With beautiful beaches, pine forests, national parks and lots of opportunities for winter sports, you won’t be short of places to visit in New Jersey in winter!
Looking for a little winter magic? Head to the Atlantic coast of the United States, where you’ll find plenty of awesome winter activities in New Jersey! This beautiful state is packed with fun attractions, including museums, aquariums, water parks and ice rinks, meaning you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking things to do in New Jersey in winter.
New Jersey occupies a narrow sliver of land on the Atlantic coast, so on a trip here you’ll really have a lovely range of places to visit. From huge sandy beaches to lush state parks teeming with wildlife, the iconic Garden State has definitely earned its nickname.
Beyond the industrial cities you’ll find lush landscapes with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Once the snow falls this green state is transformed into a winter wonderland. With all kinds of winter outdoor activities in New Jersey, it’s a dream destination for break in the colder months of the year.
Stuck for ideas? Coming up is a big list featuring all the best things to do in New Jersey in winter.
Weather In New Jersey In Winter
New Jersey’s winter weather is typical of the north Atlantic coast, with cold winters and warm, humid summers. Temperatures in the summer reach highs of 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit), but in many places in winter they drop just below freezing (30 degrees Fahrenheit).
It varies across the state though, with Jersey Shore being milder and windier, compared to the colder mountain areas of northern New Jersey. This northern area is great for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
It’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast as winter storms can develop quickly, bringing snowfall, ice and challenging road conditions. February is my top month if you’re visiting for snowy activities.
Amazing Things to Do In New Jersey In Winter
1. Take A Winter Hike in the Watchung Reservation
The beautiful Watchung Reservation, nestled in the heart of Union County, covers 2,000 acres of lush forest. It’s littered with streams, lakes, and colourful foliage. It’s a great place for hiking and horse riding, and even in the depths of winter, it’s a pleasure to explore this expansive natural reserve.
The woodlands are incredibly picturesque after a fresh fall of snow, and there are plenty of opportunities for winter hiking and snowshoeing. It’s no wonder that the Watchung Reservation is one of the best places to visit in New Jersey in winter.
2. Visit The Liberty Science Center
Jersey City is home to the fascinating Liberty Science Center, an interactive science museum with some state-of-the-art attractions. This is one of the best things to do in New Jersey in winter with kids when the weather is freezing!
You’ll find an aquarium and live animal section (where you can meet strange sea creatures and reptiles), a series of constantly changing exhibitions, and a magnificent planetarium.
The live animal shows run twice daily and offers an excellent way to learn about some of the rare creatures that call the centre home, including cotton-top tamarind monkeys, rose-hair tarantulas and red-footed tortoises! The centre also runs seasonal activities, such as Winter Fest and Holiday Adventure, so keep an eye on the website for all the latest info.
3. Grab Your Skates and Go Ice-Skating
Ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities in New Jersey, and there are lots of brilliant indoor ice rinks where keen skaters (and complete beginners!) can get their kicks. Skylands Iceworld, in Stockholm, NJ, is one of the most highly rated destinations, with two NHL-size rinks and lots of rink-side facilities.
Similarly, the Ice House in Hackensack, NJ is a great place for public skating, offering lessons, figure-skating displays and ice hockey matches. For outdoor adventures, the Roosevelt Park skate rink is open throughout the winter and occupies a scenic location overlooking a beautiful lake.
For something different, head indoors to Big SNOW American Dream for fun snow activities all year round, including skiing and snowboarding.
4. Go Skiing or Snowboarding In Mountain Creek
Looking for a cool winter weekend break in New Jersey? Once the snow falls, there’s nothing better than hitting the ski slopes in Mountain Creek. There you can enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and fat biking.
As New Jersey’s largest ski resort, there’s something for all level of skiers. The beginner-friendly Terrain Based Learning area makes it a good choice for first-time skiers and snowboarders.
For beginners, Campgaw Mountain is another option closer to northern New Jersey. Mountain Creek should open around December 5th 2026, while Campgaw is expected around December 18th, depending on the weather.
Wherever you choose, skiing is definitely one of the best winter outdoor activities in New Jersey.
