149 BEST Things To Do In New Jersey Memorial Day Weekend

David R Grant May 22, 2023
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Memorial Day

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only. 

Are you looking for an exciting way to spend the Memorial Day weekend?


Look no further than New Jersey!


With its vast array of activities, attractions and events, there's something for everyone in the Garden State.


From outdoor adventures like hiking and biking to cultural experiences like galleries and museums, New Jersey has it all.


To make your planning easier, we've compiled a list of the 149 best things to do in New Jersey this Memorial Day weekend.


So whether you're looking for some family fun or a romantic night out on the town, this guide will help you find exactly what you need to create lasting memories that will last long after the holiday is over.


1. Visit the Sandy Hook Lighthouse: This lighthouse located in Gateway National Recreation Area offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a great spot for photos.

 

2. Take a ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty: This iconic attraction can be reached by ferry from New Jersey. Learn about the history of immigration to the United States and explore the famous statue.

 

3. Go on a hiking trail at the Palisades Interstate Park: This park offers several trails with beautiful views of the Hudson River and the surrounding area.

 

4. Attend a baseball game at Yankee Stadium: Located just across the river in New York City, catch a game at one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the world.

 

5. Visit the State Capitol Building in Trenton: Take a guided tour of the New Jersey State House and learn about the state's rich history and legislative process.

 

6. Explore the Red Bank Battlefield Park: This historic site marks the location of the Battle of Red Bank during the Revolutionary War, and offers scenic views of the Delaware River.

 

7. Attend a music festival at PNC Bank Arts Center: This outdoor amphitheater hosts concerts and music festivals throughout the summer, including Memorial Day weekend.

 

8. Visit the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park: This park features a stunning waterfall and an industrial museum that explores the role of Paterson in the American Industrial Revolution.

 

9. Enjoy a day at Six Flags Great Adventure: This amusement park features roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions.

 

10. Take a tour of Rutgers University: Located in New Brunswick, this university offers a range of tours and attractions, including the Jane Voorhees Zimmerli Art Museum.

 

11. Attend the Atlantic City Food and Wine Festival: This annual event features top chefs and restaurants from around the country, as well as wine tastings and cooking demonstrations.

 

12. Visit the Camden Children's Garden: This children's museum features themed gardens, interactive exhibits, and a miniature train ride.

 

13. Take a guided tour of the Meadowlands Sports Complex: See where the New York Giants and Jets play, as well as the Meadowlands Racetrack.

 

14. Visit the Princeton University Art Museum: This world-renowned museum features an extensive collection of artwork from around the world.

 

15. Go on a wine tasting tour in Cape May: Visit local vineyards and wineries for tastings and tours of the winemaking process.

 

16. Explore the Liberty State Park: This park offers beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, as well as picnic areas and walking trails.

 

17. Attend the Annual Wildwoods International Kite Festival: This annual event features kite flying competitions, demonstrations, and workshops.

 

18. Visit the Newark Museum of Art: This museum features an extensive collection of American and international art, including works by Georgia O'Keeffe and Andy Warhol.

 

19. Go on a guided bike tour of Jersey City: Learn about the history and culture of this vibrant city while exploring its many neighborhoods.

 

20. Attend a comedy show at the Stress Factory Comedy Club in New Brunswick: This club features top comedians from around the country.

 

21. Take a cooking class at the Sur La Table in Marlton: Learn new skills and recipes from professional chefs at this gourmet cooking store.

 

22. Visit the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill: This children's museum features hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.

 

23. Go on a hot air balloon ride with Balloons Aloft in Pittstown: Enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside from high above.

 

24. Attend the Annual National Memorial Day Concert in Washington D.C.: This televised concert features performances and tributes honoring veterans and their families.

 

25. Take a pottery class at the Mudflat Studio in Highland Park: Learn the art of pottery-making from professional artists.

 

26. Visit the Cape May Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area.

 

27. Attend a film screening at the Montclair Film Festival: This annual festival features independent films and documentaries from around the world.

 

28. Take a helicopter tour of the New Jersey coastline: See the state's beautiful beaches and landmarks from above.

 

29. Visit the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg: Learn about the history of mining in New Jersey and explore an underground mine.

