Edible Jersey Destination Guide
A guide to exploring, experiencing and enjoying the Garden State this season
TRAVEL LOCAL
‘Tis the Season for Jersey Wows
In New Jersey, sleigh bells are ringing, carolers are singing and jolly events are popping up everywhere you turn. From authentic German Weihnachtsmarkts in the Skylands to Christmas candlelight house tours in Victorian Cape May. Enjoy merry tree-lighting ceremonies and holiday bazaars. Santa sightings, hot cocoa sipped by fi re pits and downtown parades. Gather with friends at award-winning eateries, ski slopes and 50+ amazing wineries. Admire zillions of twinkling lights throughout the state. And be wowed by historic halls decked out for all to see. Guide your sleigh to Jersey. It’s one wow after another.
Wow Everyone on Your List
Give Jersey this year! From luxe mountain getaways and snowy ski trips to must-see shows and oceanfront casinos. Top places to savor multi-cultural cuisine and celebrate the New Year with unique varietals from Jersey’s 50+ wineries. It’s one wow after another.
- Find your wow at VisitNJ.org.
Holiday 2024/Winter 2025 Destinations
1 ATLANTIC CITY
The Atlantic City Tinseltown Holiday Experience is coming to town, and it will light up the entire resort with festive events and décor throughout the 2024 holiday season!
From tree-lightings and dazzling displays to spectacular holiday pop-up experiences, live entertainment, and the Noyes Arts Garage’s Holiday Market & Gingerbread Village, there is truly something for all ages to enjoy. Come for the day or stay for a week! With the Cocktail/Mocktail Trail, Boardwalk Hall’s Festival of Trees, Absecon Lighthouse’s Luminary Light Festival, the Winter Wonderland Parade, holiday shopping, and much more, Holiday ’24 will be the coolest time of year to visit Atlantic City.
2 BORDENTOWN CITY
Nestled on a bluff along the Delaware River, Bordentown City has been a hub of American history, commerce, and transportation since its founding in 1682. This one square mile, walkable Central Jersey Rivertown offers visitors an experience like none other. Downtown Bordentown City is home to boutiques, specialty shops, and galleries. This season, the town transforms into “Holiday City” for a wide range of inhouse parties, off-site catering/bartending, winter weddings, specialty menus, and full service through many of its DBA member establishments. Bordentown is easily accessible from NJ Turnpike, Interstates 195, 295, Routes 130 and 206.
DowntownBordentown.com | VisitBordentownCity.com
3 ESSEX COUNTY TURTLE BACK ZOO
Opened in 1963, Essex County Turtle Back Zoo is a family-friendly facility that features over 150 animal species from five continents. Visitors can enjoy viewing animals such as lions, giraffes, penguins, bison, wolves and more in natural habitat-themed exhibits. In addition to educational programs to raise awareness about conservation and the importance of the animals in nature, Turtle Back offers a variety of fun adventures including a miniature train ride, a Holiday Lights Spectacular, Treetop Adventure and zip lines, Safari miniGOLF course and paddle boating in the South Mountain Recreation Complex. Celebrate the holidays and visit year ‘round.
4 HACKETTSTOWN
Hackettstown is a wonderful place to dine, drink, shop, and explore. Nestled on the edge of Morris and Warren counties, Hackettstown enjoys the convenience of many larger communities while maintaining its small-town charm. Dine at a variety of diverse eateries. Try amazing craft beer at the town’s many breweries. Shop at the unique shops. Explore the great outdoors as well as the area’s historical sites. Visit and enjoy one of the many events, including Hackettstown’s 2nd Annual New Year’s Eve Blast, featuring the spectacular M&M’s® lentil drop at midnight. From parades to festivals to live music, Hackettstown has something for everyone. Visit and uncover the many layers of Hackettstown.
