Winter in New Jersey often means lots of snow. That’s a fact, whether we like it or not. Some of us will want to stay indoors, while others will want to go out and explore – either way, you’ll find lots of things to do in New Jersey in the winter. Whatever you’re interested in, New Jersey offers plenty of great places to enjoy during the colder months of the year. If you’re looking for places to visit in New Jersey in winter, this list should help you out.
- Lambertville
Flickr/Sal Please note, the Winter Festival was canceled in 2020 and 2021. Information for upcoming festivals has not yet been released. Check the Winter Festival website for updated event information. This charming town is always a lovely place to visit, with great galleries and fantastic dining. It’s even more magnificent during the Winter Festival, although there are plenty of other events held in town throughout the year. Enjoy paint nights, pub crawls, pancake breakfasts, parades, ice sculpting competitions, and more. Many events are even free! With so much to offer, Lambertville isn’t just one of the state’s best places to visit in the winter; it’s one of the most charming towns in New Jersey. Lambertville, NJ 08530, USA
- The Frelinghuysen Arboretum, Morristown
Facebook/Friends of the Frelinghuysen Arboretum Though many see this as a warmer weather spot, there is plenty to do here during the colder months, making it one of the best places to visit in New Jersey in winter. Take the family on a photo scavenger hunt every weekend until spring for the chance to win a prize. Check out the gallery or one of the arboretum’s indoor exhibits. 353 E Hanover Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA
- Mountain Creek, Vernon
Flickr/Anthony Quintano The Garden State’s premier ski and snowboard destination is perfect for a winter day trip or weekend getaway in New Jersey. The powder is sure to be incredible! You can also enjoy dining at one of the many onsite restaurants or tubing down one of the most amazing snow tubing hills in New Jersey. 200 NJ-94, Vernon Township, NJ 07462, USA
- Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor and Outdoor Water Park, West Berlin
Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor & Outdoor Water Park/Facebook Please note, Sahara Sam’s is now Big Kahuna’s Water Park. If all the snow has you missing summer, head to Sahara Sam’s. The massive indoor/outdoor water park recently expanded the indoor area. In addition to the already impressive roster of rides, expect a family pool and two new high-speed water slides. This is one of the favorite family-friendly things to do in the winter in New Jersey. Read our previous coverage to learn more about Sahara Sam’s. 535 NJ-73, West Berlin, NJ 08091, USA
- Monster Mini Golf, Multiple Locations
Facebook/Monster Mini Golf This whimsical indoor mini-golf chain has several New Jersey locations including Paramus, Fairfield, Edison, Eatontown, and Marlboro. You’ll find unique decor that looks magical under a black light. Fun for any age, head to Monster Mini Golf if you want to forget all about winter in New Jersey for a while. Check out our past article to learn more about Monster Mini Golf.
- Watchung Reservation
Yelp/Manda R.
Flickr/Victor Reynolds Watchung Reservation offers indoor and outdoor winter fun. Hike along the trails, visit the nature center, and enjoy fantastic seasonal programming. Learn all about owls or how to identify a variety of trees without their leaves. Learn more about this New Jersey winter attraction by visiting the Watchung Reservation website. Historic Trail, Mountainside, NJ 07092
- Lusscroft Farm, Wantage
Lusscroft Farm - The Heritage and Agriculture Association, Inc./Facebook This historic farm is owned by the state of New Jersey and helps to preserve our state’s agricultural heritage. Enjoy nearly two dozen buildings and acres of land while on a winter hike. This farm looks quite magical covered in snow during winter in New Jersey, and you can learn more about it by visiting the Lusscroft Farm website. 50 Neilson Rd, Wantage, NJ 07461, USA
- WinterFest Ice Skating Rink At Cooper River Park, Pennsauken
Winterfest Ice Skating Rink At Cooper River Park/Google There’s no doubt about it; ice skating is one of the best things to do in New Jersey in the winter and this seasonal rink is one of the best places to do it. What makes it the perfect place to skate figure eights? Well, for starters, admission and rentals are quite affordable. If you’d rather watch others in the rink, check out one of the free skating shows. For more information, check out the Camden County website. Cuthbert Blvd and, Park Blvd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
- Tenafly Nature Center, Tenafly
Facebook/TenaflyNatureCenter Open year-round, there is plenty to enjoy here at Tenafly Nature Center during the winter in New Jersey. A few past events held here include Parents Night Out, Hibernation Happenings, Seasonal Scavenger Hunt, and Maple Sugaring. Maple Sugaring is a favorite for all ages, teaching visitors about the history and process while providing an interactive experience. The group will check Tenafly Nature Center’s tapped tree and boil down sap to make fresh, warm maple syrup - a treat for everyone! 313 Hudson Ave, Tenafly, NJ 07670, USA
- Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, Clarksboro
Philadelphia South / Clarksboro KOA/Facebook Many New Jersey campgrounds close during the winter months, but not KOA. Bring your RV or rent a cabin. Winter guests can enjoy the lounge with a fireplace and game room. It’s one of the most family-friendly things to do in New Jersey in the winter. The campground is conveniently located just a short drive from Philadelphia. When you’re ready to do some winter camping near New Jersey visit the campground’s website to book your stay. 117 Timberlane Rd, Clarksboro, NJ 08020, USA
- Polar Bear Plunge, Seaside Heights
Flickr/ChesapeakeClimate You definitely won’t forget diving into ice-cold water (for a good cause)! At Seaside Heights, you can brave the cold and dive right into the icy water! The event is held in February and you can visit the Polar Bear Plunge website to learn more. Seaside Heights, NJ 08751, USA
- Wilbraham Mansion, Cape May
Facebook/Wilbraham Mansion
Facebook/Wilbraham Mansion Get away from it all and enjoy the amenities Cape May has to offer, PLUS an indoor pool. Enjoy discounted off-season rates, spa services, and romantic add-ons including fresh flowers and fruit platters for an extra special surprise (and added cost). An overnight stay here is one of the most romantic things to do in in New Jersey in the winter. Visit the Wilbraham Mansion website to book your stay. 133 Myrtle Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204, USA
- Campgaw Mountain Ski Area, Mahwah
Facebook/CampgawSkiArea Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and one of the best snow tubing hills in New Jersey at Campgaw Mountain Ski Area. Lessons and gear rentals are available. It’s no doubt a great place to enjoy classic winter activities in New Jersey. 200 Campgaw Rd, Mahwah, NJ 07430, USA
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli Spanning both sides of the Delaware River in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, there is so much to love about the Delaware Water Gap in the winter. Enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, spectacular views, and so much more! And if the temperatures are low enough, you’ll have the opportunity to admire some of the most stunning frozen waterfalls in New Jersey. Have fun with a visit here during the winter in New Jersey but be sure to bundle up. Visit the NPS website for more information on the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324, USA
So, what do you think? Are these the best things to do in New Jersey in the winter? What are your favorite places to visit in New Jersey in winter? Share your favorite events and attractions (indoors or out) with us!
Flickr/Sal
Please note, the Winter Festival was canceled in 2020 and 2021. Information for upcoming festivals has not yet been released. Check the Winter Festival website for updated event information. This charming town is always a lovely place to visit, with great galleries and fantastic dining. It’s even more magnificent during the Winter Festival, although there are plenty of other events held in town throughout the year. Enjoy paint nights, pub crawls, pancake breakfasts, parades, ice sculpting competitions, and more. Many events are even free! With so much to offer, Lambertville isn’t just one of the state’s best places to visit in the winter; it’s one of the most charming towns in New Jersey.
Lambertville, NJ 08530, USA
Facebook/Friends of the Frelinghuysen Arboretum
Though many see this as a warmer weather spot, there is plenty to do here during the colder months, making it one of the best places to visit in New Jersey in winter. Take the family on a photo scavenger hunt every weekend until spring for the chance to win a prize. Check out the gallery or one of the arboretum’s indoor exhibits.
353 E Hanover Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA
Flickr/Anthony Quintano
The Garden State’s premier ski and snowboard destination is perfect for a winter day trip or weekend getaway in New Jersey. The powder is sure to be incredible! You can also enjoy dining at one of the many onsite restaurants or tubing down one of the most amazing snow tubing hills in New Jersey.
200 NJ-94, Vernon Township, NJ 07462, USA
Sahara Sam’s Oasis Indoor & Outdoor Water Park/Facebook
Please note, Sahara Sam’s is now Big Kahuna’s Water Park. If all the snow has you missing summer, head to Sahara Sam’s. The massive indoor/outdoor water park recently expanded the indoor area. In addition to the already impressive roster of rides, expect a family pool and two new high-speed water slides. This is one of the favorite family-friendly things to do in the winter in New Jersey. Read our previous coverage to learn more about Sahara Sam’s.
535 NJ-73, West Berlin, NJ 08091, USA
Facebook/Monster Mini Golf
This whimsical indoor mini-golf chain has several New Jersey locations including Paramus, Fairfield, Edison, Eatontown, and Marlboro. You’ll find unique decor that looks magical under a black light. Fun for any age, head to Monster Mini Golf if you want to forget all about winter in New Jersey for a while. Check out our past article to learn more about Monster Mini Golf.