You’ll also find plenty of activities off the slopes, with a range of luxury spas and some excellent bars and restaurants for off-piste adventures.
5. Enjoy New Jersey’s Christmas and holiday events
New Jersey is such a fun place to spend the holidays! Looking for Christmas events or festive fun in New Jersey? Here are some dates and seasonal attractions to add to your diary for this season.
- Skylands Stadium Christmas Light Show: November 22, 2026 – January 3, 2027. Drive through more than a mile of festive displays featuring over 2 million lights, then visit the Christmas Village for seasonal food, shopping and Santa.
- Storybook Land Christmas Fantasy with Lights: November 14 – December 30, 2026, on select nights. This family favourite transforms Storybook Land with more than 1 million lights, Christmas displays, rides and visits with Santa.
- Cape May tree lighting and Christmas tours: The Emlen Physick Estate tree lighting takes place November 21, 2026, with Santa, holiday music and thousands of lights. Cape May also hosts Christmas-themed house tours and other festive events throughout the season.
- Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar: November 27–29; December 4–6, 11–13 and 18–20, 2026. Shop for gifts, vintage finds and local goods at the Grand Arcade of Convention Hall.
- Christmas parades: Many New Jersey towns hold festive parades and tree-lighting celebrations throughout November and December.
- The Polar Express Train Ride: The Polar Express experience is traditionally offered from Whippany Station and Delaware River Railroad Excursions in Phillipsburg.
6. Visit the Tenafly Nature Center
Located in Bergen Country, the Tenafly Nature Center is a nature preserve and environmental education centre, devoted to conserving New Jersey’s beautiful nature and biodiversity. There are plenty of activities on offer, including hiking, bird watching, and in winter, snowshoeing and sledding.
In addition to other events organised by the friendly staff, it’s a fantastic place to take a maple sugaring tour where you’ll learn how to tap the sap of the tree and make delicious maple syrup. Maple sugaring takes place in February and March – don’t miss it.
7. Explore The Adventure Aquarium In New Jersey
Located in Camden on the Delaware River, a visit to the Adventure Aquarium is a wonderful way to spend the day, especially if you’re hoping to escape some cold, wintry weather. It boasts a very impressive collection of over 8,500 aquatic species, including stingrays, turtles, hippos and penguins.
A team of animal-loving experts are on hand to guide visitors through hands-on encounters with some of the amazing sea creatures, and there’s an important emphasis placed on research, preservation and public education. This is one of the best things to do in New Jersey in winter with kids – your little ones will love seeing the creatures up close!
8. Go For A Hike in Kittatinny Valley State Park
Kittatinny Valley State Park is one of the most popular outdoor recreation spots in New Jersey, and is perfect for family fun. This beautiful park is home to forests, lakes, and rivers, with plenty of fabulous opportunities for wildlife spotting.
In winter, the park is often covered with a thick blanket of snow, and it’s a great time for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking, or even dog sledding. If you’re suffering from cabin fever, head out into the wild – there’s no better way to spend a day out in New Jersey in winter.
9. Let Loose At Sahara Sam’s Oasis
Sahara Sam’s Oasis, in New Jersey’s West Berlin, is an epic water park, and is one of the best things to do in New Jersey in winter if you’re travelling with kids. With a whole range of exciting rides and high-speed water slides, this is the place to unleash your inner child and enjoy the thrill of adventures in the water.
Even if the weather’s cold outside, this indoor water park will make you feel as through you’re deep in the tropics!
10. Explore High Point State Park in winter
For a peaceful winter escape in northern New Jersey, head to High Point State Park, where snowy landscapes, forest trails and panoramic views create a beautiful setting for outdoor adventures.
- Winter hiking: Explore the park’s trails and enjoy the quieter winter scenery.
- Snowy landscapes: After fresh snowfall, the park can feel like a true winter wonderland.
- Cross-country skiing: When conditions allow, the park offers opportunities for cross-country skiing.
- Panoramic views: Climb toward the park’s famous High Point Monument for sweeping views across the surrounding countryside.
- Outdoor winter activities: High Point is a great choice for visitors looking to experience a more natural side of New Jersey in winter.
