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!
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.
Read morePublic 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.
Read moreMontclair 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.
Read moreNJ Cancer-Support Group Offers Free Holistic Healing for Women
WINGS programs range from meditation and dance to Reiki and Tibetan singing bowls.
Read moreFEATURES
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.
Read more8 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.
Read moreHow to Spend a Winter Weekend in Atlantic City
From the historic Boardwalk to first-class entertainment and eateries, this multitasking destination has it all.
Read moreHow 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.
Read moreHow 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.
Read moreHow to Spend a Weekend in Jersey City and Hoboken
These waterfront gems offer something for everyone.
Read moreHow to Spend a Weekend in Lambertville
This charming river town is a mecca for art and antique lovers.
Read moreHow to Spend a Weekend in Montclair
This hip urban ‘burb boasts culture and restaurants galore.
Read moreHow to Spend a Weekend at NJ’s New Pendry Natirar Resort
Old World charm meets contemporary luxury.
Read moreHow to Spend a Weekend in Princeton
Enjoy Ivy League vibes, history, architecture, shopping and more.
Read moreWhat 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.
Read moreIs 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.
Read moreHOME & 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.
Read moreEAT & 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.
Read moreWhat 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.
Read moreForget Pizza! These Kids Crave Raw Fish from NJ’s Fanciest Sushi Restaurants
Meet some of our state’s most discerning omakase enthusiasts.
Read morePass 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!
Read moreIndian 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.
Read moreEXIT 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.
Read more