 

30. Go on a kayaking tour of the Pine Barrens: Explore this unique ecosystem while paddling down the Batsto River.

 

31. Attend the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival: This annual event features food trucks from around the state, live music, and family-friendly activities.

 

32. Visit the Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey: This museum in Teterboro features exhibits on the history of aviation, including vintage planes and military aircraft.

 

33. Go on a fishing charter in Atlantic City: Charter a boat and spend a day fishing in the Atlantic Ocean, with the chance to catch striped bass, bluefish, and more.

 

34. Attend the Asbury Park Music and Film Festival: This annual festival features live music performances, film screenings, and panel discussions with industry professionals.

 

35. Take a tour of the Battleship New Jersey in Camden: This historic battleship was commissioned during World War II and saw action in Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War.

 

36. Explore the Meadowlands Environment Center: Learn about the ecology and wildlife of the New Jersey Meadowlands through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

 

37. Attend a wine and cheese pairing at Unionville Vineyards: This winery in Ringoes offers tastings and pairings of their award-winning wines and artisanal cheeses.

 

38. Visit the Adventure Aquarium in Camden: This aquarium features exhibits on marine life from around the world, including sharks, penguins, and sea turtles.

 

39. Take a walking tour of Princeton University's historic campus: Learn about the university's storied history and traditions while exploring its beautiful grounds.

 

40. Attend the New Jersey Renaissance Faire: This annual event in Bordentown features costumed performers, jousting knights, and historical reenactments.

 

41. Visit the Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange: Explore the laboratory and home of this famous inventor, including exhibits on his many inventions and innovations.

 

42. Take a pottery class at the Mud Clay Studio in Woodstown: Learn the art of pottery-making from professional artists, and create your own unique pieces.

 

43. Attend a beer festival at the Meadowlands Racetrack: This annual event features craft breweries from around the state, as well as live music and food trucks.

 

44. Visit Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton Township: This outdoor sculpture park features works by renowned artists from around the world, set amidst beautiful gardens and water features.

 

45. Go on a whale watching tour in Cape May: Take a boat out into the Atlantic Ocean and see humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life up close.

 

46. Attend the Annual New Jersey Seafood Festival: This three-day event in Belmar features fresh seafood from local restaurants and vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.

 

47. Visit the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City: This interactive science museum offers exhibits on topics ranging from space travel to the human body.

 

48. Go on a sunset sail on Barnegat Bay: Take a leisurely cruise through the bay while enjoying stunning views of the sunset over the water.

 

49. Attend the Annual Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival: This popular festival features live music, food vendors, and of course, plenty of oysters and Guinness beer.

 

50. Visit the Thomas Nast Birthplace in Landisville: This historic site was the birthplace of Thomas Nast, the famous political cartoonist known for creating the modern image of Santa Claus.

 

51. Go on a guided birdwatching tour in the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife sanctuary is home to over 240 species of birds, including bald eagles and great blue herons.

 

52. Attend the New Jersey Beer and Food Festival at Crystal Springs Resort: This annual event features craft beers from around the state, as well as gourmet food vendors and live music.

 

53. Visit the Alstede Farms in Chester: This family-friendly farm offers pick-your-own fruit and vegetable fields, hayrides, and a petting zoo.

 

54. Go on a horseback riding tour in the Delaware Water Gap: Explore this scenic area on horseback, with guided tours available for riders of all skill levels.

 

55. Attend the Annual Crawfish Fest in Augusta: This Louisiana-style festival features live music, crawfish boils, and other Cajun-inspired dishes.

 

56. Visit the Adventure Park at Long Island: This outdoor park features zip lines, rope courses, and other high-flying adventures for thrill-seekers of all ages.

 

57. Attend a Shakespeare in the Park performance in Holmdel: This annual event features outdoor performances of classic Shakespeare plays in a beautiful natural setting.

 

58. Take a pottery class at the Mudflat Studio in Princeton: Learn the art of pottery-making from professional artists, and create your own unique pieces.

 

59. Visit the Meadowlands Museum in Rutherford: Learn about the history of the Meadowlands region, including exhibits on Native American culture and the early Dutch settlers.