5 HUDSON COUNTY
Food is more than sustenance in Hudson County; it’s an art form. With an impressive array of award-winning restaurants and eclectic menus, Hudson County knows a thing or two about good food. Whether you’re in the mood for woodfire pizza, homecooked Italian, or you’re seeking flavors from around the world, there’s something delicious for everyone here in Hudson County. Plus, a fantastic array of coffee shops, craft breweries, and wine bars—not to mention scenic rooftop spots. And our top-notch tasting tours and cooking classes will help you fully appreciate our county’s diverse and delicious flavors.
6 JERSEY CITY
Jersey City is a hot spot for tourists of all kinds, and it’s easy to see why. Just a stone’s throw from Manhattan, accessible by train, car, or ferry, this dynamic destination offers a mix of cultural diversity, history, stunning views and modern fun. With the Statue of Liberty at its doorstep and the green oasis of Liberty State Park, the city offers the opportunity to enjoy iconic landmarks and to discover hidden gems. And, for food lovers, this city can’t be beat, thanks to its world-class restaurants and hotels. Jersey City has everything you need for an unforgettable trip.
7 MADISON
Madison, the Rose City, is pleased to welcome you, whatever the season. This classic suburban community less than 25 miles from Manhattan offers quiet sophistication. Its diverse cultural offerings will wow you, from a top jazz club to the renowned Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, Madison Community Arts Center, Museum of Early Trades & Crafts, and much more. Hungry? Madison has more than 50 food establishments within its four-square miles, offering a wide array of delicious cuisine, and its walkable downtown also offers an enticing shopping experience. Come home to Madison this winter—spend the day, or better yet, the weekend!
8 MIDDLESEX COUNTY
Located in central New Jersey, Middlesex County encompasses 25 unique municipalities with a mix of lively downtowns, urban centers, and rural communities. The destination is known for its variety of delicious and diverse cuisines, featuring Italian, Indian, Spanish, Caribbean, Japanese and French, to name a few. Outstanding theatre, music, dance and cultural performances can also be found at its many state-of-the-art venues, and be sure to visit the notable landmarks and museums highlighting the region’s rich past, including pivotal Revolutionary War events. Middlesex County has something for everyone. Don’t just take our word for it. Come and see for yourself!
9 MORRISTOWN
Join the celebration as downtown Morristown transforms into a winter wonderland this holiday season! The Morristown Partnership proudly produces the beloved Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green, beginning with Santa’s arrival on Sunday, December 1. Every weekend until December 22, families and visitors alike can enjoy the holiday cheer. While you’re here, take time to shop, dine, and embrace the festive fun! You can also give the gift of Morristown with one of the town’s gift certificates, perfect for shopping, dining and enjoying local services. For the event schedule, to purchase gift certificates, or to learn more about Morristown year-round, visit our website.
10 NEWARK
Newark is a vibrant and culturally diverse city offering a variety of history, arts, and modern attractions for tourists to explore. The city is home to the Newark Museum of Art where visitors can immerse themselves in art, science, and natural history exhibits. Sports enthusiasts will love the Prudential Center, home to the New Jersey Devils hockey team. Newark’s rich history showcases landmarks like the historic Ironbound District, which boasts delicious Portuguese and Spanish cuisine. The city’s proximity to New York City makes exploring the Big Apple a convenient and affordable option. Newark is a hidden gem for tourists seeking an authentic urban experience.
11 NEWARK’S IRONBOUND DISTRICT
Newark is New Jersey’s largest and most dynamic city. And the Ironbound District is Newark’s Place to Be this holiday season for top dining, international shopping, and entertainment. Close to Newark’s annual Winter Village, with festive holiday lighting, music wafting from storefronts along with the alluring smells from the district’s nearly 200 restaurants, bakeries, markets and specialty food stores, the Ironbound is a great place to celebrate the season or find unique gifts for family and friends. Spend the day, or stay the night in one of Newark’s top hotels. There’s magic to discover during the holidays and year ‘round.