Yelp/Manda R.
Flickr/Victor Reynolds
Watchung Reservation offers indoor and outdoor winter fun. Hike along the trails, visit the nature center, and enjoy fantastic seasonal programming. Learn all about owls or how to identify a variety of trees without their leaves. Learn more about this New Jersey winter attraction by visiting the Watchung Reservation website.
Historic Trail, Mountainside, NJ 07092
Lusscroft Farm - The Heritage and Agriculture Association, Inc./Facebook
This historic farm is owned by the state of New Jersey and helps to preserve our state’s agricultural heritage. Enjoy nearly two dozen buildings and acres of land while on a winter hike. This farm looks quite magical covered in snow during winter in New Jersey, and you can learn more about it by visiting the Lusscroft Farm website.
50 Neilson Rd, Wantage, NJ 07461, USA
Winterfest Ice Skating Rink At Cooper River Park/Google
There’s no doubt about it; ice skating is one of the best things to do in New Jersey in the winter and this seasonal rink is one of the best places to do it. What makes it the perfect place to skate figure eights? Well, for starters, admission and rentals are quite affordable. If you’d rather watch others in the rink, check out one of the free skating shows. For more information, check out the Camden County website.
Cuthbert Blvd and, Park Blvd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
Facebook/TenaflyNatureCenter
Open year-round, there is plenty to enjoy here at Tenafly Nature Center during the winter in New Jersey. A few past events held here include Parents Night Out, Hibernation Happenings, Seasonal Scavenger Hunt, and Maple Sugaring. Maple Sugaring is a favorite for all ages, teaching visitors about the history and process while providing an interactive experience. The group will check Tenafly Nature Center’s tapped tree and boil down sap to make fresh, warm maple syrup - a treat for everyone!
313 Hudson Ave, Tenafly, NJ 07670, USA
Philadelphia South / Clarksboro KOA/Facebook
Many New Jersey campgrounds close during the winter months, but not KOA. Bring your RV or rent a cabin. Winter guests can enjoy the lounge with a fireplace and game room. It’s one of the most family-friendly things to do in New Jersey in the winter. The campground is conveniently located just a short drive from Philadelphia. When you’re ready to do some winter camping near New Jersey visit the campground’s website to book your stay.
117 Timberlane Rd, Clarksboro, NJ 08020, USA
Flickr/ChesapeakeClimate
You definitely won’t forget diving into ice-cold water (for a good cause)! At Seaside Heights, you can brave the cold and dive right into the icy water! The event is held in February and you can visit the Polar Bear Plunge website to learn more.
Seaside Heights, NJ 08751, USA
Facebook/Wilbraham Mansion
Get away from it all and enjoy the amenities Cape May has to offer, PLUS an indoor pool. Enjoy discounted off-season rates, spa services, and romantic add-ons including fresh flowers and fruit platters for an extra special surprise (and added cost). An overnight stay here is one of the most romantic things to do in in New Jersey in the winter. Visit the Wilbraham Mansion website to book your stay.
133 Myrtle Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204, USA
Facebook/CampgawSkiArea
Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and one of the best snow tubing hills in New Jersey at Campgaw Mountain Ski Area. Lessons and gear rentals are available. It’s no doubt a great place to enjoy classic winter activities in New Jersey.
