Wedged between New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., the state of New Jersey often gets overlooked as a vacation destination. However, this small state has a lot to offer, from major cities with a rich history to coastal towns with warm, sandy beaches. When daily life begins to wear on your relationship with that special someone, it’s time to plan a romantic weekend somewhere new to spend quality time together. A New Jersey vacation rental provides you with an unforgettable secluded retreat to rekindle your romance. Check out the top scenic weekend getaway spots in New Jersey.
1. Jersey City
Jersey City is the largest city in the state and enjoys views of the Big Apple just across the water. Check the schedule and book tickets for an evening at the Landmark Loew’s Jersey Theatre. If you prefer, take a tour of this theater during the day. Get out and enjoy some fresh air at Liberty State Park. This park is a hot spot for walking and bike riding, but you can settle on a bench, cuddle together, and take in the view of New York City. Take a minute to view the 9/11 Memorial in the park. Watch sparks fly across the table at Porto Leggero, an upscale Italian restaurant with tall windows and soaring ceilings.
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2. Atlantic City
Atlantic City has a lot to offer a couple over a weekend, from gambling at hotels such as the Borgata and the Tropicana to soaking in the sun on the beach. At the casinos, you can book tickets to see a music concert, magician, or the latest musical. Take a stroll along the Atlantic City Boardwalk and watch the sun go down over the water while you enjoy Fralinger’s Salt Water Taffy. Explore your whimsical side with a visit to Lucy the Elephant. This elephant was a building during its heyday.
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3. Newark
Plan to visit Newark in the spring, because this bustling city is home to the largest number of blooming cherry trees, and you and your sweetie can enjoy walking under them with their sweet fragrance in the air in Branch Brook Park. Hop on a boat with Hidden Harbour Tours to get stunning views of Newark, Jersey City, and New York City. Reserve tickets for the Newark Symphony Hall to dress up for an evening of beautiful music, and enjoy a late dinner at Mompou with its Spanish-style tapas and extensive wine list.
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4. Trenton
Enjoy a little romance in the state’s capital city, Trenton. On Friday afternoon, stop by the New Jersey Capitol Building for a tour to hear about its history and how laws are made in New Jersey. Stretch your legs and visit the World War II Memorial and the War Memorial that celebrate all of New Jersey’s veterans from each war. The Old Barracks Museum is a historical site that dates back to the 1770s when the British housed soldiers in the colonies. Unwind after a long day at Settimo Cielo for some delicious Italian food.
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5. Paterson Great Falls
Amazing views and small-town life await you with a vacation rental in Paterson Great Falls. This town gets its name from the falls that surround the town. Overlook Park is the best place to get a look at the Great Falls of the Passaic River, while the Mary Ellen Kramer Park is at the base of the falls. Bring a picnic lunch from Libby’s Lunch to enjoy a sunny afternoon and listen to the roars of the falls. Find out more about one of baseball’s legends at the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center.
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6. Cape May
On the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May is a beach community and home to the United States Coast Guard Training Center. Enjoy a wine tasting and tour of the Willow Creek Winery, where you can pick up a couple of bottles to take home. In town, there are several beaches to soak up the sun or wake up early to watch the sunrise together. Arrange for a tee time to hit the links together at Cape May National Golf Club. See the Cape May Lighthouse, and take a tour of the attached oil house that dates back to the mid-1800s.
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7. Cherry Hill
Sample some different types of craft beers and learn more about the art of brewing artisanal beer with tours of Flying Fish Brewing Company and Forgotten Boardwalk Brewery. Both breweries have gift shops to take your new favorites home with you. Enjoy a low-key evening at Playdrome, where you can bowl a couple of games and visit the state-of-the-art arcade. You can even eat in the alley’s restaurant. If you prefer something a little nicer for dinner, try Caffe Aldo Lamberti for its romantic ambiance and upscale Italian dishes.
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8. Ocean City
A Jersey Shore vacation is sure to put the romance back in your life with days spent soaking up the sun and evenings walking along the boardwalk holding hands. Choose a vacation rental in Ocean City that’s close to the boardwalk, and rent a bike for two from Bob’s Bike and Surrey Rentals. You can ride on the boardwalk in the mornings and around town for the rest of the day. On the boardwalk, you can ride rides together at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, check out the eclectic shops, and grab a pizza at Manco & Manco Pizza.
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