12 CITY OF PERTH AMBOY
Explore Perth Amboy—where history meets culture on the beautiful Raritan Bay. Stroll through the city’s charming streets, discover local shops, and treat yourself to flavors from all over the world—from Latin favorites to fresh seafood and authentic Asian cuisine. Hungry? Perth Amboy has a restaurant for every taste and every occasion. Enjoy fresh seafood on the water, head over to the city center to discover foods from all over the globe, or pick up an empanada from one of Jersey’s top empanada restaurants. Whether you’re here for the views, the food, or to soak up the community spirit—Perth Amboy welcomes you!
13 SULLIVAN CATSKILLS (NY)
Just 90 minutes or less from NYC and the metro NY area, New York’s Sullivan Catskills enjoys a legendary reputation for hospitality. Here, you’ll find full-service resorts, charming boutique inns, and abundant outdoor pursuits. The area is full of makers and artisans and exudes a low-key vibe throughout its charming small towns. The food and beverage scene features James Beard-nominated restauranteurs and talented chefs and bakers who share a passion for drink and warm hospitality. Bethel Woods Center for the Arts—located at the site of the 1969 Woodstock festivall—is a must-see for summer concerts.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Cumberland County offers a delightful blend of city and rural living, with a little bit of everything in between. Cumberland features scenic views of sprawling farmland, beautiful parks, and waterfront vistas that include the Delaware Bayshore. These natural landscapes are perfect for activities such as hiking, kayaking, biking, and bird watching. Additionally, you can enjoy local cuisine and savor a drink at one of the County’s wineries, breweries, or distilleries. Rich in culture and art, Cumberland County boasts stunning murals, artistic communities, and quaint historic villages. Discover all the great things that Cumberland County has to offer.
FLEMINGTON
Flemington Borough, the 1.4 square mile historic seat of Hunterdon County, is a regional destination with over 400 businesses in three business districts: Historic Main Street, Stangl Arts & Cultural District, and the Circle Business District. Enjoy a day of farm-to-table dining, boutique shopping, farmers markets, craft beverages, antiques, pottery studio, and historic walking tours. Added plus: abundant free parking adjacent to streets where 65% of the buildings are designated on the National Register of Historic Places. Seasonal festivals include Antique Car Shows, Hunterdon Wine Train Tours, The Corn, Tomato, and Beer Festival, Central Jersey Jazz Fest, Salsa Night, the Hunterdon Holiday Parade, and so much more.
Downtown Fort Lee
Explore the worldly culinary culture of The Fort Lee Town Center. Featuring classic, international, and eclectic fare, Fort Lee is sure to please palates of all kinds. From tuna tartare tacos to marinated braised short ribs to a fresh pizza Margherita, Fort Lee has dozens of places to satisfy your epicurean cravings. However you prefer to dine—indoors, outdoors, to-go, or delivery—Fort Lee has it all. Visit any time of year to enjoy the historical, cultural, and culinary vibe of this vibrant city and don`t miss a special opportunity to “Savour the Flavour” during Restaurant Week, September 16 through September 29.
HOBOKEN
Hoboken is full of history, spirited sips, artisan local brands, and exceptional waterfront views. Pedestrian-friendly, scoring a 97 out of 100 on Walk Score’s nationwide rankings, the #MileSquareCity is bustling with character and excitement.
The robust culinary scenes of Hoboken, ranging from buzzing cafés to fine dining experiences, will offer foodies an experience they will savor. Come for food and stay for the shopping—for every fashion, for every whim, you’re sure to find the perfect thing. Hoboken is full of unforgettable experiences—shop, dine, play, and stay here. Your Holiday adventure awaits!
HUNTERDON COUNTY
Leave the crowds behind and spend a magical day in Hunterdon County this holiday season. Vineyards, farms and specialty shops are dressed with evergreens, twinkling lights and warm hospitality. Shop and stroll historic Main Streets, cut your own tree, dine at a local gem, or fill your table with Jersey’s best meat and dairy products, wood-fired breads, and artisanal foods. Enjoy seasonal brews on the Hunterdon Beer Trail or a scenic drive visiting farm stores and vineyards along the Hunterdon 579 Trail. Explore the gifts of the season in Hunterdon County, The Other Side of Jersey.