 

60. Attend the Annual New Jersey State Chili and Salsa Cookoff in Toms River: This spicy event features amateur and professional chefs competing for the title of

 

61. Attend the Annual New Jersey State Chili and Salsa Cookoff in Toms River: This spicy event features amateur and professional chefs competing for the title of best chili and salsa in the state.

 

62. Visit the Morris Museum in Morristown: This museum features exhibits on art, history, and science, as well as a collection of mechanical musical instruments.

 

63. Go on a whale and dolphin watching tour in Cape May: Take a boat out into the Atlantic Ocean and see the majesty of these amazing creatures up close.

 

64. Attend the Annual New Jersey Renaissance Kingdom Come Festival: This medieval festival in Hammonton features jousting knights, costumed performers, and historical reenactments.

 

65. Visit Allaire State Park in Farmingdale: This historic site features a 19th-century ironworks, as well as hiking trails and scenic picnic areas.

 

66. Take a hot air balloon ride with Balloons Over Sussex: Enjoy sweeping views of the Sussex County countryside from high above.

 

67. Attend the Annual Somerville Memorial Day Parade: This popular parade honors the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to our country.

 

68. Visit the Whippany Railway Museum: This museum features vintage trains and rail equipment, as well as train rides and educational programs for all ages.

 

69. Go on a guided tour of Princeton Battlefield State Park: Learn about the historic Battle of Princeton and the role it played in the American Revolution.

 

70. Attend the Annual Greek Festival in Ocean City: This popular event features traditional Greek food, music, and dance performances.

 

71. Visit the Shoppes at Union Hill in Denville: This outdoor shopping center features a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

 

72. Go on a hot air balloon ride with Above the Clouds Balloon Rides: Experience the thrill of soaring through the sky in a hot air balloon.

 

73. Attend the Annual Jersey City Jazz Festival: This week-long festival features jazz performances by local and national artists, as well as workshops and educational programs.

 

74. Visit the New Jersey Botanical Garden in Ringwood: This beautiful garden features over 100 acres of flowers, trees, and plants, as well as walking trails and picnic areas.

 

75. Go on a guided brewery tour in Asbury Park: Learn about the brewing process and sample craft beers from some of the best breweries in the state.

 

76. Attend the Wildwood International Movie Festival: This annual event showcases independent and foreign films, as well as panel discussions and Q sessions with filmmakers.

 

77. Visit the Duke Farms in Hillsborough: This historic estate features beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and an arboretum.

 

78. Go on a guided food tour of Cape May: Explore this charming seaside town while sampling its many culinary delights.

 

79. Attend the Annual Hoboken Arts and Music Festival: This popular event features live music performances, art vendors, and plenty of delicious food.

 

80. Visit the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg: Learn about the history of mining in New Jersey and explore an underground mine.

 

81. Attend the Annual Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival in Freehold: This popular event features food trucks from around the state, as well as craft beer and live music.

 

82. Visit the Adventure Aquarium in Camden: This aquarium features exhibits on marine life from around the world, including sharks, penguins, and sea turtles.

 

83. Take a scenic drive along the Delaware River Scenic Byway: This beautiful route offers stunning views of the Delaware River and the surrounding countryside.

 

84. Attend the Annual Montclair Jazz Festival: This popular festival features performances by local and national jazz artists, as well as workshops and educational programs.

 

85. Visit the Monmouth Museum in Lincroft: This art museum features exhibits on contemporary art, as well as a planetarium and educational programs.

 

86. Go on a guided tour of the Newark Museum: Learn about the museum's extensive collection of art and artifacts, including works by Picasso and Matisse.

 

87. Attend the Annual Surfing Contest in Belmar: This popular event features some of the best surfers in the state competing for cash prizes and bragging rights.

 

88. Visit the WheatonArts and Cultural Center in Millville: This arts center features exhibits and demonstrations on glassblowing, pottery, and other crafts.

 

89. Go on a whale watching tour in Cape May: Take a boat out into the Atlantic Ocean and see humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life up close.

 

90. Attend the Annual Morristown CraftMarket: This juried craft show features over 150 artists and craftspeople selling handmade goods and artworks.

 

91. Visit the Red Mill Museum Village in Clinton, which showcases the history and culture of Hunterdon County. Exhibits include a blacksmith shop, a model railroad room, and a sawmill.