200 Campgaw Rd, Mahwah, NJ 07430, USA
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Spanning both sides of the Delaware River in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, there is so much to love about the Delaware Water Gap in the winter. Enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, spectacular views, and so much more! And if the temperatures are low enough, you’ll have the opportunity to admire some of the most stunning frozen waterfalls in New Jersey. Have fun with a visit here during the winter in New Jersey but be sure to bundle up. Visit the NPS website for more information on the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324, USA
Looking for more ways to enjoy winter in New Jersey? You’re in luck! There are lots of ways to have fun when the temperatures drop, including visiting Vintner Wonderland, one of the best winter activities in New Jersey.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Places To Visit In New Jersey In Winter February 07, 2022 Daniella DiRienzo Are there any ski resorts in New Jersey? There are several ski resorts in New Jersey, including:
Campgaw Mountain Ski Resort in Mahwah High Point Cross Country Ski Center in Sussex Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon Big Snow American Dream in East Rutherford
While New Jersey isn’t known for its ski resorts, it doesn’t mean there aren’t any here. Located in Vernon Township is Mountain Creek Resort, which offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more. If you prefer to be indoors yet ski, head to Big Snow American Dream, one of the only indoor ski parks in North America. Where can I do some winter hiking in New Jersey? Winter’s cooler temperatures present the perfect opportunity for hiking. Luckily, there are quite a few places to do some winter hiking in New Jersey, such as:
Apshawa Preserve in West Milford Jockey Hollow in Morristown National Historical Park Bass River State Forest in Tuckerton Hacklebarney State Park in Long Valley Stairway to Heaven Trail in Vernon Township
Hiking during the winter can be quite a beautiful experience. One of the best winter hikes is the Stairway to Heaven Trail in Vernon Township. With its rocky landscape and panoramic views, you are sure to love this hike. Where can I go snow tubing in New Jersey? When the ground is covered in snow, it’s the perfect time to go snow tubing in New Jersey. Here are a few popular tubing hills in New Jersey:
Thompson Park in Jamesburg Fort Mott State Park in Pennsville Veterans Park in Hamilton Township Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon Campgaw Mountain Ski Resort in Mahwah
Snow tubing is one of the most enjoyable winter activities and there are a few places around the Garden State that offer it. You can try Mountain Creek and its 5-acre tubing hill or Campgaw Mountain Ski Area in Mahwah.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Places To Visit In New Jersey In Winter
February 07, 2022
Daniella DiRienzo
Are there any ski resorts in New Jersey? There are several ski resorts in New Jersey, including:
Campgaw Mountain Ski Resort in Mahwah High Point Cross Country Ski Center in Sussex Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon Big Snow American Dream in East Rutherford
While New Jersey isn’t known for its ski resorts, it doesn’t mean there aren’t any here. Located in Vernon Township is Mountain Creek Resort, which offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more. If you prefer to be indoors yet ski, head to Big Snow American Dream, one of the only indoor ski parks in North America. Where can I do some winter hiking in New Jersey? Winter’s cooler temperatures present the perfect opportunity for hiking. Luckily, there are quite a few places to do some winter hiking in New Jersey, such as:
Apshawa Preserve in West Milford Jockey Hollow in Morristown National Historical Park Bass River State Forest in Tuckerton Hacklebarney State Park in Long Valley Stairway to Heaven Trail in Vernon Township
Hiking during the winter can be quite a beautiful experience. One of the best winter hikes is the Stairway to Heaven Trail in Vernon Township. With its rocky landscape and panoramic views, you are sure to love this hike. Where can I go snow tubing in New Jersey? When the ground is covered in snow, it’s the perfect time to go snow tubing in New Jersey. Here are a few popular tubing hills in New Jersey:
Thompson Park in Jamesburg Fort Mott State Park in Pennsville Veterans Park in Hamilton Township Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon Campgaw Mountain Ski Resort in Mahwah
Snow tubing is one of the most enjoyable winter activities and there are a few places around the Garden State that offer it. You can try Mountain Creek and its 5-acre tubing hill or Campgaw Mountain Ski Area in Mahwah.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
There are several ski resorts in New Jersey, including:
- Campgaw Mountain Ski Resort in Mahwah
- High Point Cross Country Ski Center in Sussex
- Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon
- Big Snow American Dream in East Rutherford
While New Jersey isn’t known for its ski resorts, it doesn’t mean there aren’t any here. Located in Vernon Township is Mountain Creek Resort, which offers skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more. If you prefer to be indoors yet ski, head to Big Snow American Dream, one of the only indoor ski parks in North America.
Where can I do some winter hiking in New Jersey?
Winter’s cooler temperatures present the perfect opportunity for hiking. Luckily, there are quite a few places to do some winter hiking in New Jersey, such as:
- Apshawa Preserve in West Milford
- Jockey Hollow in Morristown National Historical Park
- Bass River State Forest in Tuckerton
- Hacklebarney State Park in Long Valley
- Stairway to Heaven Trail in Vernon Township
Hiking during the winter can be quite a beautiful experience. One of the best winter hikes is the Stairway to Heaven Trail in Vernon Township. With its rocky landscape and panoramic views, you are sure to love this hike.
Where can I go snow tubing in New Jersey?
When the ground is covered in snow, it’s the perfect time to go snow tubing in New Jersey. Here are a few popular tubing hills in New Jersey:
- Thompson Park in Jamesburg
- Fort Mott State Park in Pennsville
- Veterans Park in Hamilton Township
- Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon
- Campgaw Mountain Ski Resort in Mahwah
Snow tubing is one of the most enjoyable winter activities and there are a few places around the Garden State that offer it. You can try Mountain Creek and its 5-acre tubing hill or Campgaw Mountain Ski Area in Mahwah.