LAMBERTVILLE
Nestled along the banks of the Delaware River, Lambertville, NJ, is a picturesque town that eff ortlessly blends historic charm with vibrant modern culture. Delicious restaurants, antique shops, and beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings invite visitors to step back in time, while art galleries, unique boutiques, and farm-to-table dining off er contemporary delights. The town’s scenic river views, especially from the iconic Lambertville-New Hope Bridge, provide stunning backdrops for leisurely strolls. Whether exploring the bustling arts scene, enjoying outdoor activities along the canal, celebrating Halloween or savoring local cuisine, Lambertville’s warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination.
GREATER MEADOWLANDS REGION
From the George Washington Bridge down to the Statue of Liberty and everywhere in between - experience virtually every culinary option your appetite desires. Multicultural and traditional American Fare are around every corner. And after you’re satisfied - New Jersey’s Fun Capital in the Meadowlands has adventures for all ages. Enjoy the world’s tallest indoor roller coaster as well as exceptional dining and exclusive shopping at the American Dream retail and entertainment complex. The region also offers a wide array of eco-tourism opportunities, including canoeing, kayaking, and bird watching—along with hands-on education at the Liberty Science Center.
MILLBURN-SHORT HILLS
Millburn-Short Hills is rich in history and culture. The Paper Mill Playhouse, which has drawn thespians from around the world for decades, is a cornerstone of the community. Enjoy not one, but five business districts, boosting over 20 cuisines from Italian to Vietnamese. Every season brings new and exciting events including: the Lunar New Year Festival, Restaurant Week, Girls’ Night Out, the Tour de Millburn and the Winter Villages. There is always a reason to visit, whether for a spa day, shopping for the perfect gift, or to enjoy the town’s growing public art trail. Come Explore Millburn-Short Hills!
MONMOUTH COUNTY
You don’t have to travel far to get away. From Revolutionary War sites, nationally recognized parks and golf courses, dining experiences for all tastes, there’s something for everyone in Monmouth County! Explore pick-your-own farms and working lighthouses or take in the sights of our delightful downtowns. Enjoy world-class shopping at various malls and outlets and experience live performances at a theater or a legendary concert venue. Visit the region’s wineries, breweries, and distilleries for a truly unique experience. Monmouth County has accommodations that cater to every budget, from boutique hotels to seaside bed and breakfasts and resort-style hotels with spas.
MONTCLAIR
Discover even more reasons to Fall in Love with Montclair! where the unexpected charms, unmatched culture, and unforgettable moments (and menus!) redefine your travel experience in every way. Did you know Montclair hosts over 100 fall events, including the Montclair Film Festival, Montclair Jazz Festival, and Walnut Street Festival? Along with the town’s vibrant street festivals, there’s also unique events like Zombie Walks, Strut Your Mutt where you can dress up your pet, Scarecrows in the Garden, and many other family-friendly, Instagram-worthy activities. Be sure to check out Montclair’s continually growing event calendar!
TOWN OF NEWTON
The Town of Newton, in northwest New Jersey, is the unofficial restaurant capital of Sussex County. Here, locals and visitors alike can find a variety of culinary options at all price points. Thanks to the Town’s proximity to the surrounding rural areas, many of Newton’s restaurants get their produce from local farms, resulting in exceptionally Jersey Fresh menu options. In addition to its restaurants and eateries, this charming town also offers many shopping, arts, and entertainment opportunities.
OCEAN COUNTY
Discover Ocean County’s 44 miles of Atlantic Coastline, welcoming beaches, the celebrated Barnegat Bay with its expansive wetlands, salt marshes, and pine forests, and home to hundreds of wildlife species; one of the most-loved natural coastal areas! Ocean County has an extensive park system, conservation areas, farms, campgrounds, historic and unique downtowns, scenic vineyards, and the preserved Pine Barrens. The possibilities are endless.... Take a ferry ride at the Tuckerton Seaport, stroll the renowned boardwalks, or dine and shop local in one of the county’s 33 municipalities. Enjoy charter fishing, clamming, and water sports, or take in a show or concert at one of our unique venues, some with a history all their own!