 

92. Take a trip to Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson Township, which offers thrilling rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. The park is home to the world's tallest and fastest roller coaster, Kingda Ka.

 

93. Attend the Annual Wildwood International Kite Festival, where kite flyers from around the world gather to display their unique and colorful kites on the beach.

 

94. Visit the Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morris Township, which features over 127 acres of gardens, woodlands, and walking trails.

 

95. Take a stroll through the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, which is an outdoor sculpture museum that features works by American and international artists.

 

96. Attend the Annual Cape May Music Festival, which presents a variety of classical and contemporary music performances in various venues throughout the town.

 

97. Visit the Thomas Nast Home in Morristown, the former residence of the famous political cartoonist who created the image of Santa Claus.

 

98. Go on a wine tasting tour at one of New Jersey's many wineries. Some popular ones include Alba Vineyard in Milford and Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes.

 

99. Take a trip to Atlantic City and try your luck at the casinos or enjoy the many restaurants, shops, and attractions along the boardwalk.

 

100. Attend the Annual Raritan River Music Festival, which presents a series of chamber music concerts at various historic venues throughout Hunterdon County.

 

101. Visit the New Jersey State Museum in Trenton, which features exhibits on art, science, and history, including collections of fossils, Native American artifacts, and contemporary art.

 

102. Take a guided tour of the Princeton University campus, which includes visits to historic buildings, art museums, and outdoor sculptures.

 

103. Attend the Annual Hoboken Arts & Music Festival, which features over 300 artists, crafters, and musicians along the city's main street.

 

104. Visit the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial in Camden, which is a retired battleship that served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

 

105. Take a trip to the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, which showcases the history of the city's industrial past and the role it played in American history.

 

106. Attend the Annual Spring Lake Italian Festival, which celebrates Italian culture with food, music, and entertainment for all ages.

 

107. Visit the Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey in Teterboro, which features exhibits on aviation history, technology, and innovation.

 

108. Take a scenic drive along the Delaware River, which offers beautiful views of the historic towns and countryside of western New Jersey.

 

109. Attend the Annual New Jersey Seafood Festival in Belmar, which showcases the state's rich seafood industry with fresh catches from local fishermen.

 

110. Visit the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, which is an interactive science museum that features hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and live animal encounters.

 

111. Go on a birding tour with the Cape May Bird Observatory, which offers guided walks, workshops, and lectures on bird identification and conservation.

 

112. Attend the Annual Branchburg Country Fair, which features carnival rides, games, live music, and a fireworks display.

 

113. Visit the Cape May Zoo, which is home to over 550 animals from around the world, including endangered species like the Amur leopard and the cotton-top tamarin.

 

114. Take a pottery class at one of New Jersey's many ceramics studios, such as the Clay Pot or Fire Me Up! in Cranford.

 

115. Attend a rodeo at Cowtown Rodeo in Woodstown, which is the oldest weekly running rodeo in the country and features bull riding, barrel racing, and more.

 

116. Visit the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, which is home to over 8,500 aquatic species, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.

 

117. Go on a food tour with Jersey Girls Food Tours, which offers guided walking tours of various neighborhoods in northern New Jersey, sampling local cuisine along the way.

 

118. Attend the Annual Arts & Crafts Festival at Allaire Village in Farmingdale, which features over 200 vendors selling handmade crafts and goods.

 

119. Take a yoga class on the beach in Cape May, which offers a unique experience of practicing yoga with a beautiful ocean view.

 

120. Go on a brewery crawl and sample craft beers from some of New Jersey's best breweries, such as Carton Brewing Company in Atlantic Highlands or Kane Brewing Company in Ocean Township.

 

121. Visit the Morris Museum in Morristown, which features exhibits on art, science, and history, including a large collection of mechanical musical instruments.

 

122. Take a guided tour of the New Jersey State House in Trenton, which is the state's capitol building and features beautiful architecture and historic artifacts.

 

123. Attend the Annual Peddler's Village Strawberry Festival in Lahaska, Pennsylvania, just across the Delaware River from New Jersey. The festival features live music, food vendors, and of course, plenty of strawberries!

 

124. Visit the Paulsdale Historic Site in Mount Laurel, the birthplace and childhood home of suffragist leader Alice Paul.

