Oct 20, 2016

270891582_1aa991ad12_nNew Jersey residents and visitors alike can find loads of fun activities during the winter. Whether you want a cozy seaside retreat or a large family friendly resort with indoor tropical pools, New Jersey has options that will please you. Now is the time to start planning your winter getaway in New Jersey. To help you along, here’s a list of four fun places you can go.

1. See the Beach in Winter at Cape May

Cape May, New Jersey, is one of the country’s most picturesque seaside communities. From its lovingly restored homes to the locally owned businesses near the shore, Cape May is a beloved vacation spot in late spring and throughout the summer. Even though the tourists dwindle as the temperature drops, it’s still a gorgeous place to visit during the winter.

When you visit this small town, take a walk down its tree-lined streets to enjoy the stately houses that sit close to the beach. If you plan your trip around the December holidays, bundle up for an evening stroll. You just might see some homes with beautiful light displays. Do your holiday shopping at the Washington Street Mall and cozy up to the fire at Fire Pit Fridays at Willow Creek Winery.

2. Get Active in a State Park

There are many state parks that offer gorgeous landscapes where you can go cross-country skiing. Ringwood, Fort Mott, Wharton, and Double Trouble are some of the state parks that offer excellent terrain for skiing. Some parks allow you to camp overnight, even in winter, and many of these sites encourage sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing.

3. Experience a Taste of the Tropics at Grand Cascades Lodge

Located in Hamburg, the Grand Cascades Lodge sits at the foot of Kittatinny Mountains. As a AAA 4-Diamond-rated resort, it’s rustic but upscale, woodsy but elegant. Unwind in the spa with a pedicure or massage. If you want to lounge by the pool, try the massive indoor pool with tropical landscaping. With its green foliage and bright colors, the tropical pool-scape offers a cure to the winter blues. Savor a delicious meal in one of the on-site restaurants. Regular culinary events give guests the chance to sample wines, hard and traditional cider, and seasonal cocktails.

If you want to venture off the lodge’s property, check out the nearby community of Warwick. Full of local shops and restaurants, this town is perfect for couples and families.

4. Stay at the Inn at Laurita Winery

Enjoy seasonal decorations, delicious food, and elegant accommodations at the Inn at Laurita Winery in New Egypt. The rooms have fun theme names like “Romance is in the Air” and “Shall We Dance?” In most of the rooms, you’ll have a queen-sized bed with an air-jet soaking tub. You can also reserve a room with a private balcony. Cap off your stay with the gourmet country breakfast that’s included in the price.

From quiet getaways to engaging family trips, New Jersey has plenty of options for anyone who’s looking to book a winter vacation.

“Ablaze” by Nicholas A. Tonelli is licensed under CC BY 2.0