January 2025: Weekend Getaways

In the wake of the holiday season, filled with its usual rush of food, family and festivities, many New Jerseyans (including our editors) want nothing more than to take some time for themselves and escape the hustle-and-bustle routine of everyday life. The dawn of a new year is the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway, whether for the coming weeks or a few months down the road. Luckily, there so many great New Jersey getaway destinations that don’t require a trip out of state.

New Jersey Monthly has put together eight itineraries, complete with our recommendations for activities, restaurants and hotels. Princeton, Montclair, Lambertville and Cape May all have fantastic downtowns with culture, shopping, restaurants and more. A combined Jersey City and Hoboken weekend is thrilling for the city lover. If you prefer a resort, the luxurious Pendry Natirar hotel—abutting Natirar Park, a 411-acre public green space—opened this fall. Spa treatments, hikes and even a cooking class could be on tap. Or relax at Crystal Springs, whether you’re looking to spend the weekend with a significant other, the kids or a pal. Enjoy your travels!

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GARDEN VARIETY

‘Anora’ Director Sean Baker Says Jersey Upbringing Influenced His Filmmaking

Baker—whose Oscar frontrunner, Anora, is in NJ theaters now—realized he wanted to make movies as a child, after a library screening of horror films.

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Public Defender Sergio de la Pava Writes Successful Novels in His Spare Time

The Bogota resident’s newest book, Every Arc Bends Its Radian, is a crime thriller fused with elements of sci-fi and horror.

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Montclair Art Museum’s Iconic Indigenous Art Gallery Gets a New Look

The museum, which sits on Lenape land, has a new permanent exhibit that juxtaposes contemporary and historical works of Native artists and scholars.

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NJ Cancer-Support Group Offers Free Holistic Healing for Women

WINGS programs range from meditation and dance to Reiki and Tibetan singing bowls.

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6 Statement Chairs to Jazz Up Your Home

They’ll be the most coveted seats in the house!

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FEATURES

How New Jersey Is Reimagining Its Suburban Office Parks

As the need for corporate campuses wanes, many office parks are being redeveloped into housing units, warehouses and open spaces.

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8 NJ Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Need a change of scenery? Try these in-town city stays and out-of-town country escapes, all located right here in the Garden State.

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How to Spend a Winter Weekend in Atlantic City

From the historic Boardwalk to first-class entertainment and eateries, this multitasking destination has it all.

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How to Spend a Winter Weekend in Cape May

This charming seaside resort town has it all: grand Victorian houses, beautiful beaches, fabulous restaurants and inns, and plenty of off-season activities.

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How to Spend a Weekend at Crystal Springs Resort in Sussex County

This is the perfect spot for a family vacation, a romantic escape or a girls’ trip.

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How to Spend a Weekend in Jersey City and Hoboken

These waterfront gems offer something for everyone. 

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How to Spend a Weekend in Lambertville

This charming river town is a mecca for art and antique lovers.

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How to Spend a Weekend in Montclair

This hip urban ‘burb boasts culture and restaurants galore.

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How to Spend a Weekend in Princeton

Enjoy Ivy League vibes, history, architecture, shopping and more.

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What Hosting the 2026 World Cup Means for New Jersey

The World Cup will descend on MetLife Stadium in summer 2026. Our state is already preparing for thousands of fans—plus an estimated $2 billion boost.

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Is the 2026 World Cup Next for Chatham’s John Tolkin?

The 22-year-old rising soccer star could be one of 26 players to represent the U.S. on home soil.

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HOME & GARDEN

Far Out in Far Hills: Step Inside This Myron Goldfinger Gem in NJ

Architect Myron Goldfinger designed intensely sculptural homes, including the Hamptons party house featured in The Wolf of Wall Street.

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EAT & DRINK

Bernadette in Scotch Plains Brings City Flair to the Suburbs

This sleek, elegant restaurant is a go-to for anyone missing the cosmopolitan life.

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What Our Editors Are Eating and Drinking Right Now

We’re loving comforting Italian classics in Little Falls and Bloomfield, the many options at Eataly in Short Hills, and fuel from an arts venue’s eatery/bar in Newark.

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Forget Pizza! These Kids Crave Raw Fish from NJ’s Fanciest Sushi Restaurants

Meet some of our state’s most discerning omakase enthusiasts.

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Pass the Haggis! How These New Jerseyans Host a Beloved Robert Burns Supper

The South Jersey Celtic Society adds unstuffy touches to a 220-year-old tradition that celebrates Scotland’s national bard. Tickets go fast!

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Indian Food With a View: What to Eat When You Visit Jersey’s Incredible New Hindu Temple

Before or after touring BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, enjoy lunch or dinner at its Shayona Café.

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EXIT RAMP

The Trusty, Timeless Calendar I’ve Used From Childhood to Senior Citizenship

A special gift from my beloved Nanny has been a constant companion that represents much more than just the passing of days.

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