11. Take The Polar Bear Plunge
The Polar Bear Plunge is an annual sponsored charity event, where thousands of people brave the icy waters of the Atlantic on a cold January and February morning! This is definitely not for the faint hearted, but the event has a fantastic atmosphere, with thousands of excited swimmers hoping to raise money for good causes. This season it’s taking place on these dates:
- Wildwood Polar Bear Plunge — January 16, 2027
- Seaside Heights Polar Bear Plunge — February 27, 2027
Take the plunge yourself, or simply go along and enjoy the winter festival ambience (whilst staying warm and dry!)
12. Take a winter walk on the Jersey Shore
New Jersey’s beaches aren’t just for summer. A winter walk along the Jersey Shore offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience, with crisp sea air, dramatic skies and far fewer crowds. It’s also a great opportunity for winter photography. Here are a few of my favourite spots:
- Cape May: Wander the Victorian streets and peaceful shoreline, with plenty of photo opportunities.
- Asbury Park: Walk along the famous boardwalk and enjoy the beach without the summer crowds.
- Ocean City: Take a refreshing stroll along the boardwalk and shoreline.
- Wildwood: Enjoy vast beaches and colourful boardwalk views in a much quieter setting.
- Point Pleasant: Explore the waterfront and beach while enjoying the fresh winter air.
Bundle up, check the forecast and be prepared for strong coastal winds, particularly on colder days!
Indoor things to do in New Jersey
If it’s too cold, snowy or wet to enjoy some of the outside activities, these activities will keep you warm and dry!
- Visit a museum – Explore New Jersey’s history, art, science and maritime museums.
- Go ice skating – Head to an indoor rink for public skating, lessons or hockey.
- Hit the slopes indoors – Try skiing or snowboarding at Big SNOW American Dream.
- Explore an aquarium – Spend a few hours at an indoor aquarium, perfect for families.
- Visit an indoor water park – Enjoy swimming, slides and splashing around, even when it’s snowing outside.
- Go bowling – Always a fun activity for families or friends.
- Try an escape room – Solve puzzles together while staying warm indoors.
- Go indoor climbing – Try a climbing gym for an active way to spend a snowy day.
- Visit an art gallery – Enjoy exhibitions and local collections at galleries across the state.
- See a show – Catch theatre, comedy, live music or a holiday performance.
- Explore American Dream – Combine shopping, dining and indoor attractions under one roof.
- Enjoy a cosy café or restaurant – Warm up with coffee, hot chocolate or a hearty meal.
Where to Stay In New Jersey In Winter
Atlantis Inn
This beautiful Victorian mansion in Ocean City is the ideal place for a romantic break, any time of the year. Perfectly kitted out for couples, this beautiful hotel offers therapeutic spa treatments, whirlpools for two, open fireplaces and private rooftop terraces with views of the ocean.
If you’re looking for a cosy retreat on New Jersey’s wonderful coastline, this is the ideal spot. It’s close to Atlantic City Airport too, as well as Ocean City Beach, Gillian’s Wonderland Pier and Playland’s Castaway Cove.
Woolverton Inn
Looking for idyllic winter weekend getaways in New Jersey? This cosy, historic inn gets fantastic reviews, and is a great option if you’re searching for a place to stay in the charming town of Stockton.
Nestled in 300 acres of lush farmland overlooking the Delaware River, the Woolverton Inn is a luxurious b&B with everything you need for a relaxing stay. Choose to stay in the main part of the inn, or retreat to one of the beautiful cottages with your own private whirlpool.
The Castle At Skylands Manor
If you’re looking for a luxury getaway in your very own historic mansion, look no further than the Castle at Skylands Manor. The major draw of this majestic castle is the fabulous setting – over 1000 acres of picturesque woodland, featuring botanical gardens and peaceful verandas.
The restaurant serves up inventive dishes made with local produce, served alongside a stellar selection of craft beers. If you’re looking for a luxurious retreat, the Castle at Skylands Manor is one of the best places to visit in New Jersey in winter.
I hope this post has given you a little inspiration and lots of ideas of what to do in New Jersey in winter. Don’t forget to check out my guides to visiting Minnesota in winter, Vermont in winter as well as Lake Tahoe.
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