POMPTON LAKES
Located 20 miles northwest of Manhattan, Pompton Lakes has a rich history and a bright future. It’s easily reachable via Route 287 or NJ Transit bus line, making commuting within NJ/NY convenient. Family recreation options include kayaking, nature trails, and downtown events such as summer concerts, art walk, spring, fall and winter holiday events. Restaurants and bars, retail and service businesses, and live performing arts make this ever-growing walkable town an exceptionally desirable destination. With mixed-use redevelopment under way, LIDL Market, 12 new Tesla charging stations and over 40 diverse cultural food eateries within its 3.2 mile radius, Pompton Lakes welcomes you to visit.
SOMERSET COUNTY HERITAGE
This vibrant community in the heart of New Jersey offers a proud heritage, eclectic culture and an exceptional quality of life. All are invited to make a vibrant connection to the region’s history at the county’s 19th Annual Journey Through the Past!, Saturday, October 12, 10am to 5pm, and Sunday, October 13, 12 to 4pm, presented by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission. Up to 30 Somerset County historic sites will be open free to the public, including firehouses, schools, historic homes, Revolutionary routes, reenactments and more. Visit SCHistoryWeekend.com to plan your trip and before you travel for up-to-date information and virtual material.
SOMERSET COUNTY
Your perfect adventure awaits! This vibrant community at the heart of central New Jersey invites you to explore unique boutiques, dine at eclectic, award-winning restaurants, and experience the vibrant energy that fills the streets. Step back in time and hear the stories of our nation’s past as you explore Revolutionary War history. And savor the flavors of handcrafted brews while you kick back and relax. County parks offer beautiful backdrops in every season making exploration fun and full of new sights and surprises! The delights you’re looking for are waiting for you here!
VISIT SOUTH JERSEY
Get away, close to home in South Jersey! Wine and dine in the Garden State with 60+ wineries, breweries, and distilleries surrounded by farm fresh cuisine, arts and culture, outdoor adventures, and family fun. Visit the many attractions, perfect for everyone in your family, in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester and Salem counties and the Outer Coastal Plain Wine Region, New Jersey’s 2.25 million acre nationally acclaimed wine region. Just a bridge away from Philadelphia and an easy drive from all points NJ. For details on what’s happening in South Jersey, follow @Visit_South_ Jersey on Facebook and Instagram.
SUMMIT DOWNTOWN
Beautiful, historic downtown Summit has a rich variety of restaurants for every taste and occasion and has been a chosen shopping destination for over a century. Retailers specializing in home design, fashion, and gifts are scattered amidst traditional Jersey diners, bakeries, upscale and casual restaurants, gourmet food and wine shops. Downtown also hosts the Midtown Direct train to NYC along with historic local inns. Enjoy the many public arts exhibits, the arts center, galleries, and visit the beautiful Reeves-Reed Arboretum. And don’t miss the Summit Farmers Market, now in its 31st year, happening every Sunday!
SUSSEX SKYLANDS
The natural beauty of the Sussex Skylands region and its proximity to New York City make it a getaway favorite for travelers seeking four season outdoor adventure along with access to the Big Apple’s urban excitement. Here, visitors and locals alike can enjoy acres of opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, fishing, or simply getting outside to enjoy nature. Home to Crystal Springs Resort and Mountain Creek, visitors will find world-class golf courses, luxury day spas, fine dining and one of North America’s premier wine cellars, along with skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, mountain biking, ziplining, and a water park built into the mountain side.
Maine
Hand-harvested. Wild-caught. Handmade. From scratch. In Maine, the purest flavors are the ones made right here. Yes, lobster is a given, but there are so many more flavors to explore. From the freshest seafood to every kind of craft beer, food and drink are one of the many reasons why there’s no better place to be in any season than in Maine. From beaches to mountains and spectacular scenery in every direction, there’s much to explore and enjoy. Unique boutiques and shops. Farm- and sea-to-table eats. One-of-a-kind stays. Enjoy the local love and quintessentially Maine experience.