.

Jersey: 

1. Porta: A lively pizzeria and rooftop bar with a vibrant atmosphere, featuring DJs, live music, and a diverse selection of drinks.
2. The Archer: A stylish cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks in an upscale yet welcoming setting, perfect for a sophisticated night out.

These nightlife options are well-regarded for their ambiance, safety, and entertainment offerings, providing memorable experiences for visitors to enjoy responsibly.

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Children-Friendly Things To Do In New Jersey – New Jersey itinerary

Here are some children-friendly activities to enjoy in the mentioned places:

Princeton:

1. Princeton University Art Museum: Explore the museum’s diverse collection of artworks worldwide, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Many exhibits offer interactive elements suitable for children.
2. Palmer Square: Stroll through Palmer Square, where kids can enjoy the open green space, fountain, and charming shops. During certain times of the year, there may be events or performances suitable for families.

Cape May:

1. Cape May County Park & Zoo: Spend a day at the Cape May County Park & Zoo, home to various animals worldwide. Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly option for families.
2. Cape May Miniature Golf: Enjoy a round of mini-golf at one of Cape May’s miniature golf courses, such as Pirate Island Golf or Cape May Miniature Golf & Batting Cages.

Atlantic City:

1. Steel Pier: Visit Steel Pier, an iconic amusement park located on the Atlantic City Boardwalk. It offers fun for the whole family with various rides, games, and attractions.
2. Atlantic City Aquarium: Explore the Atlantic City Aquarium, where kids can learn about marine life through interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and educational programs.

Jersey City:

1. Liberty Science Center: Spend a day at the Liberty Science Center, a hands-on science museum offering interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and an outdoor playground. It’s a great place for kids to learn and explore.
2. Van Vorst Park: Visit Van Vorst Park, a neighborhood park in Jersey City with playgrounds, picnic areas, and open green space. It’s a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.

These activities offer engaging experiences for children, allowing them to learn, explore, and have fun while visiting these destinations.

This New Jersey road trip itinerary offers a mix of cultural, historical, and recreational activities, allowing you to experience New Jersey’s diverse attractions.

Plan your getaways in New Jersey and enjoy your NJ road trip! 

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