 

125. Take a day trip to the charming town of Lambertville, located along the Delaware River and known for its antique shops, galleries, and restaurants.

 

126. Attend the Annual Jambalaya Music Festival in Sea Isle City, which features live music, Cajun food, crafts, and family-friendly activities.

 

127. Visit the Morven Museum & Garden in Princeton, which is a former Governor's mansion that now serves as a museum of New Jersey history and culture.

 

128. Take a stroll through the Camden Children's Garden, which features themed gardens, a butterfly house, and a miniature railroad.

 

129. Attend a performance by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, which presents classical and pops concerts throughout the state.

 

130. Visit the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg, which is a former zinc mine that now offers tours and exhibits on geology and mining history.

 

131. Go on a whale watching tour with Cape May Whale Watcher in Cape May, which offers the opportunity to see humpback, finback, and minke whales in their natural habitat.

 

132. Attend the Annual Baymen's Seafood & Music Festival at the Tuckerton Seaport, which celebrates the rich maritime history and culture of southern New Jersey with seafood, live music, and family-friendly activities.

 

133. Visit the Newark Museum, which features exhibits on art, science, and history, including a large collection of Tibetan art and the Alice and Leonard Dreyfuss Planetarium.

 

134. Take a scenic hike in the Watchung Reservation, which offers miles of trails through wooded hillsides and valleys.

 

135. Attend the Annual Montclair Jazz Festival, which presents world-class jazz musicians in an outdoor setting in downtown Montclair.

 

136. Visit the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill, which is an interactive children's museum with hands-on exhibits and activities.

 

137. Go on a hot air balloon ride with Balloons Aloft in Pittstown, which offers stunning views of the New Jersey countryside.

 

138. Attend the Annual Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival, which features fresh oysters, live music, and family-friendly activities.

 

139. Visit the Liberty Hall Museum in Union, which is a historic mansion that served as the home of New Jersey's first governor and later, a prominent industrialist.

 

140. Take a horseback riding lesson at Seaton Hackney Stables in Morristown, which offers lessons for beginners and experienced riders alike.

 

141. Attend the Annual Atlantic City Beer & Music Festival, which features over 1,000 different beers from around the world, live music, and food vendors.

 

142. Visit the Paterson Museum, which features exhibits on the city's industrial past and the role it played in American history, including exhibits on silk manufacturing, locomotive production, and more.

 

143. Take a cooking class at the Institute for Culinary Education in Montclair, which offers hands-on classes in a variety of cuisines and techniques.

 

144. Attend the Annual New Jersey Renaissance Faire in Bordentown, which features jousting tournaments, live entertainment, and artisan vendors.

 

145. Visit the Farnsworth Avenue Historic District in Bordentown, which features well-preserved 18th and 19th century buildings, shops, and restaurants.

 

146. Take a pottery class at the Peters Valley School of Craft in Layton, which offers classes in a variety of ceramics techniques and styles.

 

147. Attend the Annual Morristown Food Truck Festival, which features dozens of food trucks offering a wide variety of cuisines and flavors.

 

148. Visit the Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie Mansion in Cadwalader Park, which features exhibits on Trenton's history and culture, as well as rotating art exhibits.

 

149. Go on a sunset sail with Black Pearl Sailing in Jersey City, which offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the harbor.

 

150. Attend the Annual Cape May Wine Festival, which showcases wines from around the state, as well as live music, food vendors, and artisan crafts.

 

151. Visit the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, which features over 270 sculptures by renowned artists set amidst lush gardens and lawns.

 

 

Please note

 

Cactus Lands site is a valuable resource, but when it comes to matters of pet's health, always consult with a trained veterinary medical professional.

 

Never rely solely on digital information.

 

Taking into account your individual situation will help you make the best decisions for the well-being of your companion pet.

 

Cactus Lands site serves as an informative resource, but should never be used to diagnose or treat a medical condition of either you or your pet.

 

When it comes to the health of your pet, always consult with a qualified veterinary medical professional for the best advice and care tailored specifically for you and your pet!

 

Cactus Lands site and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical, veterinarian, or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such.

 

You should always consult with a qualified physician or veterinary health professional about your specific circumstances.

Disclosure:  Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only.